After a biopsy, is it necessary to take more tissue for immunohistochemical testing?
Feb 23, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Whether or not tissue sampling is needed for immunohistochemical testing after a biopsy depends on whether the previously collected specimen has been well preserved. If the specimen is intact, no additional tissue sampling is required; otherwise, further tissue collection is necessary. In addition, immunohistochemistry is primarily used to more accurately determine the nature of the disease, such as squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma. When going to the hospital for examination, you should remain fasting. Avoid anxiety and stress, and maintain good personal hygiene.
Whether or not to take additional tissue samples for immunohistochemistry after a biopsy depends on whether the previous specimen has been well preserved. If the specimen is intact, no additional tissue sampling is needed; if it is inadequate, new tissue must be obtained.
1. No additional tissue sampling required
Immunohistochemistry is part of the biopsy process. Provided that the previously collected biopsy specimen has been properly processed and preserved, there is no need to obtain a new sample. The collected tissue is embedded in paraffin blocks, which can be sliced into numerous thin sections for repeated staining, so patients do not need to undergo another tissue collection procedure.
2. Additional tissue sampling required
If the prior specimen was not adequately preserved, it becomes difficult to evaluate malignant transformation or metastasis of tumor cells. Therefore, further testing is necessary to determine the extent of tumor spread. Immunohistochemical analysis detects specific antigens or antibodies within tumor cells, allowing clearer identification of the tumor's origin and ensuring accurate pathological diagnosis.
In addition, immunohistochemistry is primarily used to more accurately identify the nature of the disease, such as squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma. When going to the hospital for examination, patients should remain fasting, avoid anxiety and stress, and maintain good personal hygiene.
