IHC Marker-CK20 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About IHC Marker-CK20 Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | CK20 IHC, Cytokeratin 20 Immunohistochemistry, IHC-CK20, Keratin 20 |
| Sample Type | Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block |
| Fasting Required | No |
| Report Time | 7 days |
| Recommended For | All genders and age groups; primarily patients with suspected or confirmed cancer |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,920 |
What Is an IHC Marker-CK20 Test?
The IHC Marker-CK20 test detects a protein called cytokeratin 20 (CK20) in a tissue sample using a technique called immunohistochemistry. A specific antibody is applied to the tissue to reveal whether this protein is present or absent. Doctors order this test primarily to identify where a cancer has originated. It is also known as CK20 IHC, Cytokeratin 20 Immunohistochemistry, or IHC-CK20.
What Does an IHC Marker-CK20 Test Measure?
This test measures the presence and pattern of the CK20 protein in tissue. Unlike blood tests, it does not produce a numerical value. The pathologist looks at whether the protein is expressed and in what pattern, which helps determine the cancer's point of origin.
The key elements assessed are:
- CK20 protein expression: Indicates whether the tissue contains the CK20 protein, which is normally found in the lining of the stomach, intestine, and urinary tract, and in Merkel cells (touch-sensing cells in the skin).
- Staining pattern: The intensity and distribution of staining help the pathologist understand the nature and likely origin of a tumour.
- Positive or negative result: A positive result means the CK20 protein is present; a negative result means it is absent. Both findings carry diagnostic value when read alongside other markers.
Why Is an IHC Marker-CK20 Test Done?
Doctors order the IHC Marker-CK20 test when they need to identify the type or origin of a tumour found on biopsy. It is rarely used alone and is usually part of a panel of IHC markers.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
A doctor may request this test when a patient presents with one or more of the following symptoms:
- Blood in urine (haematuria)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Changes in bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhoea or constipation
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- A palpable lump or mass
- Persistent fatigue without a clear cause
- Skin nodules or unusual growths
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The IHC-CK20 test helps doctors identify or rule out several cancer types, including:
- Adenocarcinoma of the colon (bowel cancer)
- Transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder or urinary tract
- Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer
- Mucinous ovarian carcinoma
- Adenocarcinoma of the stomach, bile system, or pancreas
- Adenoma of the gallbladder or bile ducts
- Metastatic cancer of unknown primary origin, where the goal is to find where the cancer started
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is required for this test. It is performed on tissue that has already been collected through a biopsy or surgical procedure, not through a routine blood draw.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required. The IHC Marker-CK20 test is carried out on a tissue block, so dietary restrictions do not apply.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Here are a few steps to ensure a smooth submission of your sample:
- Bring the original histopathology report along with your FFPE tissue block, as these are needed for testing
- Bring a detailed clinical history including your symptoms, previous test results, and family history, as this is required for the test
- Carry any relevant radiological reports or imaging scans that your doctor has ordered
- Inform the laboratory team of any previous treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation
Step-by-Step Procedure
- A tissue sample is collected by a surgeon or specialist through a biopsy or during a surgical procedure; the method depends on the location of the suspected tumour.
- The tissue is preserved in formalin and embedded in a paraffin block, known as an FFPE tissue block, to keep it stable for analysis.
- A laboratory technician cuts the tissue block into very thin sections and mounts them on glass slides.
- CK20 antibodies are applied to the slides; these antibodies bind to the CK20 protein if it is present in the tissue.
- A staining process makes the bound antibodies visible under a microscope.
- A qualified pathologist examines the slides and reports the findings, which are then sent to your doctor.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors can influence the reliability of the result:
- Quality of tissue fixation at the time of the original biopsy
- Thickness of the tissue sections prepared in the laboratory
- The antigen retrieval technique used before staining
- Quality and specificity of the CK20 antibody used
- Experience and expertise of the reporting pathologist
Understanding Your IHC Marker-CK20 Test Results
Results from the IHC Marker-CK20 test are interpreted by a pathologist and reported as positive or negative, along with the staining pattern and intensity. Your doctor will review the result in the context of your full clinical picture.
| Parameter | Finding | Clinical Significance |
|---|---|---|
| CK20 Expression in normal tissue | Present in gastrointestinal epithelium, urothelial umbrella cells, and Merkel cells | Expected normal pattern |
| CK20 Positive in tumour | Staining detected | Suggests tumour likely originated from colon, bladder, or Merkel cells |
| CK20 Negative in tumour | No staining detected | Suggests tumour likely originated from lung, breast, prostate, or other CK20-negative organs |
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.
A CK7-negative, CK20-positive pattern in a tumour generally points towards colorectal carcinoma. A CK7-positive, CK20-positive pattern may suggest urothelial (bladder) carcinoma. A characteristic dot-like staining pattern is associated with Merkel cell carcinoma.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
While this test is used for cancer diagnosis rather than routine monitoring, these general wellness habits are recommended:
- Attend regular health check-ups and cancer screenings as advised by your doctor
- Report persistent symptoms such as blood in the stool or urine, or unexplained weight loss, without delay
- Maintain a balanced diet and engage in regular physical activity to support overall health
Lupin Diagnostics IHC Marker-CK20 Test Price
The IHC Marker-CK20 test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹1,920. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre or submission of your FFPE tissue block in person; home collection is not available for this test. The table below shows indicative prices:
| 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
- 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 and supporting documents.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
The IHC-CK20 test helps identify the origin of a tumour by detecting the CK20 protein in tissue. It is particularly useful for diagnosing cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, and skin (Merkel cells). It is usually performed alongside other markers such as CK7 for a more complete picture.
No fasting or dietary changes are needed. The test is performed on a tissue block already obtained through a biopsy or surgery. You should bring the FFPE tissue block, the original histopathology report, and a detailed clinical history to the lab.
No, home collection is not available for this test. The sample is a tissue block that must be submitted at a Lupin Diagnostics centre. The laboratory then processes and analyses the block under controlled conditions.
Results are typically available within 7 days of the laboratory receiving the tissue block. Complex cases may take additional time, and the laboratory will inform you if there is a delay.
A positive result means the CK20 protein was detected in the tumour tissue. This suggests the cancer may have originated from an organ that normally expresses CK20, such as the colon or bladder. Your doctor will interpret this finding alongside your full clinical history and other test results.
A negative result means CK20 protein was not detected. This can suggest the tumour originated from an organ that does not normally produce CK20, such as the lung, breast, or prostate. A negative result is equally informative and helps the pathologist narrow down the diagnosis.
This test is typically ordered by an oncologist, surgeon, or pathologist. After receiving your results, consult your treating oncologist, who will interpret the findings alongside other clinical information and guide you on next steps.
IHC Marker-CK20 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
