Oncology Chromosome Analysis

  • Cytogenetics
Cytogenetic analysis can provide an important clinical understanding for diagnosis, prognosis, and available therapies in a wide variety of hematologic tumors. Chromosomal changes can consist of additions and deletions of whole chromosomes or structural changes such as insertions, inversions, translocations, and deletions. In leukemias and lymphomas, chromosomal translocations are identified as a common karyotypic change aiding in disease diagnosis.
Turnaround time
Bone marrow aspirate/blood: 6 Days (standard; 8 Days for known or suspected plasma cell neoplasm) | Lymph node/node biopsy: 6 Days

Level of Service

  • Global
New York Approved: Yes

Specimen Requirements

BM Aspirate: 1-2 mL sodium heparin tube. Peripheral Blood: 2-5 mL sodium heparin tube. CSF: 1-3 mL Lymph Node and BM Cores (Fresh/Unfixed): One thin cross-section of fresh node with minimum 0.5 cm3 tissue. Collect under sterile conditions as if for microbiologic culture. Place tissue in RPMI and note type of tissue on test requisition. Lymph nodes and BM cores may be sent to our Aliso Viejo, CA facility. Tissues placed in formalin are unacceptable for cytogenetics. Note: Please exclude biopsy needles, blades, and other foreign objects from transport tubes. These can compromise specimen viability and yield, and create hazards for employees.

Storage and Transportation

Use cold pack for transport, making sure cold pack is not in direct contact with specimen. NYS clients please provide date and time of Collection.

CPT Code(s)*

88237, 88264, 88291. Some cases require additional study and may use 88280, 88285 and/or an additional 88237

*The CPT codes provided with our test descriptions are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. Correct CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed.

Last Updated: January 22, 2025

Get in touch

Our Client Services team is on hand to help. Please call us at 866.776.5907, Option 3.