MDM2 gene amplification [Test in Focus]

The MDM2 gene amplification assay is a test that looks for amplification of the MDM2 gene region on chromosome 12q. In this "Test in Focus" episode of the "Answers From the Lab" podcast, William Sukov, M.D., a Mayo Clinic pathologist, provides an overview.

"This test is important for diagnosis primarily in the area of lipomas neoplasms, differentiating some malignancies from benign lesions, as well as inflammatory lesions," Dr. Sukov says. "It's also useful in the area of bone tumors in differentiating low-grade sarcomas from inflammatory or benign lesions."

Listen to learn more from Dr. Sukov about when this test should be ordered, how it compares to other test options, and how its results can affect patient care.

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Testing

Useful for:

  • Supporting a diagnosis of well-differentiated liposarcoma/atypical lipomatous tumor.

Specimen Requirements

Submit only 1 of the following specimens:

Specimen Type: Tissue

Preferred: Tissue block

Collection Instructions: Submit a formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tumor tissue block. Blocks prepared with alternative fixation methods may be acceptable; provide fixation method used.

Acceptable: Slides

Collection Instructions: Four consecutive, unstained, 5 micron-thick sections placed on positively charged slides, and 1 hematoxylin and eosin-stained slide.

Performance Information

Day(s) and Time(s) Test Performed 

Samples processed Monday through Sunday. Results reported Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Analytic Time

7 days

Samantha Rossi

Samantha Rossi is a Digital Marketing Manager at Mayo Clinic Laboratories. She supports marketing strategies for product management and specialty testing. Samantha has worked at Mayo Clinic since 2019.