Pathology
Immunohistochemistry &
Special Stains
Immunohistochemistry (IHC) & Special Stains
Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a powerful technology used to selectively evaluate antigens, such as proteins, in cells of a tissue section by exploiting the principle of antibodies binding specifically to antigens in biological tissues. This technique involves the use of specific antibodies that can identify and bind to target antigens in tissue samples, producing a visual signal that can be detected under a microscope.
What we look for:
IHC staining is widely used in clinical diagnosis and basic research to study abnormal cells, such as those found in cancerous tumors. By using IHC, pathologists and researchers can identify the type, location, and quantity of a particular protein in a tissue sample. This information is vital in making accurate diagnoses and determining the best course of treatment.
Accurate Diagnosis
Typically, visualizing an antibody-antigen interaction can be accomplished in a way that an antibody is conjugated to an enzyme that can catalyze a color-producing reaction. The resulting colored product is then visible under a microscope, indicating the location of the antigen in the tissue sample.
Our laboratory offers a wide array of IHC antibodies for TC (technical component) and interpretive services, with a turnaround time (TAT) of 24-72 hours. Our experienced team of pathologists and technologists use advanced equipment and techniques to provide accurate and reliable IHC staining results. With our comprehensive IHC services, we aim to help healthcare providers and researchers in the accurate diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
Where Innovation Meets Precision:
Collection Procedure
10% NBF (Neutral Buffered Formalin) FPPE (Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded) tissue block, or 3 unstained slides are required for each IHC and special stain request.
Submission Requirements
Sample/Stain Type – Microns
- Routine paraffin – 4 to 5um
- Renal sections – 1 to 3um
- Bone marrow – 2 to 3um
- Nerve IHC staining – 6 to 50um
- Amyloid demonstration – 6 to 12um
Specimen Storage & Transportation
The best recovery is obtained when FPPE blocks are stored and transported between 15-30°C. Transport on cold pack/cold brick for temperatures exceeding 30°C.
Shipping Guidelines
Pack and ship FPPE blocks and unstained tissue slides as UN 3373 Biological Substance, Category B, in accordance with the current edition of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous
Goods Regulations and U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Transporting Infectious Substances Safely.
Shipping materials may be requested through inquiry@exovadx.com or through your local account manager.
Turnaround Times
IHC stains 48-72 hours, Special Stains 24-48 hours, return shipping may affect total TAT. Any extra unstained slides and all FPPE tissue blocks will be returned to the ordering institution. Finalized reports for interpretive services are available within 24-48 hours.
Rejection Criteria
Samples not in adherence to laboratory policy regarding proper collection and preservation of specimen will be rejected from acceptance. Rejection criteria include unlabeled samples whereas the patient or sample identification cannot be confirmed.