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DNA Index in Serum (Cell Cycle Analysis)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the DNA content of cells in your blood sample to assess whether cells are in a normal or abnormal growth phase, often used in diagnosing or monitoring conditions like cancer.

Quick summary

["Helps doctors evaluate cell division patterns in blood samples for potential cancer or other genetic abnormalities."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
34973-8
Short code
DNA Index 2 SerPl FC-aCnc
Synonyms
DNA Index 2 SerPl FC-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
flow-cytometry
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Is a DNA Index?

The DNA index compares the amount of DNA in cells to a standard reference (typically diploid cells, which have two sets of chromosomes). A DNA index of 1.0 indicates normal diploid cells, while values above or below this suggest abnormal cell division, such as in tumors or other proliferative disorders.

Why Is This Test Done?

Doctors may order this test to investigate suspected cancers (e.g., lymphoma, leukemia), evaluate the effectiveness of cancer treatments, or assess abnormal cell growth in other conditions like polycythemia vera or certain genetic syndromes.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn, and cells are analyzed under a microscope to count and compare DNA content. This process often involves staining cells with fluorescent dyes to highlight DNA, allowing for precise measurement.

What Does the Result Mean?

Results are reported as a DNA index value (e.g., 1.2, 0.8). A value significantly different from 1.0 may indicate abnormal cell proliferation, but interpretation depends on clinical context and comparison to other tests.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A DNA index outside the normal range (typically 1.0) can signal potential malignancies or other genetic disorders. However, it is rarely used alone and is often combined with other diagnostic tests (e.g., cytology, imaging) for accurate diagnosis. Follow-up may include additional genetic testing or monitoring.

Short name

DNA Index Test

Frequently asked questions

What does a DNA index test check for?
This test primarily checks for abnormal cell division patterns, which can be associated with cancer or other conditions affecting cell growth. It helps doctors determine if cells are behaving normally or if they may be precancerous or cancerous.
How is the DNA index test different from a standard blood test?
Unlike standard blood tests (e.g., checking glucose, cholesterol), this test focuses specifically on DNA content in cells. It requires specialized laboratory techniques to analyze cell nuclei under a microscope, often using fluorescent staining to measure DNA quantity.
Can a DNA index test be done at home?
No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. It is not a self-test and must be performed in a laboratory equipped for cell cycle analysis.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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