IHC Marker – Uroplakin II Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About IHC Marker – Uroplakin II Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Uroplakin II IHC, UPII Immunostain, UP II IHC Marker, Uroplakin 2 Immunohistochemistry |
| Sample Type | Tissue biopsy (FFPE block — formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue) |
| Fasting Required | No. This test is performed on preserved tissue, not blood or urine |
| Report Time | 7 days |
| Recommended For | Adults of any gender with suspected urothelial carcinoma or cancer of unknown primary |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,920 |
What Is an IHC Marker – Uroplakin II Test?
The IHC Marker – Uroplakin II test is a specialised laboratory test that detects the presence of the Uroplakin II (UPII) protein in tumour tissue. It is used to determine whether a cancer has originated from the urothelium — the layer of cells lining the urinary tract, including the bladder, ureters and renal pelvis. The test is performed using a technique called immunohistochemistry (IHC), which applies specific antibodies to tissue sections and looks for a staining reaction under a microscope. It is also referred to as the 'Uroplakin II IHC' or 'UPII Immunostain'.
What Does an IHC Marker – Uroplakin II Test Measure?
This test assesses the expression of a specific protein – the Uroplakin II protein – within tumour tissue. The table below explains what is evaluated.
| Component | What It Shows |
|---|---|
| Uroplakin II (UPII) protein | A protein found on the surface of urothelial cells (cells lining the urinary tract); its presence in tumour tissue indicates urothelial origin |
| Urothelial differentiation | Whether the tumour cells share characteristics with normal cells lining the renal pelvis, ureter, bladder or prostatic urethra |
| Staining pattern and intensity | How strongly and widely the marker is expressed, which helps the pathologist grade and interpret the result |
Unlike blood tests, this test does not produce a numerical result. The pathologist assesses the presence, intensity and extent of staining under a microscope.
Why Is an IHC Marker – Uroplakin II Test Done?
Doctors order this test when tissue analysis is needed to confirm or clarify the origin of a tumour. It is most commonly used when urothelial carcinoma is suspected or when a cancer has spread and its primary site is unclear.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following symptoms may lead a doctor to investigate for urothelial carcinoma and request the IHC Marker – Uroplakin II test procedure:
- Blood in the urine (haematuria), which may appear pink, red or cola-coloured
- Frequent urination, especially if the urge is sudden or difficult to control
- Pain or burning sensation during urination
- Waking frequently during the night to urinate
- Persistent lower abdominal or back pain
- Unexplained weight loss
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
A pathologist uses the Uroplakin II IHC marker to support the diagnosis of the following conditions:
- Urothelial carcinoma (bladder cancer), including high-grade and invasive types
- Variant forms of urothelial carcinoma, such as micropapillary, plasmacytoid and sarcomatoid subtypes
- Metastatic urothelial carcinoma, where cancer deposits in lymph nodes, bone or other organs need to be traced back to their site of origin
- Cancer of unknown primary (CUP), helping determine whether a metastatic tumour originated in the urinary tract
- Distinguishing urothelial carcinoma from other cancers such as prostate adenocarcinoma or metastatic breast carcinoma
- Detection of small cancer deposits (micrometastases) from bladder cancer
How to Prepare and What to Expect
As this test is performed on tissue already collected during a biopsy or surgery, most of the preparation involves organising your documents rather than physical preparation.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required. The IHC Marker Uroplakin II test procedure uses an existing tissue block from a prior biopsy or surgical procedure. No new blood draw or sample collection is needed for this specific test.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Before submitting your tissue sample for the IHC Marker – Uroplakin II test, keep the following in mind:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results and family history, as this is required for the test.
- Carry your doctor's referral letter, including the biopsy site details.
- Bring any existing histopathology reports if you are submitting a paraffin block.
- Include relevant imaging reports such as CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or X-rays.
- Inform the laboratory about any medications you are currently taking.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Here is what happens from tissue collection to the final report:
- Your doctor collects a tissue sample through a needle biopsy, incisional biopsy or surgical removal; this step happens before the IHC test is ordered. No additional sample collection is needed for the IHC test itself.
