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Medical glossary

BCR::ABL1

BCR::ABL1 is a fusion gene formed when the BCR and ABL1 genes join. Its protein constantly tells the cell to grow.

Last updated: ~1 min read
Gloved hands holding up a tube of blood
Figure 1.BCR::ABL1 is measured in a blood sample

01Short answer

The “::” in the name shows that two genes are fused (older spelling: BCR-ABL). The protein is a tyrosine kinase, and TKI medicines block it. Quantitative PCR measures the BCR::ABL1 level as a percentage and is the main marker of response in CML; there are different protein forms (for example p210 and p190). Sometimes mutations causing drug resistance are looked for.

02Simple explanation

A fusion gene.

A constant signal.

Blocked by TKIs.

Measured by PCR.

03Scientific explanation

NCI: a fusion gene forms when parts of two different genes join.

The NCI Dictionary explains cancer terms in plain language; check the exact meaning for your situation with your doctor.

04What happens in the body?

Spelling

BCR::ABL1 is the same as BCR-ABL.

A switch stuck on
Figure 2.A switch stuck on — BCR::ABL1

Monitoring

The trend in PCR results.

A blocking key
Figure 3.A blocking key — BCR::ABL1

Where you will see this word

In test results, discharge letters and conversations with your doctor. Write the word down and ask what it means.

Ask your doctor

The general meaning and the meaning of your own result can differ. The most important question is “What does this mean for me?”

05From an unfamiliar word to a clear answer: four steps

Write it down, look it up, prepare a question, ask.

Write it down — From a result or a conversation.1Write it downFrom a result or a conversation.
Look it up — Learn the plain meaning.2Look it upLearn the plain meaning.
Prepare a question — What does this mean for me?3Prepare a questionWhat does this mean for me?
Ask — Your doctor gives the personal explanation.4AskYour doctor gives the personal explanation.
UnderstandingResults feel less frightening.
ConversationA shared language with your doctor.
SafetyNot drawing conclusions alone.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
SpellingBCR::ABL1 is the same as BCR-ABL.
MonitoringThe trend in PCR results.
Where you will see this wordIn test results, discharge letters and conversations with your doctor. Write the word down and ask what it means.
Ask your doctorThe general meaning and the meaning of your own result can differ. The most important question is “What does this mean for me?”

07Key terms

Tyrosine kinase
An enzyme that passes on signals.
p210
The most common form of the BCR::ABL1 protein.
Term
A word with a precise medical meaning.
Reference range
The range a laboratory considers normal.

08Key points

  • Learn.
  • Ask your doctor.
  • Write it down.
  • Write the word down.
  • Ask what it means.

09Frequently asked questions

How low should the level be?

Your doctor will explain the targets.

The level went up: what now?

Your doctor may suggest a repeat test and a resistance check.

This word is in my results: should I worry?

The word itself does not mean a serious or mild condition; get the explanation from your doctor.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. How low should the level be?

  2. The level went up: what now?

  3. This word is in my results: should I worry?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: fusion gene
  2. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: tyrosine kinase inhibitor
  3. National Cancer Institute. Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia Treatment (PDQ®) – Patient Version
  4. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
  5. National Cancer Institute. Leukemia
  6. National Cancer Institute (NCI). NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: Philadelphia chromosome
  7. American Cancer Society. Neutropenia (Low White Blood Cell Counts)
  8. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: bone marrow aspiration
  9. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: polymerase chain reaction
  10. National Cancer Institute (NCI). NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: white blood cell
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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