CYTOKERATIN 7 by IHC

CYTOKERATIN 7 by IHC

Test Name: Cytokeratin 7 (CK7) by Immunohistochemistry (IHC)

What is the test?
Cytokeratin 7 (CK7) IHC is a tissue-based immunohistochemical test used to detect the expression of CK7, an intermediate filament protein found in several types of epithelial cells. CK7 staining helps pathologists characterize tumors and determine their likely tissue of origin.

Clinical Indications

• Evaluation and classification of poorly differentiated carcinomas
• Identification of the likely primary site of metastatic carcinoma
• Differentiation between tumors with overlapping microscopic features
• Evaluation of carcinomas of the lung, breast, ovary, endometrium, biliary tract, pancreas and other organs
• Interpretation alongside other markers such as CK20, TTF-1, GATA3, PAX8 and others

Sample Required:
Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block or unstained tissue sections.

Method:
Immunohistochemistry using an anti-Cytokeratin 7 antibody.

Result Interpretation:

• Positive: CK7 expression is detected in the tumor cells.
• Negative: CK7 expression is not detected or is below the assay's detection threshold.

CK7 results should not be interpreted in isolation. The staining pattern, tissue morphology, clinical history and results of other IHC markers are considered together for diagnosis.

Turnaround Time: Typically 2–5 working days, depending on specimen processing and laboratory workflow.