Multigene Cancer Risk Assessment (Blood)
This test analyzes multiple genes in your blood sample to assess potential inherited risks for certain cancers. It helps doctors identify genetic factors that may influence your cancer risk or guide personalized treatment options.
["A blood test checking for inherited genetic mutations linked to cancer risk."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73977-1
- Short code
- CANCER MGX
- Synonyms
- Cancer multigene analysis Bld/T
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- EDTA tube (purple-top, K2-EDTA or K3-EDTA) for peripheral blood; sterile container with normal saline or RNA/DNA preservation solution for fresh tissue; formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) block or unstained slides for archival tissue. A separate EDTA tube is recommended for backup DNA extraction.
- Units
- N/A
- Critical range
- 0.5 N/A – —
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- molgen
- CPT
- 81432 (Hereditary breast cancer-related disorders genomic sequence analysis panel), 81433 (Hereditary breast cancer-related disorders duplication/deletion analysis panel), 81435 (Hereditary colon cancer disorders genomic sequence analysis panel), 81436 (Hereditary colon cancer disorders duplication/deletion analysis panel), 81437 (Hereditary neuroendocrine tumor disorders), 81438 (Hereditary neuroendocrine tumor disorders duplication/deletion), 81479 (Unlisted molecular pathology procedure), or panel-specific codes 81162–81349 as applicable (e.g., 81162 BRCA1/BRCA2 gene analysis full sequence), 81292–81295 (MLH1/MSH2/MSH6/PMS2), 81307–81308 (PALB2). CPT selection depends on genes included in the panel.
- SNOMED
- 76093004 (Molecular genetic test), 116859006 (Genetic susceptibility finding), 441829007 (Hereditary cancer syndrome), 363779005 (Genetic counseling), 384451000 (Cancer genetic risk assessment)
- Specimen volume
- Whole blood: 3–10 mL (minimum 2 mL). Saliva: 2 mL or per kit instructions. Fresh tissue: 5–25 mg or 0.5–1 cm³. FFPE tissue: 10 unstained 5–10 µm sections plus 1 H&E-stained slide, or 1 tissue block. Buccal swab: per collection kit specifications.
- Stability
- Whole blood: stable at room temperature (15–25°C) for 48 hours, refrigerated (2–8°C) for 7 days; do not freeze. Extracted DNA: stable at 2–8°C for 1 month, at -20°C for 1 year, at -80°C for long-term storage. FFPE tissue: stable indefinitely if stored properly (15–25°C, low humidity). Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles for nucleic acid extracts.
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 168–720 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
This test evaluates a selection of genes known to be associated with increased cancer risk. The genes analyzed may include those linked to breast, ovarian, prostate, colorectal, and other cancers. The test looks for specific mutations (changes in the DNA sequence) that could increase your risk of developing cancer later in life.
How the Test Works
Blood is drawn from your arm, and the sample is processed to extract DNA. The DNA is then analyzed using advanced genetic testing methods to detect mutations in the selected genes. Results are compared to reference genetic data to determine if any mutations are present.
Why It’s Done
Doctors may recommend this test if you have a family history of cancer, certain symptoms, or if you are at high risk due to age or other factors. It can help guide decisions about cancer screening, prevention strategies, or treatment options tailored to your genetic profile.
What to Expect Before the Test
There are no special preparations needed for this test. You may have some mild discomfort from the blood draw, but it usually takes only a few minutes. If you are pregnant or have a bleeding disorder, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
Reference range
No pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants detected in the genes analyzed. Variants of uncertain significance (VUS) may be reported. Reference interpretation is specific to the gene panel performed; a negative result does not exclude a hereditary cancer syndrome due to panel limitations, undetected variants, or genes not included in the assay.N/A
No fasting required. Pre-test genetic counseling is strongly recommended. Patient should provide informed consent including discussion of: scope and limitations of the panel, possibility of incidental findings, implications for family members, and potential for variants of uncertain significance. A detailed personal and family cancer history (minimum 3-generation pedigree) should be available. For tissue specimens, ensure tumor content adequacy (≥20% neoplastic cellularity preferred). Blood transfusion or recent bone marrow transplantation history must be disclosed due to risk of chimeric results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Multigene Cancer Test (Blood)
Frequently asked questions
This test provides critical information about your genetic predisposition to cancer. Identifying inherited mutations can help doctors recommend more frequent cancer screenings, lifestyle changes, or targeted therapies to reduce risk. It also supports shared decision-making with your healthcare team about next steps.
No fasting is required for this blood test. However, inform your healthcare provider if you are on any medications or have conditions that might affect blood testing, such as bleeding disorders.
Results are typically available within 1–2 weeks, depending on the laboratory and complexity of the test. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you in detail.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy