Ordering Guidance

Tumor biopsies are only accepted as part of a pathology consultation, order PATHC / Pathology Consultation.

For nontumorous renal specimens, order RPCWT / Renal Pathology Consultation, Wet Tissue.

For platelet disorders, order PTEM / Platelet Transmission Electron Microscopic Study, Whole Blood.

For muscle specimens, order MBX / Muscle Pathology Consultation.

For CADASIL (cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy) genetic testing, order NTC3Z / NOTCH3 Gene, Full Gene Analysis, Varies.

For cardiac specimens, order ANPAT / Anatomic Pathology Consultation, Wet Tissue.

For neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL) testing, see NCLW / Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis, Two-Enzyme Panel, Leukocytes or NCLGP / Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (Batten Disease) Gene Panel, Varies

Shipping Instructions

Whole blood specimens must arrive within 48 hours of collection.

Necessary Information

Failure to supply the following documentation will result in a testing delay:

1. Completed Electron Microscopy Patient Information must be submitted with each specimen.

2. Tissue source and reason for electron microscopy must be indicated for testing to be performed.

Specimen Required

Specimen Type: Fixed wet tissue

Supplies: Electron Microscopy Kit (T660)

Container/Tube: Electron Microscopy Kit or leak-proof container

Specimen Volume: Entire specimen

Collection Instructions: Collect specimen according to the instructions in Electron Microscopy Procedures of Handling Specimens for Electron Microscopy. Do not place on ice, dry ice, or freeze.

Additional Information:

1. PATHC / Pathology Consultation may be added if deemed necessary by the reviewing pathologist.

2. Liver/gastrointestinal and hair shaft specimens are not acceptable. Testing will be canceled if one of these specimen types is received.

For neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL) testing only

Specimen Type: Whole blood

Container/Tube: Green top (sodium heparin) or yellow top (ACD solution B)

Specimen Volume: 5 mL

Collection Instructions: Send whole blood specimen in original tube. Do not aliquot.

Additional Information: If test indication is for NCL, whole blood may be submitted in lieu of fixed wet tissue. This is only applicable for a presumptive diagnosis of NCL; whole blood specimens submitted for any other reason will be rejected.