Ordering Guidance

This test is intended for instances when limited myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) probes are needed based on specific abnormalities or abnormalities identified in the diagnostic sample. 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 and automatically reordered by the laboratory as MDSDF / Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), Diagnostic FISH, Varies.

Chromosome analysis is recommended as first-tier testing; order either CHRBM / Chromosome Analysis, Hematologic Disorders, Bone Marrow, or CHRHB / Chromosome Analysis, Hematologic Disorders, Blood. This second-tier test should only be ordered if chromosome analysis is not successful, as it does not increase the sensitivity for detection of MDS for classic abnormalities (ie, -5/5q-, -7/7q-).

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

Shipping Instructions

Advise Express Mail or equivalent if not on courier service.

Necessary Information

1. 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.

2. A flow cytometry and/or a bone marrow pathology report 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.

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 to 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 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 in original tube. Do not aliquot.