Metallothionein Immunostain, Technical Component Only
Use
This test is intended to identify the presence of metallothionein (MT), which is useful to support a diagnosis of Wilson disease (WD). MT plays a role in binding the accumulated copper in WD disorder. MT can detect even early-stage cases of WD before the development of cirrhosis. The MT assay has higher sensitivity and specificity compared to the use of Leipzig criteria and rhodanine. MT expression by IHC is a cost-effective and practical approach compared to quantitative liver copper assays.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
The test does not include pathologist interpretation; it's limited to technical performance of the stain. Interpretation should be performed in the context of the patient's clinical history and other diagnostic tests by a qualified pathologist. Age of a cut paraffin section and glass slide environmental conditions may impact immunoreactivity. Best practices include cutting paraffin sections within 6 weeks and storing charged slides in optimal conditions to avoid inconsistent staining.
Methodology
Immunoassay (IHC)
Biomarkers
Metallothionein
Protein
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Tissue (FFPE)
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Immunostain Technical Only Envelope
Collection Instructions
Attach the green pathology address label and the pink Immunostain Technical Only label to the transport container. Use formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue block or 2 unstained, positively charged glass slides (4 microns thick) per test ordered.
Causes for Rejection
Wet/frozen tissue, cytology smears, nonformalin fixed tissue, nonparaffin embedded tissue, noncharged slides, ProbeOn slides, Snowcoat slides
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Ambient preferred |
