Name of the Procedure:

Receptor assay; non-endocrine (specify receptor)

• Common Name(s): Receptor assay
• Technical Term: Non-endocrine receptor assay

Summary

A receptor assay is a lab test used to identify and measure the presence and quantity of specific receptors in non-endocrine tissues. Receptors are proteins on the surface of cells that bind to specific molecules and can influence cell behavior.

Purpose

The procedure is used to help diagnose and understand various medical conditions by identifying specific receptors in tissues. This can support treatment planning and predict how a disease will progress. It is commonly used in cancer diagnostics to detect receptors on tumor cells.

Indications

• Tumors or growths where receptor analysis can guide treatment (e.g., breast cancer).
• Understanding the interaction between drugs and their target receptors.
• Research purposes to identify new therapeutic targets.

Preparation

• Patients typically do not need any special preparation, but specific instructions may be given based on the tissue type being analyzed.
• A tissue sample (biopsy) or cell sample may be taken beforehand.

Procedure Description

1. Biopsy: A sample of tissue is collected from the patient, usually through a minor surgical procedure.
2. Sample Processing: The sample is prepared and preserved for analysis.
3. Assay Performance:
   • Specific reagents are applied to the sample to bind with the target receptors.
   • Various technologies like immunohistochemistry or radio-ligand binding assays are used to detect and measure the receptors.
4. Analysis: Results are analyzed to determine the presence and quantity of the specific receptors.

Duration

The initial biopsy typically takes 15-30 minutes. The analysis in the lab may take a few days to a week for results.

Setting

• Biopsy is performed in a hospital or outpatient clinic.
• The receptor assay is conducted in a specialized laboratory.

Personnel

• Physicians (e.g., Oncologist or Pathologist)
• Nurses (for biopsy procedure)
• Laboratory Technicians or Scientists (for analyzing the sample)

Risks and Complications

• Biopsy Risks: Bleeding, infection, and pain at the biopsy site.
• Assay Risks: Minimal risk as it is conducted on the biopsy sample, not the patient directly.

Benefits

• Helps tailor specific treatments based on receptor status.
• May predict the course of a disease.
• Provides crucial information for future medical decision-making.

Recovery

• Biopsy Site Care: Keep the area clean and follow any specific instructions given by your healthcare provider.
• Recovery Time: Usually minimal, some soreness at the biopsy site.

Alternatives

• Imaging studies (e.g., PET scans) to assess tumor characteristics.
• Non-receptor-specific biopsies or other molecular biology techniques.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Local anesthesia is usually used for the biopsy, minimizing pain.
• After Procedure: Some discomfort and soreness at the biopsy site. Patients receive care instructions for wound management.

Pain management may include over-the-counter pain relievers and recommendations for avoiding strenuous activity around the biopsy site to promote healing.