LYMPH NODE BIOPSIES
FOR LYMPHOMA PHENOTYPE AND LYMPHOMA VS. REACTIVE HYPERPLASIA
FLOW CYTOMETRY
Flow cytometry studies are useful in distinguishing lymphoma from reactive lymphoid hyperplasia as well as immunophenotyping for classification within the new lymphoma classification system (revised Europe-American lymphoma classification).
- A small slice of lymph node (minimum amount 0.5 X 0.5 X 0.2 cm) should be placed
in a RPMI media tube for flow cytometry analysis. (RPMI 1640 culture media is available from WPM on request.)
- The specimen should be stored refrigerated until submission to WPM.
- It is best to schedule the biopsy so that we (WPM) receive it Monday thru Thursday to avoid deterioration of cells over a weekend.
- Label specimen container for proper identification and place in a biohazard bag for transport to WPM, along with a properly filled out WPM SURGICAL PATHOLOGY and NON-GYN CYTOLOGY request form. Under Special Requests: mark [X] Flow Cytometry.
- Place remainder of the specimen in formalin for routine pathology examination. However, if the lymph node specimen is small, submit the entire specimen.
TOUCH IMPRINTS
If adequate fresh tissue is available, touch imprints prepared from the fresh tissue is helpful.
- Touch imprints or touch preps are prepared by placing the fresh (unfixed) tissue specimen on a sterile gauze to absorb excess blood and minimize damage to cells. A slide is then gently touched to the specimen, making several imprints of the tissue along the surface.
- Four to six (4-6) slides may be made with two (2) of the slides fixed with cytologic spray fixative. The remainder of the slides may be air dried.
- Label the slides as fixed or air dried.
NOTE: If the amount of tissue is limited, the priority is:
- formalin-fixed tissue
- tissue in RPMI media for flow cytometry
For further questions or information, call one of the pathologists at 785-823-7201 or 1-800-365-3430.