PML-RARA for Promyelocytic Leukemia

This testing is used to detect the abnormal promyelocytic leukemia/retinoic acid receptor alpha or PML-RARA gene sequence. It is used to help diagnose acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) in which the PML-RARA gene sequence is present, to guide treatment, to monitor response to treatment, and to monitor for disease recurrence.

Testing is ordered when a doctor suspects that a person has APL. Initial testing may be indicated when a person has abnormal findings on a CBC and/or blood smear such as an increased or decreased number of white blood cells, decreased platelets, decreased red blood cells, and abnormal, immature white blood cells called promyelocytes, and nonspecific symptoms that may be related to leukemia such as:

• Fatigue or weakness
• Pale skin (pallor)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Joint or bone pain and/or an enlarged spleen
• Excessive bleeding, bruising, or inappropriate blood clotting

Read more:
PML-RARA: The Test | Promyelocytic Leukemia/Retinoic Acid Receptor Alpha

Source: Lab Test Online


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