Immunohistochemistry (IHC) - KI67 (MIB-1) is a test that is frequently used in the field of pathology to evaluate the proliferation rate of cells in human tissues. The KI67 protein is a cellular marker for proliferation. It is present during all active phases of the cell cycle (G1, S, G2, and mitosis), but is absent from resting cells (G0), making it an excellent marker to determine the growth fraction of a given cell population.
The MIB-1 clone of the Ki67 antibody is commonly used in clinical practice because it can be used on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue, which is the most common form of tissue preservation. The Ki67 protein was first identified by the monoclonal antibody Ki67, which was generated by immunizing mice with nuclei of the Hodgkin lymphoma cell line L428. The name Ki67 is derived from the city of its first description (Kiel, Germany) and the number of the original clone in the 96-well plate.
The test is often used in research and diagnostic settings to understand how rapidly cells are dividing in a tissue sample. This can provide valuable information for diagnosing and grading cancers, as tumors with higher Ki67 levels are often more aggressive.
The test is performed on a tissue sample, which is fixed on a slide and treated with the Ki67 antibody. The antibody binds to the Ki67 protein in the cell nuclei, and the bound antibody is then visualized using a microscope.
No fasting is necessary for this test.
In general, a high level of Ki67 expression (many cells staining positive for Ki67) indicates a high rate of cell division. This can be associated with aggressive tumor behavior in many types of cancer.
Technical issues such as sample handling, fixation, and processing can potentially affect the results. Additionally, the interpretation of the results requires expertise and can be somewhat subjective.
A tissue sample is usually obtained through a biopsy, in which a small piece of tissue is removed from the body for examination.
This test is typically only done when needed for diagnosing or grading a tumor. It's not a routine screening test.
Yes, studies have shown that high Ki67 levels can be associated with a worse prognosis in many types of cancer. However, the exact implications can depend on the type and stage of cancer.
The results of this test should be interpreted by a pathologist, a doctor who specializes in diagnosing diseases by studying cells and tissues under a microscope.
In normal tissues, only a small percentage of cells would be expected to be in the active phases of the cell cycle at any given time. Therefore, Ki67 expression would typically be low. However, the exact "normal" level can depend on the specific tissue and the individual's age and health status.
The Ki67 protein is expressed in proliferating cells of all types, so the test can theoretically be used for all types of cancer. However, the usefulness and interpretation of the results can vary depending on the type of cancer.
The risks associated with the IHC - KI67 (MIB-1) test are mainly related to the biopsy procedure used to obtain the tissue sample, which can include pain, infection, and bleeding. The test itself does not pose any additional risks.
No, a biopsy refers to the procedure of taking a sample of tissue from the body for examination. The IHC - KI67 (MIB-1) test is a specific test that can be done on the tissue obtained from a biopsy.
There are no known modifiable factors (such as diet or lifestyle changes) that can affect Ki67 levels. Ki67 is a reflection of the cell's inherent growth rate.
If your test results are abnormal, you should consult with your healthcare provider who ordered the test, typically this could be your oncologist or pathologist. They can interpret your results in the context of your overall health and disease status and guide further management.
In the complex world of cancer diagnosis and treatment, the IHC - KI67 (MIB-1) test serves as an essential tool that helps pathologists and oncologists understand the nature of a tumor. An elevated Ki67 index often indicates a higher rate of tumor cell proliferation, which may suggest a more aggressive disease course. However, it is essential to understand that Ki67 is just one piece of the puzzle. The test's results must be considered in conjunction with other clinical, histological, and laboratory findings to establish an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. As with any test or procedure, it's crucial to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your healthcare provider.