Test Overview
Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH)
PDGFB encodes the preprotein for platelet-derived growth factor, beta chain. Rearrangements between PDGFB and the gene for collagen type 1, alpha-1 chain preprotein (COL1A1; 17q21) occur in more than 90% of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) as well as in giant cell fibroblastoma (now considered a juvenile form of DFSP). This rearrangement results in the fusion of a variable number of exons from the 5’ end of COL1A1 with all of PDGFB except for exon 1. The COL1A1 promoter drives expression of this fusion transcript whose protein is ultimately proteolytically processed into normal PDGFB ligand. The increased expression of PDGFB results in autocrine activation of its receptor (PDFRB) on surface of neoplastic cells, thereby driving tumorigenesis. The detection of PDGFB rearrangements can be useful in diagnosing DFSP – including uncommon histologic variants – and in distinguishing this sarcoma from other mesenchymal tumors that may be considered in the differential diagnosis such as cellular dermatofibroma. Preclinical and limited clinical studies have implicated a potential role for targeted therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (e.g. imatinib) capable of blocking activation of PDGFRB for unresectable or metastatic DFSP.
Interpretive report provided.
* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.
This test will detect rearrangements involving PDGFB but will not identify the translocation partner. Rare alternative rearrangements in DFSP including those involving PDGFD (11q22) will not be detected with this assay.
Test Details
3 – 10 days
Specimen Requirements
A formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue block (containing sufficient neoplastic cells) is preferred. Unstained slides (3 slides cut at 4-microns) with associated H&E-stained slide are also acceptable. Decalcified tissue or tissues with other fixatives will be accepted and the assay attempted; however, these specimens may result in failed testing due to degraded nucleic acid. Both blocks and slides should be stored at room temperature.
Additional Information
By ordering this test the clinician acknowledges that informed consent has been obtained from the patient as required by applicable state or federal laws and the ordering clinician has authorization from the patient permitting MLabs to report the test results to the ordering clinician. Test includes pathologist interpretation of results billed as a separate additional charge. This test is not available without interpretation.