IHC - Chromogranin Test

The IHC Chromogranin test is conducted to find the levels of Chromogranin. It is tested on a biopsy sample and helps to confirm Neuroendocrine Tumours. Neuroendocrine cells are found in organs throughout the body; they have both hormone and nerve aspects to them. These cells, along with endocrine system glands can give rise to several kinds of tumours. The test may also be used to find tumours other than neuroendocrine tumours. The test is also used during and after the treatment of a neuroendocrine tumour. Your doctor would advise you to take the test if you have symptoms that match those of a tumour such as vomiting, nausea, rapid heart rate, wheezing, coughing and appearance of deep red colour on the face and neck.

You do not need to prepare specifically for the test. You only have to make sure that you have gathered all the information from your doctor and are well aware of the process and the medications. Apart from this, your doctor would also like to know the medicines or supplements you take as certain medications can affect the test. Depending on your conditions, your doctor would advise the best course of action for you.

The level of Chromogranin in the blood is normally low. If the test results show a normal range of Chromogranin, it usually means that you are not under the threat of a neuroendocrine tumour. However, there may be a chance that a tumour is not being reflected in your Chromogranin level and results. If the level of Chromogranin is high, it shows the presence of a tumour but the location and type of the tumour do not show in the report. To know the specific details of the tumour and condition, it must be located, biopsied, and examined by a pathologist.

The test is done using the Immunohistochemistry method. This method is a special process that works by imaging specific antigens in cells of a tissue and thus, helping in locating the tumour.