IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry)

What Is an IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry)?

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a specialised laboratory technique that uses antibodies to identify specific proteins in tissue samples. Unlike blood or urine tests, the IHC test is performed on solid tissue obtained through a biopsy procedure. This technique acts like a special stain that highlights particular proteins within cells, making them visible under a microscope.

The test helps diagnose and classify various diseases, particularly cancer, by identifying the exact type of cells present and their characteristics. This information is crucial for determining the most appropriate treatment approach for your condition.

What Does the IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry) Measure?

The IHC test serves as a powerful diagnostic tool that provides detailed information about your tissue sample:

• Identifies cancer origin: Determines where the cancer started in your body, even if it has spread to other areas.
• Classifies tumour types: Distinguishes between different types of cancers that may appear similar under regular microscopy.
• Detects treatment targets: Identifies specific receptors or markers that can guide personalised therapy decisions.
• Predicts disease progression: Helps doctors understand how aggressive a cancer might be.
• Confirms diagnosis: Provides definitive identification of challenging or unclear cases.
• Evaluates hormone status: In breast cancer, determines hormone receptor and HER2 status for targeted treatment.

IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry): Who Needs It and Why It's Done

What Symptoms May Call for an IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry)?

The IHC test is not performed based on symptoms alone but is ordered after a biopsy reveals abnormal or suspicious tissue findings:

• New lumps or masses discovered during physical examination.
• Abnormal results from imaging tests like mammograms, CT scans, or MRIs
• Persistent, unexplained pain or discomfort in specific body areas.
• Changes in breast tissue texture or appearance
• Unusual skin changes or non-healing sores
• Unexplained weight loss or persistent fatigue
• Swollen lymph nodes that don't resolve

Who Should Get an IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry)?

This specialised test is recommended for specific medical situations rather than routine screening:

• Patients with confirmed tissue abnormalities: When a biopsy reveals suspicious or cancerous cells requiring detailed analysis.
• Cancer patients seeking a precise classification: To determine the exact type and subtype of cancer for treatment planning.
• Individuals with cancer of unknown primary: When cancer has spread, but the origin source needs identification.
• Patients requiring personalised treatment plans: To identify specific markers that guide targeted therapy decisions.

Why Is an IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry) Done?

An IHC test provides the detailed cellular information necessary for accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment planning. This precision ensures you receive the most effective therapy based on your cancer's specific characteristics.

Importance of an IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry)

The IHC test represents a cornerstone of modern pathology and personalised medicine. It bridges the gap between how cells appear under a microscope and their molecular behaviour, providing crucial information that standard microscopy cannot reveal.

This test plays a vital role in diagnosis and treatment by ensuring accurate cancer classification, preventing misdiagnosis, and enabling targeted therapy selection. For breast cancer patients, IHC testing identifies hormone receptors and HER2 status, determining eligibility for specific treatments like hormone therapy or targeted drugs. This precision leads to better treatment outcomes, reduced side effects, and improved quality of life for patients.

IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry) Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare India

How to Book an IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry)?

1. Simple Online Booking
   Booking can be done through the Metropolis Healthcare App or website. Select 'IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry)', choose a convenient time slot, and visit the nearest Metropolis Lab to give the sample directly at the lab.
2. Sample Tracking Updates
   Stay informed at every step. From collection to testing, you can track your sample directly through the Metropolis Healthcare website.
3. Accurate Laboratory Testing
   Your sample is processed at our NABL- and CAP-accredited laboratories, where expert technicians ensure accurate results.
4. Quick & Easy Reports
   Receive your test reports promptly via email, WhatsApp, or by downloading them directly from the Metropolis Healthcare website or app.

Is Home Sample Collection for the IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry) Available Near You?

No, home sample collection is not available for the IHC test. This test requires tissue samples from biopsy procedures, which are performed at Metropolis Healthcare centres. Our trained histopathology team ensures that your biopsy sample is properly fixed, processed, and embedded to preserve protein integrity for accurate IHC results. With our extensive network of 10,000 touchpoints in over 750 towns in India, we're committed to making diagnostic testing accessible while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and reliability for your tissue analysis.

How Long Does It Take to Get an IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry) Report?

Reports are typically available within 5 working days after the sample reaches the lab.

Where Can I See or Get the IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry) Results?

Test results from Metropolis Healthcare can be accessed through multiple convenient channels. You can log in to the Metropolis website using your credentials or use the Metropolis Healthcare App to view and download your reports. Additionally, test reports are sent via email or WhatsApp, and you also have the option to collect a physical copy directly from the lab.

Interpreting IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry) Results

What Your IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry) Results May Indicate

Interpretation of IHC (immunohistochemistry) test results depends on the specific markers tested, clinical findings, and other related investigations. Please consult your doctor for an accurate evaluation and further diagnosis.

Conditions that May Affect IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry) Accuracy

Several factors can influence the accuracy of your IHC test results and should be considered during interpretation:

• Tissue fixation quality: Improper preservation of biopsy samples can affect protein detection.
• Sample processing delays: Extended time between biopsy and fixation may alter protein structure.
• Previous treatments: Chemotherapy or radiation therapy before biopsy can modify protein expression.
• Tissue type and age: Different tissues and older samples may show varying staining patterns.
• Technical factors: Laboratory procedures, antibody quality, and equipment calibration affect results.
• Specimen size: Very small tissue samples may provide limited material for comprehensive analysis.

How Is an IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry) Done?

The IHC test follows a systematic laboratory process to analyse your tissue sample:

• Tissue preparation: Your biopsy sample is embedded in paraffin wax and cut into thin sections.
• Slide mounting: Tissue sections are placed on glass slides for staining procedures.
• Antigen retrieval: Special treatments expose target proteins for antibody binding.
• Primary antibody application: Specific antibodies that recognise target proteins are applied.
• Secondary antibody binding: Detection antibodies create visible colour reactions.
• Microscopic examination: Pathologists evaluate staining patterns and intensity.
• Result interpretation: Expert analysis determines protein presence and clinical significance.
• Report generation: Comprehensive findings are documented for your healthcare team.

How Should You Prepare for an IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry)?

The IHC test itself requires no special preparation from you since it's performed on tissue already collected during your biopsy:

• No fasting required: Your eating and drinking habits don't affect the test results.
• No medication restrictions: Continue your regular medications unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
• Provide complete medical history: Share all relevant clinical information with your healthcare team, including your original histopathology report.

Diseases that an IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry) Can Help Detect

The IHC test assists in diagnosing and characterising various medical conditions:

• Breast cancer subtypes: It identifies hormone receptor status and HER2 expression for treatment planning.
• Various cancer types: Differentiates between different malignancies that appear similar under standard microscopy.
• Cancer of unknown primary: Determines the original site of metastatic cancers.
• Lymphomas: It classifies different types of blood cancers for appropriate therapy selection.
• Sarcomas: Identifies specific subtypes of soft tissue and bone cancers.
• Infectious diseases: Detects certain viral or bacterial infections in tissue samples.
• Autoimmune conditions: It identifies immune system markers in various inflammatory diseases.

IHC Test (Immunohistochemistry)/Packages that You Can Book With Metropolis Healthcare

Metropolis Healthcare offers comprehensive IHC testing options and related diagnostic services for thorough cancer evaluation: