Alternative Name
Epithelial Membrane Antigen
Methodology
Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
Test Description
Epithelial Membrane Antigen (EMA) antibody stains normal and neoplastic cells from various tissues, including mammary epithelium, sweat glands and squamous epithelium. Hepatocellular carcinoma, adrenal carcinoma and embryonal carcinomas are consistently EMA negative, therefore, keratin positivity with negative EMA favors one of these tumors. EMA is frequently positive in meningioma, which can be useful when distinguishing it from other intracranial neoplasms, e.g. Schwannomas. The absence of EMA can also be of value since negative EMA is characteristic of tumors such as adrenal carcinoma, seminomas, paraganglioma and hepatoma.
Specimen Requirements
- A formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block is preferred specimen type
or - One (1) unbaked, unstained slide for H&E staining (required) and two to three (2-3) positively charged unstained slides (all cut at 4-5 microns) for each test/antibody ordered
- Block and slide identifiers should be clearly written and match exactly with the specimen ID and specimen labeling as noted on the requisition.
Storage & Transportation
Use cold pack for transport. Make sure cold pack is not in direct contact with specimen.
CPT Code(s)*
88342 x 1 or 88341 x 1
Turnaround Time
24 hours
Level of Service
Stain Only
New York Approved
Yes