IMUNOHISTOCHEMISTRY, STAT 6

What this test checks

Detects STAT6 protein, which is characteristically expressed in solitary fibrous tumour (SFT) — a rare soft tissue tumour. STAT6 nuclear positivity is a highly specific marker for this tumour type.

Why do people get this test?

Solitary fibrous tumours were previously difficult to diagnose. Nuclear STAT6 staining is a reliable, specific marker that confirms this diagnosis — important because SFTs can occur anywhere in the body and have specific surgical and oncological management.

When you should consider this test

• When a soft tissue tumour is suspected to be a solitary fibrous tumour
• When classifying pleural, abdominal, or other soft tissue masses
• When other sarcoma markers are negative but SFT is clinically suspected

How to prepare

No preparation needed — performed on biopsy or surgical tissue.