Biopsies

Biopsies

Alternate Test Name

Biopsies, Pathology Examination, Surgical Pathology, Surgical Specimens, Tissue Specimens, Organ Resections

Mnemonic

N/A

Methodology

Gross and microscopic diagnosis or Gross description and diagnosis only as applicable

Result Availabilty

Routine Biopsies 24 hours
Larger more complex cases 3-5 days
Cases requiring outside testing/consultations 7-10 days

Container

Submit entire specimen in an appropriate sized container to adequately hold the specimen plus formalin. The recommended amount of formalin is twenty times the volume of the specimen (Contact Laboratory)

Collection Instructions

Label container with the following information:
• Patient Name
• Patient Date of Birth
• Source/Specimen type and location e.g. skin from right hand

• Immediately place specimen in formalin
• Do not place in saline. Small tissues can be ruined in a short time by placing in saline
• Do not allow to dry out

NOTE: If speicmen is to be sent to Microbiology for culture do not place in formalin. Send to Microbiology first with the appropriate requisition, noting specimen is to be forwarded to Pathology

On speicmen requisition please record the following:
• Patient Name
• Patient Date of Birth
• Medical Record number (if known)
• Date and Time of collection
• Source/Specimen type and location e.g. skin from right hand
• Clinical History/Diagnosis

CAUTION: Formalin contains formaldehyde, which is toxic by inhalation and if swallowed. It is irritating to the eyes, respiratory system and skin. May cause sensitization by inhalation or skin contact. Risk of serious damage to eyes. May cause Cancer, repeated or prologned exposure increases the risk.

Transportation Instructions

• Ensure that lid of container is tightly sealed to prevent leakage of formalin
• Place in a biohazard bag and seal
• Place the completed requisition in the outside pouch of the biohazard bag

Stability

Specimen will deteriorate if not placed in formalin

Causes for Rejection

• Improper or incomplete labeling and/or incomplete clinical information may result in delayed testing, as verification of correct information will be requested from physician before processing continues
• Delays in refrigeration and/or fixation in formalin may produce suboptimal results

Remarks

Additional testing may be ordered by pathologist to assist diagnosis

CPT Codes

Varies

Effective/Revised

8/23/12