IHC Marker MMP13 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About IHC Marker MMP13 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | MMP-13, matrix metalloproteinase-13, collagenase-3, and IHC MMP13 |
| Sample Type | FFPE tissue block (formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue) |
| Fasting Required | No. This test is performed on tissue samples, not blood or urine. |
| Report Time | 3 days |
| Recommended For | Adults (male and female) with suspected malignancies, tumour characterisation, or cartilage and bone pathology evaluation |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,920 |
What is an IHC Marker MMP13 Test?
The IHC marker MMP13 test is a specialised pathology test that detects the presence and level of Matrix Metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) protein in tissue samples. MMP-13, also called 'Collagenase-3' is an enzyme that breaks down structural proteins in the body, particularly collagen. It is also known as MMP-13 or IHC MMP13 test. Doctors order this test to assess tumour behaviour, support cancer diagnosis, or evaluate cartilage and bone disease. The test is performed using a technique called immunohistochemistry (IHC), which uses antibodies to identify specific proteins in tissue.
What Does an IHC Marker MMP13 Test Measure?
The MMP13 test analyses a preserved tissue sample under a microscope after applying specific antibodies. A pathologist then evaluates the staining pattern to understand how much MMP-13 protein is present and where it appears. The table below explains what the test assesses:
| Component | What It Measures |
|---|---|
| MMP-13 protein expression | Whether MMP-13 is present in the tissue and at what level |
| Staining intensity | Scored from 0 (negative) to 3+ (strong positive) |
| Staining pattern | Whether expression is in tumour cells, surrounding stromal cells, or both |
| Staining index | Combined score of staining intensity and the percentage of positive cells |
Why is an IHC Marker MMP13 Test Done?
This test is ordered by doctors when they need to understand more about a tissue sample obtained through biopsy or surgery. It provides information about the biological behaviour of the tissue.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
A doctor may request this test when a patient presents with the following:
- An unexplained lump or mass detected during examination or imaging.
- A biopsy result that requires further characterisation.
- Suspected spread (metastasis) of cancer to other parts of the body.
- Evaluation of how aggressive a known tumour may be.
- Joint pain or cartilage damage requiring detailed pathological assessment.
- Suspected bone destruction related to a tumour or degenerative condition.
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The IHC MMP13 marker is used to investigate or characterise a range of conditions, including:
- Breast cancer, where MMP-13 expression has been associated with tumour invasion and disease progression.
- Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, where MMP-13 expression correlates with invasion capacity.
- Colorectal cancer, where MMP-13 plays a role in tumour spread.
- Melanoma and chondrosarcoma, where MMP-13 expression may provide additional information about tumour biology.
- Osteoarthritis (OA), where MMP-13 is specifically expressed in affected cartilage but is absent in normal adult cartilage.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
This test does not require any physical preparation from the patient, as it is performed on tissue already collected during a biopsy or surgery. However, there are important documents and materials you will need to bring.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required for this test. You can eat and drink normally. Since the test is carried out on a tissue sample rather than blood or urine, your diet has no bearing on the results.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
The following steps will help ensure the test can be processed without delay:
- Provide the formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block if requested by the laboratory.
- Provide the original histopathology report from the initial tissue examination, if available.
- Share relevant clinical information, previous test results, and medical records, as these may assist with interpretation.
- Include any relevant imaging reports, such as CT, MRI, or PET scan reports.
- Ensure that the tissue sample is accompanied by the appropriate identification and documentation required by the laboratory.
Step-by-Step Procedure
The IHC MMP13 test procedure involves several laboratory steps carried out after your tissue sample is submitted:
- Your FFPE tissue block is received at the laboratory and checked against your clinical history and documentation.
- The tissue block is sectioned into very thin slices and mounted onto glass slides.
- The slides are processed through deparaffinisation, antigen retrieval, and blocking steps to prepare the tissue for staining.
- A primary antibody specific to MMP-13 is applied to the tissue section, followed by a secondary antibody that amplifies the detection signal.
