Diagnostic Immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy testing in Belgium

KCE Reports 384C (2024)

Immunohistochemical markers and electron microscopy are tissue analysis techniques used, among other things, for cancerous tissue typing or for diagnosing autoimmune diseases. These tests have been on the rise for several years now, with considerable variation between individual laboratories or hospitals, which caused KCE to investigate the way they are currently used in Belgium. According to this analysis, gaps in the available administrative data make it impossible to obtain a transparent view and to confirm the proper use of these techniques, which should therefore be assessed through other means (e.g. audits). Good quality guidelines should also be drawn up for the use of these tests in their most frequent indications.