Abstract: Disclosed are methods for identifying the presence of a tumor in a mammal, comprising the steps of obtaining an antibody against cell ghosts, wherein the antibody is specific to an intracellular antigen not present on the cell surface of normal or neoplastic cells, and wherein the antibody is labeled with a label capable of being imaged; administering the antibody to the mammal, thereby permitting the antibody to bind preferentially to necrotic tissue; and imaging the binding of the antibody to the necrotic tissue, wherein a localized concentration of said antibody is indicative of the presence of a tumor. The antibodies used in these methods are preferably monoclonal antibodies, are also preferably specific for one or more nuclear proteins, and are also preferably labeled with one or more radionuclides. Also disclosed are antibodies for use with the foregoing methods.

Abstract: Modified antibodies which have been by chemical conjugation with agents reactive with free amino groups are disclosed. Among the chemical agents disclosed for use in connection with the invention are heterobifunctional reagents and biotin. The use of these modified antibodies in the diagnosis and therapy of cancer and other mammalian disease is also disclosed. Diagnostic uses include immunoscintography. The modified antibodies may be further conjugated with labels or biologically active molecules for use in diagnosis and therapy. The modified antibodies may also be formulated into pharmaceutical compositions for these purposes.

Abstract: Modified antibodies are disclosed which have been modified by chemical conjugation with a heterobifunctional reagent, such as SPDP. The use of these modified antibodies in the diagnosis and therapy of cancer and other mammalian disease is also disclosed. Diagnostic uses include immunoscintography. The modified antibodies may be further conjugated with labels or biologically active molecules for use in such diagnosis and therapy. The modified antibodies may also be formulated into pharmaceutical compositions for these purposes.