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HelpTest Code 08077 Surgical Pathology, Immunohistochemistry
Methodology
Microscopic evaluation performed.
Clinical Information
Immunohistochemistry (IHC) uses visible indicators to identify cell or tissue antigens through the bindings of a specific antibody to a particular antigen. It is at the discretion of the pathologist to determine which antibodies will be tested. IHC staining is widely used in the diagnosis of abnormal cells such as those found in cancerous tumors. Specific molecular markers are characteristic of particular cellular events such as proliferation or cell death (apoptosis).
It is important to note that specimen collection impacts the quality and outcome of these tests. Cold ischemia time (time between specimen collection and addition of fixative) should be limited to less than 1 hour. Using the appropriate fixative for the test desired (DIF and flow cytometry are placed in fixatives other than formalin). The amount of fixative (10:1- 10 parts formalin and 1 part specimen) should also be taken into consideration when collecting specimens that may potentially be submitted for these types of tests. Any questions regarding specimen collection should be consulted with your local pathology department.
Specimen Requirements
Specimen must arrive as soon as possible after collection.
Specimen source is required.
Specimen Type: FFPE Tissue (Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded Tissue)
Note: All IHC tests will get routine testing completed as well.
Volume of Fixative: Specimens that can be fully submerged with the optimal formalin (approximately specimen to formalin volume of 10:1) can go into the prefilled formalin containers. Larger tissue resections requiring formalin, should be place in a specimen container that allows for formalin to be poured over in at least a 4:1 ratio.
Fixative Requirement: Varies- Most Specimens Will Require Formalin. Exceptions are listed below.
Specimens to be Sent Fresh (No Fixative) Note: No fixative means not to place any specimen in any solution; however, saline dampened gauze may be used to prevent drying out of specimen if it is small and drying is a concern.
Iliac Crest Biopsy, Renal/Urethral Caliculi, Muscle Biopsy, Specimens Being Tested for Crystal Analysis, Specimens Being Submitted for Frozen Section (see test catalog for more information), and/or Limbs
Specimens Requiring Fixatives, Other than Formalin
Specimen Being Submitted for Suspected Lymphoma (East: Hanks) (West: RPMI) Note: Specimens suspected for Lymphoma may also be delivered to the lab fresh where trained lab personnel will separate some tissue for flow in the gross lab.
Products of Conception- POC (East: Formalin) (West: Hanks)
Specimen for DIF/CIF- (All Regions: Michel’s Media)
Specimen Transport Temperature
Block or Slide(s)-
Ambient: Yes;
Refrigerate: No;
Frozen: No
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Friday
Performing Laboratory
Anatomic Pathology-
East Region: SMDC Clinical Lab
West Region: Fargo Hospital Lab
Test Classification and CPT Coding
Varies
Reference Values
An interpretation will be provided.