Info
Immunohistochemistry
A laboratory technique that detects specific proteins in tumor cells using antibodies. It helps identify the exact type of cancer and choose the treatment.
What it means
A laboratory technique that uses antibodies to detect specific proteins in tumor cells. It helps establish the exact type of cancer and choose the right treatment, especially in breast, colon and lung cancers.
In short
A laboratory technique that detects specific proteins in tumor cells using antibodies. It helps identify the exact type of cancer and choose the treatment.
Where you will see it
Mentioned in the histopathology report or in a separate IHC report. It includes markers such as HER2, ER, PR, Ki-67, PD-L1.
What it does not tell you on its own
The IHC profile describes the molecular characteristics of the tumor, but on its own it does not decide the treatment. It is interpreted by the tumor board together with the stage.
Questions for your doctor
- Which IHC markers were tested in my case?
- What does each marker mean for my treatment?
- Am I a candidate for targeted therapy or immunotherapy?
- Are additional molecular tests needed?
Related terms
The terms below often appear alongside this one. Each definition is right here, so you do not have to look elsewhere.
- HER2
- A protein that can be present in large amounts on the surface of some cancer cells. HER2 positive means that the tumor may respond to specific biological treatments that target this protein.
- Ki-67
- A protein present in cells that are actively multiplying. The Ki-67 value, expressed as a percentage, shows how fast the tumor cells are dividing. A high value indicates a more aggressive tumor.
- ER (oestrogen receptor)
- A protein present in some tumor cells that responds to the oestrogen in the body. ER positive tumors can be stimulated by oestrogen — but they can also respond to hormone therapy.
- PR (progesterone receptor)
- A protein present in some tumor cells that responds to the hormone progesterone. It is tested together with ER, HER2 and Ki-67 to characterise the molecular type of the tumor.
- PD-L1
- A protein produced by some tumor cells that can block the immune system's attack. Immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors targets exactly this brake. PD-L1 testing helps select eligible patients.
Other terms in “Diagnosis”
Glossary definitions are written for patients by the OncoDots team and go through internal medical review. They explain terms; they do not establish a diagnosis and do not recommend a treatment.