CD31
The purpose of this test is to:
- Detect CD31 marker expression
- Identify endothelial cells and vascular structures
- Assist in diagnosing vascular tumors (e.g., angiosarcoma)
- Evaluate angiogenesis in tumors
- Support pathological analysis of tissue samples
CD31 Test Purpose
This Test detects the presence of CD31 (Cluster of Differentiation 31), also known as Platelet Endothelial Cell Adhesion Molecule-1 (PECAM-1), in tissue samples using Immunohistochemistry (IHC). CD31 is a protein primarily expressed on endothelial cells, which line the inside of blood vessels, as well as on platelets and certain white blood cells. The test is mainly used by pathologists to identify vascular tumors, evaluate blood vessel formation (angiogenesis), and classify specific cancers.
Healthcare providers commonly recommend the CD31 Test when evaluating biopsy specimens from patients with suspected vascular tumors, unexplained soft tissue masses, or certain blood-related malignancies. It is particularly useful in diagnosing angiosarcoma, hemangioma, epithelioid hemangioendothelioma, and other tumors originating from blood vessel cells. The test also assists in differentiating vascular tumors from other soft tissue neoplasms.
Furthermore, CD31 is one of the most sensitive endothelial markers used in surgical pathology. Positive CD31 staining supports the presence of endothelial cells and helps assess tumor angiogenesis, which may provide valuable information about tumor growth and behavior. However, CD31 expression can also be seen in platelets, macrophages, and some hematological malignancies, making it essential to interpret the results together with tissue morphology and additional immunohistochemical markers. Therefore, the CD31 Test is not used as a standalone diagnostic test.
The CD31 Test is often performed alongside CD34, ERG, Factor VIII-Related Antigen (von Willebrand Factor), D2-40, CD68, CD45, Cytokeratin (CK), S100, Vimentin, and other immunohistochemical markers to accurately classify tumors and determine their tissue of origin.
This Test is Recommended for Individuals:
- Patients with suspected vascular tumors.
- Individuals undergoing biopsy evaluation for soft tissue masses.
- Patients with suspected angiosarcoma, hemangioma, or epithelioid hemangioendothelioma.
- Individuals requiring immunohistochemical characterization of tumors.
- Patients with suspected hematological or endothelial cell malignancies.
- Individuals undergoing cancer diagnosis or tumor classification.
- Patients advised by their pathologist, oncologist, or surgeon to undergo CD31 immunohistochemistry testing.
FAQs
1. What is the CD31 Test used for?
This Test detects CD31 protein in tissue samples. It helps identify vascular tumors, evaluate blood vessel formation (angiogenesis), and supports the diagnosis and classification of certain cancers using immunohistochemistry.
2. Is fasting required for the CD31 Test?
No. Fasting is not required because the CD31 Test is performed on a biopsy or tissue sample, not on a blood sample. Follow any instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding the biopsy procedure.
3. Does a positive CD31 result mean cancer?
Not necessarily. A positive CD31 result indicates the presence of endothelial cells or CD31-expressing cells within the tissue. While it may support the diagnosis of vascular tumors, CD31 can also be expressed in normal blood vessels and certain non-vascular cells. Your pathologist will interpret the result together with the biopsy findings, other immunohistochemistry markers, and your clinical history to establish an accurate diagnosis.