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Immunohistochemistry Galectin-3 Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Immunohistochemistry Galectin-3 Test

Short Name: IHC Galectin-3

Also known as: IHC Galectin-3 Staining, Galectin-3 Immunostain, Gal-3 IHC Test, Galectin-3 Tissue Marker

Immunohistochemistry Galectin-3 Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹3,000. Uses Immunohistochemistry (IHC) on Tumor tissue (fresh in 10% Formal-saline or Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded block) samples. Results in Sample collection: Daily by 6 PM | Report delivery: 5 working days for biopsy specimens, 7 working days for large complex tissue specimens. 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

The purpose of the Immunohistochemistry Galectin-3 test is to detect and evaluate the expression of the Galectin-3 protein in tumor tissue. This biomarker aids pathologists and oncologists in differentiating malignant from benign thyroid neoplasms, characterizing tumor biology, and contributing to the diagnostic workup and management planning for patients with suspected or confirmed cancers of the thyroid, breast, colon, and lung.

Test Code
995
CPT Code
88342
ICD Code
C80.1
Price
₹3,000
Sample Type
Tumor tissue (fresh in 10% Formal-saline or Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded block)
Result Time
Sample collection: Daily by 6 PM | Report delivery: 5 working days for biopsy specimens, 7 working days for large complex tissue specimens
Fasting Required
No
Method
Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
Step 1

Sample Collection

No specific patient preparation is required. Provide the pathologist with a copy of the histopathology report, site of biopsy, and relevant clinical history.

Method: Tissue biopsy or surgical excision specimen

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

The tissue sample is collected via biopsy or surgical excision by the treating surgeon or interventional radiologist under appropriate clinical setting.

Step 3

Report Delivery

The collected tissue is immediately placed in 10% Formal-saline or processed into a Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded (FFPE) block and shipped to the laboratory at room temperature.

Timeline: Sample collection: Daily by 6 PM | Report delivery: 5 working days for biopsy specimens, 7 working days for large complex tissue specimens

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No fasting or special preparation is required for the patient. The referring physician should ensure the tissue biopsy or surgical specimen is properly collected and fixed in 10% formal-saline or processed as an FFPE block.
2
During the Test:The laboratory processes the tissue specimen, cuts thin sections, and performs immunohistochemical staining using anti-Galectin-3 antibodies. The stained slides are then examined microscopically by a pathologist.
3
After the Test:After the pathologist reviews the stained slides, a detailed interpretive report is generated and shared with the patient and referring physician. Results should be discussed with your treating doctor for appropriate clinical decision-making.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The purpose of the Immunohistochemistry Galectin-3 test is to detect and evaluate the expression of the Galectin-3 protein in tumor tissue. This biomarker aids pathologists and oncologists in differentiating malignant from benign thyroid neoplasms, characterizing tumor biology, and contributing to the diagnostic workup and management planning for patients with suspected or confirmed cancers of the thyroid, breast, colon, and lung.

How to Prepare

  • Submit tumor tissue in 10% Formal-saline or as a Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded (FFPE) block
  • Ship the specimen at room temperature
  • Provide a copy of the histopathology report with the sample
  • Include details of the biopsy site and clinical history
  • Ensure the specimen is properly labeled with patient identifiers

Doctor's Notes

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

"Immunohistochemical detection of Galectin-3 is a valuable ancillary tool in the diagnostic workup of thyroid nodules, helping to distinguish papillary thyroid carcinoma and certain follicular-patterned neoplasms from benign follicular lesions. It is also studied as a prognostic marker in breast, colorectal, and lung carcinomas. Results should always be interpreted in conjunction with histomorphology, clinical findings, and other immunohistochemical panels as recommended by your treating oncologist or pathologist."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeTumor tissue (fresh in 10% Formal-saline or Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded block)
Sample VolumeTissue block or adequate biopsy specimen
Container10% Formal-saline container or FFPE block
Collection MethodTissue biopsy or surgical excision specimen

Sample Stability

Room Temperature (FFPE block)Stable for years if properly processed
Formalin-fixed tissueStable for up to 48–72 hours before processing
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Tissue fixed in alternative fixatives not compatible with IHC protocols
  • Specimen received without requisition form or clinical history
  • Completely necrotic or autolyzed tissue with no viable tumor cells
  • Specimen improperly labeled or unlabeled
  • Tissue decalcified with agents incompatible with antigen preservation

Understanding Your Results

The Immunohistochemistry Galectin-3 test result is interpreted by a qualified pathologist based on the presence, intensity, and localization of Galectin-3 staining in the submitted tumor tissue. The following guide summarizes common interpretation patterns:
📊

Supports a diagnosis of papillary thyroid carcinoma or other malignancy expressing Galectin-3. Clinical correlation recommended.

