[Huey1947]

FISH results after plasmacytoma diagnosis

by Huey1947 on Tue Dec 23, 2014 9:14 pm

Anyone can explain for me this result?

"FISH results: Negative multiple myeloma panel."

I was diagnosed with plasmacytoma. My doctor ordered more test to see if I have multiple myeloma.

Thanks

[Multibilly]

Re: FISH results after plasmacytoma diagnosis

by Multibilly on Tue Dec 23, 2014 10:32 pm

Hi Huey,

It sounds like the FISH test found no genetic abnormalities associated with multiple myeloma, which is good. But a FISH test doesn't tell you if you have multiple myeloma or not, simply whether or not you have any genetic abnormalities that can effect your prognosis.

What was your plasma cell percentage from the bone marrow biopsy? Regarding whether you have multiple myeloma or not, this is probably the most important piece of information to know from that procedure.

[Huey1947]

Re: FISH results after plasmacytoma diagnosis

by Huey1947 on Tue Dec 23, 2014 10:47 pm

Thanks Multibilly.

I believe I got 10%. I think FISH is to indicate low or high risk. How do I translate mine?

Thanks in advance.

[Mister Dana]

Re: FISH results after plasmacytoma diagnosis

by Mister Dana on Tue Dec 23, 2014 11:17 pm

In general, I'd say use the forum search box to search for the term "MSMART" , basically a flow chart from the Mayo Clinic. Follow the link to the MSMART summary. On the first page are three lists of known mutations, such as those in a FISH report. Those lists are for standard, intermediate and high risk mutations, based on the experience of previous patients.

It is tricky though: what if one has a standard risk mutation, but some of the plasma cells have additional genetic troubles? At this point, though, it sounds like they haven't yet spotted any of the usual culprits (mutations) in your cells.

[Multibilly]

Re: FISH results after plasmacytoma diagnosis

by Multibilly on Wed Dec 24, 2014 9:39 am

Hi Huey,

Has your doctor discussed having the plasmacytoma biopsied?

With a 10% plasma cell level and the presence of a plasmacytoma, I would suggest seeking out a doctor that specializes specifically in multiple myeloma. If you let us know where you live, folks on this site can likely offer some suggestions on where to find those doctors and/or institutions.

Regarding how to translate your FISH results, again it sounds like they found no multiple-myeloma-specific genetic abnormalities to worry about regarding your risk (so, from a purely genetic standpoint, you would be "low risk", provided you have symptomatic multiple myeloma). I have similar FISH results. But I'm not a doc, so your doc really needs to comment on this.

[Dr. Jason Valent]

Re: FISH results after plasmacytoma diagnosis

by Dr. Jason Valent on Wed Dec 24, 2014 3:46 pm

The other responses have essentially answered this. The FISH test is done to look for DNA changes in the myeloma cells that can provide prognostic information, or to direct therapy. The absence of changes is standard risk.