Detection of HER2 gene amplification by fluorescence in situ hybridization may be demonstrated in different types of cancers. Interpretive criteria for tumors, other than breast cancer, has not been established.
Breast Cancer
Breast cancers with HER2 gene amplification are associated with poor prognosis and response to some types of chemotherapy and trastuzumab (Herceptin®).
Other Cancers
Studies have demonstrated that gastric cancer tumors with HER2 gene amplification are associated with poor prognosis and response to some types of chemotherapy and trastuzumab (Herceptin®).
CPT Codes:
88368(2)
Specimen Requirements:
-
Fixed Paraffin Block with Corresponding H&E:
- Tissue should be well-fixed in formalin. Please Note: Only formalin-fixed tissue will be accepted.
- 0.2 cm x 0.2 cm x 0.2 cm tissue.
- Time to tumor fixation should be as soon as possible.
- Time of fixation should be for 6-48 hours.
- Store specimen at room temperature (20-23.5° C).
- Use cold pack for transport. Be sure cold pack is not in direct contact with specimen during transport.
- Unstained Slides:
- Send all slides within 6 weeks of cutting.
- Minimum of 4 slides for FISH testing.
- Pre-cut slides from paraffin block in 5 micron sections and mounted on Poly-L-Lysine-coated or plus (+) slides.
- Air dry. Do not oven dry.
- Store specimens at room temperature (20-23.5° C).
Turnaround Time:
2-3 days
Client Services:
Oncology/Pathology
800-447-5816
Specimen Services/Pickup:
877-246-1226
Vysis® and PathVysion® are registered trademarks of Vysis, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Abbott Laboratories.
Herceptin® is a registered trademark of Genetech, Inc.