Ae1agtissqlimstn
A specialized tissue staining test that helps doctors identify and distinguish between certain types of cancer cells under a microscope.
{"This test examines tissue samples, not blood","It uses special dyes (antibodies) to highlight specific cells","Mainly used to differentiate between mesothelioma and lung adenocarcinoma","Results help your doctor determine the best treatment plan","The test is performed on tissue obtained during a biopsy or surgery"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 10429-9
- Short code
- AE1Ag
- Synonyms
- AE1 Ag Tiss Ql ImStn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Histology tissue cassette or labeled slide container with 10% neutral buffered formalin
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- immune-stain
- CPT
- 88342
- SNOMED
- 129669006
- Specimen volume
- Tissue section (4-5 micron thickness on charged slides)
- Stability
- Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue: stable at room temperature for tissue processing. Stained slides: stable for years if protected from light and stored properly.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The AE1 antigen test is a specialized laboratory test called immunohistochemistry (IHC). Unlike blood tests, this test is performed on a small piece of tissue that has been removed from your body, usually through a biopsy or surgery. The tissue is then treated with special antibodies (AE1) that bind to specific proteins found in certain types of cells. When a colored dye is added, these antibodies become visible under a microscope, allowing pathologists to see exactly what type of cells are present.
How is the test performed?
First, a tissue sample is collected from your body through a procedure like a biopsy or surgery. This sample is then sent to a pathology laboratory where it is processed and切片 (cut into very thin slices). These slices are treated with the AE1 antibody solution. If the target protein is present in the tissue, the antibody will bind to it. A detection system then adds a colored marker that makes these areas visible under a microscope. The pathologist examines the pattern and intensity of staining to provide a detailed report to your doctor.
Why might I need this test?
Your doctor may order this test if imaging tests (like X-rays or CT scans) show abnormal growths or masses, particularly in the chest or lung area. The test helps determine whether the abnormal cells are cancerous and, if so, what type of cancer they are. This information is crucial for deciding on the most appropriate treatment. The test is particularly valuable for distinguishing between malignant mesothelioma (cancer of the lining of the lungs) and adenocarcinoma (a type of lung cancer), as these conditions require very different treatment approaches.
What should I expect?
Since this test is performed on tissue rather than blood, the process begins with a tissue collection procedure. Your doctor will explain whether you need a needle biopsy, surgical biopsy, or if tissue will be obtained during a planned surgery. The tissue sampling procedure may have its own recovery instructions. After the tissue is collected, the laboratory analysis typically takes 3-7 days as the tissue must be carefully processed, stained, and examined by a specialist. Your doctor will discuss the results with you at a follow-up appointment.
Reference range
Results reported as Positive (Present) or Negative (Absent). Interpretation should be correlated with clinical findings and histopathological context.N/A
This is a tissue-based immunohistochemistry test. Patient preparation relates to the tissue biopsy/procedure. No specific fasting or dietary restrictions required for the tissue collection procedure.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is fasting required before this test?
How long does it take to get results?
Does a positive result mean I have cancer?
Are there any risks associated with this test?
Can this test be done on any type of tissue?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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.
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