Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is used to Detect the Presence of a Specific Protein Marker that can Help with Tumour Categorization and Diagnosis
In histology, Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is used to detect the presence of certain protein markers that can help with tumor categorization and diagnosis. Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) and Special Stain methods, which normally display tissue morphology, have been supplemented by immunohistochemistry (structure). IHC is directed to a specific protein marker or markers, unlike H&E and Special Stains, which are non-specific. IHC has been used as a standard diagnostic method for about half a century to aid in the diagnosis of solid tumors and cytological materials. Target Antigen Antigens are proteins found inside or on the outside of a cell. To aid in the diagnosis, pathologists search for the presence or lack of specific antigens. Antigens have been found to be a diagnostically valuable number in the hundreds. A pathologist will frequently utilise a "panel" of numerous antigens to fully classify a tumor. Primary Antibody The application of a primary antibody that binds se...