AE1/AE3 is a test pathologists use involving a combination of antibodies designed to recognize a group of proteins called cytokeratins. Cytokeratins are proteins found inside epithelial cells, which are the cells that line surfaces inside and outside your body, such as your skin and the lining of internal organs. The AE1/AE3 test helps pathologists identify these cytokeratins.
Why do pathologists test for AE1/AE3?
Pathologists test for AE1/AE3 to help identify and classify the type of cells present in tissue samples. This test is handy in distinguishing carcinomas (cancers originating from epithelial cells) from other types of tumours, such as sarcomas or lymphomas, which usually do not contain cytokeratins.
How do pathologists test for AE1/AE3?
Pathologists use a method called immunohistochemistry to perform the AE1/AE3 test. In this method, the special antibodies in AE1/AE3 attach specifically to cytokeratin proteins if they are present. A chemical reaction causes these cells to change colour, making them visible under a microscope. Cells that change colour are described as “positive” for AE1/AE3, meaning they contain cytokeratins. Cells that do not change colour are described as “negative.”
What types of normal cells and tissues will be positive for AE1/AE3?
Normal epithelial cells throughout your body typically test positive for AE1/AE3 because they naturally contain cytokeratin proteins. Examples include cells in your skin, respiratory tract (airways and lungs), digestive tract (stomach and intestines), urinary tract, and reproductive organs.
What types of tumours will be positive for AE1/AE3?
Tumours originating from epithelial cells, both benign (noncancerous) and malignant (cancerous), usually test positive for AE1/AE3. Cancerous epithelial tumours, known as carcinomas, can develop in many body parts. Common examples include adenocarcinomas (such as colon or lung cancer) and squamous cell carcinomas (such as skin cancer). Tumours originating from other types of cells, such as lymphomas or sarcomas, typically test negative for AE1/AE3.
About this article
Doctors wrote this article to assist you in reading and comprehending your pathology report. Feel free to contact us with any questions about this article or your pathology report. To get a comprehensive introduction to your pathology report, read this article.
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