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RARA/PML Quantitative Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

RARA/PML Quantitative Test

Short Name: RARA/PML Quantitative

Also known as: PML/RARA Quantitative Test, t(15;17) Quantitative PCR

RARA/PML Quantitative Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹11,560. Uses Real Time RT-PCR on Whole Blood, Culture Cells, Bone Marrow Aspirate samples. Results in Reports are typically available within 3 working days. You will receive an email notification with a link to view your report online, and a hard copy can be provided upon request.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Molecular🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

The primary purpose of the RARA/PML Quantitative Test is to detect and quantify the PML-RARA fusion gene transcript, which is pathognomonic for acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). This test is used for: 1) Confirming the diagnosis of APL in patients with clinical and hematological suspicion. 2) Assessing the baseline level of fusion transcripts for risk stratification. 3) Monitoring minimal residual disease (MRD) during and after therapy to evaluate treatment response. 4) Detecting early relapse, allowing timely intervention. 5) Guiding therapeutic decisions, particularly the use of targeted agents like ATRA and arsenic trioxide. The quantitative nature of the test provides valuable information on disease burden, which is crucial for personalized patient management.

Test Code
6240
CPT Code
83891
ICD Code
C92.4
Price
₹11,560
Sample Type
Whole Blood, Culture Cells, Bone Marrow Aspirate
Result Time
Reports are typically available within 3 working days. You will receive an email notification with a link to view your report online, and a hard copy can be provided upon request.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Real Time RT-PCR
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation is required. However, patients must sign a consent document and provide relevant clinical history. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, especially those affecting blood counts.

Method: Venipuncture or bone marrow aspiration by trained professional

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm, or a bone marrow aspirate will be collected by a healthcare professional. The procedure is quick and may cause minor discomfort.

Step 3

Report Delivery

After blood collection, you can resume normal activities. If bone marrow aspiration was performed, you may experience soreness at the site; apply ice and avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours. Report any unusual bleeding or pain to your doctor.

Timeline: Reports are typically available within 3 working days. You will receive an email notification with a link to view your report online, and a hard copy can be provided upon request.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No special preparation is required. However, you must sign a consent document and provide your clinical history. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking.
2
During the Test:A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm, or a bone marrow aspirate will be collected. The procedure is quick and may cause minor discomfort.
3
After the Test:You can resume normal activities immediately. If bone marrow aspiration was performed, you may experience soreness; apply ice and avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours. Report any unusual bleeding or pain to your doctor.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The primary purpose of the RARA/PML Quantitative Test is to detect and quantify the PML-RARA fusion gene transcript, which is pathognomonic for acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). This test is used for: 1) Confirming the diagnosis of APL in patients with clinical and hematological suspicion. 2) Assessing the baseline level of fusion transcripts for risk stratification. 3) Monitoring minimal residual disease (MRD) during and after therapy to evaluate treatment response. 4) Detecting early relapse, allowing timely intervention. 5) Guiding therapeutic decisions, particularly the use of targeted agents like ATRA and arsenic trioxide. The quantitative nature of the test provides valuable information on disease burden, which is crucial for personalized patient management.

How to Prepare

  • Consent document must be signed before sample collection.
  • Bring any relevant clinical history or previous test reports.
  • For bone marrow aspirate, the procedure will be performed by a qualified hematologist/oncologist.
  • Ensure the sample is transported to the laboratory immediately after collection.
  • Do not eat or drink restrictions are required for this test.

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521

"Early detection of PML/RARA fusion transcripts is critical for timely initiation of targeted therapy in APL, significantly improving survival outcomes."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeWhole Blood, Culture Cells, Bone Marrow Aspirate
Sample Volume5 mL blood or 2 mL bone marrow aspirate
ContainerEDTA tube (blood) / Heparinized syringe (bone marrow)
Collection MethodVenipuncture or bone marrow aspiration by trained professional

Sample Stability

Whole blood: 24 hours at 2-8°C
Bone marrow aspirate: 24 hours at 2-8°C
Extracted RNA: 1 week at -20°C, 6 months at -80°C
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolyzed or clotted sample
  • Incorrect sample container (e.g., heparin instead of EDTA for blood)
  • Sample received after 48 hours without proper storage
  • Insufficient sample volume
  • Missing consent form or clinical history

