IHC Marker - CD31 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About IHC Marker - CD31 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | CD31 IHC, PECAM-1 marker, Platelet Endothelial Cell Adhesion Molecule-1 IHC, CD31 immunostain |
| Sample Type | Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 3 days |
| Recommended For | All genders and ages; ordered when a vascular tumour is suspected |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,920 |
What is an IHC Marker - CD31 Test?
The CD31 test is a specialised laboratory test that detects the presence of a protein called CD31 (also known as PECAM-1, or Platelet Endothelial Cell Adhesion Molecule-1) in tissue samples. It belongs to a group of tests called immunohistochemistry (IHC), where antibodies are used to identify specific proteins in tissue. Doctors order the CD31 IHC test when they need to determine whether a tumour has originated from blood vessel lining cells. The test is performed on a tissue sample previously collected through a biopsy.
What Does an IHC Marker - CD31 Test Measure?
The CD31 test procedure involves applying antibodies to a tissue sample to detect the CD31 protein. Here is what the test evaluates:
| Component | What It Tells Us |
|---|---|
| CD31 protein expression | Identifies the presence of endothelial cells (cells that line blood vessels) in the tissue sample |
| Staining pattern | Shows whether tumour cells carry markers of vascular (blood vessel) origin |
| Microvessel density | Helps assess new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) in the tissue, which is linked to tumour growth |
CD31 is naturally present on cells lining blood vessels, as well as on certain immune cells and platelet-producing cells. When it appears in tumour tissue, it suggests the tumour may have arisen from blood vessels.
Why is an IHC Marker - CD31 Test Done?
A doctor may order the CD31 IHC test when a tissue biopsy raises questions about a tumour's origin. The sections below outline the typical reasons.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following symptoms may prompt a doctor to investigate a possible vascular tumour, which could lead to this test being ordered:
- Unexplained lumps or masses
- Swelling or redness, especially in the arms or legs
- Localised pain, aching, or discomfort
- Easy or unexplained bruising
- Abnormal bleeding from the affected area
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing or coughing (if the lungs are involved)
- Blood in the stool (if the intestines are involved)
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The CD31 test helps identify or confirm several conditions involving blood vessel tumours:
- Angiosarcoma (a cancer arising from blood vessel lining cells)
- Haemangioma (a benign blood vessel tumour)
- Kaposi sarcoma (a tumour associated with blood vessel tissue)
- Epithelioid haemangioendothelioma (a rare vascular tumour)
- Haemangioendothelioma and angiofibroma (other vascular lesions)
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed for the CD31 test procedure itself. However, there are a few steps that will help the process go smoothly.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required for this test. You can eat and drink normally before and after the test. Any preparation required relates to the biopsy procedure, which is carried out separately by your surgeon or specialist.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following in mind when submitting a sample for the CD31 IHC test:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and family history, as this is required for the test
- Provide a copy of any existing histopathology report, the biopsy site details, and relevant clinical records
- Bring radiological images (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) and any earlier diagnostic reports
- Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, as some may affect test interpretation
- The tissue sample must already have been collected through a biopsy before the IHC test is performed at the laboratory
Step-by-Step Procedure
- A surgeon or specialist collects a small tissue sample from the suspected tumour site through a biopsy procedure (this step is done separately, before the IHC test).
- The tissue is preserved in formalin solution and embedded in paraffin wax to create an FFPE tissue block, which is then submitted to the laboratory.
- In the laboratory, thin sections are cut from the tissue block and placed on glass slides.
- Specific antibodies that bind to the CD31 protein are applied to the tissue sections.
- If CD31 protein is present, the antibodies attach to it and produce a colour change visible under a microscope.
- A pathologist (a doctor specialising in tissue analysis) examines the stained slides, interprets the pattern, and prepares a diagnostic report.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
- Inadequate tissue fixation or delays in processing the biopsy sample
- Poor-quality tissue preservation or insufficient sample size
- The antibody quality and staining technique used in the laboratory
- Certain medications or underlying medical conditions
- Unusual staining patterns from non-tumour cells (such as histiocytes) that may require careful interpretation
Understanding Your IHC Marker - CD31 Test Results
Results from the CD31 IHC test are qualitative, meaning they are reported as positive or negative rather than as numbers. A pathologist assesses the staining pattern, intensity, and distribution across the tissue. Below is a general guide to interpreting results.
| Parameter | Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| CD31 staining in blood vessel lining cells | Positive | Normal endothelial staining pattern |
| CD31 staining in tumour cells | Positive | Suggests vascular tumour origin (e.g., angiosarcoma, haemangioma) |
| CD31 staining in tumour cells | Negative | Suggests non-vascular tumour origin |
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.
A positive result in tumour cells may point to conditions such as angiosarcoma, haemangioma, Kaposi sarcoma, or other vascular neoplasms.
A negative result suggests the tumour did not originate from blood vessel tissue, though it does not entirely rule out angiosarcoma. Results must be reviewed alongside biopsy findings, imaging, and clinical history.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
Because this is a diagnostic test for tumour characterisation rather than a routine wellness check, there are no specific "target levels" to maintain. The following general tips apply:
- Attend regular medical check-ups so that any unusual lumps, swellings, or skin changes are assessed early
- Consult a doctor promptly if you notice a rapidly growing mass or unexplained skin discolouration
- Share your complete medical history with your doctor to support accurate diagnosis and timely care
Lupin Diagnostics IHC Marker - CD31 Test Price
The CD31 test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹1,920. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre; home collection is not available for this test, as it is performed on a tissue block submitted directly to the laboratory.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 1920 |
| CHENNAI | 1920 |
| HYDERABAD | 1920 |
| KOLKATA | 1920 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 1920 |
| PUNE | 1920 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
- 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 CD31 test helps doctors determine whether a tumour has originated from blood vessel lining cells. It is typically ordered when a biopsy reveals a tumour of uncertain origin, and the doctor needs to distinguish between vascular and non-vascular tumours.
The tissue sample is collected separately through a biopsy, which may involve a needle biopsy or surgical removal of tissue. Once collected, the sample is sent to the laboratory as an FFPE tissue block for CD31 IHC staining and analysis.
The laboratory staining process itself does not involve the patient at all. Any discomfort is related to the biopsy procedure, which is carried out separately by a surgeon or specialist before the IHC test is performed.
Yes. Doctors often order additional IHC markers alongside the CD31 test to confirm a diagnosis. Common companion markers include CD34, ERG, and von Willebrand factor, which together provide a more complete picture of the tumour's origin.
A positive result means the CD31 protein was found in the tumour tissue, suggesting the tumour is of blood vessel origin. This may indicate conditions such as angiosarcoma, haemangioma, Kaposi sarcoma, or other vascular lesions. Your doctor will confirm the diagnosis using all available clinical information.
A negative result suggests the tumour cells do not carry markers of blood vessel origin, pointing to a non-vascular tumour such as a carcinoma or lymphoma. A negative result alone does not entirely rule out angiosarcoma, so it is always interpreted alongside other clinical findings.
At Lupin Diagnostics, the CD31 test report is typically delivered within 3 days. Turnaround time may vary depending on sample quality and whether additional markers are being tested alongside CD31.
IHC Marker - CD31 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
