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DNA Labs India

FISH for HER-2 Neu Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

FISH for HER-2 Neu Test

Short Name: FISH HER2/ERBB2

Also known as: HER-2 FISH Test, ERBB2 Amplification Test, Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization for HER-2

FISH for HER-2 Neu Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹14,000. Uses FISH on Formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissue block samples. Results in Reports are typically available within 10-12 days from sample receipt.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Diagnostic TestFemaleAdult🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

To determine the HER-2 gene amplification status in breast cancer cells for assessing eligibility for targeted therapy and guiding treatment planning.

Test Code
582
Price
₹14,000
Sample Type
Formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissue block
Result Time
Reports are typically available within 10-12 days from sample receipt.
Fasting Required
No
Method
FISH
Step 1

Sample Collection

Ensure the tissue block is properly labeled and accompanied by the filled Chromosome & FISH analysis Requisition Form (Form 17). No specific patient preparation required.

Method: Biopsy or Surgery

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

Tissue is obtained via biopsy or surgery during medical procedures performed by healthcare professionals.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Store tissue block at room temperature and ship promptly to the laboratory. Avoid freezing or improper storage conditions.

Timeline: Reports are typically available within 10-12 days from sample receipt.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:Ensure the tissue sample is collected properly and the requisition form is completed. No fasting or special preparation is needed from the patient.
2
During the Test:In the laboratory, the tissue is processed, and FISH analysis is performed using fluorescent probes to visualize HER-2 genes.
3
After the Test:Results are interpreted by pathologists, and a report is generated within 10-12 days. Counseling is provided to explain findings.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

To determine the HER-2 gene amplification status in breast cancer cells for assessing eligibility for targeted therapy and guiding treatment planning.

How to Prepare

  • Submit a Formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissue block
  • Ship at room temperature
  • Tissue block must contain at least 10% tumor tissue
  • Include duly filled Chromosome & FISH analysis Requisition Form (Form 17)

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521

"The FISH test for HER-2 is crucial for determining eligibility for Herceptin therapy in breast cancer patients, enabling personalized treatment plans."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeFormalin fixed paraffin embedded tissue block
ContainerTissue block container, shipped at room temperature
Collection MethodBiopsy or Surgery

Sample Stability

Stable at room temperature for up to 48 hours when properly stored
Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Insufficient tumor tissue (<10%)
  • Improper fixation or embedding
  • Missing or incomplete requisition form
  • Degraded or damaged tissue sample

Understanding Your Results

Results indicate whether the HER-2 gene is amplified in breast cancer cells, which is critical for treatment planning.
📊

HER-2 gene amplification detected, suggesting eligibility for HER-2 targeted therapies like Herceptin.

Action: Consult oncologist for personalized treatment options.

Status: Positive (Amplified)

📊

No HER-2 gene amplification detected, indicating alternative treatment approaches may be needed.

Action: Discuss other therapeutic strategies with healthcare provider.

Status: Negative (Non-amplified)

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

After receiving test results, promptly consult your oncologist to discuss the implications for treatment, especially if positive for HER-2 amplification.

Limitations

  • Only applicable for invasive breast cancer components
  • Requires sufficient tumor tissue (minimum 10%)
  • Not a standalone diagnostic; should be correlated with clinical findings
  • Results may vary based on laboratory expertise and equipment

Risks & Considerations

  • Minimal risks associated with biopsy or surgery procedures, such as infection or bleeding, performed by healthcare providers.

Interfering Factors

  • Tissue quality and fixation
  • Insufficient tumor cell percentage (<10%)
  • Improper sample handling or shipping
  • Technical errors in FISH procedure

Compare With Similar Tests

TestFISH for HER-2 NeuImmunohistochemistry (IHC) for HER-2Breast Cancer Gene Panel (e.g., BRCA1/2)
ComparisonFISH for HER-2 NeuFISH is more accurate for detecting gene amplification, while IHC measures protein expression. FISH is often used to confirm equivocal IHC results.Gene panels assess multiple genetic mutations, whereas FISH specifically targets HER-2 amplification for therapy guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is FISH for HER-2 Neu?
FISH (Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization) for HER-2 Neu is a DNA test that detects amplification of the HER-2 gene in breast cancer cells, helping determine if the cancer is HER-2 positive or negative.
Why is this test important for breast cancer?
It guides treatment decisions by identifying HER-2 positive cancers, which can be targeted with specific therapies like Herceptin, improving patient outcomes.
How is the test performed?
The test is done on a tissue sample from biopsy or surgery. The sample is analyzed in a lab using fluorescent dyes to label and visualize HER-2 genes under a microscope.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates HER-2 gene amplification, suggesting the cancer is HER-2 positive and may respond to targeted therapies.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result means no HER-2 amplification detected, so alternative treatments other than HER-2 targeted therapy may be considered.
What is the cost of the FISH for HER-2 Neu test?
The cost at DNA Labs India is INR 14,000, which includes analysis, report interpretation, and counseling.
Is home sample collection available?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for this test in many cities across India when booked online.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 10-12 days from the time the sample is received at the laboratory.
What sample is required for the test?
A formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissue block from a biopsy or surgery, with at least 10% tumor tissue, is required.
Are there any special instructions for sample collection?
Yes, the tissue block must be shipped at room temperature, and a duly filled Chromosome & FISH analysis Requisition Form (Form 17) is mandatory.
Can this test be used for other cancers besides breast cancer?
This test is primarily designed for breast cancer, as HER-2 amplification is most relevant in this context for treatment guidance.
Is the test covered by insurance?
Coverage may vary; it is advisable to check with your insurance provider or healthcare scheme for specific details.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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Your medical data is protected under Indian law.

Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.

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