Test Name: HPL
Methodology: IHC
Test Description
Human placental lactogen (hPL), also previously known as ‘human chorionic somatomammotropin’, is a 22 kD protein with partial homology to growth hormone. hPL is first detectable in the maternal serum in the fifth week of gestation and reaches a plateau by the thirty-fourth week. hPL has been demonstrated by immunochemistry in the syncytiotrophoblastic cells of choriocarcinoma. A rare variant of trophoblastic tumor has been reported in the testis with resemblance to uterine placental Visualization Cytoplasmic site trophoblastic tumor. It consists purely of intermediate trophoblasts which are diffusely positive for hPL and focally for β-hCG.
Specimen Requirements
A formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block is preferred specimen type or one (1) unbaked, unstained slide cut at 4-5 microns for H&E staining (required) and two to three (2-3) positively charged unstained slides cut at 3-4 microns for each test/antibody ordered.
Storage and Transport
Use cold pack during transport of paraffin blocks and unstained slides. Cold pack should not be placed in direct contact with the specimen during shipping
Specimen Rejection Criteria
Click here to reference the specimen rejection criteria.
Turn Around Time (TAT): 2-3 Days
CPT Codes*: 88341, 88342, 88360
*The CPT codes provided with our Test Descriptions are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. Correct CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed.
