GIST Panel ( PDGFRA and C-KIT)
GIST Panel (SNVs, InDels % Fusions), FFPE Tissue Price
What Is a GIST Panel?
A GIST Panel is a specialised diagnostic test performed on tissue samples from suspected gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs). This test uses advanced next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology to examine your tumour's genetic makeup. It helps doctors confirm whether a tumour is indeed a GIST and identifies specific genetic mutations that guide personalised treatment decisions.
What Does the GIST Panel Measure?
The GIST Panel provides comprehensive genetic analysis of your tumour tissue through several key measurements:
- Protein expression: Checks for specific proteins like KIT (CD117) that are commonly found in GIST tumours.
- Gene mutations: Identifies changes in important genes like KIT and PDGFRA that drive tumour growth.
- Genetic fusions: Detects abnormal gene combinations that may influence treatment response.
- Mutation frequency: Measures how much of the tumour carries specific genetic changes.
- Treatment targets: Identifies which targeted therapies are most likely to be effective for your specific tumour.
GIST Panel: Who Needs It and Why It's Done
What Symptoms May Call for a GIST Panel?
Your doctor may recommend a GIST Panel if you have a suspected gastrointestinal tumour along with these symptoms:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort that doesn't go away
- Feeling full after eating only small amounts of food
- Difficulty swallowing food or liquids
- Blood in vomit or stools (which may appear black and tarry)
- Unexplained weight loss over several weeks or months
- Persistent tiredness and weakness due to anaemia
- A noticeable mass or swelling in your abdomen
Who Should Get a GIST Panel?
The GIST Panel is specifically recommended for certain patient groups:
- Patients with confirmed tumours in the stomach, small intestine, or other parts of the digestive tract.
- Individuals with suspected GIST based on imaging studies like CT scans or MRIs.
- Patients requiring treatment planning to determine the most effective targeted therapy options.
- Those with a family history of gastrointestinal stromal tumours or related genetic conditions.
Why Is a GIST Panel Done?
A GIST Panel is performed to provide a precise diagnosis and create a personalised treatment plan based on your tumour's unique genetic characteristics.
Importance of a GIST Panel
The GIST Panel plays a crucial role in modern cancer care by enabling personalised medicine approaches. This test helps doctors distinguish GISTs from other types of abdominal tumours that may look similar but require completely different treatments.
Most importantly, the panel identifies specific genetic mutations that determine which targeted therapy drugs will work best for your particular tumour. For example, patients with certain KIT mutations respond excellently to imatinib, while those with specific PDGFRA mutations may need different medications. This precision helps avoid ineffective treatments and reduces unnecessary side effects. The test also provides prognostic information, helping doctors understand your tumour's likely behaviour and plan long-term care strategies.
GIST Panel Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare India
How to Book a GIST Panel?
- Simple Online Booking
Booking can be done through the Metropolis Healthcare App or website. Select the 'GIST Panel', choose a convenient time slot, and visit the nearest Metropolis Lab.
- Sample Tracking Updates
Stay informed at every step. From collection to testing, you can track your sample directly through the Metropolis Healthcare website.
- Accurate Laboratory Testing
Your sample is processed at our NABL & CAP accredited laboratories, where expert technicians ensure accurate results.
- Quick & Easy Reports
Receive your test reports promptly via email, WhatsApp, or by downloading them directly from the Metropolis Healthcare website or app.
Is Home Sample Collection for the GIST Panel Available Near You?
No, Metropolis Healthcare does not provide home sample collection for the GIST Panel. This test requires a tissue sample from your tumour, which is collected during a medical procedure like a biopsy or surgery at a healthcare facility. Our trained team ensures your tissue sample receives proper handling and processing at our NABL & CAP accredited facilities, delivering accurate genetic analysis results.
How Long Does It Take to Get a GIST Panel Report?
Reports are usually available within 4 weeks once the sample reaches the pathology lab.
Note: Reporting time may vary depending on your location.
Where Can I See or Get GIST Panel Results?
Test results from Metropolis Healthcare can be accessed through multiple convenient channels. You can log in to the Metropolis website using your credentials or use the Metropolis Healthcare App to view and download your reports. Additionally, test reports are sent via email or WhatsApp, and you also have the option to collect a physical copy directly from the lab.
Interpreting the GIST Panel Results
The following table explains what different GIST Panel results mean for your diagnosis and treatment:
|
Gene/Parameter |
Result Type |
Positive Finding |
Negative Finding |
|
KIT |
Mutation Status |
Mutations detected — indicates GIST diagnosis and guides targeted therapy selection. |
No mutations found — may suggest a different tumour type or a rare GIST variant. |
|
PDGFRA |
Mutation Status |
Mutations detected — confirms GIST and determines specific treatment approach |
No mutations detected — rules out PDGFRA-driven GIST |
|
BRAF |
Mutation Status |
Mutations found — may indicate a specific GIST subtype requiring tailored treatment. |
No mutations present — typical finding in most GISTs |
|
SDH genes |
Mutation Status |
Mutations detected — suggests hereditary GIST syndrome requiring family screening. |
No mutations found — indicates sporadic GIST |
|
Gene Fusions |
Fusion Status |
Abnormal gene combinations detected — may indicate rare GIST variants |
No fusions detected — typical finding in most GISTs |
Conditions that May Affect GIST Panel Accuracy
Several factors can influence the accuracy of your GIST Panel results and should be discussed with your healthcare provider:
- Tissue sample quality: Poorly preserved or degraded tissue samples may produce incomplete or unreliable results.
