Immunohistochemistry CD20 Test
Short Name: IHC CD20
Also known as: CD20 Immunohistochemistry, IHC CD20 Stain, CD20 Marker Test, B-cell Marker CD20
Immunohistochemistry CD20 Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹3,000. Uses Immunohistochemistry on Tumor tissue in 10% Formal-saline OR Formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) block samples. Results in Block: 5 days | Tissue Biopsy: 5 days | Tissue large complex: 7 days from sample receipt. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Pasupathy Arumugam
Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The primary purpose of the Immunohistochemistry CD20 test is to identify and confirm B-cell lineage in suspected hematolymphoid neoplasms. It is used to diagnose B-cell lymphomas and leukemias, classify lymphoma subtypes, assess tumor burden in tissue specimens, monitor residual disease, and guide targeted therapy decisions such as the administration of rituximab-based regimens.
- Test Code
- 973
- CPT Code
- 88342
- ICD Code
- C85.9
- Price
- ₹3,000
- Sample Type
- Tumor tissue in 10% Formal-saline OR Formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) block
- Result Time
- Block: 5 days | Tissue Biopsy: 5 days | Tissue large complex: 7 days from sample receipt
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Immunohistochemistry
Sample Collection
No special patient preparation is required as the test is performed on an already collected tissue biopsy or surgical specimen. Ensure that a copy of the histopathology report, site of biopsy, and detailed clinical history accompany the specimen.
Method: Tissue Biopsy / Surgical Resection
Laboratory Analysis
The tissue sample is collected via biopsy procedure (excisional, incisional, or core needle) performed by a qualified surgeon or oncologist. The specimen is immediately placed in 10% formal-saline for fixation or submitted as a formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) block.
Report Delivery
After tissue processing and sectioning, immunohistochemical staining with anti-CD20 antibodies is performed. The stained slides are reviewed by a consultant pathologist and the report is prepared with interpretation.
Timeline: Block: 5 days | Tissue Biopsy: 5 days | Tissue large complex: 7 days from sample receipt
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of the Immunohistochemistry CD20 test is to identify and confirm B-cell lineage in suspected hematolymphoid neoplasms. It is used to diagnose B-cell lymphomas and leukemias, classify lymphoma subtypes, assess tumor burden in tissue specimens, monitor residual disease, and guide targeted therapy decisions such as the administration of rituximab-based regimens.
How to Prepare
- Submit tumor tissue in 10% Formal-saline OR as a Formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) block
- Ship the sample at room temperature
- Provide a copy of the Histopathology report along with the sample
- Mention the exact site of biopsy on the requisition form
- Include detailed clinical history including prior treatment if any
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Pasupathy Arumugam — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521
"The CD20 immunohistochemistry marker is indispensable in modern oncology for the accurate sub-classification of B-cell lymphomas. Identifying CD20 expression on tumor cells helps oncologists confirm B-cell lineage, differentiate between lymphoma subtypes, and guide the selection of targeted therapies such as rituximab. I recommend this test for any patient with suspected B-cell neoplasm where tissue biopsy is available, as it significantly impacts treatment planning and prognostication."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Tissue sample received without fixation or in dry container
- Specimen with no identifiable tumor tissue on initial review
- Sample received without accompanying histopathology report or clinical history
- Completely necrotic or autolysed tissue with no viable cells for staining
Understanding Your Results
Confirms the presence of CD20 protein on B-lymphocytes, supporting a diagnosis of B-cell lymphoma or B-cell leukemia. The treating oncologist may consider CD20-targeted therapy such as rituximab.
CD20 protein is not detected in the tissue sample. This may indicate a T-cell lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, or a B-cell neoplasm with antigen loss. Further immunohistochemical workup is recommended.
Low-level or heterogeneous CD20 staining may be seen in certain lymphoma subtypes or after rituximab therapy. Clinical correlation and additional markers are advised for definitive classification.
Consult your oncologist or hematologist if you experience persistent unexplained symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, chronic fatigue, or recurrent infections. Early consultation is essential for timely diagnosis and appropriate management of suspected lymphoproliferative disorders.
Limitations
- ⚠This test is qualitative or semi-quantitative and does not provide a definitive diagnosis on its own
- ⚠Results must be interpreted alongside clinical history, morphology, and a full immunohistochemistry panel
- ⚠CD20 expression may be lost in some high-grade B-cell lymphomas or post-rituximab therapy cases
- ⚠The test requires adequate tissue quantity; needle core biopsies with insufficient material may be inconclusive
- ⚠Cannot differentiate between reactive and neoplastic B-cell proliferations without additional markers
Risks & Considerations
- ●The test itself carries no risk as it is performed on an already excised tissue sample
- ●Risks associated with the biopsy procedure itself (bleeding, infection) should be discussed with the referring physician
Interfering Factors
- ●Inadequate fixation of tissue sample may cause false negative results
- ●Prolonged storage of FFPE blocks beyond recommended duration can degrade antigenicity
- ●Use of decalcifying agents on bone marrow biopsies may affect CD20 antigen detection
- ●Prior treatment with rituximab can downregulate CD20 expression leading to false negative outcomes
- ●Necrotic or heavily autolysed tissue may yield unreliable staining results
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Immunohistochemistry CD20 Test | IHC CD3 Test | Flow Cytometry Panel | FISH for BCL2/BCL6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Immunohistochemistry CD20 Test | CD3 is a T-cell marker while CD20 is a B-cell marker. Both are used in lymphoma subtyping but target different cell lineages. | Flow cytometry provides quantitative analysis of multiple markers on cells in suspension, whereas IHC CD20 provides spatial context within tissue architecture. | FISH detects specific chromosomal translocations associated with lymphomas, while IHC CD20 identifies B-cell lineage. Both are complementary in lymphoma workup. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Immunohistochemistry CD20 test?
Why is the CD20 test important in cancer diagnosis?
What sample is required for the CD20 IHC test?
Is any special preparation needed before the test?
How long does it take to get the CD20 IHC test results?
What does a positive CD20 result mean?
What does a negative CD20 result mean?
Can CD20 expression change after treatment?
Is the CD20 IHC test the same as a blood test?
What is the cost of the Immunohistochemistry CD20 test at DNA Labs India?
Is home sample collection available for the CD20 IHC test?
Which diseases are diagnosed using the CD20 immunohistochemistry test?
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