Translocation BCR/ABL Qualitative RT-PCR

BCR-ABL1 refers to a gene sequence found in an abnormal chromosome 22 of some people having leukaemia. The presence of the gene sequence confirms the diagnosis of CML (Chronic Myelogenous Leukaemia) and Acute Lymphoblastic Lymphoma (ALL). A blood sample drawn from a vein or a bone marrow sample is collected using a bone marrow aspiration or biopsy procedure. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based qualitative tests detect and measure a tiny amount of BCR-ABL1 RNA transcripts in leukaemia cells.

Initial testing may be done if there are symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, joint or bone pain, enlarged spleen, night sweat, and fever. The test is repeated at periodic intervals while being treated for CML or ALL to monitor treatment efficacy.