IMMUNOHISTOCHEMISTRY, OCT 2

The IHC – OCT2 (Octamer-Binding Transcription Factor 2) test is an immunohistochemistry-based diagnostic assay used to detect OCT2 protein expression in tissue samples. OCT2 is a nuclear transcription factor that plays an essential role in the development, differentiation, and function of B lymphocytes. Because of its strong association with B-cell lineage, OCT2 serves as an important marker in hematopathology.

This test is widely used to identify and classify B-cell lymphomas, Hodgkin lymphoma, and other lymphoid malignancies. OCT2 staining helps pathologists determine the cellular origin of tumors and distinguish B-cell neoplasms from other hematologic cancers.

OCT2 is particularly valuable in cases where conventional B-cell markers show variable expression. It is often included in comprehensive lymphoma immunohistochemistry panels to improve diagnostic accuracy and support precise tumor classification.

Benefits of the Test

• Helps diagnose B-cell lymphomas
• Assists in identifying B-cell lineage tumors
• Supports classification of hematologic malignancies
• Improves lymphoma subtype diagnosis
• Helps guide treatment planning and prognosis assessment

Why Doctors Recommend This Test

Doctors recommend the IHC OCT2 test when evaluating suspected lymphomas and lymphoid neoplasms. It is commonly used in:

• B-cell lymphoma diagnosis
• Hodgkin lymphoma evaluation
• Lymph node biopsy assessment
• Hematologic malignancy classification
• Lymphoid tumor immunophenotyping
• Oncology and hematopathology investigations

OCT2 is frequently used together with markers such as CD20, CD79a, PAX5, BOB.1, MUM1, CD3, and Ki-67 to provide a comprehensive assessment of lymphoid tumors.

Preparation Before Test

No special preparation is required for this test. Important considerations include:

• The test is performed on a biopsy, lymph node, bone marrow, or surgical tissue sample
• No fasting is required
• No medication restrictions are generally necessary
• Clinical history and pathology findings may assist interpretation

Normal Reporting Time

The typical turnaround time is 3 to 5 working days, depending on specimen processing and laboratory workflow.

Who Should Take This Test

• Patients with suspected lymphoma
• Individuals with enlarged lymph nodes requiring evaluation
• Patients undergoing hematologic cancer workup
• Cases requiring lymphoma subtype classification
• Oncology and hematology patients requiring immunohistochemistry profiling

The IHC OCT2 test is an important diagnostic tool in hematopathology. By identifying B-cell-associated transcription factor expression, it helps clinicians accurately classify lymphoid malignancies and develop appropriate treatment strategies.

Clinical Significance

OCT2 immunostaining is commonly used in the evaluation of:

• Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL)
• Follicular lymphoma
• Hodgkin lymphoma
• B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma
• Lymphoproliferative disorders
• Hematologic malignancies

OCT2 expression supports B-cell lineage identification and can be particularly useful when evaluating challenging lymphoma cases.