IHC Marker - CK10 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About IHC Marker - CK10 Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Cytokeratin 10, Keratin 10 (KRT10), K10, CK-10, Immunohistochemistry CK10 |
| Sample Type | Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block |
| Fasting Required | No |
| Report Time | 3 days |
| Recommended For | All ages and genders; ordered when a pathologist needs to evaluate squamous cell differentiation in tissue |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,920 |
What is an IHC Marker - CK10 Test?
The IHC Marker - CK10 test is a specialised laboratory test that detects the presence and distribution of the Cytokeratin 10 protein in tissue samples. It is performed using a technique called immunohistochemistry (IHC), which uses antibodies to identify specific proteins within tissue. Also known as the Cytokeratin 10 or Keratin 10 (KRT10) test, it is typically ordered by a pathologist or oncologist when a biopsy needs further characterisation. The sample used is a formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block obtained through a prior biopsy.
What Does an IHC Marker - CK10 Test Measure?
CK10 is a structural protein found mainly in the outer layers of the skin (epidermis), specifically in the cells above the basal (deepest) layer. It forms part of the cell's internal scaffolding and plays a key role in maintaining the skin barrier. The test measures CK10 protein expression in tissue and reports the following:
| Parameter | What It Indicates |
|---|---|
| CK10 Expression | Whether the CK10 protein is present (positive) or absent (negative) in the tissue |
| Staining Intensity | How strongly the protein is expressed: weak, moderate, or strong |
| Staining Distribution | Whether the expression is focal (limited area) or diffuse (widespread) |
Results are qualitative rather than numerical. The pathologist interprets the staining pattern in the context of the tissue type and the patient's clinical history.
Why is an IHC Marker - CK10 Test Done?
A doctor or pathologist may request this test when tissue from a biopsy needs further analysis to understand its origin or behaviour.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following symptoms may lead a doctor to recommend a biopsy, after which the IHC CK10 test may be ordered:
- A suspicious skin lesion or non-healing sore
- An unexplained lump or mass in the body
- Abnormal cell growth identified on initial biopsy
- Tissue abnormalities requiring further classification
- Suspected spread of a tumour to nearby or distant tissues
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test helps pathologists identify or assess the following conditions:
- Squamous cell carcinomas from various sites in the body
- Basal cell carcinomas of the skin
- Warthin tumours of the salivary glands
- Adenosquamous carcinomas of the cervix
- Urothelial neoplasms (bladder tumours) with squamous differentiation
- Epidermolytic hyperkeratosis, a rare inherited skin condition caused by mutations in keratin proteins
- Low-grade versus high-grade dysplasia (abnormal cell changes) in certain tissues, such as the larynx
How to Prepare and What to Expect
This test is performed on tissue that has already been collected through a biopsy. There are very few preparation steps for the patient.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required. This test is done on a tissue sample, not a blood or urine sample, so dietary restrictions are not necessary before or after the test.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Here are a few things to keep in mind before your tissue sample is submitted for testing:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and any relevant medical records, as this is required for the test.
- Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, or treatments you are currently taking, including chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
- Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area if a biopsy still needs to be performed.
- Ask your doctor whether the existing biopsy block or unstained slides are sufficient, or whether a new biopsy is needed.
Step-by-Step Procedure
The CK10 test procedure involves the following steps:
- A biopsy is performed by a trained doctor to remove a small sample of abnormal or suspicious tissue. This may be a needle biopsy or a surgical excision, depending on the site and nature of the lesion.
- The collected tissue is preserved in formalin, a chemical fixative that maintains the structure of cells and proteins. It is then embedded in a paraffin wax block (the FFPE block).
- In the laboratory, technicians cut extremely thin slices of the tissue (approximately 4-5 microns thick) and place them on glass slides.
- A process called antigen retrieval is carried out using heat or enzymes to expose the CK10 protein, which may have been masked during fixation.
- Antibodies specific to the CK10 protein are applied to the slide. Secondary antibodies linked to a detection enzyme are then added, producing a visible colour in areas where CK10 is present.
- A qualified pathologist examines the stained slides under a microscope and prepares a report describing the staining pattern, intensity, and distribution.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
The following factors may influence the accuracy of staining results:
- Poor tissue fixation or delays between biopsy and fixation
- Prior treatment with chemotherapy or radiation therapy, which can alter protein expression in tissue
- The age of the tissue specimen and how it was stored
- Technical variations in slide preparation and staining protocols
Understanding Your IHC Marker - CK10 Test Results
Results from this test are interpreted by a pathologist alongside other clinical and histological (tissue examination) findings. The table below outlines what different staining outcomes may indicate.
| Result | What It May Suggest |
|---|---|
| Strong positive staining | Mature, keratinising squamous cell differentiation; expected in normal skin tissue |
| Positive in tumour tissue | May indicate squamous cell carcinoma, squamous differentiation in bladder tumours, or related conditions |
| Reduced or weak staining | May be associated with higher-grade or more poorly differentiated tumours |
| Absent staining | May suggest a less differentiated or more aggressive tumour; absence is normal in many non-skin tissues |
Disclaimer: 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.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
CK10 is a diagnostic tissue marker, not a wellness indicator, so lifestyle changes do not directly affect test results. However, the following general tips support skin health:
- Protect your skin from prolonged sun exposure by using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing, as UV radiation is a known risk factor for squamous cell carcinoma.
- Attend follow-up appointments as recommended by your doctor, especially after a biopsy or abnormal finding.
- Follow your doctor's guidance on next steps based on the full pathology report.
Lupin Diagnostics IHC Marker - CK10 Test Price
The CK10 test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹1,920. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre, as home collection is not available for tissue biopsy specimens.
| 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 to book the CK10 test online:
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred centre location.
- Visit the centre at your scheduled time to submit the sample.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
The IHC Marker - CK10 test helps pathologists identify mature, keratinising squamous cell differentiation in tissue samples. It is used to classify tumours, assess the degree of differentiation, and understand the likely origin of cancer cells. It is often ordered as part of a broader panel of IHC markers.
No fasting is needed. The test is performed on a tissue biopsy sample, not a blood or urine sample, so there are no dietary requirements before submitting the specimen.
The report is typically ready within 3 days at Lupin Diagnostics. Turnaround time may vary, depending on the complexity of the case and the number of markers being tested on the same tissue sample.
A positive result means the CK10 protein is present in the tissue, indicating mature squamous cell differentiation. In normal skin, this is expected. In tumour tissue, it helps the pathologist identify the type and degree of differentiation of the cancer.
In squamous cell carcinomas, reduced or absent CK10 staining has been associated with poorly differentiated (high-grade) tumours at an advanced stage. This information helps doctors understand the likely behaviour of the tumour. Your pathologist will explain the findings in the context of your full report.
Yes. Mutations in keratin 10 (along with keratin 1) are known to cause epidermolytic hyperkeratosis, a rare inherited skin disorder. This condition is characterised by skin redness, blistering, and shedding at birth. It is a distinct condition from the cancers that the CK10 IHC test is commonly used to evaluate.
IHC Marker - CK10 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
