Utilização da imunohistoquímica para diagnóstico em Medicina Veterinária

Abstract

Immunohistochemistry has been used in the human diagnostic routine since the 1970s and, recently, has been introduced in veterinary medicine, however with its use still limited due to the lack of specific antibodies to animal tissues, thus using antibodies that present cross-reactivity between antigens humans and animals. This technique aims to visualize in the cell the distribution of antibody molecules marked with fluochromic substances (immunofluorescence), antibodies associated with enzymes (peroxidase) or radioactive (auto-radiography). For a conclusive diagnosis, with quality and usefulness, the immunohistochemical examination must be inserted in an appropriate clinical-morphological context, the selection of ideal antibodies and standardized reaction protocols must be made, clinical information must be associated and data from complementary exams, allowing the pathologist a thorough analysis of the case. Among the main indications of this exam, there is the attempt of histogenetic classification of neoplasms with undifferentiated aspects in routine slides, so that more suitable treatment schemes can be applied to these cases. This literature review aims to present the characteristics of the immunohistochemical examination, as well as its use in veterinary medicine for the diagnosis of neoplasms.