For in Vitro Diagnostic Use: QCS HER2 ImmunoControls, are intended for laboratory use to control semi-quantitative immunohistochemistry using different Her2/neu antibodies. This control ensures that performance of immunohistochemical staining is consistent in one laboratory over time and also aids in correlation with the results of other laboratories.
Device Story
QCS HER2 ImmunoControls are quality control slides for semi-quantitative immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays. Each slide contains four formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) human breast cancer cell line sections representing distinct HER2/neu protein expression levels (-, 1+, 2+, 3+). Used in clinical laboratories by pathologists or laboratory technicians to monitor IHC staining consistency over time and facilitate inter-laboratory result correlation. The device serves as a reference standard; the user compares the staining intensity of the control sections against the patient sample staining. Consistent control performance ensures assay validity, aiding clinicians in accurately determining HER2 overexpression status in breast cancer patients, which informs therapeutic decision-making.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. The manufacturer performed immunohistochemical staining studies comparing the subject device to the predicate DAKO HercepTest control slides using various antibodies (CB11, HercepTest). Results demonstrated that the subject device cell lines (MDA-361, MDA-453, MDA-175, MCF-7) exhibit expected staining intensities (3+, 2+, 1+, -) consistent with the predicate. Antigen stability testing confirmed the controls are stable for at least 6 months.
Technological Characteristics
Form factor: Positively charged glass slides containing four FFPE human breast cancer cell line sections. Principle: Immunohistochemical staining control. Materials: Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded human breast cancer cell lines. Connectivity: None (standalone). Sterilization: Not applicable.
Indications for Use
Indicated for laboratory use as a control for semi-quantitative immunohistochemistry assays using HER2/neu antibodies. The device consists of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded breast cancer cell line sections representing four levels of HER2/neu protein expression (-, 1+, 2+, 3+).
Regulatory Classification
Identification
Immunohistochemistry test systems (IHC's) are in vitro diagnostic devices consisting of polyclonal or monoclonal antibodies labeled with directions for use and performance claims, which may be packaged with ancillary reagents in kits. Their intended use is to identify, by immunological techniques, antigens in tissues or cytologic specimens. Similar devices intended for use with flow cytometry devices are not considered IHC's.
Special Controls
(2) Class II (special control, guidance document: “FDA Guidance for Submission of Immunohistochemistry Applications to the FDA,” Center for Devices and Radiologic Health, 1998). These IHC's are intended for the detection and/or measurement of certain target analytes in order to provide prognostic or predictive data that are not directly confirmed by routine histopathologic internal and external control specimens. These IHC's provide the pathologist with information that is ordinarily reported as independent diagnostic information to the ordering clinician, and the claims associated with these data are widely accepted and supported by valid scientific evidence. Examples of class II IHC's are those intended for semiquantitative measurement of an analyte, such as hormone receptors in breast cancer.
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**JUN 1 8 2003**
K023335
# 510 (K) SUMMARY
| Submitter: | Junqi Qian, M.D., President<br>QC Sciences, LLC<br>2807 N. Parham Road, Suite 114<br>Richmond, VA 23294<br>Tel: (804) 288-6564 |
|---------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Date Summary<br>Prepared: | June 12, 2003 |
| Device Name: | Common Name: QCS control slides for HER2<br>immunohistochemistry.<br>Trade Name: QCS HER2 ImmunoControls<br>(Product No. C010). |
| Device<br>Classification: | Class I or Class II has been proposed for immunohistochemical<br>controls. |
| Panel: | The proposed device classification is under the Hematology<br>and Pathology devices panel. Division of Clinical Laboratory<br>Devices. |
| Predicate Device: | Control slides in DAKO HercepTest Kit (Product Code No.<br>K5204, FDA PMA# P980018). DAKO HercepTest is a semi-<br>quantitative immunohistochemical assay to determine HER2<br>overexpression in breast cancer. This kit includes primary<br>antibody against HER2, secondary polymer, substrate and control<br>slides prepared from cell lines. |
| Device Description: | QCS HER2 ImmunoControls: This product provides appropriate<br>control for semi-quantitative immunohistochemistry using<br>polyclonal or monoclonal HER2/neu antibodies. Each slide<br>contains four control sections prepared from breast cancer cell<br>lines that represent different levels of Her-2/neu protein expression<br>(-, 1+, 2+, 3+). These cells are formalin-fixed and paraffin-<br>embedded, the slide is positively charged. |
| Intended Use: | For in Vitro Diagnostic Use:<br>QCS HER2 ImmunoControls, are intended for laboratory use to<br>control semi-quantitative immunohistochemistry using different<br>Her2/neu antibodies. This control ensures that performance of<br>immunohistochemical staining is consistent in one laboratory over<br>time and also aids in correlation with the results of other<br>laboratories. |
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## Statement of substantial Equivalence:
Fach OCS HER2 control slide contains four control sections prepared from breast cancer cell lines that represent different levels of Her-2/neu protein expression (-, 1+, 2+, 3+). These cells are formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded, the slide is positively charged.
