IHC - Cytokeratin 19 (CK19)

A tissue sample, obtained through a biopsy or surgery, is required for this test.

No, there's no need to fast before this test.

It generally takes 1 to 3 days to get the results of this test.

While the presence of CK19 is often associated with certain types of cancer, it doesn't always mean you have cancer. The results should be interpreted by your doctor in the context of your overall health and other diagnostic tests.

No, this test requires a tissue sample that must be collected by a healthcare professional and sent to a laboratory for analysis.

The test involves staining the tissue sample with a dye that reacts with CK19. The stained sample is then examined under a microscope to look for the presence of CK19.

Other tests may be performed in conjunction with this one, depending on your symptoms, medical history, and the results of other diagnostic tests. This may include other IHC tests, imaging tests, or molecular tests.

The risks associated with this test are minimal and are usually related to the procedure of obtaining a tissue sample.

If CK19 is present, it could suggest the presence of certain types of cancer, particularly carcinomas. However, your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and other diagnostic tests.

The absence of CK19 doesn't necessarily mean that you don't have cancer, as not all cancers express CK19. It may also indicate that the tumor is of non-epithelial origin.

The accuracy of the test depends on a number of factors, including the quality of the sample, the method of sample collection, and the technique used for the test. However, IHC tests, including the IHC - CK19 test, are generally considered highly accurate.

The test should be ordered by your healthcare provider who suspects the presence of certain types of cancer or is trying to classify an unidentified tumor.

Factors such as the type of tumor, its stage, and how aggressive it is can affect the levels of CK19. Certain non-cancerous conditions can also lead to increased CK19 levels.

If your CK19 levels are abnormal, you should see a specialist such as an oncologist who deals with the treatment of cancer.

Yes, CK19 levels can change over time, especially with treatment for the cancer. Monitoring CK19 levels can sometimes be used to assess the effectiveness of treatment.

There are no specific precautions you need to take before an IHC - CK19 test. However, you should inform your doctor of any medications you're taking as some might interfere with the test results.

While the IHC - CK19 test can be useful in identifying certain types of cancer, it isn't typically used alone to monitor for cancer recurrence. Your doctor will use a combination of tests and assessments to monitor your condition.

In conclusion, the IHC - CK19 test is a valuable diagnostic tool in the field of oncology, aiding in the detection and classification of certain types of tumors. While it provides important information, the results should always be interpreted in the context of your overall health and other diagnostic tests. Understanding the purpose and implications of this test can help you make informed decisions about your health care. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any concerns or questions about this test.