Immunohistochemistry Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Test
Short Name: IHC PSA Test
Also known as: IHC PSA Staining, Prostate Specific Antigen Immunohistochemistry, PSA Tissue Marker Test, IHC for PSA
Immunohistochemistry Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹3,000. Uses Immunohistochemistry (IHC) on Tumor tissue in 10% Formal-saline or Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded (FFPE) block samples. Results in Block: 5 working days; Tissue Biopsy: 5 working days; Tissue large complex: 7 working 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 primary purpose of the IHC PSA test is to confirm the prostatic origin of a tumour detected on histopathological examination. It is used as a diagnostic marker to identify prostate carcinoma cells in tissue sections, as a prognostic marker to assess disease characteristics, and to detect metastatic prostate carcinoma in distant sites such as lymph nodes, bone, and soft tissues. This test aids clinicians in differential diagnosis when the origin of an undifferentiated or poorly differentiated malignancy is unclear, ensuring appropriate treatment pathways are followed.
- Test Code
- 956
- CPT Code
- 88342
- ICD Code
- C61
- Price
- ₹3,000
- Sample Type
- Tumor tissue in 10% Formal-saline or Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded (FFPE) block
- Result Time
- Block: 5 working days; Tissue Biopsy: 5 working days; Tissue large complex: 7 working days
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
Sample Collection
Provide a copy of the histopathology report, site of biopsy, and clinical history. No specific patient preparation is required as this is a tissue-based test performed on an already collected biopsy or surgical specimen.
Method: Tissue biopsy or surgical resection specimen submitted by treating physician or pathology lab
Laboratory Analysis
The tissue specimen is obtained by a treating physician through biopsy or surgical resection. The specimen is then placed in 10% formal-saline or processed into a formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) block and submitted to the laboratory.
Report Delivery
The tissue block is sectioned, stained with anti-PSA antibody using standard immunohistochemistry protocols, and examined by a qualified pathologist. Results are compiled into a detailed report.
Timeline: Block: 5 working days; Tissue Biopsy: 5 working days; Tissue large complex: 7 working days
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of the IHC PSA test is to confirm the prostatic origin of a tumour detected on histopathological examination. It is used as a diagnostic marker to identify prostate carcinoma cells in tissue sections, as a prognostic marker to assess disease characteristics, and to detect metastatic prostate carcinoma in distant sites such as lymph nodes, bone, and soft tissues. This test aids clinicians in differential diagnosis when the origin of an undifferentiated or poorly differentiated malignancy is unclear, ensuring appropriate treatment pathways are followed.
How to Prepare
- Submit tumour tissue in 10% Formal-saline OR Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded (FFPE) block
- Ship the specimen at room temperature
- Provide a copy of the histopathology report
- Include the site of biopsy and relevant clinical history
- Ensure the specimen container is properly labelled with patient details
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Pasupathy Arumugam — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521
"Immunohistochemical detection of PSA in tissue specimens is a critical step in confirming prostatic origin of both primary and metastatic carcinomas. A positive PSA stain strongly supports a prostate origin and helps distinguish prostate cancer from other urological malignancies. This test is particularly valuable when evaluating metastatic deposits in lymph nodes, bone, or other distant sites where the primary tumour is unknown. Combined with clinical correlation and other immunohistochemical markers, PSA staining guides treatment planning and prognosis assessment."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Specimen received without proper identification or labelling
- Tissue not adequately fixed or preserved
- Missing histopathology report or clinical history
- Specimen too small or crushed for meaningful interpretation
- Specimen received in expired or inappropriate fixative
Understanding Your Results
Positive PSA Staining
Strong cytoplasmic staining confirms prostatic origin of the tumour. Consistent with prostate adenocarcinoma or metastatic prostate carcinoma.
Weak or Focal Positive Staining
May indicate poorly differentiated prostate carcinoma or a tumour with reduced PSA expression. Clinical correlation and additional IHC markers are recommended.
Negative PSA Staining
PSA expression is absent. This does not completely exclude prostate cancer, particularly in high-grade or neuroendocrine tumours. Additional markers such as PSAP, NKX3.1, or AMACR may be recommended.
Consult your oncologist or urologist if you have elevated serum PSA levels, an abnormal DRE, urinary symptoms such as difficulty urinating, blood in urine or semen, pelvic pain, or unexplained bone pain. Early consultation is essential if prostate cancer runs in your family or if you are a male over 50 years of age.
Limitations
- ⚠This test detects PSA protein expression in tissue only and is not a substitute for serum PSA blood testing
- ⚠A negative result does not completely exclude prostate cancer, as some high-grade tumours lose PSA expression
- ⚠Results must always be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings, histopathological appearance, and other IHC markers
- ⚠The test does not provide quantitative serum PSA levels
- ⚠Specimen quality significantly impacts test reliability
Interfering Factors
- ●Inadequate fixation of tissue specimen may lead to false-negative results
- ●Prolonged storage of FFPE blocks can degrade antigen epitopes and affect staining
- ●High-grade or poorly differentiated prostate cancers may show reduced or absent PSA expression
- ●Use of hormone therapy prior to biopsy may decrease PSA expression in tumour cells
- ●Decalcification of bone biopsy specimens may impair antigen detection
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Immunohistochemistry Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Test | Serum PSA Blood Test | IHC PSA Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Immunohistochemistry Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Immunohistochemistry PSA Test?
How is the IHC PSA Test different from a serum PSA blood test?
Who should get the IHC PSA Test?
What sample is required for this test?
Is fasting required for the IHC PSA Test?
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What does a positive PSA staining result mean?
Can the IHC PSA Test be negative even if I have prostate cancer?
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