📊

May suggest a benign follicular lesion or a malignancy that does not express Galectin-3. Additional immunomarkers should be evaluated.

📊

Indeterminate result. Recommend correlation with other IHC markers such as HBME-1, CK19, and TTF-1 along with clinical and radiological findings.

📊

May indicate aggressive tumor behavior or advanced stage. Discuss findings with treating oncologist for management planning.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult your doctor or oncologist if you have an abnormal or unexpected IHC Galectin-3 result, if you have symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, a palpable lump, changes in bowel habits, blood in stool or urine, or if you have a known diagnosis of cancer and your physician has recommended tissue marker evaluation as part of your treatment planning.

Limitations

  • ⚠This test is a supplementary diagnostic tool and must be interpreted alongside histomorphology and clinical findings
  • ⚠Galectin-3 expression alone is not confirmatory for malignancy
  • ⚠Sensitivity and specificity may vary across different tumor types and grades
  • ⚠False-negative results can occur in poorly differentiated tumors with low Galectin-3 expression
  • ⚠Results should be correlated with other immunohistochemical markers and imaging studies

Risks & Considerations

  • ●There are no direct risks to the patient from the IHC test itself as it is performed on an already collected tissue specimen
  • ●The initial biopsy or surgical procedure required to obtain the tissue carries standard procedural risks such as bleeding, infection, or discomfort at the biopsy site

Interfering Factors

  • ●Inadequate fixation of tissue specimen may lead to false-negative results
  • ●Prolonged storage of paraffin blocks may affect antigen integrity
  • ●Necrotic or heavily autolyzed tissue may yield unreliable staining
  • ●Decalcification agents may degrade antigens and affect staining quality

Compare With Similar Tests

TestImmunohistochemistry Galectin-3 TestIHC HBME-1IHC CK19IHC TTF-1IHC Thyroglobulin
ComparisonImmunohistochemistry Galectin-3 Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Immunohistochemistry Galectin-3 test?
The IHC Galectin-3 test is a tissue-based diagnostic test that detects the expression of the Galectin-3 protein in tumor tissue using immunohistochemical staining. It is primarily used to help differentiate malignant from benign thyroid neoplasms and to characterize certain cancers.
Why is the IHC Galectin-3 test ordered?
This test is ordered by your pathologist or oncologist when a thyroid nodule biopsy or other tumor tissue needs further evaluation to distinguish between benign and malignant lesions, or to assess Galectin-3 expression as part of cancer characterization and prognosis.
What sample is required for this test?
The test requires a tumor tissue specimen submitted in 10% formal-saline or as a Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded (FFPE) block. The sample is typically obtained through a biopsy or surgical excision.
Is the IHC Galectin-3 test painful?
The IHC test itself is performed on an already collected tissue sample and does not cause any pain. The biopsy procedure used to obtain the tissue may involve minor discomfort depending on the site.
What does a positive Galectin-3 result mean?
A positive Galectin-3 result indicates that the protein is expressed in the tumor tissue. In the thyroid context, positive Galectin-3 expression supports a diagnosis of papillary thyroid carcinoma or other malignant neoplasm. However, the result must be interpreted by a pathologist in conjunction with histology and clinical findings.
What does a negative Galectin-3 result mean?
A negative result suggests no significant Galectin-3 expression in the tissue. This may be consistent with a benign follicular lesion. However, some malignant tumors may also be negative for Galectin-3, so additional markers and clinical correlation are recommended.
How long does it take to get the IHC Galectin-3 test results?
Results are typically available within 5 working days for biopsy specimens and up to 7 working days for large or complex tissue specimens. Samples received daily by 6 PM are processed the same day.
What is the cost of the Immunohistochemistry Galectin-3 test at DNA Labs India?
The IHC Galectin-3 test is available at DNA Labs India for Rs 3000.0 across India. Free home sample collection is available for online bookings in select cities.
Do I need to fast before the IHC Galectin-3 test?
No fasting is required for this test. It is performed on a tissue specimen obtained via biopsy or surgery, so no patient preparation in terms of fasting or dietary restrictions is necessary.
Can the IHC Galectin-3 test be used for cancers other than thyroid cancer?
Yes, Galectin-3 expression has been studied in breast, colorectal, and lung cancers as well. However, its primary clinical utility is in the evaluation of thyroid neoplasms for distinguishing benign from malignant lesions.
Is the IHC Galectin-3 test covered by insurance in India?
Coverage depends on your insurance policy and provider. Government schemes like PMJAY, CGHS, ECHS, and ESIC may cover this test under certain conditions. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider or scheme authority for specific coverage details.
Where can I get the Immunohistochemistry Galectin-3 test done?
DNA Labs India offers the IHC Galectin-3 test with free home sample collection in major cities across India including Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune, and many more. You can book the test online or contact us for assistance.
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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