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Folate Receptor Alpha (FRα) Antigen, Tissue — Immunohistochemistry

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

A tissue test that detects the folate receptor alpha protein using immunohistochemistry.

Quick summary

["This test shows whether cells in a tissue sample contain folate receptor alpha and may help guide certain cancer treatments."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
105010-3
Short code
Folate alpha Ag Tiss ImStn-Imp
Synonyms
Folate alpha Ag Tiss ImStn-Imp
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
44
Ref high
147
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
immune-stain
CPT
84075
SNOMED
27550007
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?

Folate receptor alpha, also called FRα, is a protein found on the surface of some cells. This test examines a tissue sample for FRα using a method called immunohistochemistry, in which specially labeled antibodies are used to identify the protein.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be used when evaluating certain tumors, particularly in situations where information about FRα expression could help select or monitor treatment. It may also be used for research or specialized pathology assessment.

How is the test performed?

A pathologist reviews a biopsy or surgical tissue specimen that has been prepared on a slide. The laboratory applies antibodies designed to detect FRα, and a pathologist interprets the staining pattern and reports the findings.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually needed for the test itself. The tissue must be collected by a clinician through a biopsy or surgery and processed by the laboratory. Ask your care team for instructions related to the tissue-collection procedure.

Reference range

Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Folate receptor alpha tissue test

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I have cancer?
No. A positive result only means that folate receptor alpha was detected in the tissue sample. Your doctor will interpret it alongside the biopsy findings, diagnosis, and other tests.
Is this the same as a folate blood test?
No. This test measures FRα protein in tissue, whereas a blood folate test measures folate in the blood. The results answer different questions.
How long does the test take?
Timing varies because the sample may need tissue processing before it can be stained and reviewed. Your pathology laboratory can provide the expected turnaround time.
  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