- The tissue is placed in a formalin solution to preserve it and then embedded in a paraffin wax block, creating the FFPE tissue block submitted to the laboratory.
- A laboratory technician cuts very thin slices of the tissue block using a precision instrument called a microtome.
- The tissue sections are treated with Uroplakin II antibodies that bind to the UPII protein if it is present in the cells.
- A colour reaction is produced wherever the antibody binds, creating visible staining that can be examined under a microscope.
- A qualified pathologist examines the stained slides, assesses the pattern and intensity of the staining, and prepares a detailed report.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors can influence the reliability of the test result:
- Prolonged exposure to formalin during tissue fixation can reduce the ability to detect the marker
- Tissue affected by significant necrosis (cell death) or poor preservation may show inconsistent staining
- Sections that are not stained promptly after cutting (generally within one month) may show reduced staining quality
- Antibody quality and the laboratory technique used can also affect results
Understanding Your IHC Marker – Uroplakin II Test Results
Unlike routine blood tests, this test does not produce numerical values. The pathologist reports results based on whether staining is present and how strong or widespread it is. Always review your results with your treating oncologist or pathologist.
| Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Positive (staining present) | Supports urothelial origin of the tumour; consistent with urothelial carcinoma |
| Negative (no staining) | Does not support urothelial origin; other tumour types should be considered |
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.
Results During Special Conditions
Certain breast carcinomas with apocrine differentiation, particularly invasive pleomorphic lobular carcinoma, may show Uroplakin II positivity. Because poorly differentiated urothelial carcinoma can look similar to this tumour type under a microscope, a panel of multiple IHC markers is recommended to reach an accurate diagnosis rather than relying on this test alone.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
This is a diagnostic test rather than a monitoring tool, and therefore, no lifestyle changes alter its results. However, these general steps may support urinary tract health:
- Avoid tobacco use and limit exposure to occupational chemicals found in dye, rubber and oil-refining industries, which are known risk factors for urothelial carcinoma.
- Stay well hydrated by drinking adequate water daily to support bladder function.
- Consult a doctor promptly if you notice blood in your urine or any urinary changes.
Lupin Diagnostics IHC Marker – Uroplakin II Test Price
The IHC Marker – Uroplakin II test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹1,920. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre; 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
Follow these steps for IHC Marker – Uroplakin II test online booking:
- 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 along with the required clinical documentation.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within 7 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
This test helps determine whether a tumour has originated from the urothelium — the lining of the bladder and urinary tract. It is particularly useful when a cancer has spread to other parts of the body and the primary site needs to be identified. It also helps distinguish urothelial carcinoma from other cancer types with similar appearances.
The tissue sample is collected by your doctor through a biopsy or surgical procedure. Once the tissue block is prepared, no additional sample collection is required specifically for the IHC Marker – Uroplakin II test. You simply submit the existing FFPE tissue block to the laboratory.
Yes. Studies show that Uroplakin II demonstrates higher sensitivity than Uroplakin III in detecting urothelial carcinoma, including high-grade and variant subtypes. This makes it a more reliable marker for confirming urothelial origin in difficult cases.
The results are typically ready within 7 days of the laboratory receiving the tissue sample. The report will be sent to you digitally via email or WhatsApp, and you should review it with your doctor or a specialist pathologist.
Not necessarily. Some urothelial carcinomas, particularly high-grade tumours, may not express Uroplakin II. A negative result does not exclude urothelial carcinoma on its own. Your pathologist will interpret the result alongside other markers and your clinical history.
Yes. A detailed clinical history is required for this test. You should bring your doctor's referral letter, any existing histopathology reports and relevant imaging results such as CT or MRI scans. Providing complete documentation helps the pathologist interpret the staining accurately.
Yes. When cancer has spread to other organs and the primary site is unknown, the UPII Immunostain can help determine whether the metastatic deposits originated from the urinary tract. This information guides treatment planning by your oncology team.
IHC Marker – Uroplakin II Test: Booking, Price, and Results
