Immunohistochemistry MUM1 Test
Short Name: IHC MUM1
Also known as: IHC MUM1, IRF4 Immunohistochemistry, Multiple Myeloma Oncogene 1 Test, MUM1 Protein Detection, IRF4 Protein Test
Immunohistochemistry MUM1 Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹3,500. Uses Immunohistochemistry (IHC) on Tumor tissue in 10% Formal-saline OR Formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) block samples. Results in Sample collection: Daily by 6 pm. Report turnaround: FFPE Block - 5 days, Tissue Biopsy - 5 days, Large/Complex Tissue - 7 days.. 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 Immunohistochemistry MUM1 test is performed to detect the MUM1/IRF4 protein in tissue samples. It is primarily used to help diagnose and classify B-cell malignancies, particularly diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). By determining whether MUM1 is expressed in the tumor tissue, pathologists can distinguish between germinal center B-cell (GCB) and activated B-cell (ABC) subtypes of DLBCL, which have different prognostic implications and may respond differently to treatment. The test is also used to support the diagnosis of multiple myeloma, extraosseous plasmacytomas, Burkitt lymphoma, and to detect MUM1 expression in melanomas. It assists in monitoring treatment effectiveness and detecting cancer recurrence.
- Test Code
- 1019
- CPT Code
- 88342
- ICD Code
- C83.3
- Price
- ₹3,500
- Sample Type
- Tumor tissue in 10% Formal-saline OR Formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) block
- Result Time
- Sample collection: Daily by 6 pm. Report turnaround: FFPE Block - 5 days, Tissue Biopsy - 5 days, Large/Complex Tissue - 7 days.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
Sample Collection
Provide a copy of the histopathology report, site of biopsy, and relevant clinical history. Ensure the tissue sample is properly fixed in 10% formal-saline or submitted as a formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) block. No fasting is required for this test as it is performed on a tissue specimen.
Method: Tissue biopsy (excisional, incisional, or core needle biopsy)
Laboratory Analysis
The tissue sample is obtained through a biopsy procedure performed by a qualified physician or surgeon. The type of biopsy (excisional, incisional, or core needle) depends on the clinical situation. The specimen is immediately placed in 10% formal-saline for fixation.
Report Delivery
The tissue is processed in the histopathology laboratory, embedded in paraffin wax, sectioned, and stained with anti-MUM1 antibodies using standardized immunohistochemistry protocols. The stained slides are then examined by a qualified pathologist for the presence, pattern, and intensity of MUM1 protein expression.
Timeline: Sample collection: Daily by 6 pm. Report turnaround: FFPE Block - 5 days, Tissue Biopsy - 5 days, Large/Complex Tissue - 7 days.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The Immunohistochemistry MUM1 test is performed to detect the MUM1/IRF4 protein in tissue samples. It is primarily used to help diagnose and classify B-cell malignancies, particularly diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). By determining whether MUM1 is expressed in the tumor tissue, pathologists can distinguish between germinal center B-cell (GCB) and activated B-cell (ABC) subtypes of DLBCL, which have different prognostic implications and may respond differently to treatment. The test is also used to support the diagnosis of multiple myeloma, extraosseous plasmacytomas, Burkitt lymphoma, and to detect MUM1 expression in melanomas. It assists in monitoring treatment effectiveness and detecting cancer recurrence.
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 along with the specimen
- Include the site of biopsy and clinical history with the sample
- Ensure the specimen is properly labeled with patient details and date of collection
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Pasupathy Arumugam — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521
"The Immunohistochemistry MUM1 test is a critical tool in the diagnostic workup of B-cell lymphomas. MUM1/IRF4 expression helps pathologists distinguish between germinal center B-cell (GCB) and activated B-cell (ABC) subtypes of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, which has direct implications for prognosis and treatment planning. A positive MUM1 result in the appropriate morphological and immunophenotypic context supports a post-germinal center or activated B-cell origin. This test should always be interpreted alongside a full immunohistochemical panel by an experienced hematopathologist."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Tissue specimen not fixed in 10% formal-saline or not submitted as FFPE block
- Specimen received without a histopathology report or clinical history
- Tissue that is excessively necrotic or with insufficient viable tumor cells for evaluation
- Specimen improperly labeled or without proper patient identification
- Bone marrow biopsy decalcified with agents known to impair immunoreactivity without prior notification
Understanding Your Results
MUM1 Positive (Nuclear staining ≥30%)
Non-GCB/ABC subtype of DLBCL may have a different prognosis compared to GCB subtype. MUM1 positivity in the context of plasma cell neoplasms supports the diagnosis. Results should be correlated with the full immunohistochemical panel and clinical findings.
