The 10 most important things to remember about CML Testing

Fact 1

Your oncologist or haematologist is a trained professional and should be comfortable with discussing your lab results with you, in boring detail if necessary.

Fact 2

Being aware of sample collection and the method used to generate your results is part of being an informed patient.

Fact 3

Because q-PCR testing is so sensitive, it is normal for percentages of BCR-ABL1 to fluctuate a little over time.

Fact 4

A “log drop” means BCR-ABL1 transcripts have reduced by 10 fold from a standardised baseline of 100%^I.S. at diagnosis.

Fact 5

MMR is a 3-log (1000-fold) reduction in BCR-ABL1 transcripts.

Fact 6

Achievement of MMR (0.1%^I.S.) within 12 months is, according to ELNet recommendations and NCCN guidelines (2013), an optimal response with very low risk of progression.

Fact 7

There is significant variability among laboratories using different assays and test platforms.

Fact 8

Q-PCR testing for BCR-ABL1 transcripts should be performed by the same laboratory or referred to a specialist laboratory that follows universal reporting criteria.

Fact 9

Results from several tests that show a trend of rising or falling levels of BCR-ABL1 transcripts is more important than one single test result.

Fact 10

Samples of both blood and bone marrow are often evaluated at diagnosis, but the majority of follow-up monitoring is performed on peripheral blood samples.