[Histonet] IHC antibody Expiration question for CAP

[Rathborne, Toni]

We have determined the number of times an antibody is requested/year, and what the average shelf-life is that a particular vendor supplies. If we determine that the antibody will not be used by that time, we'll check to see if a smaller amount can be purchased. If not, we'll discuss the options with the vendor. That may be returning the unused portion and getting a credit, or changing to another vendor that may have longer expirations. We do not keep the antibodies beyond their expiration. If it is a test ordered infrequently, we may also send it out for the TC, and have the PC done in-house.

-----Original Message-----
From: histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
[mailto:histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu]On Behalf Of Jason and
Heather
Sent: Friday, October 10, 2008 10:22 AM
To: histonet <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
Subject: [Histonet] IHC antibody Expiration question for CAP


CAP question ANP.22432 states: Are all immunohistochemical reagents used within their indicated expiration dates? 

I am wondering what labs across the country are doing to answer this question. IHC antibodies are very expensive and can be validated on every run that is made. Some of these concentrated antibodies are diluted out so far that only a very small portion of them are used before they expire. Are some labs still using outdated antibodies? If so how do you get away with it when you are inspected by CAP? Or are you paying the high prices to throw out the majority of your antibodies so you can answer this question yes? 

I thank you in advance to your response.

Jason McGough HT(ASCP)
Account Representative - Anatomic Pathology
Clinical Laboratory of the Black Hills
2805 5th Street Suite 210
Rapid City, SD 57701
605-343-2267 Ext 127
605-718-3779 (Fax)
jmcgough <@t> clinlab.com


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