IMMUNOHISTOCHEMISTRY, WT-1

What this test checks

Detects WT-1 protein, expressed in Wilms tumour (a kidney cancer in children), mesothelioma, and some ovarian and serous cancers. Key for diagnosing these specific tumours.

Why do people get this test?

WT-1 is essential for diagnosing Wilms tumour in children — the most common kidney cancer in childhood. In adults, it supports the diagnosis of mesothelioma and serous ovarian cancer.

When you should consider this test

• When a kidney tumour in a child is suspected to be Wilms tumour
• When differentiating mesothelioma from lung adenocarcinoma
• When classifying serous ovarian or peritoneal tumours

How to prepare

No preparation needed — performed on biopsy or surgical tissue.