IHC Marker - CK14 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About IHC Marker - CK14 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Cytokeratin 14 (CK14), Keratin 14 (KRT14), K14 IHC |
| Sample Type | Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block |
| Fasting Required | No |
| Report Time | 3 days |
| Recommended For | All genders and ages; ordered when cancer diagnosis or tumour subtyping is required |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,920 |
What Is an IHC Marker - CK14 Test?
The IHC Marker - CK14 test is a specialised pathology test that detects the presence of Cytokeratin 14, a structural protein found in certain types of cells. It is performed using immunohistochemistry (IHC), a technique that applies specific antibodies to tissue sections to identify particular proteins. Doctors order this test when they need to classify a tumour, confirm a cancer diagnosis, or distinguish between different tumour types. It is also known as the Cytokeratin 14 or K14 IHC test.
What Does an IHC Marker - CK14 Test Measure?
This test detects the expression of CK14, a type I intermediate filament protein, within a tissue sample. CK14 is normally found in the basal (deepest) cell layer of stratified epithelium, which is the layered tissue that lines body surfaces. Below is a summary of what the test evaluates.
| Component | What It Shows |
|---|---|
| CK14 Expression | Whether CK14 protein is present in the tissue |
| Staining Intensity | How strongly the protein is expressed (weak, moderate, or strong) |
| Staining Distribution | Which cells and regions in the tissue show positivity |
The pathologist reviews the staining pattern alongside clinical information to reach a diagnosis.
Why Is an IHC Marker - CK14 Test Done?
This test is ordered as part of a detailed tissue examination, usually after a biopsy. It helps pathologists and oncologists arrive at a precise diagnosis.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
- A suspicious lump or mass detected during examination or imaging
- Abnormal findings on a scan requiring further tissue analysis
- The need to classify a known tumour into a specific subtype
- Suspected recurrence of a previously treated cancer
- Treatment planning that requires precise tumour characterisation
- Differentiating between tumour types that look similar under a microscope
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The CK14 IHC test can assist in identifying or distinguishing the following conditions:
- Squamous cell carcinoma (cancer arising from flat, scale-like cells) in the lung and other sites
- Basal-like breast cancer, particularly within triple-negative breast cancers
- Breast carcinoma subtyping (basal versus non-basal subtypes)
- Salivary duct carcinoma, helping distinguish localised from invasive forms
- Prostate pathology, differentiating benign tissue from carcinoma
- Basal or squamous-like muscle-invasive bladder carcinoma
- Oncocytic tumours, helping distinguish them from kidney cancer mimics
How to Prepare and What to Expect
Since this test is performed on tissue obtained through biopsy rather than a blood draw, preparation is different from routine tests.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required for this test. The sample is a tissue biopsy, not a blood sample, so food and drink do not affect the result.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and family history, as this is required for the test.
- Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, as some may affect tissue quality.
- Ask your pathologist whether a previously collected biopsy block can be used or a fresh biopsy is needed.
- Tissue should ideally be fixed in formalin (a preservative solution) for 12 to 24 hours, not exceeding 48 hours, to ensure accurate results.
Step-by-Step Procedure
- A tissue sample is obtained via biopsy. The method depends on the location and type of tissue — options include needle biopsy (a needle is inserted into the tumour) and excisional biopsy (the tumour or a portion of it is surgically removed).
- The collected tissue is placed in formalin to preserve it, then embedded in paraffin wax to form a solid block (called an FFPE tissue block).
- Very thin sections are cut from the block and mounted on glass slides.
- Specific antibodies are applied to the slides to bind to the CK14 protein if it is present in the tissue.
- The slides are stained so that any antibody binding becomes visible under a microscope.
- A qualified pathologist examines the slides, notes the intensity and pattern of staining, and prepares a report. The FFPE block is stored at ambient temperature (18 to 28°C) for transport and processing.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
- Poor tissue fixation or excessively long formalin exposure
- Inadequate tissue sampling at the time of biopsy
- Delay in processing after biopsy collection
- Antibody quality and laboratory technique
- The pathologist's experience in interpreting IHC staining patterns
Understanding Your IHC Marker - CK14 Test Results
Results are reported qualitatively by a pathologist. Because this is not a quantitative blood test, there are no numerical reference ranges. The table below outlines how results are generally interpreted.
| Result | Meaning |
|---|---|
| CK14 Positive | CK14 protein is detected in the tissue; interpretation depends on the clinical context |
| CK14 Negative | CK14 protein is absent; may suggest adenocarcinoma or non-basal tumour subtype |
Positive CK14 staining may point to squamous cell carcinoma, basal-like breast cancer, basal cell epithelium in prostate tissue, or squamous differentiation in bladder carcinoma. Negative staining may indicate glandular cancers (adenocarcinomas) or non-basal breast cancer subtypes.
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
CK14 is a diagnostic marker rather than a value that can be altered through lifestyle changes. The following general wellness tips support early detection and cancer awareness:
- Attend regular health check-ups and report any unusual lumps, skin changes, or persistent symptoms to your doctor promptly.
- Follow your oncologist's guidance on cancer screening appropriate to your age and risk profile.
- Maintain a balanced diet, stay physically active, and avoid known carcinogens such as tobacco and excessive alcohol.
Lupin Diagnostics IHC Marker - CK14 Test Price
The CK14 test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹1,920. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre or hospital; home collection is not available, as the sample is a tissue biopsy that must be obtained and processed in a clinical setting.
| 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 your IHC Marker - CK14 test:
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred centre location.
- Visit the centre at your scheduled time for sample collection or submission.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
The CK14 IHC test is used to identify the presence of Cytokeratin 14 protein in tissue samples. It helps pathologists classify tumours, distinguish squamous cell carcinoma from other epithelial cancers, and identify basal-like subtypes in breast cancer. It also supports diagnosis in prostate and bladder pathology.
The test is performed on a tissue biopsy sample. A doctor or surgeon collects tissue from the area of concern using a needle or surgical procedure. The tissue is then preserved as an FFPE block and sent to the laboratory for processing.
No fasting is needed. This test does not involve a blood draw. It uses tissue obtained through biopsy, so your food or drink intake before the test has no effect on the result.
A positive CK14 test result in breast cancer tissue may indicate a basal-like subtype, which is often associated with triple-negative breast cancer. This finding helps oncologists plan the most appropriate treatment. Your oncologist will interpret the result alongside other clinical and pathological findings.
No. Home collection is not possible for this test. The sample is a tissue biopsy that must be obtained at a hospital or clinic. The FFPE block is then submitted to a specialised pathology laboratory for IHC Marker - CK14 test processing.
CK14 is often evaluated alongside other markers, such as CK5 and EGFR, to refine tumour classification. Your pathologist may recommend a panel of markers based on the clinical question. The CK14 test online booking at Lupin Diagnostics allows you to order this as a single marker; speak to your doctor about whether additional markers are needed.
IHC Marker - CK14 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
