IHC - Final diagnosis panel with histopathology

Combining IHC with histopathology in a final diagnosis panel can significantly improve diagnostic accuracy. This is especially crucial in cases where a clear diagnosis cannot be established through histopathology alone.

No, fasting is not required for this test as it involves the analysis of tissue samples, usually obtained through a biopsy.

Your healthcare provider will recommend this test if you have a suspicious lesion or tumor, and there is a need to identify its nature accurately to devise an appropriate treatment plan.

This test identifies specific proteins or antigens in the tissue sample, which can help determine the type and origin of the cells. This information is crucial for the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment planning of various diseases, especially cancer.

This test is usually done once as part of the diagnostic process when there is a need to evaluate a suspicious tissue sample.

Normal values can vary depending on the antibodies used in the panel. Your pathologist will interpret the results in the context of the specific markers being tested and your clinical history.

No specific precautions are required before the test. After the biopsy procedure, you should follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider to ensure proper healing and prevent infection.

Factors such as the type of disease, stage of the disease, and individual genetic variations can affect the levels of antigens detected.

Abnormal levels could indicate the presence of disease. Your healthcare provider will interpret these results in the context of other clinical information to make a diagnosis.

You should consult the doctor who ordered the test, typically an oncologist, pathologist, or surgeon, for interpretation of the results and discussion of next steps.

Yes, this test can help differentiate between benign and malignant tumors by identifying specific markers that are associated with malignancy.

Yes, this panel can be used to detect metastasis by identifying markers typical of cancer cells that have spread from the original site.

The pain associated with this test is related to the biopsy procedure, which may involve a small degree of discomfort or pain. Pain management options will be discussed with you prior to the procedure.

Risks associated with this test are primarily related to the biopsy procedure and may include infection, bleeding, or allergic reaction to anesthetic.

This test requires specialized facilities and trained personnel, so it is usually done in hospitals or specialized laboratories.

Yes, the results can significantly influence your treatment options. For instance, in cancer, the identification of specific proteins can guide the choice of targeted therapy.

While this test is commonly used in cancer diagnostics, it's also used for other diseases like infectious diseases and immune disorders where specific proteins need to be identified in the tissue.

No, this test complements other diagnostic procedures and is often used when other tests are inconclusive or when more information about the disease is required.

After the test, your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you. If a disease is diagnosed, further discussions about treatment options, prognosis, and follow-up care will follow.

This test is usually not repeated as it provides a definitive diagnosis. However, in some cases, if the tissue sample was not adequate or the results were inconclusive, a repeat biopsy and test may be necessary.

Immunohistochemistry and histopathology, when used together in a final diagnosis panel, provide a robust method for diagnosing a variety of diseases, particularly cancers. With the help of 6 to 8 specific antibodies, healthcare providers can understand the nature of the disease better, guiding them towards the most effective treatment strategies. It's important to remember that the results of this panel should be considered in conjunction with other diagnostic findings to make a comprehensive and conclusive diagnosis.