HER-2/NEU - FISH Test

The HER-2/NEU – FISH (Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization) Test is a gold-standard molecular diagnostic test that detects amplification of the HER-2 gene in tumor tissue, a critical step in determining the most effective treatment for breast cancer and gastric (stomach) cancer.

Using advanced FISH technology, this test analyzes formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tumor samples at the genetic level, providing quantitative, highly accurate results on whether the HER-2 gene is overexpressed due to gene duplication. This information is essential for identifying patients who will benefit from targeted therapies such as Trastuzumab (Herceptin®), Pertuzumab (Perjeta®), or T-DM1 (Kadcyla®).

Offered at Lab Tests Dubai with expert pathology review, rapid turnaround, and strict quality control, this test plays a vital role in personalized oncology care, ensuring you receive the right treatment based on your tumor’s biology, not guesswork.

Why You Need This Test

You need the HER-2/NEU FISH Test if:

• You’ve been diagnosed with invasive breast or gastric cancer
• Your initial IHC test result was borderline (IHC 2+)
• Your oncologist is considering HER-2-targeted therapy
• You want to avoid ineffective treatments and unnecessary side effects
• You’re seeking precision medicine tailored to your cancer profile

This test removes uncertainty, confirming whether your cancer is driven by HER-2 overexpression, which directly impacts your treatment plan and prognosis.

Natural Production (Clarification: HER-2 Gene & Protein)

The HER-2 (Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2) gene is naturally present in human cells and helps regulate cell growth and repair. However, in about 15–20% of breast cancers and 10–30% of gastric cancers, this gene becomes amplified meaning it exists in too many copies, leading to overproduction of HER-2 protein.

This overexpression causes uncontrolled cell division, making the cancer more aggressive. The FISH test does not measure protein levels, but instead identifies genetic amplification by using fluorescent probes that bind to the HER-2 gene on chromosome 17, allowing precise counting under a fluorescence microscope.

This makes it more accurate than IHC alone, especially in borderline cases.

How to Prepare for the Test

Preparation involves coordination between your medical team and our lab:

• No patient preparation required — the test is performed on tumor tissue, not blood or saliva
• Sample needed: Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded (FFPE) tissue block or slides
• Must include patient ID, clinical history, and prior IHC results
• Complete Oncology Test Request Form (TRF) and submit digitally or with shipment

We accept samples from hospitals and clinics across the UAE. Our team supports secure shipping instructions and tracking.

Test Overview