In order to evaluate for the presence of hematopoietic microchimerism in patients at various timepoints subsequent to allogeneic bone marrow transplant (BMT), pre-transplant chimerism analysis must be initiated. Hematopoietic microchimerism will be determined by PCR analysis using a panel of highly-polymorphic short tandem repeat (STR) markers. DNA will be extracted from the recipient’s peripheral blood cells or bone marrow with a DNA sample also extracted and stored from a buccal brush. Pre-transplant donor and recipient DNA samples will be screened to establish an allelic profile for each individual within the context of the STR panel.

Indications for Testing

Bone marrow transplant candidate and donor

Sample Required from both Donor and Recipient

  • 3-5 mL (children) or 6-8 mL (adults) whole blood in purple top EDTA tube.
  • 3-5 mL (children) or 6-8 mL (adults) bone marrow in purple top EDTA tube.

Also require a Buccal Brush from recipient for DNA extraction and storage.

Buccal Brush: Collection instructions:

  1. Thoroughly rinse out subject’s mouth TWICE with water. Patients should abstain from drinking coffee before tissue collection.
  2. Collect tissue by rolling the Buccal Brush firmly on the inside of the cheek, approximately 20 times on each side, making certain to move the Brush over the entire cheek.
  3. Dry the brush for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.
  4. Return the Brush to the original packaging, tape shut, label with patient’s name, MR # and collection date.
  5. Return the Brush to the Center for Human Genetics Laboratory.

Sample Handling: Blood samples stored overnight should be refrigerated or kept cold. Blood samples should never be frozen. Specimens being sent from outside facilities should be packaged with a cold pack according to standard medical safety practices. The specimen should be shipped by overnight priority [scheduled to arrive by Friday AM at the latest].

Shipping Address: Center for Human Genetics Laboratory
10524 Euclid Ave, 6th Floor
Cleveland, OH 44106
216-983-1134

For local samples, please call the Center for Human Genetics Laboratory (216-983-1134) to arrange for sample pick-up.

Turn Around Time: 3-9 days

Cost/CPT codes: Pre-Transplant Chimerism $1006.32 / 83900 (x2), 83901 (x14), 83909 (x2), 83912, 83890 (x3)
DNA Extraction and Storage $28.70 / 83890, 83912

Please submit a completed Cancer Genetics Requisition for each sample