(IHC) - CD138

The test is performed on a tissue sample, usually taken through a biopsy. The sample is treated with specific antibodies that bind to the CD138 antigen, if present. The bound antibodies can then be visualized under a microscope.

A positive result indicates the presence of the CD138 antigen in the sample. This can suggest the presence of multiple myeloma or another condition that leads to overexpression of CD138. However, test results must always be interpreted in the context of your overall clinical picture.

The risks associated with the IHC - CD138 test are minimal and are generally related to the biopsy procedure used to obtain the tissue sample.

Yes, the IHC - CD138 test may be used to monitor treatment for multiple myeloma and other conditions. Decreased levels of CD138 after treatment may indicate a response to therapy.

Your doctor may order an IHC - CD138 test if you have symptoms or other test results that suggest multiple myeloma or another condition associated with CD138 overexpression.

Depending on your symptoms and medical history, your doctor might order other tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC), protein electrophoresis, or other immunohistochemistry tests, to help diagnose or monitor your condition.

While the IHC - CD138 test can be useful in diagnosing and monitoring multiple myeloma and other conditions, it is not definitive. Other tests and clinical information are also needed for a full diagnosis.

No special preparation is required for the IHC - CD138 test.

The turnaround time for the IHC - CD138 test is typically 5 to 7 days, but this can vary depending on the lab.

No, the IHC - CD138 test requires a tissue sample that must be collected by a healthcare professional and analyzed in a laboratory.

A negative result indicates that the CD138 antigen was not detected in the sample. However, a negative result does not rule out the possibility of disease. Other tests and clinical information are also necessary for a definitive diagnosis.

While the IHC - CD138 test cannot predict disease progression, it can provide valuable information about the nature of the disease, which can help guide treatment decisions.

The test is specifically designed to detect the CD138 antigen, so the presence of other conditions should not interfere with the results. However, certain treatments may potentially affect the levels of CD138.

The IHC - CD138 test is generally considered reliable for detecting the presence of the CD138 antigen. However, no test is 100% accurate, and results should always be interpreted in the context of other clinical and diagnostic findings.

A positive IHC - CD138 test indicates the presence of CD138 antigen, which is often overexpressed in multiple myeloma, a type of cancer. However, a positive result doesn't confirm a cancer diagnosis. Other tests and clinical evaluation are necessary for a definitive diagnosis.

The frequency of the IHC - CD138 test depends on your condition and your doctor's recommendations. It may be used for initial diagnosis, and then at regular intervals to monitor treatment response or disease progression.

While the IHC - CD138 test is primarily used in the diagnosis and monitoring of multiple myeloma, it may also be useful in other conditions where CD138 is overexpressed.

There are other tests available for diagnosing multiple myeloma, including blood tests and imaging studies. The IHC - CD138 test is a valuable tool but is often used alongside these other tests for a comprehensive evaluation.

After receiving your results, you should discuss them with your doctor who can interpret them in the context of your overall health, symptoms, and medical history. Depending on the results, further tests or treatments may be necessary.