IMMUNOHISTOCHEMISTRY, MELAN-A

What this test checks

Detects Melan-A/MART-1, a protein expressed in melanocytes and melanoma cells. Used to confirm melanoma diagnosis and identify metastatic melanoma in lymph nodes or other tissues.

Why do people get this test?

Melan-A is one of the most sensitive and specific markers for melanoma. Confirming melanoma identity in metastatic sites is essential for staging and for starting appropriate targeted or immunotherapy.

When you should consider this test

• When confirming melanoma diagnosis in a tissue sample
• When checking lymph nodes for melanoma spread
• As part of melanoma diagnostic and staging panel

How to prepare

No preparation needed — performed on biopsy or surgical tissue.