IHC Marker - ATRX Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About IHC Marker - ATRX Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | ATRX Immunohistochemistry, ATRX IHC, Alpha Thalassemia/Mental Retardation Syndrome X-Linked IHC, ATRX Immunostain |
| Sample Type | Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block |
| Fasting Required | No. This test is performed on a tissue sample collected during a biopsy or surgery |
| Report Time | 3 Days |
| Recommended For | Adults and children with suspected brain tumours or pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours; all genders |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,920 |
What is an IHC Marker - ATRX Test?
The ATRX test is a specialised immunohistochemistry (IHC) test that detects the presence or absence of the ATRX protein in tumour tissue. ATRX stands for Alpha Thalassemia/Mental Retardation Syndrome X-Linked, a protein that plays a key role in organising DNA structure within cells.
Doctors use the ATRX IHC test primarily to classify brain tumours called gliomas and to evaluate pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours. The test is performed on a tissue block prepared from a biopsy or surgical sample and is also known as the ATRX Immunostain.
What Does an IHC Marker - ATRX Test Measure?
This test examines tumour tissue under a microscope after applying specific antibodies that bind to the ATRX protein. The key aspects assessed are listed below.
| Parameter | What it Indicates |
|---|---|
| ATRX Nuclear Expression (Retained) | Normal nuclear staining is present in tumour cells, suggesting no ATRX mutation |
| ATRX Nuclear Expression (Lost) | Staining is absent in tumour cells but present in surrounding normal cells (blood vessel lining cells, immune cells), indicating ATRX inactivation |
| Nuclear Staining Pattern | Helps distinguish tumour types and guides further molecular testing |
The pattern of staining, assessed alongside internal control cells, tells the pathologist whether the ATRX gene is likely mutated in the tumour.
Why is an IHC Marker - ATRX Test Done?
The ATRX test procedure is ordered as part of a detailed work-up when a tumour is suspected or already confirmed. A doctor or oncologist usually requests it after reviewing imaging findings or an initial biopsy report.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
Symptoms that may lead a doctor to investigate a brain tumour and request this test include the following.
- Persistent or worsening headaches
- New-onset seizures
- Weakness or numbness in the limbs
- Changes in memory, concentration, or behaviour
- Problems with vision
- Nausea or vomiting without a clear cause
- A brain mass identified on an MRI or CT scan
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test is used to help identify and classify the following conditions.
- IDH-mutant astrocytoma (a type of diffuse brain tumour where ATRX loss, combined with IDH mutation, supports the diagnosis)
- Diffuse gliomas (a broad group of brain tumours), in combination with IDH and 1p/19q testing
- Oligoastrocytomas and other infiltrating gliomas requiring molecular classification
- Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours, where ATRX loss carries prognostic significance
How to Prepare and What to Expect
Since this is a tissue-based test rather than a blood or urine test, the preparation is different from routine laboratory tests. The steps below explain what to expect.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required. The tissue sample is collected during a biopsy or surgical procedure arranged by your treating doctor. You do not need to make any dietary changes specifically for this test.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following points in mind ahead of sample collection and submission.
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and family history, as this is required for the test.
- Share any previous histopathology or biopsy reports with the laboratory at the time of submission.
- Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are currently taking, as some may affect biopsy planning.
- Ensure the tissue block is properly fixed in 10 per cent neutral buffered formalin and paraffin-embedded before dispatch.
- Protect the paraffin block or slides from excessive heat during transport.
Step-by-Step Procedure
The ATRX test procedure involves the following steps.
- A tissue sample is obtained by your surgeon or specialist during a biopsy or surgical resection of the tumour.
- The collected tissue is fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin to create a tissue block (FFPE block), which is then sent to the laboratory.
- Thin sections are cut from the block, dried, and processed to expose the tissue antigens.
- Specialised antibodies targeting the ATRX protein are applied to the tissue sections.
- A qualified pathologist examines the stained slides under a microscope, assessing the nuclear staining pattern in tumour cells against internal control cells such as blood vessel lining cells and lymphocytes.
