Diagnosis of metastatic neoplasms: an immunohistochemical approach.
BACKGROUND
It is important to determine the type and/or site of origin of metastatic tumors for optimal clinical management.


OBJECTIVE
To summarize the use of currently available immunohistochemical markers in the evaluation of metastatic tumors.


METHODS
Review of relevant literature on immunohistochemical evaluation of tumors and the author's personal experience.


CONCLUSIONS
Immunohistochemistry is an important ancillary technique for evaluation of metastatic tumors and should be used in the context of routine morphology and clinical information. While a single marker may be used to support a known or suspected site of origin, a carefully constructed panel is strongly recommended, particularly for tumors of morphologically uncertain lineage or origin.
Krishna
Murli
M
Department of Pathology, Mayo Clinic Florida, 4500 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA. krishna.murli@mayo.edu
D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor / Q000032:analysis*; D006801:Humans; D007150:Immunohistochemistry / Q000379:methods*; D007633:Keratins / Q000032:analysis; D009362:Neoplasm Metastasis / Q000175:diagnosis*
D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor; D007633:Keratins