IHC Marker - SMA Test

The SMA test is performed to find any smooth muscle origin tumours. This test is also performed during the ongoing treatment and again, once the treatment for smooth muscle origin tumour is concluded. To conduct this test, the doctor takes a sample of the biopsy tissue and measures the levels of SMA present in it. While it may sound scary for some, in reality, it is a very simple procedure. The biopsy procedure is entirely pain-free and non-risky. This test is also known as IHC Marker SMA Immunohistochemistry Biopsy Test.

You don’t need any special preparations for this test. However, there are a few things you must do before you appear for your IHC Marker SMA test; Inform your doctor about your medical history, allergies and about all the medications you are currently on. This way, if necessary, your doctor will advise you to stop your medications temporarily, until the test is concluded. Also, according to your medical history, your doctor will give you a specific set of instructions. Wear comfortable clothes and ask a family member to accompany you. Make sure you follow the doctor’s advice to a tee.

1. It helps identify the smooth muscle cells and the myofibroblasts in the normal, reactive and neoplastic tissue.

2. It helps detect any tumours.

3. It helps differentiate between leiomyosarcoma and spindle cell carcinoma.

4. It helps classify the tumours.

The IHC marker SMA test is done by using Immunohistochemistry. It is a tool that helps diagnose a wide range of diseases by detecting the abnormal cells. A simple biopsy is performed to collect the tissue sample for examination. This is done by a surgeon, interventional radiologist or interventional cardiologist. The tissue is removed using a needle. The sample of the biopsy tissue is sent to a pathology laboratory for further analysis. The pathologist will analyse the tissue under a microscope and then prepares a report based on the same.