PTEN Protein Expression, Qualitative, by Immunohistochemistry (Cancer Tissue)
This pathology test examines a cancer tissue sample to determine whether the tumor cells show normal, reduced, or absent PTEN protein expression. It is an immunohistochemical stain performed on tissue, not a blood test.
["The result can help characterize a tumor, but it must be interpreted by a pathologist together with the tumor type and other findings."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 81706-4
- Short code
- PTEN protein Ag Ca spec Ql ImStn
- Synonyms
- PTEN protein Ag Ca spec Ql ImStn
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- immune-stain
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- 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 the Test Measures
PTEN is a tumor-suppressor protein that helps regulate cell growth. The test uses a stain to show whether PTEN is present in the cancer cells and to assess the staining pattern.
How the Result Is Interpreted
A pathologist compares the tumor cells with known positive and negative controls and may describe the result as retained, reduced, absent, or equivocal. Interpretation depends on the specimen quality, internal controls, and the specific cancer being evaluated.
Why the Test May Be Ordered
PTEN staining may be used to characterize certain tumors and provide information about possible abnormalities in the PTEN signaling pathway. In appropriate cases, an abnormal result may prompt consideration of additional pathology review or genetic counseling.
What You Should Know
The test is generally performed on a tissue specimen collected during a biopsy or surgery. Your doctor or pathologist can explain the result and whether any follow-up testing is appropriate; the result alone may not determine treatment.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: Loss of PTEN protein can be important in evaluating several cancers because PTEN normally restrains growth-promoting cellular pathways. However, staining is only one part of tumor assessment, and reduced or absent staining does not by itself diagnose cancer, establish an inherited PTEN condition, or determine treatment. Some PTEN genetic changes can occur even when the protein remains detectable by immunohistochemistry.
Short name
PTEN IHC
Frequently asked questions
Does this test provide a numeric reference range?
Does absent PTEN staining mean that I have an inherited PTEN disorder?
Can this test replace genetic testing for PTEN?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy