TP53 Genetic Test
Reviewed
Also called: TP53 mutation analysis, TP53 full gene analysis, TP53 somatic mutation
A TP53 genetic test uses a sample of your blood, bone marrow, or tissue from a tumor to look for changes in the tumor protein 53 gene, or TP53 for short.
Specimen: blood, bone marrow, or tumor tissue
Why this test may be ordered
- To help choose treatment for people who have cancer
- A personal or family history of cancers that may be linked to Li-Fraumeni syndrome
Preparation and collection
A blood test usually doesn't require any preparation. If you're having a tissue biopsy or a bone marrow test, ask your provider how you should prepare.
A TP53 genetic test is often done on a sample of blood. Tissue from a tumor or bone marrow may sometimes be used instead.
There is very little risk to having a blood test. After a tissue biopsy or a bone marrow test, you may have some soreness where the sample was taken. This usually goes away in a few days.
Understanding results
The right steps for you will depend on your age, health history, and family health history.
- Acquired TP53 gene change in a cancer: If you do have a TP53 gene change, your health care provider may prioritize some treatments over others that wouldn't work on cancers without this gene change. Limitation: Acquired changes in your genes are not passed down from your parents. Next step: If you have cancer and your results show you have an acquired change in your TP53 gene, ask your provider how this information affects your treatment plan and future health.
- Inherited change in one copy of the TP53 gene: If your test results show you have an inherited change in one copy of your TP53 gene, you have Li-Fraumeni syndrome. Limitation: This doesn't mean you have cancer. But your risk of getting cancer is higher than most people. Next step: Talk with your provider about the steps you can take to reduce your risk of cancer.
- It's not a routine test.
- An acquired change is not inherited and does not affect family members the same way.
- An inherited change raises cancer risk but doesn't mean you have cancer.
What to do next
If you think you may have Li-Fraumeni syndrome, it may help to talk with a genetic counselor before getting tested.
- Is this test looking for acquired or inherited changes?
- How would the result change my treatment?
- Should I see a genetic counselor before or after testing?
Evidence source
Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus). Practices and reference ranges may differ in your country.