Understanding Your Medical Test: What It Is, How It Works, and Why It Matters for Your Health
This test detects abnormal cell populations with unusual chromosome numbers using flow cytometry technology.
{"Measures cells with abnormal chromosome numbers (aneuploidy)","Uses flow cytometry to analyze cell DNA content","Helps detect and monitor cancer cell abnormalities","Requires a blood sample (serum)","Results help doctors understand cell behavior and disease progression"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 77658-3
- Short code
- ANEUPLOIDG2
- Synonyms
- Aneu cell pop in G2 NFr Cells.XXX FC
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile tube containing anticoagulant appropriate for flow cytometry (e.g., sodium heparin or EDTA tube); sterile container for tissue/bone marrow aspirate
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- Specimen volume
- Minimum 1-2 mL of bone marrow aspirate, peripheral blood, or tissue sample in sterile transport medium; volume requirements vary by specimen type and laboratory protocol
- Stability
- Specimen must be processed within 24-48 hours of collection when maintained at room temperature (18-25°C). Do not refrigerate or freeze. Viability decreases significantly after 48 hours, potentially affecting DNA ploidy analysis.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test, and what exactly does it measure or look for in my body?
This test uses flow cytometry to detect aneuploid cell populations in the G2 phase of the cell cycle. Aneuploidy means cells have an abnormal number of chromosomes - either too many or too few. The G2 phase is a stage in the cell's life cycle just before cell division, when the cell has completed DNA replication and is preparing to divide.
How is this test performed, and what should I expect before, during, and after the procedure?
A blood sample (serum) is collected from you. The sample is then analyzed using flow cytometry, a technology that can measure multiple characteristics of individual cells as they pass through a laser beam. This allows scientists to identify cells with abnormal DNA content (aneuploid cells) that may be present in your blood.
Why is this test important for my health, and how will my doctor use the results to guide my care?
The presence of aneuploid cells can indicate cellular abnormalities that may be associated with cancer or other conditions. This test helps healthcare providers detect these abnormal cells, understand how disease is progressing, and make informed decisions about treatment.
Reference range
Aneuploid cell population in G2 phase is typically reported as absent or within expected diploid range. Results are expressed as a percentage or DNA index relative to diploid controls. Normal diploid G2 peak shows DNA index of 1.0 (G1) and 2.0 (G2). Aneuploidy is indicated when an abnormal DNA stemline is identified.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of chemotherapy or radiation therapy when possible, as treatment may affect cell cycle distribution and DNA ploidy results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Aneuploidy is a hallmark of many cancers. Detecting aneuploid cell populations can aid in cancer diagnosis, help determine prognosis, and assist in monitoring treatment response. The test may also be useful in evaluating certain benign conditions that involve abnormal cell division.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before this test?
How long does it take to get results?
What do abnormal results mean?
Is this test only for cancer patients?
Sources
- 1LOINC Code ReferenceSource
- 2
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy