The immunohistochemistry laboratory is one of the most sophisticated
specialty laboratories in the region.
What is immunohistochemistry?
Immunohistochemistry involves the use of specific antibodies to
localize and visualize target antigens in frozen and formalin-fixed,
paraffin embedded tissue sections. The procedure consists of tissue
preparation, antigen retrieval, antibody incubation, and a series
of detection reactions. When the procedure is performed on cells
(cell smears, cytocentrifuge preparations, etc) rather than tissue
sections, it is termed immunocytochemistry, but in practice the
two terms are often used interchangeably.
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Examples of tests offered
We offer expertise in many areas in diagnostic pathology including
the determination of primary site in metastatic tumors of unknown
origin, classification of poorly and undifferentiated tumors, classification
of leukemias and lymphomas, detection of infectious organisms, and
determination of estrogen and progesterone receptors and Her-2 neu
expression status in breast cancer patients. Double labeling is
available on request. Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) is
also available for analysis of Her-2 neu gene amplification status
in breast cancer patients. Thorough measures are taken to ensure
and document quality control with every test performed.
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Tissue requirements
Paraffin blocks of fixed and processed tissue
are preferred over unstained slides. If tissue blocks cannot be
sent, five micron unstained tissue sections should be obtained and
mounted on positively charged slides.
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Office Hours
Monday to Friday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
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Turnaround time
Tests are generally completed within the next business day from
the receipt of the samples.
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How to order?
Both individual and panels of antibodies can be ordered using
the requisition form.
The requisition form can then be delivered to North Pavilion, 3rd
floor, Room 3520 or faxed to 205-975-7834. If this is an outside
case, please deliver the tissue blocks or unstained slides to NP
3520. Currently, we are not able to receive request electronically.
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Research
Immunohistochemistry is also available for research purpose. We
offer our service for antibodies that currently available in IHC
laboratory as well as new antibody provided by researchers. Please
contact the laboratory (205-934-5812) for further information.
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Some Examples of Immunostaining
