IHC Marker - p40 Test
About IHC Marker - p40 Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | p40 Immunostain Test, ΔNp63 IHC Test, Delta Np63 Immunohistochemistry Test, p40 Antibody Test |
| Sample Type | FFPE Tissue Block (formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue block) |
| Fasting Required | No |
| Report Time | 3 Days |
| Recommended For | All genders; all ages (as clinically indicated for cancer diagnosis) |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,920 |
What Is an IHC Marker - p40 Test?
The IHC marker - p40 test is an immunohistochemistry test that detects the presence of p40 protein in tumour tissue. It is used by pathologists to identify and classify certain types of cancer, particularly squamous cell carcinomas. The test is performed on an FFPE tissue block, a formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sample collected during a biopsy or surgical procedure.
It is also known as the p40 Immunostain test or the Delta Np63 Immunohistochemistry test.
What Does an IHC Marker - p40 Test Measure?
The p40 Immunostain test detects the p40 protein, also called ΔNp63, a truncated form of the p63 protein. p40 is normally present in basal cells of layered tissues, myoepithelial cells of breast and salivary glands, basal cells of the prostate, and cytotrophoblasts in the placenta. In cancer diagnosis, p40 expression is assessed to determine whether a tumour has squamous characteristics. The key parameter measured is:
| Parameter | What It Tells Us |
|---|---|
| p40 protein expression (nuclear staining) | Whether tumour cells show squamous differentiation |
| Staining intensity | Degree of p40 positivity in cells |
| Percentage of cells stained | Proportion of tumour cells expressing p40 |
Results are reported as positive or negative rather than as numerical values, making this a qualitative marker test.
Why Is an IHC Marker - p40 Test Done?
Doctors order this test when a tissue biopsy needs further classification, particularly to determine whether a tumour is of squamous cell origin.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
A doctor may recommend the p40 Antibody test after a biopsy is taken from a patient presenting with the following symptoms:
- Unexplained persistent cough
- Difficulty breathing
- Blood in sputum
- Unexplained weight loss
- A lump or mass detected on imaging
- Difficulty swallowing
- Skin lesions under investigation
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The IHC marker - p40 test is used to help identify or differentiate between several cancer types:
- Lung squamous cell carcinoma, distinguishing it from adenocarcinoma (a different lung cancer subtype arising from gland-forming cells)
- Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
- Bladder urothelial carcinoma (cancer arising from the bladder lining)
- Cutaneous (skin) squamous cell carcinoma, particularly poorly differentiated forms
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is required from the patient for this test, as it is performed on tissue already collected by a healthcare professional.
Do You Need to Fast?
No, fasting is not required. This test is carried out on a tissue block obtained during a biopsy or surgical procedure, so dietary restrictions do not apply.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Here are a few things to keep in mind before and during the biopsy process:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and relevant medical records, as this is required for the test
- Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking before any biopsy procedure
- Follow all pre-biopsy instructions provided by your healthcare team
- Once the tissue has been collected, no further action is needed from you before the report is ready
Step-by-Step Procedure
The IHC marker - p40 test procedure involves the following steps:
- A tissue sample is obtained by your doctor through a needle biopsy or during a surgical procedure
- The collected tissue is fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin wax to preserve it, forming the FFPE tissue block
- Thin sections are cut from the block and placed on microscope slides
- The immunohistochemistry staining process is performed using specific antibodies that bind to the p40 protein if it is present in the tissue
- Slides are examined under a microscope by an experienced pathologist, who assesses whether p40 staining is present and how strongly it is expressed
- The FFPE tissue block is transported and stored at ambient temperature (18 to 28 degrees Celsius) and processed at the laboratory, with results ready within 3 days
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Certain factors may influence how reliable the test result is:
- Proper fixation and preservation of the tissue sample
- Age of the cut paraffin section (older sections may show reduced antibody reactivity)
- Quality of the original biopsy sample
- Correct antibody handling and staining technique in the laboratory
- Experience and skill of the interpreting pathologist
Understanding Your IHC Marker - p40 Test Results
Results from this test are interpreted by a pathologist and should always be reviewed alongside your clinical history, imaging findings, and other diagnostic information.
| Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Positive | Nuclear staining present; suggests squamous cell differentiation in the tumour |
| Negative | No p40 staining detected; tumour is unlikely to be a squamous cell carcinoma |
A positive p40 result may indicate lung squamous cell carcinoma, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, urothelial carcinoma, or skin squamous cell carcinoma. A negative result may point to non-squamous tumour types, such as lung adenocarcinoma, prostate carcinoma, or breast carcinoma, which are known to be p40-negative.
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.
Next Steps for Your Care
P40 is a cancer diagnostic marker rather than a routine health parameter, so it cannot be influenced by lifestyle changes. General guidance includes:
- Follow all recommendations from your oncologist or specialist after receiving results
- Attend regular follow-up appointments as advised by your healthcare team
- Keep a record of all test reports and medical history for future consultations
Lupin Diagnostics IHC Marker - p40 Test Price
The IHC marker - p40 test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹1,920. This test requires an FFPE tissue block obtained during a biopsy or surgical procedure. The tissue specimen can then be submitted as advised by your treating doctor or healthcare facility for analysis at Lupin Diagnostics.
| 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 IHC marker - p40 test online:
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website
- Choose your city and preferred centre location
- Arrange for the FFPE tissue block to be submitted as advised by your treating doctor or healthcare facility
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time
Frequently Asked Questions
The IHC marker - p40 test is used to detect and classify squamous cell carcinomas. It helps pathologists determine whether a tumour has squamous characteristics, which guides oncologists in planning the appropriate course of treatment.
This test requires an FFPE tissue block, a formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sample. It is not a blood test. The sample is obtained by a doctor through a needle biopsy or during surgery, not by the patient at home.
p40 and p63 have similar sensitivity for detecting squamous cell carcinoma. However, p40 is notably more specific, meaning it is less likely to produce a misleading positive result in non-squamous tumours such as adenocarcinoma or lymphoma.
A positive result indicates that p40 protein is present in the tumour cells, strongly suggesting squamous differentiation. This finding is useful for classifying the tumour type, which in turn helps your doctor determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
Yes. While it is particularly well-known for distinguishing lung squamous cell carcinoma from adenocarcinoma, p40 is also used to identify squamous cell carcinomas in the head and neck, bladder, and skin.
At Lupin Diagnostics, the report for the IHC marker - p40 test is typically available within 3 days. Turnaround may vary depending on the complexity of the case or additional pathologist review required.
If your results are abnormal or show a positive finding, you should consult an oncologist. They will review the result alongside your imaging reports and clinical history to advise on the next steps in your diagnosis or treatment plan.
IHC Marker - p40 Test
