Immunohistochemistry as a diagnostic tool in pathology

TL;DR

Immunohistochemistry helps pathologists diagnose diseases by detecting specific proteins in tissue samples.

Contribution

The paper highlights recent innovations in IHC, such as new biomarkers and fluorescent technology.

Findings

IHC improves tumor classification and helps identify prognostic markers.

Monoclonal antibodies and automated stainers have increased IHC's sensitivity and specificity.

Innovations like multiplexing and fluorescent technology are advancing IHC capabilities.

Abstract

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is an important tool in pathology and allows visualization of antigens when obtaining tissue specimens
from patients and employs labeled antibodies directed against those antigens. IHC is helpful to improve tumor classification, identify
pathogens and discover prognostic markers when distinguishing features are absent or minimized by morphological assessment. As routine
IHC has emerged over the years, monoclonal antibodies and further development of automated stainers allow for increased sensitivity and
specificity of antigens assessed by IHC. Since cancer classification relies upon IHC to subtype cancers, define the origin of metastases
and to administer targeted therapy, IHC remains a valuable and necessary process for clinical pathology. Innovations continue to be made
in IHC, such as new biomarkers, multiplexing and fluorescent technology.