Agilus Diagnostics, India’s largest network of pathology laboratories, has successfully validated and launched the Dual-color Dual-Hapten In Situ Hybridization (D-DISH) test—a major innovation in the diagnosis of HER2 equivocal breast cancer cases.
Demonstrating over 98% concordance with the gold-standard FISH method, the D-DISH test provides highly reliable results while reducing turnaround time (TAT) by up to two days. Its elimination of fluorescence microscopy makes the test both technically simpler and easier to archive, offering a practical, clinic-ready alternative for oncopathology labs.
The validation process included 20 HER2-positive and 20 HER2-negative samples, and the test is now commercially available. Leading cancer care institutions such as Tata Memorial Hospital, Manipal Hospitals, Cytecare Hospital (Bengaluru), and Apollo Hospital (Chennai) have already adopted D-DISH, particularly as a reflex test in HER2 equivocal cases, where timely decision-making is critical.
“This introduction marks a pivotal shift in diagnostic speed and precision,” said Dr. Anand K, MD & CEO of Agilus Diagnostics. “We are proud to be the first national laboratory network to offer D-DISH for HER2 testing in India. Its fast reporting, clear interpretation, and strong reproducibility make it an invaluable complement to FISH.”
Prominent oncologists from the Fortis network, including Dr. Nitesh Rohatgi, Dr. Niti Raizada, Dr. Boman Dhabar, and Dr. Rajeev Bedi, have underscored the urgency for faster and more robust HER2 testing solutions—especially in time-sensitive clinical workflows. D-DISH meets these demands, improving diagnostic turnaround and aiding treatment decisions.
Dr. Kunal Sharma, Vice President & Head – Integrated Onco-pathology at Agilus Diagnostics, added, “D-DISH ensures minimal inter-observer variability, strong signal clarity, and easy identification of the invasive tumor areas—allowing pathologists to focus on the most clinically relevant regions.”
With the nationwide rollout of D-DISH, Agilus Diagnostics reinforces its mission to deliver world-class, accessible, and timely diagnostic innovations that elevate cancer care across India.