Histopathological and Immunohistochemistry Correlation in Gastrointestinal Tumours: A Retrospective Study
Arpita V. Salvi, Neeru D. Dave, Harshit N. ChaudhariAbstract
Background:
Gastrointestinal tumours (GITs) constitute a heterogeneous group of neoplasms with diverse histogenesis, morphology and clinical behaviour. Accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate classification and management, yet histopathological overlap among tumour subtypes often poses diagnostic challenges. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) serves as an important adjunct to routine histopathology in resolving such dilemmas.
Objectives:
The objective of this study was to evaluate the histopathological spectrum of GITs and to assess the correlation between histopathological findings and IHC profiles.
Materials and Methods:
This retrospective descriptive study included 100 cases of GITs received over 2 years at a tertiary care centre. Specimens from the oesophagus to the anal canal were analysed using routine haematoxylin and eosin staining. Immunohistochemistry was performed using a panel of epithelial, mesenchymal, neuroendocrine, lymphoid and proliferative markers wherever indicated. Demographic details, tumour site, histopathological diagnosis and IHC findings were analysed using descriptive statistics.
Results:
The majority of patients were males (60%), with peak incidence in the 41–60-year age group. Adenocarcinoma was the most common malignancy (60%), followed by squamous cell carcinoma (28%). The oesophagus was the most frequently involved site. Immunohistochemistry was used mainly for confirmatory purposes, with IHC panels required in most cases. A high concordance rate (99%) was observed between histopathological and IHC diagnoses.
Conclusion:
The study highlights the pivotal role of immunohistochemistry in confirming and refining the diagnosis of GITs, especially in morphologically ambiguous cases, thereby enhancing diagnostic accuracy.