The Medical Genetics Center

Dr. Osama K Zaki                    

Cancer cytogenetic study (bone marrow) :

    Bone marrow is the tissue of choice for study of hematological malignancies.  It is also used to assess the spread of malignant cell lines to bone marrow for accurate staging of the disease. Bone marrow sampling is a relatively simple procedure; and it is frequently possible to get enough bone marrow aspirate in one session for all cytogenetic, pathological and immunology studies.

    Cytogenetic study is the an independent prognostic factor in leukemia. The average life span is more closely related to the specific chromosome disorder than any other prognostic parameter. 

Indications

Specimen:

1. Using a heparin coated syringe, aspirate 2-3 ml of bone marrow. The first aspirate gives better results. If the first aspirate is not available, the needle should be rotated 180 degrees before aspiration of the sample for cytogenetic study (so that the beveled end of the needle will be facing the other side).  The sample should be sent as soon as possible in green top vacutainer. Some cell lines may not survive long transport. If a delay is expected, please call to receive our free Bone Marrow Collection Kit
2. Obtain 3-5 ml of peripheral blood in a heparin coated syringe or green top Na heparin vacutainer. This sample is used to study the constitutional chromosomal complement of patients and compare it with the bone marrow results. 

N.B. Specimen should be withdrawn before initiating chemotherapy. The later inhibits cell division which is essential for the study.

Analytic time:

    Results are usually available3 to 6 days

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