Identifies the major intermediate filament in a variety of mesenchymal cells, including endothelial cells, all fibroblastic cells, macrophages, Sertoli cells, melanocytes, lymphocytes, and ovarian granulosa cells. Vimentin is found in all types of sarcomas and lymphomas, and it is co-expressed with cytokeratin in a subset of carcinomas (the use of TTF-1, PAX-8, etc. are preferred in this setting). Positive staining for vimentin is seen in most cells of fibrosarcomas, liposarcomas, malignant fibrous histocytomas, angiosarcomas, chondrosarcomas, and lymphomas. All melanomas and Schwannomas are strongly vimentin-positive.
A formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block is preferred specimen typeorOne (1) unbaked, unstained slide for H&E staining (required) and two to three (2-3) positively charged unstained slides (all cut at 4-5 microns) for each test/antibody orderedBlock and slide identifiers should be clearly written and match exactly with the specimen ID and specimen labeling as noted on the requisition.
Use cold pack for transport. Make sure cold pack is not in direct contact with specimen.