Ordering Guidance

This test uses targeted myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) probes to evaluate specific abnormalities or abnormalities identified in the diagnostic sample. The FISH probes to be analyzed must be specified on the request, otherwise test processing may be delayed in order to determine the intended analysis. If specific probes are not included with this test order, the test may be canceled and automatically reordered by the laboratory as MDSDF / Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), Diagnostic FISH, Varies.

If the entire MDS FISH panel is preferred, order MDSDF / Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), Diagnostic FISH, Varies.

At diagnosis, conventional cytogenetic studies should be performed. For more information see CHRBM / Chromosome Analysis, Hematologic Disorders, Bone Marrow.

Shipping Instructions

Advise Express Mail or equivalent if not on courier service.

Necessary Information

1. A list of probes requested for analysis is required. Probes available for this test are listed in the Testing Algorithm section.

2. A reason for testing should be submitted with each specimen. The laboratory will not reject testing if this information is not provided, but appropriate testing and interpretation may be compromised or delayed. If this information is not provided, an appropriate indication for testing may be entered by Mayo Clinic Laboratories.

3. A pathology and/or flow cytometry report may be requested by the laboratory to optimize testing and aid in interpretation of results.

Specimen Required

Preferred

Specimen Type: Bone marrow

Container/Tube:

Preferred: Yellow top (ACD)

Acceptable: Green top (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.

Acceptable

Specimen Type: Blood

Container/Tube:

Preferred: Yellow top (ACD)

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

Specimen Volume: 6 mL

Collection Instructions: Invert several times to mix blood.