Genetic analysis of T-cell receptor beta gene rearrangement (T-cell clonality testing)
This test checks for abnormal patterns in the T-cell receptor beta gene, which may indicate an underlying immune condition or malignancy.
["Assesses T-cell diversity to help diagnose conditions like lymphoma or other immune disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 56880-8
- Short code
- TCRB gene+TCRD gene+TCRG gene Bld/T Ql
- Synonyms
- TCRB gene+TCRD gene+TCRG gene Bld/T Ql
- 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 Measures
The test examines the arrangement of the T-cell receptor beta gene, which helps identify whether T-cells are clonally expanded (indicative of a potential immune or neoplastic process). This involves analyzing DNA sequences from your blood sample to detect repetitive patterns that may suggest abnormal T-cell proliferation.
Why It’s Performed
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent infections, unexplained lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes), or other signs of an immune disorder. It can also be used to monitor certain cancers, such as T-cell lymphomas, or to assess immune function in complex medical cases.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A small amount of whole blood is drawn from your arm. The blood is processed to extract DNA for genetic analysis. This test does not require fasting or special preparation beyond standard blood draw procedures.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions like T-cell lymphoma, chronic infections (e.g., HIV), or autoimmune disorders where T-cell abnormalities are suspected. It can also help evaluate immune reconstitution after treatments like chemotherapy or stem cell transplants.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal T-cell receptor beta gene rearrangements may indicate a clonal T-cell population, which can be associated with malignancies such as T-cell lymphomas or other immune-related diseases. Normal results suggest a diverse T-cell population, which is typical in healthy individuals. This test helps guide further diagnostic or therapeutic decisions based on the presence or absence of abnormal clonal expansion.
Short name
T-cell receptor beta gene testing
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive or abnormal result mean?
Is this test covered by insurance?
How long does it take to get results?
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