immunohistochemistry panel
A set of specialized staining tests performed on tissue samples to identify specific proteins and guide cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Full Definition
An immunohistochemistry panel consists of multiple antibody-based staining techniques applied to tissue sections to detect specific proteins, receptors, or other molecular markers. These panels are essential diagnostic tools in surgical oncology for confirming cancer diagnosis, determining tumor origin, assessing hormone receptor status, and identifying therapeutic targets. The selection of antibodies in the panel depends on the clinical question, tumor type, and potential treatment implications. Results from immunohistochemistry panels directly influence surgical planning, adjuvant therapy decisions, and prognosis estimation.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as IHC panel in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The immunohistochemistry panel confirmed the diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma with positive hormone receptors." — Pathology report
- "Additional immunohistochemistry panel studies are pending to determine the primary tumor site." — Clinical documentation