- The findings are reported along with the clinical context and sent to your treating doctor within the turnaround time.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
The following factors can influence the quality or reliability of the test result.
- Poor or inadequate formalin fixation of the tissue sample
- Thermal damage to the tissue during processing
- Necrotic (dead tissue) areas within the sample
- Insufficient internal control cells in the section
- Heterogeneous staining patterns, where some tumour cells retain expression, and others do not
- Experience and expertise of the interpreting pathologist
Understanding Your IHC Marker - ATRX Test Results
Results from the ATRX IHC test are interpreted by a trained pathologist in the context of other clinical, imaging, and molecular findings. The table below outlines the general interpretation framework.
| Result | Pattern | Possible Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Retained (Positive) | Nuclear staining present in tumour cells | No ATRX mutation detected; may suggest oligodendroglioma or primary glioblastoma (IDH-wildtype) |
| Lost (Negative) | Nuclear staining absent in tumour cells; retained in endothelial cells and lymphocytes | Indicates ATRX inactivation; supports diagnosis of IDH-mutant astrocytoma when IDH mutation is also present |
These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Results During Special Conditions
Certain situations can make results harder to interpret, as noted below.
Tissue that has not been optimally fixed in formalin, or that has been exposed to heat during processing, may show unsatisfactory staining, making the result unreliable.
Additionally, some tumours show a mosaic staining pattern where both ATRX-positive and ATRX-negative cells are present within the same sample. In these cases, the pathologist will note the pattern explicitly, and clinical correlation is essential.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
The ATRX test is a diagnostic oncology test, not a wellness screening tool. ATRX protein expression is not influenced by diet or lifestyle changes. However, the following general points are worth noting.
- Seek prompt medical attention if you experience persistent neurological symptoms such as recurring headaches, seizures, or unexplained vision changes.
- Follow your oncology team's guidance on further testing, imaging, and follow-up after receiving results.
- Maintain regular communication with your specialist to ensure all relevant molecular and clinical data are considered together.
Lupin Diagnostics IHC Marker - ATRX Test Price
The ATRX test cost starts at ₹1,920 at Lupin Diagnostics. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre or submission of an FFPE tissue block; home collection is not available for this test. Indicative city-wise prices are listed below.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 1920 |
| CHENNAI | 1920 |
| HYDERABAD | 1920 |
| KOLKATA | 1920 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 1920 |
| PUNE | 1920 |
Disclaimer: Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
Follow these steps for the ATRX test online booking.
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred centre location.
- Visit the centre at your scheduled time to submit your FFPE tissue block or biopsy sample.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ATRX IHC test is used to classify brain tumours, particularly diffuse gliomas, and to assess pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours. It helps pathologists and oncologists determine the tumour subtype, which in turn guides treatment decisions and prognosis. It is usually ordered alongside other molecular markers such as IDH1, p53, and Ki67.
No fasting is needed. The ATRX test procedure involves analysing a tissue sample already collected during a biopsy or surgery. You do not need to change your diet or eating habits for this test.
No. This test requires a tissue sample from a biopsy or surgery, which can only be performed at a hospital or medical centre. The FFPE tissue block must be submitted directly to a Lupin Diagnostics centre. ATRX test home collection is not available.
At Lupin Diagnostics, reports are typically delivered within 3 days of sample receipt. Turnaround time may vary depending on sample quality and whether additional processing is required.
The ATRX IHC test is commonly ordered as part of a brain tumour diagnostic panel. Tests often performed alongside it include IDH1 immunohistochemistry, p53 staining, Ki67 (a marker of cell division), OLIG2, GFAP, and 1p/19q codeletion analysis.
The combination of these markers allows a more precise tumour classification. Lupin Diagnostics also offers an IHC marker - Brain Tumor Panel (IDH1 / ATRX / P53 / GFAP / O Test that includes ATRX alongside other markers.
No. The ATRX test is not a general cancer screening tool. It is specifically useful for classifying diffuse gliomas (brain tumours) and evaluating pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours. For other cancer types, different tests and markers are used. Always consult your oncologist to understand which tests are appropriate for your situation.
IHC Marker - ATRX Test: Booking, Price, and Results
