[Histonet] FW: Formalin use in grossing

[Jay Lundgren]

Have you tried improvising a cover for the cassette bucket?  It cuts down
on fumes considerably.  You only get one chance to properly fix something,
so I always lean in the direction of more fixation, not less (within
reason, I know about the guidelines for HER2).
Or, get rid of formalin in your lab if it bothers you that much.  There are
acceptable substitutes out there.  You can supply the fixative to your derm
clinicians.  Problem totally solved.

               Sincerely,

                          Jay A. Lundgren, M.S., HTL (ASCP)

On Fri, Oct 17, 2014 at 3:21 PM, Santiago, Albert <
Albert.Santiago <@t> uphs.upenn.edu> wrote:

>
> Hello again my fellow histonetters, I was hoping someone could give me
> their thoughts on this issue:
> We receive Derm biopsy specimens in formalin containers. We gross the
> specimen and place the cassettes with the tissue in it in a tray with 10%
> formalin. Although we have grossing tables with exhaust vents,  I would
> like to minimize the formalin odors even more if possible. Therefore, I was
> thinking about replacing the 10% formalin in the buckets with either graded
> alcohol (50% or 70%) or water in the buckets before putting the cassettes
> in the processor.
> I'm wondering if that would negatively affect the tissue, H&E staining or
> IHC staining.
> Also, if I can make the change would I still be compliant with The Joint
> Commission and/or CAP?
>
> As always, thank you for your feedback.
>
>
> Albert Santiago, HT(ASCP)
> Lab Manager
> Penncutaneous Pathology Services
> Dermatopathology Lab
> 3020 Market ST. Ste 201
> Philadelphia, PA 19104
> 215-662-6539 - Lab
> 215-662-6759-office
> albert.santiago <@t> uphs.upenn.edu<mailto:albert.santiago <@t> uphs.upenn.edu>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Histonet mailing list
> Histonet <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
>