Vimentin: an evaluation of its role as a tumour marker

Histopathology. 1987 Jan;11(1):63-72. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2559.1987.tb02609.x.

Abstract

In this study we examined 198 sarcomas, 38 carcinomas, 13 'tumours with a spindle cell component' and 22 malignant melanomas with a commercial monoclonal vimentin antibody. All histopathological material was formalin fixed and paraffin embedded. The results show this antibody to be a sensitive and specific marker of mesenchymal derivation or differentiation. It is a useful tool in separating sarcomas from most carcinomas, and in separating malignant melanomas from carcinomas. When used in combination with a cytokeratin antibody it identifies carcinosarcomas and synovial sarcomas.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Carcinoma / diagnosis
  • Carcinosarcoma / diagnosis
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Immunoenzyme Techniques
  • Keratins / analysis
  • Melanoma / diagnosis
  • Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Sarcoma / diagnosis
  • Vimentin / analysis*

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Vimentin
  • Keratins