Immunohistochemistry
Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a special lab technique used to diagnose diseases, especially cancer, by looking at tissue samples under a microscope. It's like giving tissue samples a special stain or color that helps doctors see specific proteins or markers that indicate diseases. Think of it as a way to highlight important cellular clues, similar to using a highlighter to mark important text in a document. This technique is crucial in hospitals and diagnostic labs for making accurate diagnoses and choosing the right treatments for patients.
Examples in Resumes
Performed over 1,000 Immunohistochemistry tests for breast cancer diagnosis
Developed new IHC protocols for improved tissue analysis
Supervised Immunohistochemistry laboratory operations and trained junior technicians
Implemented quality control measures for IHC testing procedures
Typical job title: "Immunohistochemistry Technicians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Immunohistochemistry Technicians
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you implement and maintain quality control in an IHC laboratory?
Expected Answer: A senior technician should discuss steps like positive/negative controls, standardized protocols, equipment maintenance, staff training, and documentation systems. They should mention regulatory compliance and troubleshooting procedures.
Q: How do you validate new antibodies for IHC testing?
Expected Answer: Should explain the process of testing new antibodies, including comparison with known standards, concentration optimization, and documentation of results. Should mention the importance of reproducibility and cost considerations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What steps do you take when staining results are inconsistent?
Expected Answer: Should discuss systematic troubleshooting approach: checking reagent quality, tissue processing, protocol adherence, and equipment function. Should mention documentation and consulting references.
Q: Explain how you maintain specimen tracking and documentation.
Expected Answer: Should describe systems for specimen labeling, tracking through the laboratory process, maintaining records, and ensuring patient information confidentiality.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What safety precautions do you take when handling specimens?
Expected Answer: Should mention personal protective equipment (gloves, lab coat, goggles), proper handling of biological materials, waste disposal procedures, and following laboratory safety protocols.
Q: Describe the basic steps of an IHC staining procedure.
Expected Answer: Should be able to outline the main steps: tissue preparation, antigen retrieval, antibody application, and counterstaining, even if not in technical detail.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic tissue staining techniques
- Laboratory safety procedures
- Sample preparation
- Basic equipment operation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced staining protocols
- Quality control procedures
- Troubleshooting skills
- Documentation and record-keeping
Senior (5+ years)
- Protocol development and validation
- Staff training and supervision
- Laboratory management
- Quality assurance program management
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of understanding of basic laboratory safety protocols
- No experience with quality control procedures
- Unable to explain basic staining techniques
- Poor documentation habits
- No knowledge of regulatory requirements
Related Terms
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