SPAM-LOW: [Histonet] Re: Processing fatty breast tissue and fatty derm tissue

[Douglas D Deltour]

Ramona,

There are many reasons why facilities have problems with this. I believe
that it all starts at the grossing bench. The specimen should be breadloafed
when it arrives to maximize fixation. The tissue must also be sliced (for
cassette) at a reasonable thickness. The next stumbling block is time. You
can not rush these types of tissue. They must be fixed properly. 10% NBF is
fine for these tissues. Let them sit overnight in the cassettes in the 10%
NBF. Place them in a container on top of a stir-plate to maximize this. It
also helps if you have an extra processor just for these types of tissue.
Rene is also correct about the extended clearing time. I also like to extend
the paraffin times to get maximum infiltration. This helps support the fat
when cutting. Your chemicals could also be adjusted. The 70% x 2 is not
necessary. I would remove one of those and add an extra clearing step or as
Rene suggested the 1:1 mix. None of your stations should be less than an
hour also. I know that this kills TAT but if your pathologist communicated
with the surgeons and explained the importance of this then they should not
mind.  

Douglas D. Deltour HT(ASCP)
Histology Manager
Professional Pathology Services, PC
One Science Court
Suite 200
Columbia, SC 29203
Office (803)252-1913
Fax (803)254-3262
Doug <@t> ppspath.com 
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-----Original Message-----
From: histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
[mailto:histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Ramona
Turner
Sent: Thursday, March 06, 2008 1:26 PM
To: histonet <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
Subject: SPAM-LOW: [Histonet] Re: Processing fatty breast tissue and fatty
derm tissue


I also would like some advice on processing fatty tissue.  I have tried
using Pen-Fix prior to processing, but my pathologist complain about an
artifact and refuse to use it anymore.  Can't explain that one.  I am
currently processing with formalin x2, 70% x2, 95% x2, 100% x2, clearing x2.
I thought the dehydration step should be increased on the fatty tissue, but
you are saying that is not the problem?  Can someone else please offer some
experience on this issue.  
 
Ramona Turner, HT (ASCP)
Potomac Hospital
Woodbridge, VA 
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