Description
Why It’s Done:
This test is used to:
• Diagnose and confirm GISTs, as CD117 is a key diagnostic marker (positive in ~95% of cases).
• Guide targeted therapy decisions — for example, patients with CD117-positive GISTs may respond to tyrosine kinase inhibitors like imatinib.
• Differentiate between tumor types, particularly when diagnosing spindle cell tumors or small round blue cell tumors.
• Identify mast cell neoplasms or evaluate some hematologic malignancies (e.g., AML).
Preparation:
• No special preparation is required from the patient.
• The test is conducted on a tissue sample obtained via biopsy or surgical resection.
• If a biopsy is planned, your doctor may provide specific instructions (e.g., regarding food, drink, or medications).