- A colour reaction is produced, making MMP-13 protein visible under a microscope wherever it is present in the tissue.
- A pathologist examines the stained slides, scores the staining intensity and pattern, and prepares a detailed report.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors can influence the quality and reliability of the staining result:
- The time between tissue collection and fixation (longer delays reduce accuracy).
- The duration and method of tissue fixation in formalin.
- The quality of antigen retrieval during laboratory processing.
- The specificity and quality of the antibody used.
- The expertise of the pathologist interpreting the slides.
Understanding Your IHC Marker MMP13 Test Results
Results from this test are evaluated by a qualified pathologist and must always be reviewed by your treating doctor alongside your full clinical picture. The table below provides general reference information:
| Parameter | Expected finding | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| MMP-13 expression | Negative to weak positive | Typical in normal or benign tissue |
| Staining intensity | 0 to 1+ | 0 = no expression; 1+ = weak expression. |
| Staining intensity (elevated) | 2+ to 3+ | Moderate to strong expression; may indicate malignancy or disease. |
| Staining index | Low or absent | Higher combined scores suggest more significant MMP-13 activity. |
Normal adult tissue typically shows absent or very low MMP-13 expression. In contrast, high expression is frequently seen in malignant tumours and is associated with more aggressive disease behaviour.
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
Tissue fixation quality and the duration of fixation can affect how well the antibody binds during staining, which may alter the intensity of results.
In osteoarthritis and other joint disorders, MMP-13 expression may vary depending on disease activity, tissue sampled, and the stage of disease. Clinical context is therefore important when interpreting the results.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
Because MMP-13 is assessed in tissue rather than blood, there is no direct lifestyle change that alters the test result. General wellness guidance includes:
- Managing inflammatory conditions, such as joint disease, through regular medical follow-up, as chronic inflammation may influence MMP activity.
- Attending routine health check-ups and investigating suspicious symptoms promptly.
- Maintaining a balanced diet and staying physically active to support overall tissue and joint health.
Lupin Diagnostics IHC Marker MMP13 Test Price
The IHC MMP13 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-based tests of this nature.
| 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
Booking your test online is straightforward:
- Select the IHC marker MMP13 test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred centre location.
- Visit the centre at your scheduled time with your FFPE tissue block, histopathology report, and clinical documentation.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
The IHC marker MMP13 test is used to detect and measure MMP-13 protein expression in tissue samples. It helps pathologists evaluate MMP-13 protein expression in tissue samples and may provide information about tumour behaviour, tissue remodelling, and certain bone or cartilage disorders. It is particularly relevant in breast cancer, head and neck cancers, colorectal cancer, and osteoarthritis assessment.
No physical preparation is needed from your side. However, If requested, provide the FFPE tissue block, histopathology report, and any relevant clinical information to assist with interpretation for the test to be processed correctly.
No. The IHC MMP13 test cannot be performed at home. It requires a tissue sample collected through a medical procedure such as a biopsy or surgery. The sample must be submitted in person at a Lupin Diagnostics centre.
Results are typically available within 3 days of the sample reaching the laboratory. More complex cases requiring additional pathological evaluation may take longer. Your doctor will advise you on the expected turnaround for your specific case.
A positive result means that MMP-13 protein is expressed in your tissue sample. In many cancers, elevated MMP-13 expression is associated with more aggressive tumour behaviour. However, the significance of the result depends on the clinical context and must be discussed with your treating doctor.
No. While MMP-13 is strongly associated with tumour invasiveness and poor prognosis in several cancers, it also plays a key role in osteoarthritis, where it contributes to cartilage degradation. It is also involved in normal bone development and wound healing processes.
High MMP-13 expression may suggest an increased potential for tumour invasion and spread, as the protein is involved in breaking down tissue barriers that normally contain tumour cells. However, this test is one of many factors your doctor will consider. No single marker can fully predict cancer behaviour, and your doctor will review the result alongside other clinical and pathological findings.
IHC Marker MMP13 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
