IHC is used in histology to detect the presence of specific protein markers that can assist with accurate tumour classification and diagnosis. IHC has evolved to complement the Haematoxylin & Eosin (H&E) and Special Stain techniques that typically show tissue morphology (structure). Where H&E and Special Stains are non-specific, IHC is directed to a specific protein marker or markers. IHC is used as a diagnostic tool to assist in the diagnosis of solid tumours and cytological specimens and has been used as a mainstream diagnostic tool for almost half a century.
The Platform used in Eurofins Pathology is the BenchMark ULTRA Advanced Staining System which is intended to automatically stain histological or cytological specimens on microscope slides with specific immunohistochemistry or in situ hybridization reagents for in vitro diagnostic use. Evolved from the BenchMark series of instruments, the BenchMark ULTRA instrument fully automates the processes of baking, deparaffinization, and staining.