Focused NGS - Panel

In order to best meet the needs of the clinical providers and patients we serve, our molecular laboratory offers custom testing options, or Focused Exomes, for sequencing of single genes and multi-gene panel requests. These customizable tests are next generation sequencing based assays utilizing our whole exome sequencing platform, the Agilent SureSelect Clinical Research Exome kit. Healthcare providers can select from one up to 60 genes for these focused exome requests. While a focused exome can include more than 60 genes, these are considered on a case by case basis. We recommend you contact the laboratory and discuss the case and gene(s) of interest with one of our laboratory genetic counselors or directors prior to submitting the test order. Focused exomes may have low coverage for certain exons, genes, or regions included in the request given the nature of an exome platform. These details can be reviewed and discussed on an individual case basis. Similar to whole exome sequencing and our established Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) panels, all variants are confirmed with Sanger sequencing before being reported out. We hope that the option of a focused exome will provide flexible and efficient diagnostic tests for those patients that don’t have other appropriate testing options.

Turnaround Time

8 weeks

CPT Code(s)

Varies by genes; contact the lab

Cost

2-5 genes: $2,000; 6-15 genes: $2,500; 16-60 genes: $3,000

Molecular testing is useful to confirm the diagnosis and to identify the disease causing mutations within a family to allow for carrier testing and prenatal diagnosis.

Next Generation Sequencing

The preferred sample type is 3-5 ml of peripheral blood collected in an EDTA (purple top) tube. Extracted DNA and saliva are also accepted for this test. Saliva samples must be submitted in an approved saliva kit. Contact the lab to receive a saliva kit or to have one sent to your patient.

The specimen should be kept at room temperature and delivered via overnight shipping. If shipment is delayed by one or two days, the specimen should be refrigerated and shipped at room temperature. Do not freeze the specimen. Samples collected on Friday can be safely designated for Monday delivery.

If the pathogenic mutation(s) are identified in an affected individual using this panel, prenatal diagnosis is available for future pregnancies. Sanger sequencing will be used for prenatal diagnosis when there is a known familial mutation. Prenatal diagnosis can also be requested when there are clincial features and ultrasound findings suggestive of a diagnosis. Additional fees for cell culture and maternal cell contamination may apply. Maternal cell contamination studies are required for all prenatal molecular tests. Contact the laboratory prior to sending a prenatal specimen.