MIC-2 is a marker of
## **Core Concept**
The MIC-2 gene product, also known as **CD99**, is a transmembrane glycoprotein that is widely used as a diagnostic marker in pathology, particularly in the identification of **Ewing's sarcoma**, a type of malignant bone tumor.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
CD99 is specifically significant because it is highly expressed on the surface of Ewing's sarcoma cells. The MIC-2 gene product (CD99) is utilized as a critical diagnostic tool due to its high sensitivity and specificity for Ewing's sarcoma. Immunohistochemical staining for CD99 is a standard procedure in pathology labs to confirm the diagnosis of Ewing's sarcoma, helping differentiate it from other types of tumors.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** While certain markers are associated with specific types of tumors, MIC-2 (CD99) is particularly noted for its association with Ewing's sarcoma, not commonly listed as a marker for the conditions in options A, B, or C.
- **Option B:** Similarly, MIC-2 is not typically highlighted as a marker for the conditions listed here, which might include various other tumor types or pathologies.
- **Option C:** This option is also incorrect as MIC-2's prominence is specifically with Ewing's sarcoma.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key clinical pearl is that **Ewing's sarcoma** shows a characteristic **membranous staining pattern** for CD99 in immunohistochemistry, which is crucial for its diagnosis. This specificity makes CD99 an invaluable marker in the diagnostic workup of small, round, blue cell tumors.
## **Correct Answer:** D. Ewing's Sarcoma.