- Tumour heterogeneity: Different parts of the tumour may have varying genetic characteristics.
- Sample contamination: Normal tissue mixed with tumour cells can dilute mutation signals.
- Previous treatments: Chemotherapy or radiation may alter the tumour's genetic profile.
- Sample age: Older tissue blocks may have degraded DNA that affects testing accuracy.
- Fixation time: Tissue samples fixed in formalin for too long or too short may impact DNA quality.
How Is a GIST Panel Done?
The GIST Panel involves several precise steps to analyse your tumour's genetic characteristics:
- Tissue sample preparation: Your preserved tumour tissue (FFPE block) is sectioned and prepared for analysis.
- DNA and RNA extraction: Genetic material is carefully extracted from the tumour tissue.
- Quality assessment: Laboratory technicians verify that extracted genetic material meets testing standards.
- Library preparation: Your tumour's DNA is prepared using specialised capture techniques for targeted gene analysis.
- Next-generation sequencing: Advanced NGS sequencing analyses your tumour's genetic code at high depth.
- Data analysis: Sophisticated computer algorithms identify mutations, deletions, and gene fusions.
- Result interpretation: Expert pathologists review findings and classify genetic changes according to clinical significance.
- Report generation: Comprehensive results are compiled with treatment recommendations and clinical relevance.
How Should You Prepare for a GIST Panel?
Preparing for a GIST Panel is straightforward since the test is performed on tissue already collected during your biopsy or surgery:
- No fasting required: You don't need to avoid food or drinks before the test.
- No medication changes: Continue taking your regular medications unless your doctor advises otherwise.
- Provide medical history: Share complete information about your symptoms, family history, and previous treatments.
- Bring required documents: Ensure you have your oncogenetics form and histopathology report ready.
- Follow pre-procedure instructions: If you need a fresh biopsy, follow your doctor's specific preparation guidelines.
Diseases that a GIST Panel Can Help Detect
The GIST Panel is specifically designed to diagnose and characterise several health conditions:
- Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs): Both benign and malignant forms affecting the digestive tract
- KIT-positive sarcomas: Rare soft tissue tumours that respond to similar targeted therapies
- PDGFRA-mutated tumours: Specific GIST subtypes requiring tailored treatment approaches
- Hereditary GIST syndromes: Genetic conditions that elevate the health risk associated with developing multiple GISTs
- SDH-deficient GISTs: Rare variants associated with specific genetic mutations
- Treatment-resistant GISTs: Tumours that may have developed resistance to initial therapies.
GIST Panel/Packages that You Can Book With Metropolis Healthcare
The following table shows related tests and packages available at Metropolis Healthcare to complement your GIST Panel:
|
Test/Package Name |
Purpose/Highlights |
|
Detects bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections affecting the digestive system |
|
|
Comprehensive screening for various cancer markers in the blood |
|
|
Specific protein testing for stomach cancer treatment planning |
Frequently asked questions
Find quick answers to the most common questions about health tests, bookings, and reports.
Regular exercise, a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress all help reduce heart disease risk.
Common signs include irritability, trouble sleeping, headaches, difficulty concentrating, and muscle tension.
Ratings & Reviews
We're satisfying our customers every day since 1980.
Choose precision On time, every time!
- 98% on time collections with a 60 minutes promise
- Real-time tracking of phlebotomist arrival and report generation
- Fully digital report delivery—view from mobile or desktop instantly
- Continuous monitoring of turnaround times to ensure accuracy and speed
- Dedicated support team to resolve any delays or queries quickly
Why Metropolis Healthcare?
Metropolis has been present for over 40 years in the market.
Metropolis has a team of 200 senior pathologists and over 2000 technicians delivering diagnostic solutions in the areas of routine, semi specialty and super specialty domains like Oncology, Neurology, Gynaecology, Nephrology and many more.
0
Years of experience
170+
Advanced Labs
Trusted by
Leading Doctors & Hospitals
2,000+
Scientific Officers
Proficiency Testing
for Accurate Reports
Latest Blogs & News
Stay informed with our expert insights and updates.
About Us
Metropolis Healthcare is a leading diagnostic service provider in India. We are a team of dedicated professionals committed to ensuring you and your family receive the most accurate and timely healthcare solutions. We believe in making health care accessible, affordable and evidence-based. Our expert panel are equipped with the latest technology and manned by a certified team of over 4000+ technicians.
In diagnostic services, we have more than three decades of experience servicing diverse stakeholders health advantage packages for men, women and seniors, genetic fitness & corporation in over 650+ tests like Oncology, Neurology, Gynaecology, Haematology, and many more. Our diagnostic services are located in leading doctors and clinics and serve over 15+ cities in India.