|
|
|
Immunohistochemistry is a special method used for demonstrating certain
endogenous and foreign proteins outside the cells, on the cell surface,
within the cell and in the cell nucleus. Today, this method is
essential for the classification and therapeutical management of
malignant tumours.
Example: determination of hormone receptors in breast cancer.
|
|
Immunoreactive score (IRS) |
The immunoreactive score for estrogen and progesterone receptors offers some indication for the presence of estrogen and progesterone receptors in the cell nuclei of breast cancer cells.
The score is calculated semi quantitatively by multiplying the number of positively labelled cell nuclei and their staining intensity. The top IRS score calculated in this semi quantitative manner is 12. An IRS score of 3 and higher is regarded as positive and opens corresponding therapy options.
|
|
HER2/neu score system |
 |
|
 |
Score: 3+
|
|
Score: 2+
|
 |
|
 |
Score: 1+
|
|
Score: 0 | HER2/neu expression can also be described immunohistochemically by the semi quantitative measuring of staining intensity and degree of completeness of cell membranes in breast cancer cells. The degree of HER2/neu expression is given in a score system ranging from 0 to 3+.
The immunohistochemical demonstration of a score 3+ again opens corresponding therapy options in breast cancer.
|
