Home: Veterinary Services: Veterinary Laboratory: HISTOPATHOLOGY
Services rendered by the section
The section is responsible for the preparation of formalin-fixed tissue samples for routine light microscopical examination by a histopathologist. This examination is often critical in establishing a disease diagnosis, either alone, or in combination with other laboratory tests. The test time is 1 to 2 days, if tissue samples are sufficiently fixed when received.
Specialised diagnostic techniques, such as immunohistochemical staining and electron microscopy, are available on request. Contact Dr Tertius Gous for further information.
Fixation of tissue samples
10% buffered formalin is the fixative of choice. The volume of formalin used should be at least 10 times the volume of the sample(s). Do not freeze tissues before fixation. For electron microscopy (see above) no fixatives should be used. Immunohistochemical staining is performed on formalin fixed tissues.
Samples required
Fresh tissue blocks, approximately 2 x 2 x 1 cm, should be placed in formalin as soon as possible after collection. If possible, include part of the adjacent normal tissue when sampling a lesion. A complete set of samples is preferred, especially from those organs showing lesions at necropsy. If no lesions are seen at necropsy, the following organs should be sampled: brain, heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, spleen, adrenal, thymus, lymph nodes, stomach, small and large intestine. In birds, the bursa of Fabricius, trachea, proventriculus, gizzard, and caecal tonsils should also be included. If the animal showed nervous signs before death, the entire brain and spinal cord should be collected.
Submission of samples
Samples should be submitted in a sealed container and preferably dispatched by courier service. When using glass containers, make sure the containers are securely packed so that they cannot leak or break. Clearly identify all containers with a pencil or waterproof pen.
Information that must accompany sample
A fully completed sample registration form, obtainable from the laboratory or from our website, must accompany all samples. Apart from particulars of the referring veterinarian, owner, animal and complete history, a list of the organs sampled should also be included.
Test fees
Refer to the laboratory’s latest price list.
Contact person (technical matters)
Bronwyn Swartz: Veterinary technician
Tel: +27 021-887-0324
Fax: +27 021- 886-5341
E-mail: bronwyns@wcape.agric.za
