Ordering Guidance

Consult with the laboratory before ordering this test.

This test is intended for instances when client-specified fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) probes are needed. The FISH probes to be analyzed must be specified on the ordering request. If targeted FISH probes are not included with this test order, test processing will be delayed and the test may be canceled by the laboratory.

Paraffin-embedded specimens and blood or bone marrow specimens submitted for evaluation of specific nonhematologic malignancies or congenital/hereditary testing must be ordered as MISCF / Miscellaneous Studies Using Chromosome-Specific Probes, FISH. If HEMMF is ordered in these situations, it will be canceled and MISCF ordered and performed as the appropriate test.

Necessary Information

1. A list of probes requested for analysis is required.

2. A reason for testing must be provided. If this information is not provided, an appropriate indication for testing may be entered by Mayo Clinic Laboratories.

3. A flow cytometry and/or a bone marrow pathology report should be submitted with each specimen. Acceptable pathology reports include working drafts, preliminary pathology, or surgical pathology reports. The laboratory will not reject testing if this information is not provided, but appropriate testing and interpretation may be compromised or delayed.

Specimen Required

Submit only 1 of the following specimens:

Preferred:

Specimen Type: Bone marrow

Container/Tube:

Preferred: Yellow top (ACD)

Acceptable: Green top (sodium heparin) or lavender top (EDTA)

Specimen Volume: 2-3 mL

Collection Instructions:

1. It is preferable to send the first aspirate from the bone marrow collection.

2. Invert several times to mix bone marrow.

3. Send bone marrow specimen in original tube. Do not aliquot.

Acceptable:

Specimen Type: Whole Blood

Container/Tube:

Preferred: Yellow top (ACD)

Acceptable: Green top (sodium heparin) or lavender top (EDTA)

Specimen Volume: 6 mL

Collection Instructions:

1. Invert several times to mix blood.

2. Send whole blood specimen in original tube. Do not aliquot.