July 2023: Updates to Recommended Myelodysplastic Syndrome Testing

Clinical Updates

Updates to Recommended Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) Testing

Effective August 17, 2023.

Cleveland Clinic Laboratories’ Molecular Pathology & Cytogenomics section offers several testing options for individuals suspected to have Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS):

  • Chromosome Analysis Only  CHRBMH
  • Chromosome Analysis with reflex to FISH with MDS Panel* (if there are no chromosome results or the chromosome analysis was sub-optimalCHRMDS
  • Chromosome Analysis with reflex to Microarray (CMA)  BMCHF
  • FISH Only with MDS Panel*, blood  FSHMDS 
  • FISH Only with MDS Panel*, bone marrow  FSMDSM 

*MDS Panel contains FISH probes specific to chromosomes 5, 7, 8, and 20.

Testing Guidelines 

Per the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Myelodysplastic Syndromes Guidelines [version 1.2023 (09/12/22)] 

If standard cytogenetics (with ≥20 metaphases) cannot be obtained, a chromosome microarray [(CMA), also known as chromosome genomic array testing (CGAT)] or MDS-related fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) panel should be performed. If karyotype is normal, consider CMA. Note that CMA will detect not only somatic but constitutional (germline) changes. 

Recommended Testing

In keeping with the NCCN guidelines, Chromosome Analysis with Reflex to FISH (CHRMDS) is Cleveland Clinic Laboratories’ recommended test for individuals suspected to have MDS.

Discontinued Testing

Beginning August 17, 2023, the FISH Only with MDS Panel (FSHMDS & FSMDSM) for blood and bone marrow will be discontinued.
Note: Chromosome Analysis Only (CHRBMH) and Chromosome Analysis with reflex to Microarray (BMCHF) may still be ordered.

Questions?

Please contact your CCL Sales Manager or Client Services at 800.628.6816.