Understanding Your Results

The RARA/PML Quantitative Test result should be interpreted by a qualified oncologist or hematologist in the context of the patient's clinical presentation, morphological findings, and other laboratory tests. A positive result indicates the presence of PML-RARA fusion transcript, confirming the diagnosis of APL. Quantitative values are used to monitor treatment response and detect minimal residual disease.
📊

Confirms APL. Baseline level helps in risk stratification and treatment planning.

📊

Indicates molecular remission, a favorable prognostic sign.

📊

Suggests impending relapse; prompt clinical action is required.

📊

May indicate minimal residual disease; close monitoring is essential.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms such as unexplained bruising, bleeding, fatigue, fever, or frequent infections. Early diagnosis of APL is critical for successful treatment. If you have been diagnosed with APL, regular follow-up with quantitative RARA/PML testing is essential to monitor treatment response and detect relapse early.

Limitations

  • This test is specific for PML-RARA fusion; other genetic abnormalities in AML will not be detected.
  • Rare variant translocations (e.g., t(11;17)) may not be detected by standard PML-RARA assay.
  • Quantitative results may vary between laboratories; serial monitoring should be done in the same lab.
  • False negatives can occur if the sample is not collected or processed properly.
  • The test does not provide information on disease prognosis beyond the molecular marker.
  • Interpretation requires correlation with clinical and morphological findings.

Risks & Considerations

  • Minor bruising or bleeding at the blood draw site
  • Infection (rare) at the bone marrow aspiration site
  • Discomfort or pain during bone marrow aspiration
  • Anxiety or dizziness during sample collection

Interfering Factors

  • Hemolysis or clot formation in the sample may degrade RNA and affect results.
  • Inadequate sample volume or improper storage conditions can lead to false negatives.
  • Recent blood transfusion may dilute leukemic cells, potentially reducing sensitivity.
  • Concurrent infections or high white blood cell counts may interfere with RNA extraction.
  • Patient on certain medications (e.g., ATRA) may show reduced transcript levels, affecting interpretation.

Compare With Similar Tests

TestRARA/PML Quantitative TestComplete Blood Count (CBC)Bone Marrow BiopsyCytogenetic Analysis (Karyotyping)Flow Cytometry
ComparisonRARA/PML Quantitative Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the RARA/PML Quantitative Test?
It is a molecular test that detects and quantifies the PML-RARA fusion gene transcript, which is characteristic of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). It is used for diagnosis and monitoring of treatment response.
What is the cost of the RARA/PML Quantitative Test at DNA Labs India?
The test costs INR 11560. This includes home sample collection and report delivery via email/WhatsApp.
What sample is required for this test?
The test can be performed on whole blood (EDTA), cultured cells, or bone marrow aspirate. The sample type will be determined by your doctor based on clinical need.
Do I need to fast before the test?
No, fasting is not required for this test. However, you must sign a consent document and provide your clinical history.
How long does it take to get the results?
Reports are typically available within 3 working days. You will be notified via email or phone.
Is home sample collection available?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for online bookings across major cities in India.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates the presence of PML-RARA fusion transcript, confirming the diagnosis of APL. The quantitative value helps in risk stratification and treatment planning.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result indicates that the PML-RARA fusion transcript was not detected, which makes APL unlikely. However, clinical correlation is essential.
Can this test be used for monitoring after treatment?
Yes, it is commonly used for minimal residual disease (MRD) monitoring to assess treatment response and detect early relapse.
Are there any risks associated with the test?
The test involves a blood draw or bone marrow aspiration, which may cause minor discomfort, bruising, or rarely infection. These risks are minimal and managed by trained professionals.
Is the test covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage varies. We recommend checking with your insurance provider. DNA Labs India does not directly bill insurance, but we provide necessary documentation for reimbursement.
How do I book this test?
You can book online through our website or call our customer care. Home sample collection will be scheduled at your convenience.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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