Laboratory Test Reference Guide

Histology referral required

One H&E stained slide and 3-4 unprocessed FFPE slides. The H&E slide must be assessed by a pathologist prior to receipt, and appropriate areas for FISH analysis should be clearly marked.

Only tissue preserved in neutral buffered formalin and paraffin embedded is suitable for use. NB: Samples de-calcified in Formic acid are not suitable for FISH as this process affects the integrity of the DNA. Tissue specimens should be cut into sections of 4-6µm.

Patients with HER2 (ERBB2) gene amplification are eligible for treatment with trastuzumab (Herceptin®), which targets HER2 (ERBB2)and has proved remarkably effective in patients with a tumour over-expressing the protein, in both metastatic and adjuvant settings.

 FFPE Request Form