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IHC - For confirming Metastatic tumor of Breast origin

IHC - For confirming Metastatic tumor of Breast origin

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is an essential laboratory technique used in the diagnosis and management of cancer. It involves the use of antibodies to detect specific proteins in tissue samples, thus providing information about the type of cancer and its characteristics. For breast cancer, especially metastatic breast cancer where the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, the IHC plays a crucial role in confirming the origin of the tumor.


  • Test Name IHC - For confirming Metastatic tumor of Breast origin [ER, PR, GCDFP-15, Mammoglobin]
  • Sample Type Tissue
  • Preparations Required There are no specific preparations required by the patient. The tissue sample will be collected by a healthcare professional, usually through a biopsy procedure.
  • Report Time 3 days

One of the challenges in cancer treatment is identifying the primary site of cancer when it has metastasized. Identifying whether a metastatic tumor is of breast origin is important for determining the most appropriate course of treatment. In this context, IHC for ER (Estrogen Receptor), PR (Progesterone Receptor), GCDFP-15 (Gross Cystic Disease Fluid Protein-15), and Mammaglobin is performed.

ER and PR are receptors found in some breast cancer cells. If the cancer cells have one or both of these receptors, they may be fueled by the hormones estrogen and/or progesterone. GCDFP-15 and Mammaglobin are proteins that are generally only present in breast cells, so their presence can strongly suggest that the tumor is of breast origin.

Home Sample Collection Process

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Sample Collection by Phlebotomist
Sample Collection by Phlebotomist
3
Reporting of the sample at lab
Reporting of the sample at lab
4
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Frequently Asked Questions

This test is used to confirm if a metastatic tumor originated from the breast. It helps to guide the best course of treatment.

A positive result for ER, PR, GCDFP-15, and/or Mammaglobin suggests that the metastatic tumor is likely of breast origin.

Since the tissue sample is usually obtained through a biopsy, there may be some discomfort or pain associated with the biopsy procedure. Local anesthesia is typically used to minimize discomfort.

ER stands for estrogen receptor, and PR stands for progesterone receptor. They are proteins found in and on breast cells. Certain breast cancers have receptors that are fueled by estrogen or progesterone.

GCDFP-15 and Mammaglobin are proteins that are typically present in breast tissue. Their presence in a tumor can indicate that the tumor is of breast origin.

The tissue sample is usually collected through a biopsy. A healthcare professional will take a small sample of the tumor tissue for analysis.

Generally, no specific preparation is needed. It is important to follow any instructions given by your doctor.

The results of this test will provide vital information to your doctor for tailoring your treatment plan. If the tumor is confirmed to be of breast origin, therapies that are specific to breast cancer may be utilized.

In normal breast tissue, you would expect to see these proteins. However, in a metastatic tumor from another origin, you would not expect to find ER, PR, GCDFP-15, or Mammaglobin.

If the test is negative for these proteins, it suggests that the metastatic tumor is likely not of breast origin.

The levels can be affected by the type and stage of the tumor.

Knowing the origin of a metastatic tumor is crucial for selecting the most appropriate and effective treatments.

Consult an oncologist for expert advice and management if you have abnormal values or if the test confirms that the tumor is of breast origin.

The risks associated with this test are mainly related to the biopsy procedure, which may include infection, bleeding, or bruising.

Some modifiable risk factors for breast cancer include weight, physical activity, diet, and alcohol consumption.

Knowing the primary origin of a metastatic tumor is essential in selecting an appropriate treatment strategy. This IHC test plays a pivotal role in confirming whether a metastatic tumor is of breast origin by detecting the presence of specific proteins associated with breast tissue. It's essential to consult with an oncologist for a comprehensive understanding of the test results and the subsequent steps in managing the condition.

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