OCS HER2 controls are comparable in use and technology to DAKO HER2 control slides in HercepTest Kit, which is currently in commercial distribution. Similarities between the QCS HER2 controls and the DAKO HER2 controls include: 1) both products are prepared from formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded human breast cancer cell lines; 2) both products can be stained by HER2 polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies using the same protocol; 3) both products can be used as controls for semiquantitative immunohistochemistry; and 4) the scoring method of staining intensity is the same. The differences between the two products include: 1) Each QCS HER2 control slide contains 4 sections (-, 1+, 2+, 3+), while DAKO HER2 control slide contains 3 sections (-, 1+, 3+); 2) the cell lines in QCS controls (MDA-361, MDA-453 and MCF-7) are different from DAKO controls. Multiple studies demonstrate the following expected results as presented in Table 1.
| Antibodies | QCS HER2 Controls | | | | DAKO HER2 Controls | | |
|-------------------------|-------------------|---------|---------|-------|--------------------|---------------|--------------|
| | MDA-361 | MDA-453 | MDA-175 | MCF-7 | SK-BR-3 (3+)* | MDA-175 (1+)* | MDA23 1 (0)* |
| CB11<br>(Cell Marque)** | 3+ | 2+ | 1+ | - | 3+ | 1+ | - |
| HercepTest<br>(DAKO) | 3+ | 2+ | 1+ | - | 3+ | 1+ | - |
Table 1. Immunohistochemical Characteristics of Cell Lines in OCS and DAKO HER2 Controls
* Expected level of staining for valid results on the DAKO cell line control slide, as given in the HercepTest protocol (DAKO, Carpinteria, CA). All these 7 cell lines are human breast cancer cell lines.
**Representative HER2 ASR antibody.
Antigen stability testing indicates that OCS HER2 ImmunoControls are stable for at least 6 months once manufactured.
#### References:
1) Rhodes A. Jasani B. Couturier J. McKinley MJ, Morgan JM, Dodson AR, Navabi H, Miller KD, Balaton AJ. A formalin-fixed, paraffin-processed cell line standard for quality control of immunohistochemical assay of HER-2/neu expression in breast cancer. Am J Clin Pathol. 2002 Jan;117(1):81-9. 2) Taylor CR. The total test approach to standardization of immunohistochemistry.
Arch Pathol Lab Med. 2000 Jul;124(7):945-51.
3) Ruby SG, McNally AC. Quality control of proliferation marker (MIB-1) in image analysis systems utilizing cell culture-based control materials. Am J Clin Pathol. 1996 Nov;106(5):634-9.
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Image /page/2/Picture/1 description: The image is a black and white seal for the Department of Health & Human Services USA. The seal is circular with the text "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES USA" arranged around the perimeter. In the center of the seal is a stylized image of an eagle.
Food and Drug Administration 2098 Gaither Road Rockville MD 20850
JUN 1 8 2003
Junqi Qian, M.D. President OC Sciences, LLC 2807 N. Parham Road, Suite 114 Richmond, Virginia 23294
Re: k023335
> Trade/Device Name: QCS ImmunoControl slides for HER2 Immunohistochemistry (Product Code C010) Regulation Number: 21 CFR & 864.1860 Regulation Name: Immunohistochemistry Reagents and Kits Regulatory Class: II Product Code: NJW Dated: May 15, 2003 Received: May 16, 2003
Dear Dr. Qian:
We have reviewed your Section 510(k) premarket notification of intent to market the device referenced above and have determined the device is substantially equivalent (for the indications for use stated in the enclosure) to legally marketed predicate devices marketed in interstate commerce prior to May 28, 1976, the enactment date of the Medical Device Amendments, or to devices that have been reclassified in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Food. Drug. and Cosmetic Act (Act) that do not require approval of a premarket approval application (PMA). You may, therefore, market the device, subject to the general controls provisions of the Act. The general controls provisions of the Act include requirements for annual registration, listing of devices, good manufacturing practice, labeling, and prohibitions against misbranding and adulteration.
If your device is classified (see above) into either class II (Special Controls) or class III (PMA), it may be subject to such additional controls. Existing major regulations affecting your device can be found in Title 21, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Parts 800 to 895. In addition, FDA may publish further announcements concerning your device in the Federal Register.
Please be advised that FDA's issuance of a substantial equivalence determination does not mean that FDA has made a determination that your device complies with other requirements of the Act or any Federal statutes and regulations administered by other Federal agencies. You must comply with all the Act's requirements, including, but not limited to: registration and listing (21 CFR Part 807); labeling (21 CFR Parts 801 and 809); and good manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in the quality systems (QS) regulation (21 CFR Part 820). This hetter will allow you to begin marketing your device as described in your Section 510(k) premarket notification. The FDA finding of substantial equivalence of your device to a legally marketed predicate device results in a classification for your device and thus, permits your device to proceed to the market.
