Immunohistochemistry PLA2R Test
Short Name: IHC PLA2R
Also known as: PLA2R IHC Staining, Anti-PLA2R Immunohistochemistry, PLA2R Tissue Staining Test, M-type Phospholipase A2 Receptor IHC
Immunohistochemistry PLA2R Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹3,500. Uses Immunohistochemistry (IHC) on Renal biopsy tissue submitted in 10% Formal-saline or Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded (FFPE) block samples. Results in Sample collection daily by 6 PM. Report delivery: FFPE block – 5 working days; Tissue biopsy – 5 working days; Large complex tissue – 7 working days.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Ramarao Paidisetty
Consultant Biochemist · Reg: 21504
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The Immunohistochemistry PLA2R Test is performed to detect PLA2R antigen expression in renal biopsy tissue, primarily to confirm the diagnosis of primary membranous nephropathy (pMN), differentiate it from secondary membranous nephropathy, assess disease activity, and assist in guiding treatment planning and monitoring disease progression or remission.
- Test Code
- 1032
- CPT Code
- 88342
- ICD Code
- N04.1
- Price
- ₹3,500
- Sample Type
- Renal biopsy tissue submitted in 10% Formal-saline or Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded (FFPE) block
- Result Time
- Sample collection daily by 6 PM. Report delivery: FFPE block – 5 working days; Tissue biopsy – 5 working days; Large complex tissue – 7 working days.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
Sample Collection
No specific preparation is required from the patient for the IHC test itself. The renal biopsy must be performed by a qualified nephrologist or interventional radiologist. Provide a copy of the histopathology report, site of biopsy, and clinical history along with the specimen.
Method: Tissue Biopsy (Renal)
Laboratory Analysis
The renal biopsy tissue is collected via percutaneous needle biopsy under imaging guidance. The specimen is immediately placed in 10% formal-saline or processed into a formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) block.
Report Delivery
The tissue specimen is transported to the laboratory at room temperature. Ensure accompanying documentation including histopathology report, biopsy site, and complete clinical history is provided for accurate interpretation.
Timeline: Sample collection daily by 6 PM. Report delivery: FFPE block – 5 working days; Tissue biopsy – 5 working days; Large complex tissue – 7 working days.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The Immunohistochemistry PLA2R Test is performed to detect PLA2R antigen expression in renal biopsy tissue, primarily to confirm the diagnosis of primary membranous nephropathy (pMN), differentiate it from secondary membranous nephropathy, assess disease activity, and assist in guiding treatment planning and monitoring disease progression or remission.
How to Prepare
- Submit renal biopsy 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 specimen
- Mention the exact site of biopsy on the requisition form
- Include complete clinical history and relevant laboratory findings
- Ensure specimen is properly labeled with patient identifiers
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Ramarao Paidisetty — MBBS, MD (Biochemistry) · Reg. No. 21504
"Immunohistochemical detection of PLA2R antigen on renal biopsy tissue is a highly specific marker for primary membranous nephropathy. In approximately 70% of patients with primary MN, the glomerular immune deposits contain anti-PLA2R autoantibodies. This test complements serum anti-PLA2R antibody testing and helps distinguish primary from secondary membranous nephropathy. Positive PLA2R staining on biopsy, combined with clinical and laboratory findings, strengthens the diagnosis and aids in guiding treatment decisions and monitoring disease activity over time."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Specimen received without formalin fixation
- Tissue showing extensive autolysis or necrosis
- Inadequate tissue with fewer than 3 glomeruli on biopsy
- Missing clinical history or histopathology report
- Specimen without proper patient identification
Understanding Your Results
PLA2R Positive (Granular Capillary Pattern)
High specificity for primary MN. Associated with active disease and higher proteinuria levels.
PLA2R Positive with Strong Intensity
Often associated with persistent nephrotic-range proteinuria and may require more aggressive treatment.
PLA2R Negative
Necessitates evaluation for secondary causes. Clinical and laboratory correlation is essential.
PLA2R Positive with Weak Focal Staining
Could indicate partial remission or early-stage disease. Serial monitoring may be warranted.
Consult your nephrologist if you experience persistent swelling in the feet and ankles, foamy urine (indicating proteinuria), unexplained fatigue, elevated blood pressure, or blood in the urine. These symptoms may indicate glomerular disease requiring evaluation including renal biopsy and PLA2R immunohistochemistry testing. Early diagnosis and management of membranous nephropathy are essential to prevent progression to chronic kidney disease.
Limitations
- ⚠Negative PLA2R staining does not completely exclude primary membranous nephropathy as approximately 30% of primary MN cases may be PLA2R-negative
- ⚠Cannot differentiate between active disease and remission solely based on tissue staining
- ⚠Must be interpreted alongside serum anti-PLA2R antibody levels, clinical presentation, and histopathological findings
- ⚠Sensitivity may vary depending on biopsy quality and fixation technique
- ⚠PLA2R positivity alone is not sufficient to guide treatment decisions without comprehensive clinical evaluation
Risks & Considerations
- ●There are no direct risks from the immunohistochemistry laboratory test itself
- ●Risks are associated with the renal biopsy procedure, which include bleeding, infection, pain at biopsy site, arteriovenous fistula formation, and rarely, kidney injury
- ●Discuss biopsy-related risks with your nephrologist before the procedure
Interfering Factors
- ●Prolonged fixation time in formalin may reduce antigenicity and cause false negative results
- ●Inadequate tissue sampling or insufficient glomeruli in the biopsy specimen
- ●Use of decalcifying agents that may damage PLA2R antigen epitopes
- ●Prior immunosuppressive therapy may reduce PLA2R expression in glomerular deposits
- ●Tissue autolysis or improper handling before fixation
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Immunohistochemistry PLA2R Test | Serum Anti-PLA2R Antibody (ELISA/IFT) | THSD7A Immunohistochemistry | Renal Biopsy with Light and Electron Microscopy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Immunohistochemistry PLA2R Test | Serum test measures circulating anti-PLA2R antibodies in blood. Less invasive than biopsy-based IHC but may not reflect local glomerular antigen deposition. Useful for diagnosis and monitoring treatment response. | Tests for Thrombospondin Type 1 Domain Containing 7A, another target antigen in PLA2R-negative primary MN. Considered when PLA2R IHC is negative but clinical suspicion for primary MN remains high. | Standard histopathological evaluation of kidney tissue providing detailed glomerular morphology. IHC PLA2R staining is an adjunct to this comprehensive evaluation. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Immunohistochemistry PLA2R Test?
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Is the Immunohistochemistry PLA2R Test a blood test?
What does a positive PLA2R staining result mean?
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Why is the Immunohistochemistry PLA2R Test important for membranous nephropathy diagnosis?
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Can the PLA2R IHC test be used to monitor treatment response?
What is the difference between PLA2R immunohistochemistry and serum anti-PLA2R antibody testing?
Is home sample collection available for the Immunohistochemistry PLA2R Test?
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