HER2/NEU

The HER2/Neu Gene Amplification test detects the amplification of the HER2 gene, often seen in certain types of breast cancer. Overexpression of this gene is associated with aggressive tumor growth. The test is used to assess eligibility for HER2-targeted therapies.

Also known asHER2 NEU TestERBB2 FISHHER2 Amplification TestHER2 Gene Overexpression

Available via

Home Collection, Lab Visit

Contains

12 parameters

Earliest reports in

5 Working Days

Test details

HER2/NEU Test in Mumbai Overview

What is HER 2/ NEU Test?

The HER2/neu test (also called ERBB2 test) is a diagnostic test used to measure the presence and amount of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) protein or gene amplification in breast cancer or other types of cancer tissue. HER2 is a protein that promotes the growth of cancer cells. In about 15–20% of breast cancers, the cancer cells make too much HER2 due to a gene mutation.

Thes results can be:

  • HER2-negative: Little or no HER2 protein/gene expression. These patients won't benefit from HER2-targeted therapies.
  • HER2-positive: High HER2 protein/gene expression. Candidates for HER2-targeted therapies.
  • HER2-low: A newer category where low expression (IHC 1+ or 2+ with negative FISH) may be eligible targeted therpies

Why consider HER 2/ NEU Test?

The HER2/neu test is important because it helps:

  • Determine cancer aggressiveness: HER2-positive cancers tend to grow and spread faster.
  • Guide treatment decisions: HER2-positive cancers may respond to targeted therapies like trastuzumab (Herceptin), and others.
  • Predict prognosis: HER2-positive cancers, if untreated, may have a worse prognosis—but targeted therapy has dramatically improved outcomes.

Who should get this HER 2/ NEU Test?

  • Patients newly diagnosed with breast cancer (especially invasive breast cancer)
  • Patients with metastatic (spread) breast cancer — Testing helps in determining the best treatment options.
  • Gastric (stomach) cancers or gastroesophageal junction cancers, where HER2-targeted therapies may also be considered.
  • Monitoring HER2 status in recurrent cancer, as HER2 expression can change over time.

More Information HER 2/ NEU Test

OTHER NAMES: HER2NEU, ERBB2, HER2 BY IHC, Herceptin

HER2 testing is a crucial part of personalized cancer treatment. The results help ensure that patients receive the most effective, targeted therapy for their specific cancer type.

Preparations

No special preparations needed

Test included
HER2/NEU includes 12 parameters

  • Request Letter
  • Clinical Indications
  • Block Id No.
  • Specimen
  • Time Of Fixation
  • Duration Of Fixation
  • Number Of Observers
  • Total Number Of Cells Counted (a)
  • Average Her-2 (orange) Signals Counted/ Nucleus (b)
  • Average Cep 17 (green) Signals Counted/ Nucleus (c)
  • Ratio Of Average Her-2 Signals/ Average Cep 17 Signals (b/c)
  • Intrepretation

Test code

6006F

Specimen vol. and vacutainer information
SpecimenVacutainerVolume
Paraffin BlockOthers4 NOS

Specimen stability information

Paraffin Block

Collection instructions

Formalin-Fixed (10% Buffered Formalin For 24-48 Hrs), Paraffin-Embedded (Ffpe) Tissue Specimens. Transport Tissue Block Or 3 Unstained Slides/ Sample (4-Micron Thick Sections) Containing Malignant Tissue On Positively Charged Slides. * Time And Duration Of Fixation Should Be Mentioned On The Trf.* Required Clinical Details, Include Surgical Pathology Report.

Specimen rejection criteria

Test run frequency

Every Day TIME - 07:00

Turn around time

5 Working Days

Performing locations

Department

  • Cytogenetics

CPT and Loinc codes

HER2/NEU

14980