Definition

This translocation relocates the c-MYC oncogene at 8q24 next to the IgH locus at 14q32, leading to overexpression of c-MYC. It is the primary diagnostic hallmark seen in 90 to 95% of Burkitt lymphoma/leukemia cases (IGK/MYC or IGL/MYC variants are also seen less commonly). Its diagnostic significance is important because treatment strategies differ; however, it is not entirely specific to Burkitt, and can also be detected in 2 to 5% of DLBCL cases.

Method

FISH analysis

Accepted sample types

Peripheral blood, bone marrow (heparin), lymphoid tissue

Description

Diagnosis and monitoring of ALL and NHL.

Inheritance

Somatic; an error arising during B-cell development.

Related Tests

Inheritance Patterns

Describes how a genetic condition is passed on within a family. There are five main patterns

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Carrier (Heterozygous / Homozygous)

Why it matters: In autosomal recessive inheritance, when each parent is a carrier (while both appear healthy), the chance of their child being born with the disease is 25% in each

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VUS (Variant of Uncertain Significance)

This is the situation where the test has detected a change in the DNA, but the role of this change in the development of disease is unconfirmed.

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How to Read a Genetic Test Result (Positive / Negative / VUS)

A genetic test result falls into three main categories

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Types of Genetic Tests

A genetic test is a type of medical test that detects changes in genes, chromosomes or proteins. Today there are more than 77,000 genetic tests available.

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