Immunohistochemistry Chromogranin A (CGA) Test
Comprehensive Introduction to Chromogranin A Testing
The Immunohistochemistry Chromogranin A (CGA) Test represents a cornerstone in modern cancer diagnostics, specifically designed to detect neuroendocrine tumors through advanced immunohistochemical techniques. This sophisticated laboratory analysis identifies the presence of chromogranin A protein, a crucial marker found in neuroendocrine cells throughout the body. As neuroendocrine tumors can develop in various organs including the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, pancreas, and adrenal glands, this test provides essential diagnostic information that guides treatment decisions and prognostic assessments.
Chromogranin A serves as the most reliable and widely used immunohistochemical marker for neuroendocrine differentiation. Its detection through specialized staining methods allows pathologists to confirm neuroendocrine origin in tumor tissues, differentiate between various tumor types, and assess the degree of neuroendocrine differentiation. This information proves invaluable for oncologists and pathologists in developing targeted treatment strategies and monitoring disease progression.
What the Immunohistochemistry Chromogranin A Test Detects
The Immunohistochemistry Chromogranin A Test specifically measures the presence and distribution of chromogranin A protein within tissue samples. This glycoprotein is stored in secretory granules of neuroendocrine cells and serves multiple critical functions:
- Detection of neuroendocrine differentiation in tumor tissues
- Identification of chromogranin A expression patterns
- Assessment of neuroendocrine tumor grade and aggressiveness
- Confirmation of neuroendocrine origin in metastatic tumors
- Evaluation of treatment response in neuroendocrine malignancies
The test utilizes specific antibodies that bind to chromogranin A molecules, creating visible staining patterns that pathologists can interpret under microscopic examination. The intensity and distribution of staining provide crucial information about the tumor’s biological characteristics and behavior.
Who Should Consider Chromogranin A Testing
Several patient populations benefit from Immunohistochemistry Chromogranin A testing, particularly those presenting with symptoms or clinical findings suggestive of neuroendocrine tumors:
Clinical Indications Include:
- Patients with unexplained carcinoid syndrome symptoms (flushing, diarrhea, wheezing)
- Individuals with abnormal imaging findings suggesting neuroendocrine tumors
- Patients with elevated serum chromogranin A levels
- Those with suspected pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma
- Cases of metastatic cancer with unknown primary origin
- Patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) syndromes
- Individuals with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors
- Cases requiring differentiation between neuroendocrine and non-neuroendocrine tumors
Significant Benefits of Chromogranin A Testing
The Immunohistochemistry Chromogranin A Test offers numerous advantages for patients and healthcare providers:
Diagnostic Precision
Provides definitive confirmation of neuroendocrine tumor diagnosis, enabling accurate classification and appropriate treatment planning. The test’s high specificity and sensitivity make it an invaluable tool in cancer diagnostics.
Therapeutic Guidance
Results directly influence treatment decisions, including surgical approaches, chemotherapy regimens, and targeted therapies. Positive chromogranin A staining may indicate eligibility for specific neuroendocrine tumor treatments.
Prognostic Information
The staining intensity and pattern can provide insights into tumor behavior and potential aggressiveness, helping clinicians predict disease course and monitor treatment response.
Comprehensive Tumor Characterization
Enables complete pathological assessment when combined with other immunohistochemical markers, providing a comprehensive picture of tumor biology and characteristics.
Understanding Your Test Results
Interpreting Immunohistochemistry Chromogranin A results requires professional medical expertise, but general guidance can help patients understand their reports:
Positive Results
A positive result indicates the presence of chromogranin A protein in the tested tissue, confirming neuroendocrine differentiation. The staining intensity (weak, moderate, or strong) and distribution pattern provide additional information about the tumor’s characteristics.
Negative Results
A negative result suggests the absence of significant chromogranin A expression, which may indicate a non-neuroendocrine tumor or poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma. However, correlation with clinical findings and other diagnostic tests is essential.
Interpretation Considerations
- Results should always be interpreted in clinical context
- Correlation with other immunohistochemical markers is crucial
- Staining patterns may vary between different neuroendocrine tumor types
- Some neuroendocrine tumors may show weak or focal chromogranin A expression
- Results guide further diagnostic and therapeutic decisions
Test Pricing and Availability
| Test Component | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Discount Price | $76 |
| Regular Price | $112 |
Turnaround Time
- Sample Acceptance: Daily by 6 PM
- Report Generation: Tissue Block – 5 days
- Tissue Biopsy – 5 days
- Large Complex Tissue – 7 days
Sample Requirements
Submit tumor tissue in 10% formal-saline OR formalin fixed paraffin embedded block. Ship at room temperature. Provide a copy of the Histopathology report, Site of biopsy and Clinical history.
Nationwide Availability and Booking
We maintain comprehensive diagnostic facilities across the United States, with branches in all major metropolitan areas including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, San Jose, and numerous other cities. Our network ensures convenient access to advanced diagnostic testing for patients nationwide.
For immediate scheduling or to discuss your testing needs with our specialist team, contact us directly at +1(267) 388-9828. Our experienced oncology and pathology specialists are available to answer your questions and facilitate prompt test scheduling.
Take the first step toward precise neuroendocrine tumor diagnosis. Book your Immunohistochemistry Chromogranin A Test today and benefit from our specialized expertise in cancer diagnostics and personalized patient care.
