IHC Final Diagnosis Panel Test
IHC Final Diagnosis Panel Test
The Immunohistochemistry (IHC) Final Diagnosis Panel is an algorithmic approach to detect the presence and localization of specific proteins(markers) in biopsied tissue sections to reach a final disease diagnosis. The method uses customized antibodies that bind to target proteins within the tissue cells to analyze the features of diseased tissue underneath a microscope.
IHC final diagnosis panel is a crucial tool in cancer diagnosis and personalized medicine, enabling pathologists to reveal the key details of cancer characteristics, such as the type, subtype, and origin. It not only aids in treatment decisions but also establishes unfavorable disease prognosis. In some cases, the information gathered also enables the application of targeted therapies.
What is the IHC Final Diagnosis Panel Used For?
Your doctor may request an IHC final diagnosis panel
To establishes the exact diagnosis in poorly differentiated tumors
For the assessment of tumors from an unknown primary site
To guide treatment decision based on individualized assessments
To monitor tumor behavior and predict treatment response
Common alarming symptoms of cancer include:
Unexpected weight loss
Excessive tiredness despite proper resting
Unbearable pain in the body
Visible skin changes
Unusual bleeding and problems during peeing
Nagging cough with blood in it
Change in bowel or bladder habits
Preparation for Test
No special preparation is required on your part. However, you may be asked to provide your clinical history. Plus, depending on the part of your body to be biopsied, your doctor may ask you not to eat or drink before the procedure.
Interpretation of Test Results
The results of the IHC final diagnosis panel are interpreted as follows:
Positive result (Abnormal)
This report suggests one or more targeted markers in the biopsy sample, providing details of the suspected cancer type and the information related to cell characteristics.
Negative result (Normal)
This report indicates the absence of targeted antigens in the provided tissue sample.
FAQs
Which conditions can be diagnosed with the IHC final diagnosis Panel?
This panel is used to diagnose a spectrum of conditions such as cancer, infectious diseases, autoimmune disorders, genetic abnormalities, and inflammatory pathologies.
What are the limitations of this testing?
Like all lab tests, the IHC final diagnosis panel has limits. For instance, IHC stains aren't the same everywhere, which can lead to false positive or negative signals. Also, human errors like differences in tissue processing and how doctors interpret the results can affect the accuracy of the test. The protein's location within the cells also affects how well the tagged antibodies can penetrate the tissues to be studied.
Can this test identify the stages of cancer?
While the IHC final diagnosis panel determines cancer cell characteristics to diagnose types and subtypes of tumors, it does not determine the cancer stages. For this, additional cancer-related examinations and tests are required.
How long does an IHC final diagnosis panel test take?
The test can take about two to 10 days for results to be presented to the patient after a biopsy. However, the diagnostic process may take longer or shorter, depending on how many tests are performed and their complexity.