IHC: Chromogranin-A (CgA) is an immunohistochemistry (IHC) test that detects the presence of Chromogranin-A, a protein commonly expressed in neuroendocrine cells, within tissue samples. It is primarily used to identify and classify neuroendocrine tumors and determine their origin. When interpreted alongside other IHC markers and clinical findings, the test helps pathologists establish an accurate diagnosis and supports appropriate treatment planning and patient management.
The test helps identify neuroendocrine tumors, including carcinoid tumors, pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, pheochromocytomas, paragangliomas, medullary thyroid carcinoma, and certain other tumors with neuroendocrine differentiation.
Patients with a biopsy or surgically removed tissue suspected of containing a neuroendocrine tumor may be advised to undergo this test as part of their pathological evaluation and diagnosis.
A positive Chromogranin-A stain indicates that the tissue contains cells expressing Chromogranin-A protein, supporting neuroendocrine differentiation. However, the finding must always be interpreted with other pathological and clinical information.
A negative result suggests that Chromogranin-A expression is absent or below detectable levels in the tested tissue. Additional markers may still be required because some neuroendocrine tumors show variable expression.
No. The test is a supportive diagnostic tool and cannot independently diagnose cancer. Pathologists interpret the staining pattern together with tissue morphology, other immunohistochemical markers, and clinical findings.