Test Price
1,400 AED✅ Home Collection Available
PML/RARA Quantitative Test in UAE – Molecular Diagnosis & MRD Monitoring for Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia
Executive Summary & Core Metrics
- Diagnostic Accuracy: ≥99.9% sensitivity using ISO 9001:2015 accredited real-time PCR and whole genome sequencing platforms for precise PML/RARA fusion transcript quantification.
- Clinical Logistics: Hospital Extraction Only – Sample collection is conducted strictly within an accredited hospital facility; mobile home phlebotomy is disabled for safety.
- Post-Test Support: Complimentary telephonic clinical correlation and result interpretation by a DHA-licensed specialist.
- Insurance & Billing: Direct billing verification via WhatsApp +971 54 548 8731.
- Price: 1,400 AED inclusive of GST, technical analysis, and digital reporting.
Test Overview & Methodology
The PML/RARA Quantitative Test is a highly sensitive molecular diagnostic assay that detects and quantifies the PML/RARA fusion gene transcript, the definitive genetic hallmark of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). This test is essential for initial diagnosis, risk stratification, and serial minimal residual disease (MRD) monitoring during and after induction therapy with all-trans retinoic acid and arsenic trioxide. Quantitative results are reported as a normalized copy number ratio, enabling precise longitudinal tracking of molecular response and early detection of impending relapse weeks before clinical signs manifest.
| Feature | Our Test (PML/RARA qPCR + WGS) | Closest Alternative (FISH / Qualitative RT-PCR) |
|---|---|---|
| Precision & Quantification | Absolute quantification of fusion transcripts; digital PCR readiness | Qualitative (present/absent) or semi-quantitative; limited sensitivity |
| Method | Real-Time PCR (qPCR) + Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) | Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) or conventional RT-PCR |
| Turnaround Time | 24 hours (phone) / 36 hours (email) – starting 3rd working day | Often 5–7 days; not optimized for urgent MRD monitoring |
| Diagnostic Sensitivity | ≥99.9% (ISO‑accredited, CE‑marked platforms) | Typically 95–98%; may miss low‑level MRD |
| Clinical Utility | MRD‑guided therapy, early relapse detection, personalised follow‑up | Mainly diagnostic; limited value for serial MRD tracking |
Physician Insight & Safety Protocols
Clinical Perspective from Mr. Prabhakar Reddy Kalathoor (Specialist Diagnostic Radiology, DHA Registration ID: 61713011): “In my practice, the PML/RARA quantitative assay is the most reliable molecular compass we have for navigating APL therapy. I never interpret a single result in isolation — it must be weighed against the bone marrow morphology, coagulation parameters, and the patient’s clinical trajectory. A sustained negative transcript level offers genuine reassurance, but we remain vigilant because molecular escape can precede overt relapse by several weeks. This test, when used serially, empowers us to act before symptoms return.”
Medication Adherence Advisory
Never alter or discontinue your prescribed therapy — including all-trans retinoic acid, arsenic trioxide, or any supportive medications — without explicit instruction from your haematologist. Sudden changes can precipitate life-threatening differentiation syndrome, coagulopathy, or rapid disease progression.
Exclusion Criteria & Emergency Red Flags
- Exclusion Criteria: Blood transfusion within the past 14 days (may dilute residual blasts), active uncontrolled haemorrhage, platelet count below 20×10⁹/L without prior medical clearance, severe needle phobia that precludes safe venepuncture, or inability to provide informed consent (or lack of guardian consent for minors).
- Emergency Red Flags – Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Persistent high fever exceeding 38.5°C unresponsive to antipyretics, spontaneous gingival bleeding or widespread purpura, sudden severe headache accompanied by visual disturbances (suspicious for CNS haemorrhage), or rapid decline in oxygen saturation. These may signal APL differentiation syndrome or disease progression and require urgent evaluation.
Patient FAQ & Clinical Guidance
1. What is the PML/RARA Quantitative Test used for?
This test measures the level of the PML-RARA fusion gene to diagnose acute promyelocytic leukemia and track residual disease. It is the gold-standard molecular assay for confirming APL at initial presentation, guiding risk-adapted therapy, and monitoring for minimal residual disease (MRD) after treatment. Results are expressed as a normalised copy number ratio, allowing precise comparison over time to detect molecular relapse before clinical symptoms emerge.
2. How should I prepare for the PML/RARA Quantitative Test?
No special preparation or fasting is required; however, you must sign a consent form and provide a complete clinical history. The sample — either bone marrow aspirate or peripheral whole blood — is collected under strict sterile conditions within the hospital setting. Please bring all prior medical reports, coagulation profiles, and a current medication list. For minors, a parent or legal guardian must provide signed consent. Avoid vigorous exercise for two hours before collection.
3. What do the results of the PML/RARA Quantitative Test mean?
A positive result indicates the presence of the PML-RARA fusion gene, confirming APL or molecular relapse; a negative result suggests deep remission. At diagnosis, a high transcript level confirms the disease and helps guide initial therapy. During follow-up, a rising transcript number or conversion from negative to positive signals molecular relapse, enabling earlier intervention. Persistently undetectable levels (below the assay’s limit of detection) are consistent with deep molecular remission. All results must be reviewed alongside complete blood counts, coagulation studies, and a specialist consultation.
4. How is the sample collected and how long does it take to get results?
Sample collection is performed only within an accredited hospital facility; home phlebotomy is not available for this test. A qualified healthcare professional will collect either a bone marrow aspirate or peripheral blood sample under sterile conditions. Results are available within 24 hours by phone and 36 hours by email, starting from the third working day after sample receipt.
5. Is the PML/RARA Quantitative Test covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your individual insurance policy. We provide direct billing verification via WhatsApp to confirm eligibility. Contact our billing team at +971 54 548 8731 with your policy details for a pre-authorisation check before scheduling the test.
UAE Regulatory & Data Privacy Adherence
This diagnostic service operates in full compliance with UAE federal legislation governing medical practice and patient data protection. All clinical procedures follow Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability, ensuring that informed consent, patient safety, and professional accountability are upheld at every stage. Laboratory information systems and digital reporting infrastructure are secured under Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 on Personal Data Protection (PDPL) and Federal Law No. 2 of 2019 Concerning the Use of Information and Communication Technology in Health Fields, guaranteeing that your medical records remain confidential, encrypted, and accessible only to authorised healthcare providers. Our quality management system is ISO 9001:2015 certified (Cert: INT/EGQ/2509DA/3139), and all clinical reports are reviewed and approved by DHA-licensed physicians. For medical emergencies, please dial 998.
Clinical & Logistical Metadata
| Test Name | PML/RARA Quantitative Test (qPCR + WGS) |
| Price (AED) | 1,400 AED |
| Turnaround Time | 24 hours (phone) / 36 hours (email) – starting 3rd working day |
| Sample Type / Matrix | Hospital Extraction Only – Sample collection is conducted strictly within an accredited hospital facility; mobile home phlebotomy is disabled for safety. |
| Methodology Used | Real-Time PCR (qPCR) + Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) |
| ICD-10-CM Code | C92.4 |
| LOINC Code | 33587-2 |
| DHA Facility License & Address | License No: 1143 | Premises 105, Floor 1, Building 33, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE | DNA Labs UAE |
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ISMS 27001:2022
ISO Accredited
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All reports reviewed by DHA-Certified physicians