The PCR test makes millions of copies of a certain portion of a cell's DNA, which can then be reviewed in greater detail. This helps doctors look closely at specific genes (parts of the DNA) to see if they show evidence of CLL.
The test is used for several reasons:
Detection: Sometimes, CLL cells can be hard to find, especially if they're few in number. Using PCR, doctors can amplify and detect even the tiniest amounts of CLL DNA, allowing for early detection and monitoring of the disease
Monitoring: CLL can be a slow-growing cancer. Some patients might not need treatment right away, but doctors need to keep a close eye on the disease's progression. Regular PCR tests can help determine if the number of CLL cells are increasing
Treatment Decisions: Not all CLL is the same. There are different mutations or changes in the DNA that can make some cases of CLL more aggressive than others. PCR can help identify these mutations. Knowing the specific type of CLL a patient has helps doctors decide the best treatment approach
Minimal Residual Disease (MRD): After treatment, doctors want to know if it worked. While standard tests might not pick up a small number of remaining CLL cells, PCR can. Finding out if there are any remaining trace amounts of CLL cells (minimal residual disease or MRD) can help doctors predict disease relapse and the next steps in the patient's care plan
For CLL patients, understanding the disease and its monitoring are crucial. PCR testing offers a detailed glimpse into the genetic makeup of CLL cells, helping you and your CLL specialist make informed decisions about your care plan. Reach out to your CLL specialist regarding any questions you may have related to your PCR test.
The PCR test makes millions of copies of a certain portion of a cell's DNA, which can then be reviewed in greater detail. This helps doctors look closely at specific genes (parts of the DNA) to see if they show evidence of CLL.
The test is used for several reasons:
Detection: Sometimes, CLL cells can be hard to find, especially if they're few in number. Using PCR, doctors can amplify and detect even the tiniest amounts of CLL DNA, allowing for early detection and monitoring of the disease
Monitoring: CLL can be a slow-growing cancer. Some patients might not need treatment right away, but doctors need to keep a close eye on the disease's progression. Regular PCR tests can help determine if the number of CLL cells are increasing
Treatment Decisions: Not all CLL is the same. There are different mutations or changes in the DNA that can make some cases of CLL more aggressive than others. PCR can help identify these mutations. Knowing the specific type of CLL a patient has helps doctors decide the best treatment approach
Minimal Residual Disease (MRD): After treatment, doctors want to know if it worked. While standard tests might not pick up a small number of remaining CLL cells, PCR can. Finding out if there are any remaining trace amounts of CLL cells (minimal residual disease or MRD) can help doctors predict disease relapse and the next steps in the patient's care plan
For CLL patients, understanding the disease and its monitoring are crucial. PCR testing offers a detailed glimpse into the genetic makeup of CLL cells, helping you and your CLL specialist make informed decisions about your care plan. Reach out to your CLL specialist regarding any questions you may have related to your PCR test.
about the author
Megan Heaps
Megan joined HealthTree in 2022. As a writer and the daughter of a blood cancer patient, she is dedicated to helping patients and their caregivers understand the various aspects of their disease. This understanding enables them to better advocate for themselves and improve their treatment outcomes. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family.
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