Specimen Handling Instructions

Slides must be immediately fixed in 95% Ethyl alcohol (pap fixative)

Specimen samples are adhered to ONE side only, of the microscopic slide.

Thick samples are not optimal for microscopic evaluation.

Slides must be labeled with the patient full name, in pencil. (It is recommended that the labeling be done prior to distributing the specimen on the slide, to avoid specimen drying).

It is preferable to obtain the brush sample before the biopsy because the latter results in bleeding, which both obscures the lesion, and detracts from the quality of a subsequently collected cytologic sample, whereas interpretation of the biopsy is not affected by the reverse order of collection.
 

Collection of a good brush sample usually requires an experienced assistant, because the operator may well be engaged in maneuvering the end of the scope and holding the lesion in focus while the assistant manipulates the brush.

The slides are labeled with patient name and the fixative (95% ethyl alcohol) bottles are readied prior to obtaining the brush from the endoscopist.

After abrasion, the endoscopist pulls the brush back, just within the teflon sheath, and the entire sheath is withdrawn, and handed to the assistant).

The assistant pushes the brush through the sheath, leaving it fully exposed. The brush is then quickly but gently rolled (not brushed) on the slide with a circular motion and immediately placed in 95% ethyl alcohol.

*As many slides as possible are made from the brush sample with immediate fixation to avoid air drying.

CAUTION: The manipulation of the brush onto a glass slide

disperses specimen droplets into the surrounding air.

*The slides should be separated by placing paper clips on the frosted end, if placed in containers without spacers.

If multiple brushing are performed, it may be important to note the approximate location of each sample, by notation with a lead pencil onto the frosted end of the slide.

If lymphoma is suspected, air dried slides are useful