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Page 2 -
If you desire specific information about the application of labeling requirements to your device, or questions on the promotion and advertising of your device, please contact the Office of In Vitro Diagnostic Device Evaluation and Safety at (301) 594-3084. Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21CFR Part 807.97). You may obtain other general information on your responsibilities under the Act from the Division of Small Manufacturers, International and Consumer Assistance at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 443-6597 or at its Internet address http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/dsma/dsmamain.html.
Sincerely yours,
iteven Sutman
Steven I. Gutman, M.D., M.B.A. Director Office of In Vitro Diagnostic Device Evaluation and Safety Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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### 510(K) Number (if known): K023335
Device Name:
QCS ImmunoControl slides for HER2 Immunohistochemistry (Product Code C010)
# Indication For Use:
For in Vitro Diagnostic Use:
QCS HER2 ImmunoControls, are intended for a laboratory to control semi-quantitative immunohistochemistry using different HER2/neu antibodies. Each QCS HER2 control slide contains four control sections prepared from breast cancer ccll lines that represent different levels of Her-2/neu protein expression. The cells are formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded. These controls ensure that performance of immunohistochemical staining is consistent in one laboratory over time and also aids in correlation with the results of other laboratories.
(PLEASE DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE-CONTINUE ON ANOTHER PAGE IF NEEDED)
Prescription Use /
(Per 21 CFR 801.109)
Concurrence of CDRH, Office of Device Evaluation (ODE)/
Division Sign-Off
Office of In Vitro Diagnostic Device
Evaluation and Safety
510(k) K023335
OR
Over-The-Counter Use *_*_
(Optional Format 1-2-96)
immunoh
correlat
gga/inde
NOTI
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1. Search: exact and fuzzy
Type a phrase like "coronary artery calcification" into the search box. You get two kinds of results. Exact results match the literal phrase — prefix searches work ("coronary artery calcificati") but suffix searches do not. Fuzzy results match on the meaning and intent of your phrase rather than the exact words, and are sorted by relevance score. Hover over the Exact or Fuzzy badge on any row to see exactly why it matched.
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You search "coronary artery calcification" and want only software devices with AI. What two filters do you apply?
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Scroll right in the results table. The intended use is extracted for you — no need to open the PDF. The device story gives a high-level snapshot of what the device does and how it's used. The AI Performance sub-table shows each output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, and development/test dataset descriptions — the same format Innolitics uses for regulatory strategy outputs, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. It is AI-generated but has been very reliable in practice.
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Output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, development dataset description, and test dataset description. It's the same format we use for regulatory strategy output and Fast 510(k) input, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. AI-generated but reliable in practice.
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Fuzzy results trail off in relevance as you scroll. Use three signals to decide how far down to go: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether your target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, you're past the relevant zone. A top hit with a low score (~0.4) and a stretched explanation is a hint the closest predicates are far away — the project may be headed for De Novo. Note the fuzzy search is a pattern match: it doesn't handle negation ("not") well, and hardware devices can appear — filter by SaMD/AI ML to cut them.
How do you judge how far down fuzzy search results to go?
Use the relevancy signals: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether the target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, results are trailing off in relevancy.
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Select multiple rows in the results table (aim for under ~10), then open the PDF Viewer tab. Ask one question — it goes to all selected devices in parallel, each with citations. This is the fastest way to compare and contrast devices: training data, PCCP scope, how they handled adding new scanners, and so on.
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Select multiple devices, open the PDF viewer tab, and ask one question (e.g., "Describe the training data"). It queries all selected devices simultaneously with citations, so you can compare and contrast quickly.
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Click "Show Chart" and segment by Regulation Number. Clicking a regulation takes you to the regulations tree.
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Open the Predicates tab for a family-tree view of predicate relationships. Click a node to trace its parents and children; selections from search carry over pre-selected. Commonly predicated devices are worth reading — a lot of people predicated them for a reason. The visual lineage is also handy on client calls, e.g. to show how a predicate family evolved and justify why your predicate still holds.
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A lot of people predicated them for a reason. Clicking a node traces parents and children, and selections from search carry over pre-selected.
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The Embeddings tab plots every matching document in a 2-D "galaxy map" where semantically similar devices cluster together. Hover or click clusters to explore, and let AI label the clusters for you. Embeddings beat product codes for grouping: two devices can carry different product codes (LLZ vs. QIH) yet do the same thing — the embedding captures the meaning of the intended use and device story. This is also exactly how retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) works under the hood, and it makes a great visual on client calls.
Try it yourself
Head to the search page and work through a few of these AI/ML fuzzy searches to build intuition: perivascular fat on CT · aortic valve calcification opportunistic screening on noncontrast CT · breast cancer prediction on digital pathology slides · autism detection · gestational age prediction · a hearing aid that can also detect a pulse · foundation model based analysis of ECG · large language models · penetration test. Watch how the relevance scores, intended use, and AI Performance tables tell you when results stop being meaningful.