IHC - Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein-Test, Price, Normal Range | Sprint Diagnostics Hyderabad

The IHC - GFAP test is performed on tissue samples, typically obtained from the brain or spinal cord via biopsy or during surgery.

No specific preparation is needed for this test. However, it’s important to inform the doctor of any medications you are taking, as they may need to be adjusted before the procedure.

The tissue sample is generally obtained through a biopsy or during surgical removal of a tumor or affected tissue from the brain or spinal cord.

A positive result indicates the presence of GFAP, suggesting that the tissue sample contains astrocytes or tumors derived from astrocytes.

Yes, the IHC - GFAP test can be used to monitor changes in GFAP expression, which may indicate the progression or regression of a neurological disorder or the response to treatment.

GFAP is primarily found in the central nervous system. However, it can sometimes be found in other tissues under certain pathological conditions.

There are risks associated with any invasive procedure. The biopsy procedure to obtain the tissue sample can cause infection, bleeding, or damage to surrounding structures.

The IHC - GFAP test can provide important information about the presence of astrocytes, but it is not definitive. The results should be interpreted in conjunction with other diagnostic tests and clinical information.

The IHC - GFAP test is not part of routine examinations and is usually performed when there is clinical suspicion of a brain tumor or a neurological disorder involving astrocytes.

The level of GFAP can sometimes correlate with the severity of a disorder, but it is not the sole determinant. Other factors and tests are also important in assessing severity.

If the results are abnormal, you should consult a neurologist or neurosurgeon, depending on the nature of the condition.

No, GFAP is primarily a marker for astrocytic tumors. Not all brain tumors are derived from astrocytes, so GFAP is not used as a marker for all types of brain tumors.

Yes, other markers such as S100, NeuN, and synaptophysin may also be used in conjunction with GFAP to diagnose and characterize brain tumors and neurological disorders.

The test can be helpful in differentiating astrocytic tumors from other glial tumors, but additional tests may be necessary for more specific subtyping of glial tumors.

Yes, GFAP is normally found in healthy brain tissue as it is a component of astrocytes, which are cells that help support and maintain neurons in the brain and spinal cord.

GFAP levels can change with age, and there is some evidence to suggest that they may increase in the aging brain. Additionally, certain medications and substances may also affect GFAP levels.

There is no conclusive evidence that lifestyle changes can directly impact GFAP levels. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can have a positive effect on overall brain health, which might indirectly influence GFAP expression.

Yes, GFAP levels often increase following brain injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and strokes, as astrocytes play a role in the brain's response to injury.

The IHC - GFAP test involves applying antibodies that bind to GFAP in a tissue sample. The antibodies are tagged with a dye or other markers, and under a microscope, the tagged antibodies reveal the location and amount of GFAP in the sample.

Other tests that might be done alongside IHC - GFAP include MRI, CT scans, and other biochemical or genetic tests to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the neurological condition or tumor.

The treatment varies depending on the underlying condition causing abnormal GFAP levels. For brain tumors, treatment may include surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. For neurodegenerative disorders, medication, physical therapy, and supportive care might be involved.

GFAP is important in research because it is used as a marker to study astrocytes, which play a critical role in the central nervous system. Research into the function and pathology of astrocytes can provide insights into brain disorders and potential therapies.