Winter Sample Submission Hints:
By Rachel Corn, VT
As the winter approaches, it is time to start thinking about how to appropriately send samples when the temperatures are below freezing.
A sample that can be negatively impacted by freezing is fixed-tissue submitted for histopathology. When fixed- tissue freezes it causes a change called freezing artifact, which can make a diagnosis difficult.
In order to prevent this artifact, the tissue needs to be protected from freezing while in transport. This can be accomplished very simply by adding a small amount of alcohol to the formalin. The presence of alcohol lowers the freezing point of the formalin. The presence of alcohol will not damage the tissue.
KSVDL will be adding 10% isopropyl alcohol to the formalin we send out in our biopsy kits during the winter months. Alcohol will be added to all kits from November until April.
If you are not familiar with our biopsy kits, we supply our clients with FREE pre-filled 10% formalin containers for sending in fixed tissue to KSVDL. Included in one kit are all the supplies needed to collect and ship 18 fixed samples (container of formalin, absorbent material, biohazard bag, shipping box, and shipping label.)
If you would like to order a biopsy kit contact Client Care at clientcare@vet.k-state.edu or 866-512-5650.