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| Test Description |
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Test Name
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Autopsy Brain Evaluation
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Description
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Complete gross and microscopic evaluation of fixed autopsy brain tissue, including preparation of H&E-stained paraffin sections and special histologic stains for light microscopy; immunohistochemical stains and electron microscopy if indicated or requested (see separate listings for ELECTRON MICROSCOPY and IMMUNOHISTOCHEMISTRY; additional charges may apply). Faculty members in the Division of Neuropathology are experienced in the evaluation of nervous system tissues for neoplastic, infectious, inflammatory, demyelinating, degenerative, vascular, traumatic, metabolic, and developmental disorders. |
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Performed
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Monday - Friday. |
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Turnaround Time
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A final written report is generally available within 14-28 days, depending upon the need for special studies, such as additional stains, immunohistochemistry, or electron microscopy. The final written report can be transmitted by fax to the referring physician(s) upon request. |
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Specimen Requirements
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Autopsy brain tissue (preferably intact, not previously sectioned), fixed in neutral buffered formalin. Best results are achieved by the following protocol: fix the brain by immersion in about 10 liters of neutral buffered formalin for 10-14 days after autopsy, drain off the formalin, wrap the brain in moist paper toweling, place inside of doubled leak-proof sealed plastic bags, and place in packing material (e.g., Styrofoam chips) inside a cardboard or Styrofoam box. Place paperwork including the following information in a sealed separate plastic bag inside the box: patient name, date of birth (or age), sex, date and time of death, date and time of autopsy, relevant clinical and antemortem laboratory test information, contact information for the submitting pathologist (name, address, and telephone number), and, if a complete autopsy was performed, a notation of the relevant systemic autopsy findings. The specimen may be transported to the laboratory by US Mail, courier, overnight delivery, or other convenient means. The referring pathologist must discuss the case with a member of the Neuropathology faculty, and acceptance of the case by the neuropathologist is required prior to transporting the tissue to UT Southwestern. |
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Contact
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Charles L. White, III, M.D., or the neuropathologist on call (for clinical consultation) (214) 648-2148, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. |
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