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KIT Exon 11 Mutation Analysis, Whole Blood

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

This test looks for a specific genetic change (mutation) in exon 11 of the KIT gene in a whole blood sample. Such mutations can be relevant to certain cancers, particularly gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs).

Quick summary

["A KIT exon 11 mutation result helps your care team understand whether a tumor may respond to targeted therapies."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
77171-7
Short code
KIT Exon 11 Mut Anl Bld/T
Synonyms
KIT Exon 11 Mut Anl Bld/T
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
molgen
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Checks

The test examines a small section of the KIT gene called exon 11 for changes (mutations). Genes carry instructions for how cells grow and divide, and changes in KIT can affect those instructions.

Why It May Be Ordered

Doctors may order this test when a tumor is suspected or confirmed to be a gastrointestinal stromal tumor or another cancer where KIT plays a role. Results can help guide treatment decisions, including whether certain targeted medicines may be useful.

How the Sample Is Collected

A whole blood sample is usually drawn from a vein in your arm. In some cases, testing may be done on tumor tissue instead, depending on your doctor's plan.

What Results Mean

A "positive" or "detected" result means a mutation was found in exon 11 of KIT. A "negative" or "not detected" result means no such change was seen. Your doctor will interpret results alongside other clinical information; this test alone does not diagnose or rule out cancer.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

KIT exon 11 mutations are common in gastrointestinal stromal tumors and can predict response to certain targeted therapies called tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Identifying a mutation can help personalize treatment and may inform prognosis. Because results must be interpreted in the context of tumor type and other findings, discuss them with your oncology team.

Short name

KIT exon 11 mutation

Frequently asked questions

Does a KIT exon 11 mutation mean I have cancer?
Not necessarily. The mutation is found in many GISTs but can also occur in other contexts. Your doctor will interpret the result with imaging, biopsy, and other tests.
Will this test tell me which treatment I should receive?
It provides information that can help guide treatment choices, especially about targeted therapies, but your care team will combine it with other factors to recommend a plan.
Is a blood sample enough, or is tumor tissue needed?
This test uses whole blood, but in practice mutation testing is often performed on tumor tissue. Your doctor will decide which sample type is most appropriate for your situation.
  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