Sample Requirements

Specimen:  Tissue

Container(s):  see note

Preferred Vol:  see note

Minimum Vol:  see note

Note: 

Except for Epidermolysis Bullosa (E.B.), tests include light microscopy and possible immunofluorescence, electron microscopy, and fibroblast culture.  A 1 x 0.5 x 0.5 cm skin piece is adequate for all tests; alternatively take a 3 mm punch biopsy for one test or 4 mm punch biopsy for up to two tests. Unfixed tissue should be placed on Saline-moistened telfa in sterile specimen container.

FRESH (no fixative)specimens must be delivered immediately to  Histology (FB.4.555) and given to someone's personal charge; identify it as a fresh specimen

Fixatives for specimens not delivered immediately:  Light microscopy - formalin; immunofluoresence - Michel's or tissue culture transport media (RPMI); electron microscopy - 3% glutaraldehyde; fibroblast culture - tissue culture transport media.

For fibroblast culture use Genetics Service Request (See separate listing for fibroblast culture).

After 1700, deliver specimens to Histology (FB.4.555) and place in the refrigerator. Notify the pathologist on call.   

For Epidermolysis Bullosa  (http://dermatopathology.stanford.edu/services/epiderm.html)

Obtain appropriate media from Histology Lab. It is paramount that diagnostic biopsies are performed on freshly induced blister; two 4mm bunch biopsies should be obtained at edge and contain 1/3 lesion and 2/3 perilesional skin; DO NOT CUT IN HALF; place 1 sample in Zeus or Michel's media and another in gluteraldehyde. No H & E is necessary unless an autoimmune blistering disorder is suspected. In that setting a third biopsy should be submitted in formalin. Deliver to lab with appropriately completed requisition form that includes "Testing for Epidermolysis Bullosa" and name of pathologist who was contacted.

Additional information and specific handling instructions may be obtained from Histology at (206) 987-2580 or Pathology (206) 987-2103.