Test Directory
HER2 gene amplification
Containers - Adult
FFPE block / H&E slide / Pathology report
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Laboratory Site
Old Dalkeith Road
Edinburgh
EH16 4SA
Transport arrangements
Referral specimens should be sent directly to Molecular Pathology at the above address (see transport recommendations). For patients with pathology specimens held within NHS Lothian there is no need to arrange transport of specimens.
How to request
Availability
Monday - Friday. 09:00 – 17:00
Anticipated turnaround
An integrated Molecular Pathology report should be available within 10 working days. See results.
Static information/disclaimer
This test is accredited to ISO 15189.
Please note: alternative methodologies may be used. Full details will be included in all reports.
General additional information
Trastuzumab, in combination with cisplatin and capecitabine or 5-fluorouracil, is recommended as an option for the treatment of people with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) amplified metastatic adenocarcinoma of the stomach or gastro-oesophageal junction, who have not received prior treatment for their metastatic disease, and who have tumours expressing high levels of HER2 protein or with amplification of the HER2 gene.
HER2 expression is assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) using the Leica Oracle HER2 IHC system. Tumours exhibiting equivocal HER2 expression proceed to FISH analysis using a Vysis PathVysion HER2 DNA probe (Abbott Molecular) to identify HER2 gene amplification.
HER2 status is also used within Pathology to assess eligibility for trastuzumab therapy in breast cancer patients.
For clinical advice on appropriate investigations, please contact our Molecular Pathology team.