In the ihc histology service, pathologists can see more than just tissue type, allowing them to pinpoint specific tumor markers. These unique markers are identified using antibodies, a type of protein that recognizes and binds with the antigens found in the sample. Once the antibody binds, it releases a colored dye that is visible to the pathologist, and the result is a detailed diagnostic picture. Find out bosterbio.com

Unfortunately, these diagnostic tests aren’t perfect—they can have false-positives that lead to unnecessary treatments or traumatic biopsy procedures, and false-negatives that delay treatment. To reduce these errors, IHC tests must be optimized with careful attention to the details of the technique and regular validations.

ihc histology service

Tissue samples are fixed in a preservative like formalin shortly after collection, and then paraffin wax is used to preserve the tissue structure for sectioning. Once sections are ready, the slides are dehydrated and then stained for detection of target antigens with chromogenic or fluorescent IHC methods.

The most common errors in IHC can be related to pre-analytical variables such as improper tissue handling (prolonged ischemia, incorrect type or length of fixation, decalcification, inadequate naming and more). This type of error is exacerbated when the laboratory lacks standard protocols that include well-documented procedure manuals, training of lab personnel and ongoing quality assessments.…