title: Practical Applications in Immunohistochemistry: Carcinomas of Unknown Primary Site.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  -Identification of the site of origin of carcinoma of unknown primary using immunohistochemistry is a frequent requirement of anatomic pathologists. Diagnostic accuracy is crucial, particularly in the current era of targeted therapies and smaller sample sizes.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  -To provide practical guidance and suggestions for classifying carcinoma of unknown primary using both proven and new antibodies, as well as targeting panels based on integration of morphologic and clinical features.
  
  
  METHODS
  -Literature review, the authors' practice experience, and authors' research.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  -With well-performed and interpreted immunohistochemistry panels, anatomic pathologists can successfully identify the site of origin of carcinoma of unknown primary. It is crucial to understand not only the diagnostic uses of the many available antibodies but also the potential limits and pitfalls.
authors.affiliation: Department of Immunohistochemistry and Anatomic Services, Pacific Pathology Partners, Seattle, Washington (Dr Kandalaft); PhenoPath Laboratories, Seattle (Dr Gown); and Department of Pathology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (Dr Gown).
authors.forename: Patricia L
authors.initials: PL
authors.lastname: Kandalaft
authors.affiliation: Department of Immunohistochemistry and Anatomic Services, Pacific Pathology Partners, Seattle, Washington (Dr Kandalaft); PhenoPath Laboratories, Seattle (Dr Gown); and Department of Pathology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (Dr Gown).
authors.forename: Allen M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Gown
mesh_terms: D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor / Q000378:metabolism*; D002277:Carcinoma / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D007150:Immunohistochemistry; D009382:Neoplasms, Unknown Primary / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology; D010340:Pathology, Surgical; D058996:Quality Improvement
chemical_list: D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor