IHC Marker-SSTR2 Test
About IHC Marker-SSTR2 Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | SSTR2 IHC, Somatostatin Receptor 2 Immunostain, SSTR2A Immunohistochemistry |
| Sample Type | Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block |
| Fasting Required | No |
| Report Time | 3 Days |
| Recommended For | All genders and ages; patients with suspected neuroendocrine tumours, meningiomas, or tumours being evaluated for targeted therapy |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,920 |
What is an IHC Marker-SSTR2 Test?
The SSTR2 test is a specialised pathology test that assesses the presence of a protein called Somatostatin Receptor 2 (SSTR2) in tumour tissue. A pathologist examines a tissue sample using a technique called immunohistochemistry (IHC). Doctors order this test to understand the nature of certain tumours and to guide treatment decisions. It is also referred to as SSTR2 IHC or Somatostatin Receptor 2 Immunostain.
What Does an IHC Marker-SSTR2 Test Measure?
The SSTR2 test procedure analyses the presence and distribution of the SSTR2 protein in tumour tissue. SSTR2 is normally found in pancreatic secretory cells and neurons of the brain and spinal cord. When it appears at unusually high levels in tumour tissue, this provides important diagnostic and treatment information.
The test evaluates two key aspects of SSTR2 expression:
| Parameter | What It Assesses |
|---|---|
| SSTR2 Expression Intensity | Scored from 0 (none) to 3 (strong), indicating how strongly the protein is present |
| Membranous Staining Extent | Graded 0 to 4+, indicating the percentage of tumour cells showing staining on their surface |
Why is an IHC Marker-SSTR2 Test Done?
A doctor may request this test when a tumour has been identified, and they need more information about its type and likely behaviour. It is also used to determine whether certain therapies may be effective.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
Patients are typically referred for this test after a tumour has been found. The following symptoms may prompt further investigation, including this test:
- An unexplained mass or growth identified on imaging
- Flushing, persistent diarrhoea, or wheezing (signs of carcinoid syndrome)
- Hormonal imbalance symptoms without a clear cause
- Recurrent headaches where a meningioma is suspected
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent abdominal pain
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test helps identify and characterise several specific conditions. These include:
- Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs), where SSTR2 is commonly overexpressed
- Meningiomas (brain tumours arising from the membranes surrounding the brain)
- Thyrotropin-secreting pituitary adenomas, which preferentially express SSTR2
- Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (tumours of the adrenal gland and related tissue)
- Olfactory neuroblastoma, where SSTR2 staining is seen in the vast majority of cases
How to Prepare and What to Expect
This test is performed on tissue already obtained through a biopsy. The preparation mainly involves ensuring the tissue sample is properly collected, preserved, and submitted.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required. The SSTR2 test procedure is performed on a tissue sample, not a blood or urine sample, so there are no dietary restrictions to follow.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Proper handling of the tissue sample is essential for accurate results. Keep the following points in mind:
- A formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block from a prior biopsy is needed for this test
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and any prior treatments, as this is required for the test
- Ensure the tissue block or slides are correctly labelled before submission
- Inform your doctor of any cancer treatments that have already been started, as these may affect the tissue
- Tissue should have been preserved in 10% neutral buffered formalin to ensure accurate staining
Step-by-Step Procedure
The test is carried out entirely in the laboratory on your tissue sample. Here is what happens:
- A tissue sample is obtained through a biopsy performed at a medical centre. This step happens before the IHC test is ordered.
- The tissue is fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin wax to form an FFPE block, which is submitted to the laboratory.
- Thin sections are cut from the block, placed on slides, and processed to remove the wax. The tissue is then treated to make the SSTR2 protein visible to the antibody stain.
- An anti-SSTR2 antibody is applied to the slide. A colour stain (chromogen) is added so that SSTR2 protein appears visible under the microscope.
- A qualified pathologist examines the stained slides and scores the intensity and distribution of SSTR2 expression.
- A report is prepared with the findings and their clinical significance, and this is sent to your doctor.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors can influence the reliability of the results. These include:
- Quality of tissue fixation and how quickly the sample was preserved after biopsy
- Thickness and condition of the tissue sections
- Antibody quality and the specific technique used in the laboratory
- Prior cancer treatment, which may alter receptor expression in the tissue
- The pathologist's experience in interpreting IHC staining patterns
Understanding Your IHC Marker-SSTR2 Test Results
Results from this test are interpreted by a pathologist and reported to your treating doctor. The scoring reflects both the intensity of staining and the proportion of tumour cells that show it.
| Expression Level | Membranous Staining Grade | Typical Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| 0 (None) | 0 (5% or fewer cells stained) | Negative for SSTR2 |
| Weak (1+) | 1+ (6 to 25% of cells) | Low positive expression |
| Moderate (2+) | 2+ (26 to 50% of cells) | Moderate positive expression |
| Strong (3+) | 3+ (51 to 75% of cells) | High positive expression |
| Strong (3+) | 4+ (76% or more of cells) | Very high positive expression |
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 positive result (any grade above 0) may indicate that the tumour expresses SSTR2, which can be seen in neuroendocrine tumours, meningiomas, and certain other tumour types. High expression may also suggest eligibility for targeted treatments such as somatostatin analogues or peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT). A negative or low result may be associated with poorly differentiated tumours and may indicate more limited treatment options.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
While SSTR2 expression cannot be modified through lifestyle changes, these general steps support your overall health and follow-up care:
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your oncologist or specialist
- Report new or worsening symptoms such as persistent flushing, unexplained diarrhoea, or new masses to your doctor without delay
- Maintain regular health check-ups, particularly if there is a family history of neuroendocrine tumours
Lupin Diagnostics IHC Marker-SSTR2 Test Price
The SSTR2 test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹1,920. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre or submission of your tissue block through your treating doctor. Home collection is not available for this test.
| 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 SSTR2 test online with Lupin Diagnostics is straightforward:
- Select the IHC Marker-SSTR2 Test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred centre location.
- Visit the centre at your scheduled time, or arrange for your tissue block to be submitted through your doctor or hospital.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
The SSTR2 test checks whether a tumour expresses the Somatostatin Receptor 2 protein. It is primarily used to characterise neuroendocrine tumours and meningiomas. The results can also help determine whether a patient may benefit from specific targeted therapies such as somatostatin analogues or radiopeptide treatment.
The test is performed on a tissue block obtained through a biopsy. The biopsy is performed separately, usually by a surgeon or an interventional radiologist. Once the tissue has been processed into an FFPE block, it is submitted to the laboratory for the SSTR2 test.
No fasting is needed. The test is performed on a tissue sample, not blood or urine, so there are no food or drink restrictions before the test.
At Lupin Diagnostics, the report is delivered within 3 days. Turnaround time may vary slightly depending on the complexity of the case and tissue processing requirements.
A positive result means the tumour expresses SSTR2 protein. In neuroendocrine tumours, this may indicate a better prognosis and possible eligibility for targeted treatments. Your doctor will explain what a positive result means in the context of your specific diagnosis and overall health.
Yes. SSTR2 staining has been shown to be highly sensitive and specific for meningiomas. Studies report sensitivity above 95% and specificity above 90% for SSTR2A as a marker of meningioma, making it a valuable tool for confirming this diagnosis.
No, this test cannot be done at home. It requires a formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue block obtained through a biopsy. The sample must be processed and analysed in a specialised pathology laboratory by a trained pathologist.
IHC Marker-SSTR2 Test
