CD68

Alias/Synonym: Macrophages, Histiocytes

CPT Code: 88342

Includes:

Specimen Type, Preferred:

Formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissue

Specimen Type, Alternate:

Sample Quantity, Preferred:

1 block

2 slides

Sample Quantity, Minimum:

N/A

Transport Container:

Paraffin block

Unstained slides

Transport Temperature:

Room temperature

Collection Instructions:

Block and slide identifiers should be clearly written and match exactly with the specimen ID and specimen labeling as noted on the requisition.

Slides should be positively charged and cut at 3-4 microns for each stain/antibody ordered.

Specimen Stability:

N/A

Rejection Criteria:

No liquid specimens.

Uncharged slides

Clinical Significance:

The CD68 molecule is an intracellular glycoprotein primarily reported to be associated with lysosomes and to a lesser extent the membranes of macrophages. CD68 assay is the most frequently used for the identification of macrophages in immunohistochemistry. However, CD68 is also found in monocytes, neutrophils, basophils and large lymphocytes. The function of the CD68 molecule is not certain but these lysosomal membrane proteins are major components and may protect the membranes from attack by acid hydrolases. It is unclear if the surface associated CD68 protein is functionally significant or due to leakage from the lysosomes. CD68 protein expression has been demonstrated in stimulated T cells and NK cells and non-hematopoietic tissues such as liver and renal tubules. It is used in the evaluation of spindle cell tumors of the dermis, subtypes of myeloid leukemia, as well as some other neoplasms.

Limitations:

Turnaround Time:

1 day(s)

Reference Ranges:

N/A

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