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Breast Cancer-Associated Antigen 255 (BCA-255), Tissue — Qualitative Immunostain

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A qualitative tissue stain that evaluates the presence of the BCA-255 protein in a biopsy or surgical specimen.

Quick summary

["This test looks for BCA-255 protein in tissue to help a pathologist evaluate a specific disease or abnormality."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
53632-6
Short code
BCA 255 Tiss Ql ImStn
Synonyms
BCA 255 Tiss Ql ImStn
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
immune-stain
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This is an immunohistochemical test performed on tissue. It uses specially designed antibodies to detect the presence and pattern of the BCA-255 protein in cells.

Why might I need this test?

A pathologist may include this stain when evaluating a biopsy or surgical specimen for a particular condition. It can provide information that supports or rules out certain diagnoses when combined with the tissue appearance and other tests.

How is the test performed?

A tissue sample is prepared onto a microscope slide. The laboratory applies labeled antibodies that bind to BCA-255, adds substances that make any binding visible, and a pathologist reviews the stained cells under a microscope.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually needed beyond following the instructions for the biopsy or surgery. The tissue must be collected and preserved correctly for laboratory processing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

The presence, absence, or distribution of BCA-255 staining may provide information relevant to the condition being evaluated. Abnormal staining is not, by itself, a diagnosis of cancer or another disease. Results should be interpreted by a pathologist alongside the specimen findings, symptoms, and other laboratory tests.

Short name

BCA-255 Tissue Immunostain

Frequently asked questions

Does this test require a blood sample?
No. This is a tissue-based test performed on material collected during a biopsy, surgery, or another tissue-sampling procedure.
What does a positive BCA-255 stain mean?
It means BCA-255 protein was detected in the examined tissue. The significance depends on the cells involved, the staining pattern, and the diagnosis being investigated.
Can this result diagnose cancer by itself?
No. Immunostaining is one part of a broader evaluation and must be considered with the pathology report, imaging, clinical history, and other test results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy