Histological examination of cancer tissue (immunohistochemistry)
This test involves analyzing tissue samples from a suspected cancer to detect specific proteins or markers using immunohistochemistry. It helps determine the type of cancer cells present and guides treatment planning.
["This test helps doctors identify cancer characteristics and tailor treatment options."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 31205-8
- Short code
- Histology ICD-O-3 Cancer
- Synonyms
- Histology ICD-O-3 Cancer
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Critical range
- 0.5 N/A – —
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Used For?
Histological examination is primarily used to diagnose cancer types, assess tumor characteristics (such as grade or stage), and evaluate the presence of specific proteins that may influence treatment choices. It often follows a biopsy where tissue is removed for analysis.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A small tissue sample is taken during a biopsy, usually from an area suspected of cancer. The sample is then processed and stained to highlight specific proteins or cellular structures using antibodies. This process allows pathologists to examine the tissue under a microscope.
What Does the Test Result Mean?
Results may show the presence of certain proteins (e.g., markers like HER2, Ki-67, or others) that can indicate cancer subtype, growth rate, or response to potential therapies. Interpretation depends on the specific markers detected and is done by a trained pathologist.
How Is This Test Different from Other Cancer Tests?
Unlike blood or urine tests that measure substances in the body, this test directly examines tissue samples. It provides detailed cellular-level information that helps refine cancer diagnosis and treatment strategies beyond general blood tests.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test plays a critical role in cancer care by providing precise information about tumor biology. It helps determine whether cancer is aggressive, guides targeted therapies, and informs decisions about surgery, radiation, or other treatments.
Short name
Histology Cancer Immunoassay
Frequently asked questions
Why was I asked to have this test?
What are the possible results and what do they indicate?
Is this test painful or risky?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy