Contributions of immunocytochemistry to gynaecological pathology

The immunoperoxidase technique is relatively simple and inexpensive, and once established it can be easily adapted to any number of antigens. The method has already been employed to localize a wide variety of enzymes, proteins, polypeptide hormones, steroid hormones, immunoglobulins, and viral and protozoal antigens. The only limitations of the immunoperoxidase technique are the availability of specific antisera and the ability of the cellular product being tested to retain its antigenicity through the process of fixation, dehydration and embedding. It is now apparent that, with the exception of a few labile antigens, most cellular products survive routine fixation to the extent that sufficient antigenic determinants remain to permit their recognition. Meaningful interpretation of the results, however, depends on thoughtful evaluation of the methodology. This requires careful immunological and tissue controls. Standardization of antibodies used as reagents, particularly in the rapidly burgeoning field of monoclonal antibodies, is essential in order that studies performed by different laboratories can be compared. The application of immunocytochemistry to the study of gynaecological disease has been relatively recent, but it is apparent that this technique is a powerful tool with which to confirm and extend the morphological observations made over the last century. By taking advantage of the high degree of specificity of antibodies, immunocytochemistry has assumed a prominent role as a highly specific 'special stain'. Of perhaps even greater significance is the use of this technique to explore and characterize the biochemical features of cells within the framework of conventional morphology. Thus, gynaecological pathology is on the threshold of a new era in which the pathologist can now study the cellular manifestations of disease on both a functional and a morphological basis.