CYTOKERATIN 20 by IHC

CYTOKERATIN 20 (CK20) by IHC

Test Name: Cytokeratin 20 by Immunohistochemistry (CK20 IHC)

Sample Type: Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue/biopsy

Method: Immunohistochemistry (IHC)

About the Test:
Cytokeratin 20 (CK20) is an intermediate filament protein expressed in specific epithelial cells. CK20 immunostaining is used as an important immunohistochemical marker for identifying the likely origin of metastatic and poorly differentiated carcinomas.

Clinical Uses:

• Helps characterize poorly differentiated carcinomas.
• Supports identification of gastrointestinal and colorectal epithelial tumors.
• Useful in evaluating metastatic carcinoma of unknown primary origin.
• Helps differentiate colorectal adenocarcinoma from certain other carcinomas when interpreted with other markers.
• May be used alongside markers such as CK7, CDX2, GATA3, TTF-1, and PAX8 for a broader diagnostic panel.

Interpretation:
CK20 staining pattern and intensity are interpreted by a pathologist in conjunction with the patient's clinical history, tumor morphology, and other IHC markers. CK20 positivity alone does not establish a specific cancer diagnosis or primary site.

Report:
Qualitative assessment of CK20 expression, including staining pattern and intensity, with pathologist interpretation.