Bcl6generearbldtql
This test checks for genetic changes in the BCL6 gene in your blood or tissue sample to help diagnose certain types of lymphoma.
{"BCL6 gene rearrangement is a genetic test used to diagnose B-cell lymphomas","The test is performed on a blood sample or tissue biopsy","Results help doctors determine the specific type of lymphoma and guide treatment options"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 21746-3
- Short code
- BCL6
- Synonyms
- BCL6 gene Rear Bld/T Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- EDTA (lavender-top) tube for whole blood; sterile container with tissue culture medium or RPMI for tissue specimens
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- molgen
- CPT
- 88364
- SNOMED
- 44622008
- Specimen volume
- 3-5 mL whole blood or 5-10 mm³ fresh/frozen tissue; minimum 1 mL bone marrow aspirate
- Stability
- Whole blood: 24-48 hours at room temperature or 72 hours refrigerated (2-8°C). Tissue: 24 hours refrigerated in transport medium; fixed tissue stable indefinitely. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 72–336 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The BCL6 gene rearrangement test is a molecular genetics test that looks for specific changes (rearrangements) in the BCL6 gene. The BCL6 gene normally helps regulate how B-cells (a type of white blood cell) grow and divide. When this gene is rearranged, it can lead to abnormal B-cell growth and contribute to the development of lymphoma.
How is the test performed?
A healthcare provider will collect a sample of your blood or tissue (from a biopsy). The sample is then sent to a laboratory where technicians use special molecular techniques to detect whether the BCL6 gene has undergone rearrangement. The test does not measure a numerical value but reports whether rearrangements are present or absent.
Why might I need this test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms suggesting lymphoma, such as swollen lymph nodes, unexplained fever, night sweats, or weight loss. It may also be used to confirm a diagnosis after a tissue biopsy, to determine the specific type of lymphoma, or to help predict how the disease may behave.
What do the results mean?
A positive result means that BCL6 gene rearrangement was detected in your sample. This finding is often associated with certain types of B-cell lymphomas, particularly diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and follicular lymphoma. A negative result means no rearrangement was found. Your doctor will interpret these results along with other test findings to make a complete diagnosis.
Reference range
Negative for BCL6 gene rearrangement (no translocation involving the BCL6 locus at 3q27 detected). Positive results indicate presence of BCL6 gene rearrangement, which may be reported as 'Detected' or 'Not Detected'.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of chemotherapy or other targeted therapy when possible. Informed consent may be required for genetic testing per institutional policy.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is fasting required before this test?
How long does it take to get results?
Does a positive result mean I have cancer?
Can this test be used to monitor treatment response?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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