REQUEST FLOW CYTOMETRY ON TISSUE FOR:

•  Suspected lymphoma (past history of lymphoma, lymphadenopathy, radiology/imaging suggests lymphoma)

TISSUE SAMPLE REQUIREMENTS　

• Separate fresh tissue specimen in sterile pot or in tissue preservative (RPMI, pink liquid – preferred if sending after hours)
• Label as urgent
• If uncertain, please discuss with Anatomical Pathologist

PLEASE NOTE: Anatomical pathology cannot/will not divide smaller specimens such as core biopsies, these should have separate specimens for flow cytometry and histology.

We will only divide large specimens >1-2 cubic cm (e.g. whole lymph nodes, spleen)

For non lymph node tissue specimens that are small (often small and very important) ideally cases should be discussed with a pathologist before or during a procedure to ascertain the most appropriate distribution of tissue. An Anatomical Pathologist is available by telephone at all times.

Histology should usually be prioritized as this is more likely to be diagnostic.

Blood:  DEDICATED 5 mL blood LITHIUM HEPARIN tube no gel, PLUS 4 mL blood EDTA tube.  Please do not combine with other tests using the same sample type, as separate tubes must be collected for these tests.

Bone Marrow:  LITHIUM HEPARIN or EDTA tube.  Separate tubes must be collected for the tests. Arrange with the Haematology Registrar, ph: 9496 5981.

Lymph Node:  Sterile container (no fixative) and send immediately to Anatomical Pathology.

Body Fluid:  Send immediately to Anatomical Pathology.

Instructions for: Metropolitan Collection Centres

• DO NOT COLLECT AFTER MIDDAY FRIDAY OR AT ALL ON SATURDAY.
• DO NOT COLLECT AFTER MIDDAY THE DAY BEFORE A PUBLIC HOLIDAY.

Instructions for: Regional Collection Centres

• DO NOT COLLECT ON FRIDAY OR SATURDAY.
• DO NOT COLLECT THE DAY BEFORE A PUBLIC HOLIDAY.

On Fridays and prior to public holidays, specimens must be received in Pathology before 3pm and marked as URGENT.