Alpha Follicle Stimulating Hormone Immunostain, Technical Component Only

Clinical Use

Use

This test may aid in the classification of pituitary adenomas by detecting alpha subunit of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) which is a component common to all glycoprotein hormones produced by the anterior pituitary. Glycoprotein hormone-producing cells constitute approximately 30% of the total cell population in normal pituitary and stain in a cytoplasmic pattern. Immunohistochemical detection of alpha-FSH is useful in identifying these cells, which can contribute to better understanding and classification of pituitary adenomas.

Special Instructions

Not provided.

Limitations

This test does not include pathologist interpretation, only technical performance of the stain. Pathologist interpretation should be performed in the context of the patient’s clinical history and other diagnostic tests. The age of a cut paraffin section can affect immunoreactivity; paraffin sections should be cut within 6 weeks. The charge of glass slides can be influenced by environmental factors and may alter slide staining. Sending unsuitable glass slides can result in inconsistent staining.

Test Details

FDA Approved