BCR-ABL Qualitative PCR

Understanding BCR-ABL Qualitative PCR

The BCR-ABL gene is an abnormal fusion gene formed when parts of the BCR gene on chromosome 22 and the ABL gene on chromosome 9 join together due to a chromosomal translocation, commonly known as the Philadelphia chromosome. This translocation creates an activated protein kinase that causes uncontrolled growth of white blood cells. The Philadelphia chromosome is commonly found in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) and Acute Lymphoid Leukemia (ALL). The BCR-ABL gene change is seen in over 95% of CML patients, 5% of chil...

What does BCR-ABL Qualitative PCR measure?

The BCR-ABL Qualitative PCR is a molecular test that detects the presence of the BCR-ABL fusion gene, an abnormality related to certain blood cancers like Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) and Philadelphia chromosome– positive Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (Ph⁺ ALL). It identifies whether the fusion gene is present in a blood or bone marrow sample and specifies the transcript type (specific form). This helps doctors confirm the diagnosis and decide on the right treatment.