Cancer-Related DNA Mutation Screening in Blood (Qualitative Probe)
This test checks for specific genetic mutations linked to certain cancers in a sample of your blood. It helps identify if you may have inherited or acquired mutations that could increase cancer risk.
["This test helps assess cancer risk by detecting genetic mutations in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 96302-5
- Short code
- CAURISNAA
- Synonyms
- C auris DNA Bld Pos Ql NAA+n-prb
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Positive blood culture bottle (e.g., aerobic and/or anaerobic bottles from FDA-cleared continuous-monitoring blood culture systems such as BACTEC or BacT/ALERT). Bottles flagged positive are submitted directly for testing.
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- non-probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87811
- SNOMED
- 416896001
- Specimen volume
- 1-3 mL of broth aspirated from a positive blood culture bottle. Do not submit the entire bottle; aliquot the positive broth into a sterile screw-cap tube or vial for molecular testing.
- Stability
- Stable for up to 24 hours at room temperature (15-25°C) or refrigerated (2-8°C). If testing is delayed beyond 24 hours, store at -70°C or below. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 2–8 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test analyzes DNA fragments from your blood for the presence of specific mutations associated with hereditary or sporadic cancers. These mutations may be linked to conditions like colorectal, breast, ovarian, or other cancers. The probe detects these mutations qualitatively, meaning it identifies whether they are present or absent rather than measuring their quantity.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have a family history of certain cancers, a personal history of cancer, or if you are at high risk due to genetic testing or screening guidelines. It can also be part of routine cancer surveillance in certain populations.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to extract DNA, which is then tested for the presence of specific mutations using a molecular probe. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised depending on your provider’s instructions.
What to Expect During and After the Test
The blood draw typically takes a few minutes and may cause mild discomfort. Afterward, you can resume normal activities. Results may take several weeks to a few months, depending on the laboratory and follow-up testing required.
Reference range
Not detected (Negative). Results are reported qualitatively as Detected or Not Detected.N/A
No special patient preparation is required prior to blood collection. Specimen should be collected aseptically before initiation of antifungal therapy whenever possible. This test is a reflex test performed only on blood culture bottles that have signaled positive by a continuous-monitoring blood culture system.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate the presence of cancer-associated mutations, which may guide further testing, monitoring, or preventive measures. Negative results suggest no detectable mutations in this test, but further genetic counseling and testing may still be recommended based on your risk profile. This test is not a diagnostic tool for active cancer but helps assess hereditary risk.
Short name
None
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Is this test painful?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy