IMMUNOHISTOCHEMISTRY, GLIAL FIBRILLARY ACIDIC PROTEIN (GFAP)

What this test checks

Detects GFAP, a protein specific to glial cells (the support cells of the brain and spinal cord). Used to confirm that a brain or spinal cord tumour is of glial origin — such as glioblastoma, astrocytoma, or oligodendroglioma.

Why do people get this test?

Brain tumours of glial origin (gliomas) require specific treatment protocols based on WHO grade. GFAP confirms glial origin, helping neuropathologists classify the tumour accurately for treatment planning.

When you should consider this test

• When a brain or spinal cord tumour needs to be identified as glial in origin
• When classifying central nervous system tumours
• As part of brain tumour diagnostic panel

How to prepare

No preparation needed — performed on biopsy or surgical tissue.