[Histonet] HER2neu Fixation times

[Godfrey Guerzon]

We decided to validate fixation of up to 96 hours (to cover long weekend).  From each case we set aside a tissue from the tumor and fix the tissue for 96 hours before processing.  Then we run Her2-Neu on a block that was fixed between 6-48 hours and the one fixed for 96 hours from the same case and compare the results.  We are doing this for about 20-25 cases, keep the documentation.  We have not completed the validation but so far we are not observing any difference in the staining.  This should take care of the fixation issue.

Godfrey

>>> "Janice Mahoney" <jmahoney <@t> alegent.org> 1/24/2008 9:51 AM >>>
Ramona,
I understand your dilemma.  We do have coverage on Saturdays but will run into the same problem on three day weekends.  (The issue being that Her-2-IHC should be fixed no longer than 48 hours to be valid.)
We will follow the criteria and if the fixation is longer than 48 hours and HER-2-neu by IHC is positive, it is ok to report that result.  If it is negative we will reflex to FISH.
I'd love to hear from more people as to what their plan is.
Jan Mahoney
Omaha, NE

>>> Rene J Buesa <rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com> 01/24/2008 8:28 AM >>>
You can always set your tissue processor to start ON DELAY mode and it will start automatically without the need of a weekend rotation.
  René J.

Ramona Turner <mona_diane <@t> hotmail.com> wrote:
  


This is a followup to a recent question asking what do small histology labs do about proper fixation time for HER2neu if there is no weekend rotation......

I would also like to know....other than having a rotation tech to start the processor on Saturday, I can't think of a solution....A Saturday rotation would be a great hardship for three techs to maintain, plus that is one of the perks of the job is not having to work weekends. 

Any ideas?

Ramona Turner, HT (ASCP)
Histology Supervisor
POTOMAC HOSPITAL
2300 Opitz Blvd
Woodbridge, VA 22191
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