FISH analysis
Also written as: FISH — Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization
Fluorescence in situ hybridization, a molecular technique used to detect chromosomal abnormalities in hematologic malignancies.
Full Definition
FISH (Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization) analysis uses fluorescently labeled DNA probes to detect specific chromosomal abnormalities in hematologic malignancies. In pediatric hematology-oncology, FISH is commonly used to identify prognostically important cytogenetic abnormalities such as the Philadelphia chromosome in ALL, MLL rearrangements in infant leukemia, or hyperdiploidy. The technique can detect translocations, deletions, amplifications, and numerical chromosomal abnormalities that may not be visible by conventional cytogenetics. FISH results are typically reported as the percentage of cells showing the abnormality and help guide risk stratification and treatment decisions.
Usage
Usage note: Always write as 'FISH analysis' rather than 'fish analysis' to avoid confusion.
In Context
- "FISH analysis detected t(12;21) in 85% of blast cells, confirming ETV6-RUNX1 fusion." — cytogenetics report
- "Hyperdiploidy was confirmed by FISH analysis using chromosome enumeration probes." — oncology consultation