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HelpTest Code OCT4 OCT3/4 Immunostain, Technical Component Only
Reporting Name
OCT3/4 IHC, Tech OnlyUseful For
Identification of germ cell tumors
Reflex Tests
| Test ID | Reporting Name | Available Separately | Always Performed |
|---|---|---|---|
| IHTOI | IHC Initial, Tech Only | No | No |
| IHTOA | IHC Additional, Tech Only | No | No |
Method Name
Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
Performing Laboratory
Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester
Specimen Type
TECHONLYOrdering Guidance
This test includes only technical performance of the stain (no pathologist interpretation is performed). If diagnostic consultation by a pathologist is required order PATHC / Pathology Consultation.
Shipping Instructions
Attach the green pathology address label and the pink Immunostain Technical Only label included in the kit to the outside of the transport container.
Specimen Required
Specimen Type: Tissue
Supplies: Immunostain Technical Only Envelope (T693)
Container/Tube: Immunostain Technical Only Envelope
Preferred:
-Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue block
OR
-2 Unstained, positively charged glass slides (25- x 75- x 1-mm) per test ordered; sections 4-microns thick
Acceptable: None
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
|---|---|---|---|
| TECHONLY | Ambient (preferred) | ||
| Refrigerated | |||
Reject Due To
| Wet/frozen tissue Cytology smears Nonformalin fixed tissue Nonparaffin embedded tissue Noncharged slides ProbeOn slides Snowcoat slides |
Reject |
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Friday
CPT Code Information
88342-TC, primary
88341-TC, if additional IHC
LOINC Code Information
| Test ID | Test Order Name | Order LOINC Value |
|---|---|---|
| OCT4 | OCT3/4 IHC, Tech Only | Order only;no result |
| Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
|---|---|---|
| 70835 | OCT3/4 IHC, Tech Only | Bill only; no result |
Secondary ID
70523Clinical Information
Octamer-binding transcription factor 3/4 (OCT4), also known as POU5F1, is a transcription factor expressed by embryonal stem cells and germ cells. Staining for OCT4 can aid in the diagnosis of testicular or ovarian germ cell tumors; it is highly specific for germ cell neoplasia, especially seminomas.
Interpretation
This test does not include pathologist interpretation, only technical performance of the stain. If interpretation is required, order PATHC / Pathology Consultation for a full diagnostic evaluation or second opinion of the case.
The positive and negative controls are verified as showing appropriate immunoreactivity. If a control tissue is not included on the slide, a scanned image of the relevant quality control tissue is available upon request; call 855-516-8404.
Interpretation of this test should be performed in the context of the patient's clinical history and other diagnostic tests by a qualified pathologist.
Cautions
Age of a cut paraffin section can affect immunoreactivity. Stability thresholds vary widely among published literature and are antigen dependent. Best practice is for paraffin sections to be cut within 6 weeks.
The charge of glass slides can be affected by environmental factors and subsequently may alter slide staining. Sending unsuitable glass slides can result in inconsistent staining due to poor slide surface chemistry.
Best practices for storage of positively charged slides:
-Minimize time slides are stored after being unpackaged
-Limit exposure to high humidity and heat
-Minimize exposure to plastics
Clinical Reference
1. Zhao FQ. Octamer-binding transcription factors: genomics and functions. Front Biosci. 2013;18:1051-1071
2. Cheng L, Sung MT, Cossu-rocca P, et al. OCT4: biological functions and clinical applications as a marker of germ cell neoplasia. J Pathol. 2007;211(1):1-9
3. Jung SM, Chu PH, Shiu TF, et al. Expression of OCT4 in the primary germ cell tumors and thymoma in the mediastinum. Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol. 2006;14(3):273-275
4. Lau SK, Chang KL. OCT4: a sensitive and specific immunohistochemical marker for metastatic germ cell tumors. Adv Anat Pathol. 2006;13(2):76-79
5. Magaki S, Hojat SA, Wei B, So A, Yong WH. An introduction to the performance of immunohistochemistry. Methods Mol Biol. 2019;1897:289-298. doi:10.1007/978-1-4939-8935-5_25
Method Description
Immunohistochemistry on sections of paraffin-embedded tissue.(Unpublished Mayo method)
Report Available
1 to 3 daysSpecimen Retention Time
Until staining is complete.Test Classification
This test has been cleared, approved, or is exempt by the US Food and Drug Administration and is used per manufacturer's instructions. Performance characteristics were verified by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements.Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Immunohistochemical (IHC)/In Situ Hybridization (ISH) Stains Request (T763) with the specimen.