IMMUNOHISTOCHEMISTRY, CYTOKERATIN (PANCYTOKERATIN)

What this test checks

Detects a broad range of cytokeratin proteins present in epithelial cells (cells lining organs and glands). Confirms that a tumour is a carcinoma (cancer of epithelial origin) and rules out lymphoma or sarcoma.

Why do people get this test?

The most fundamental question in tumour classification is cell type: carcinoma, lymphoma, melanoma, or sarcoma. Pancytokeratin reliably identifies carcinomas, setting the diagnostic direction.

When you should consider this test

• When an undifferentiated tumour needs initial classification
• When confirming a metastatic deposit is from an epithelial cancer
• As part of any tumour classification panel

How to prepare

No preparation needed — performed on biopsy or surgical tissue.