HER2 DUAL ISH DNA PROBE COCKTAIL

What is HER2 DUAL ISH DNA Probe Cocktail test?

The HER2 Dual ISH (In Situ Hybridization) DNA Probe Cocktail test is a laboratory diagnostic test used to evaluate the HER2 gene status in tumor cells, especially in breast cancer tissue samples.The test detects HER2 gene amplification (increase in number of HER2 gene copies) in cancer cells.

It uses two DNA probes: One targeting the HER2 gene region and another targeting the CEP17 gene (centromere of chromosome 17) as a control/reference. These probes are labeled with different colored markers, allowing visualization under a microscope. It is performed on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue samples, such as a biopsy or surgical specimen.

Why consider HER2 DUAL ISH DNA Probe Cocktail test?

• To determine HER2 status in cancers, especially breast and gastric cancers, which helps guide treatment.
• HER2-positive cancers often respond to targeted therapies like trastuzumab (Herceptin), pertuzumab, and others.
• Helps confirm equivocal results from other HER2 tests such as immunohistochemistry (IHC).
• Provides a quantitative and reliable method for assessing HER2 gene amplification.
• Crucial for personalizing cancer treatment and improving prognosis.

Who should get this HER2 DUAL ISH DNA PROBE COCKTAIL test?

• Patients diagnosed with breast cancer or gastric/GEJ (gastroesophageal junction) adenocarcinoma to assess eligibility for HER2-targeted therapies.
• When immunohistochemistry (IHC) results are borderline or unclear (usually IHC 2+ cases).
• To guide treatment decisions, especially when considering anti-HER2 therapies.
• Sometimes used in other HER2-related cancers as determined by oncologists.

More Information

OTHER NAMES: HER2 Dual In Situ Hybridization Test, HER2 Dual ISH Test, HER2 Gene Amplification Test, HER2 FISH Alternative Test (ISH is an alternative to Fluorescence ISH), ERBB2 Dual ISH Probe Test

HER2 is a protein receptor found on the surface of some cells, especially breast cells, that helps regulate cell growth and division. It’s part of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family. The HER2 gene (also called ERBB2) provides instructions for making the HER2 protein. Normally, HER2 helps control how cells grow, divide, and repair themselves. HER2 is a key biomarker in breast and some gastric cancers. Testing HER2 status is a standard part of cancer diagnosis and treatment planning.