Immunohistochemistry

Immunohistochemistry (immunohistochemical staining) is a method which the specialist applies to determine and describe distribution and localization of antigens in various tissues based on interaction of anti-bodies and antigens. This method is mainly used for diagnostic of illdefined cells in cancer.

The human body contains anti-bodies, a part of special group of proteins which is known as immunoglobulins. These proteins identifying antigens in invaded tissues are used in immunohistochemical staining. Anti-bodies in human bodies are unique, and for that reason, they are finding only specific antigens in invaded tissues, which causes a reaction of the colour of tissues examined to change. In other words, when a pathologist examines a stained image under a microscope, it becomes evident that target antigens are located in the section where the tissue reacted to an anti-body, which will are the markers of changes in the body.

For performance of this examination, tissues are obtained as a result of biopsy or during surgery. These tissues should be accurately prepared for the examination and stained; as a result the specialist may see how many and where changed cells are located.

The IHC methods are applied for determination of the tumour phenotype and its biological activity. These methods increase the doctor’s ability to forecast further activity of the tumour and evaluate its possible response to treatment, i.e. chemical or radiation therapy.

In Medscan.RF laboratories, IHC examinations are conducted by specialists who pass regular training and career development programs. For obtaining the consistent results of such examinations, we strictly observe the existing protocols and carefully meet all requirements to processing of tissues specimens.

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