IMMUNOHISTOCHEMISTRY?

An accurate diagnosis is critical to cancer patient management. Most often, the diagnosis of a tumor is made based on histopathologic examination of a biopsy specimen. Pathologists are trained to recognize the specific expected pattern and cell features of various tumors. Based on the location of the tumor and microscopic features, the pathologist creates a list of differential diagnoses and then narrows down the list to a final diagnosis, based on the appearance of the cells and stroma.

WHEN DOES THE PATHOLOGIST RECOMMEND IHC?

If the biopsy sample demonstrates overlapping features between more than one tumor type or if the tumor appears to be highly unusual for the tissue of origin, additional diagnostics can be helpful for differentiation and confirmation of the final diagnosis. Veterinary pathologist’s histopathology reports frequently contain a recommendation for additional testing on tumors. In the past, stains like Giemsa were used to confirm a mast cell tumor diagnosis or Congo red O for the presence of amyloid. Today, pathologists are increasingly recommending immunohistochemistry (IHC) to confirm various tumor diagnoses. […]