What is the main purpose of immunohistochemistry in pathology?

The main purpose of immunohistochemistry in pathology is to detect specific antigens in tissues. This technique enables pathologists to identify the presence and location of these antigens, which are often proteins, within tissue sections using specific antibodies. This is crucial for diagnosing diseases, particularly cancers, where identifying tumor markers can influence treatment decisions and prognostic assessments.

Immunohistochemistry helps in distinguishing between different types of tissue and their pathological states. For instance, it can differentiate between various tumor types by identifying unique antigens associated with each type, providing vital information for tailored patient care. The specificity of this method enhances the ability to characterize the pathological state, allowing for more accurate diagnoses than might be possible through traditional histopathological methods alone.