[Histonet] DECALCIFICATION

[Webb, Dorothy L]

I would appreciate any helpful hints on decalcification of all types of
bone.  We are a surgical pathology lab and receive bone from all
sources.  We use RDO on larger bones and sections from the jaw or skull
which tend to be of greater density.  We use a product called Rapid Cal
Immuno from BBC Biochemical Co. for softer bones, bone marrow cores, and
smaller samples or any bone that is highly suspicious of tumor for
possible IHC staining.  We have never had the problems that we seem to
be having as of late with greater TAT on the bone samples or samples
that after decalcification and processing end up very hard and
problematic to section.  I have looked at my variables and do not see
anything that stands out as problematic in our process.  We have changed
nothing in our processes as of late.  Any ideas or suggestions anyone??
Thanks for your time!! 

Dorothy Webb, HT (ASCP)
Histology Technical Supervisor 
Regions Hospital, Pathology Department 
640 Jackson Street, Saint Paul, MN 55101-2595 
Phone: 651-254-2962
Fax: 651-254-2741 
Regions Hospital is part of the HealthPartners family of care
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