MUM1 Negative (No nuclear staining)
GCB subtype of DLBCL may have a relatively better prognosis compared to the non-GCB subtype. Results must be interpreted with the complete immunohistochemical panel and clinical correlation.
Equivocal / Weak staining
An equivocal result should be discussed with the treating oncologist. Additional molecular or immunohistochemical studies may be recommended for definitive classification.
You should consult your doctor if you experience symptoms such as unexplained enlarged lymph nodes, persistent fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, bone pain, abdominal swelling, or shortness of breath. If you have been diagnosed with a B-cell malignancy, your doctor may recommend the IHC MUM1 test as part of the diagnostic workup. Always discuss your test results with a qualified oncologist or hematopathologist who can interpret them in the context of your complete clinical picture.
Limitations
- ⚠The IHC MUM1 test is a supplementary diagnostic tool and should not be used as the sole basis for diagnosing a malignancy
- ⚠Results must be interpreted in conjunction with morphological findings, clinical history, and a complete immunohistochemical panel
- ⚠MUM1 expression is not entirely specific to a single tumor type; it is expressed across multiple B-cell neoplasms and in melanomas
- ⚠Technical variations in staining protocols between laboratories may affect result comparability
- ⚠Rare technical artifacts or non-specific staining may occasionally occur and require expert pathologist review
Risks & Considerations
- ●The IHC MUM1 test itself poses no direct risk to the patient as it is performed on an already-collected tissue specimen
- ●The biopsy procedure required to obtain the tissue sample carries standard procedural risks including bleeding, infection, and discomfort at the biopsy site
- ●Rarely, false-positive or false-negative results may occur due to technical factors, which could influence clinical decision-making
Interfering Factors
- ●Inadequate tissue fixation or improper handling of the specimen may affect antigen preservation and staining quality
- ●Prolonged storage of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) blocks may lead to antigen degradation
- ●Under-fixation or over-fixation in formalin can cause false-negative or weak staining results
- ●Decalcification of bone marrow biopsy specimens may adversely affect MUM1 antigen detection
- ●Use of certain decalcifying agents can impair immunoreactivity of the tissue
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Immunohistochemistry MUM1 Test | Immunohistochemistry CD20 Test | Immunohistochemistry BCL6 Test | Immunohistochemistry CD10 Test | Flow Cytometry for Lymphoma | FISH for BCL2/BCL6/MYC Rearrangement |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Immunohistochemistry MUM1 Test | CD20 is a pan B-cell marker, whereas MUM1 is a marker for post-germinal center B-cells. CD20 is used to confirm B-cell lineage while MUM1 helps sub-classify B-cell lymphomas. | BCL6 is a germinal center marker. In DLBCL subtyping, BCL6-positive and MUM1-negative results support a GCB phenotype, while MUM1-positive and BCL6-variable results suggest a non-GCB/ABC phenotype. | CD10 is another germinal center B-cell marker. Combined with MUM1, it helps in the Hans algorithm for DLBCL subtyping: CD10-positive tumors are classified as GCB, while CD10-negative and MUM1-positive tumors are classified as non-GCB. | Flow cytometry provides immunophenotypic analysis of cell suspensions and can detect multiple markers simultaneously, while IHC MUM1 provides spatial context by showing protein expression within the tissue architecture. | FISH detects chromosomal translocations and gene rearrangements at the molecular level, providing genetic information that complements the protein-level information obtained from IHC MUM1 staining. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Immunohistochemistry MUM1 test?
Why is the IHC MUM1 test recommended?
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Is fasting required before the Immunohistochemistry MUM1 test?
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What is the cost of the Immunohistochemistry MUM1 test in India?
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Can the IHC MUM1 test alone diagnose lymphoma?
What is the MUM1 protein and what is its role?
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