BRAF Genetic Test
Reviewed
A BRAF genetic test looks for changes (mutations) in the BRAF gene using a sample of tumor tissue, bone marrow, or blood. The BRAF gene provides instructions for a protein that controls cell growth. Certain changes can make the protein too active, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and cancer. The test helps guide cancer treatment and, in rare cases, assess inherited cancer risk.
Preparation and collection
If you are having a blood test, you usually do not need any special preparations. Ask your healthcare provider about how to prepare for other types of BRAF gene tests (e.g., biopsy or bone marrow collection).
Understanding this test
Use the reference interval and units printed by the laboratory that performed the test. A result outside that interval is not a diagnosis by itself, and a result inside it does not rule out every condition. Your symptoms, history, medicines, timing, and related tests can change what the result means.
- The test only looks for specific BRAF gene changes; it may not detect all possible mutations or variants.
- Results depend on the quality and quantity of the sample; a negative result does not completely rule out a BRAF mutation.
- For individuals without cancer, a detected BRAF change indicates higher likelihood but not a diagnosis of cancer; other factors influence actual risk.
What to do next
Your healthcare provider will review your BRAF test results along with your medical history, cancer type, and other test findings to determine the best course of action. If you have questions about your results or treatment options, discuss them with your provider or a genetic counselor.