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DNA Labs India

Immunohistochemistry CD138 Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Immunohistochemistry CD138 Test

Short Name: CD138 IHC Test

Also known as: CD138 Immunohistochemistry, Syndecan-1 IHC Test

Immunohistochemistry CD138 Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹3,000. Uses Immunohistochemistry on Tumor tissue or bone marrow aspirate samples. Results in Report delivery: 5-7 days from sample receipt. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Immunohistochemistry🏠 Home Collection

✍️ Written By

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Dr Pasupathy Arumugam

Dr Pasupathy Arumugam

Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521

Last reviewed: September 7, 2026

Overview

To detect CD138 expression in tissue samples for the diagnosis of plasma cell neoplasms, such as multiple myeloma, and to monitor treatment efficacy.

Test Code
919
Price
₹3,000
Sample Type
Tumor tissue or bone marrow aspirate
Result Time
Report delivery: 5-7 days from sample receipt
Fasting Required
No
Method
Immunohistochemistry
Step 1

Sample Collection

Provide a copy of the Histopathology report, Site of biopsy, and Clinical history.

Method: Tissue biopsy or bone marrow aspiration

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

Standard tissue biopsy or bone marrow aspiration procedure performed by a healthcare professional.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Sample is preserved and transported to the laboratory for processing.

Timeline: Report delivery: 5-7 days from sample receipt

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:Ensure all required documentation, including histopathology report and clinical history, is available.
2
During the Test:The test involves processing tissue samples with antibodies and microscopic examination; no patient involvement during the test.
3
After the Test:Results are typically available within 5-7 days and can be accessed online or via email/WhatsApp.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

To detect CD138 expression in tissue samples for the diagnosis of plasma cell neoplasms, such as multiple myeloma, and to monitor treatment efficacy.

How to Prepare

  • Submit tumor tissue in 10% Formal-saline or Formalin fixed paraffin embedded block.
  • Ship at room temperature.
  • Provide a copy of the Histopathology report, Site of biopsy, and Clinical history.

Doctor's Notes

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

"The Immunohistochemistry CD138 test is crucial for detecting plasma cell abnormalities, aiding in the diagnosis of multiple myeloma and monitoring treatment response."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeTumor tissue or bone marrow aspirate
Container10% Formal-saline or Formalin fixed paraffin embedded block
Collection MethodTissue biopsy or bone marrow aspiration

Sample Stability

Room temperature: Stable for transport
Refrigerated or frozen storage not required unless specified
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Insufficient tissue sample
  • Improperly fixed or contaminated sample
  • Missing clinical history or documentation

Understanding Your Results

Results are interpreted based on the presence, pattern, and intensity of CD138 staining in tissue samples.
Positive staining for CD138 indicates the presence of plasma cells, which may be normal or neoplastic.
Strong, diffuse staining is typical of mature plasma cells, while abnormal patterns may suggest malignancy such as multiple myeloma.
Results must be integrated with clinical data, other laboratory tests, and imaging for accurate diagnosis.
⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

If you experience symptoms like persistent bone pain, unexplained fatigue, frequent infections, or if test results indicate abnormalities, consult an oncologist or hematologist for further evaluation.

Limitations

  • ⚠Not a standalone diagnostic test; results should be correlated with clinical and other laboratory findings
  • ⚠May not detect all subtypes of plasma cell disorders

Risks & Considerations

  • ●Minimal risks associated with tissue biopsy or bone marrow aspiration, such as infection or bleeding at the site
  • ●No direct risks from the immunohistochemistry test itself

Interfering Factors

  • ●Improper tissue fixation or processing
  • ●Inadequate sample quality or quantity
  • ●Use of incorrect antibody dilutions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Immunohistochemistry CD138 Test?
The Immunohistochemistry CD138 Test is a laboratory procedure that uses antibodies to detect CD138 protein on plasma cells in tissue samples, aiding in diagnosing multiple myeloma and other plasma cell disorders.
What is the cost of the CD138 IHC Test in India?
The cost of the Immunohistochemistry CD138 Test at DNA Labs India is INR 3000, with free home sample collection available across India.
How is the test performed?
The test is performed on tissue biopsy or bone marrow aspirate samples. The tissue is processed, stained with CD138 antibodies, and examined under a microscope to detect abnormalities.
What sample is required for the test?
A tumor tissue sample submitted in 10% Formal-saline or a Formalin fixed paraffin embedded block is required, along with the histopathology report and clinical history.
Is fasting required for this test?
No, fasting is not required for the Immunohistochemistry CD138 Test. However, pre-test documentation such as the histopathology report must be provided.
How long does it take to get the results?
Results are typically available within 5-7 days from the date of sample receipt, and reports can be accessed online, via email, or WhatsApp.
What does a positive CD138 test result mean?
A positive result indicates the presence of CD138 protein on plasma cells, which is normal in mature plasma cells but may suggest malignancy like multiple myeloma if abnormal patterns are observed.
Is this test used for diagnosing other conditions besides multiple myeloma?
Yes, it can help diagnose other plasma cell neoplasms and disorders involving abnormal plasma cells, but it is most commonly used for multiple myeloma.
How should I prepare for the test?
Prepare by ensuring all required documentation, including the histopathology report, biopsy site, and clinical history, is ready. No special physical preparation is needed.
What are the risks associated with the test?
The test itself has no direct risks, but the biopsy procedure may involve minor risks like infection or bleeding. These are typically managed by healthcare professionals.
Can this test be done at home?
Home sample collection is available for the test at DNA Labs India, allowing patients to provide samples from the comfort of their home in many cities across India.
How accurate is the CD138 IHC Test?
The test is highly accurate in detecting CD138 expression when performed correctly, but it should be interpreted alongside clinical findings and other diagnostic tests for comprehensive diagnosis.
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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