Sample Requirements

All samples should be collected aseptically into sterile containers

Blood

A 3- 5ml sample of blood (approximately 1 ml from babies will be suffice) should be collected into a lithium heparin container (green or orange lid) and mixed rapidly to avoid clotting.
If tubes that contain separating gel must be used, do not spin them. Blood that has been collected into tubes containing other anticoagulants (such as EDTA) may be used but require a laboratory-performed treatment (or pre-treatment).

Amniotic Fluid

Amniotic fluid samples should be collected into sterile 10ml plain tubes that contain no additives. An optimal sample for culturing is 20mls with an extra 5-10mls being required if FISH is requested (see Prenatal FISH). If alpha fetoprotein is also requested, do not split the sample as we will arrange for the supernatant to be sent to Chemical Pathology.

Chorionic Villus Sample

Chorionic Villi should be collected into tubes/containers that contain media with heparin (these tubes can be obtained from the laboratory). An optimal sample for culturing is 10-20mg. Samples of less than 5mg are likely to lead to a delay in obtaining a result.

Post Mortem and Products of Conception

Only fresh tissue is suitable for cytogenetics analysis. Samples in formalin or other fixative are unsuitable, as they contains no living cells that can be cultured. Samples should be collected aseptically and transported in sterile saline or transport media. Where possible we would prefer samples from both placenta (preferably amnion and villi) and from the fetus (testis, ovary, pericardium or skin) if available. A sample 5mm cubed in size is sufficient for culturing.

Sample Storage and Transportation

Sample Storage

Samples should be kept cool but never frozen, and can be safely stored in the fridge overnight if they cannot be transported to the laboratory immediately.

Specimen Transport

The IMVS courier can collect specimens that require cytogenetic analysis. Specimens should always be transported at room temperature. Please phone (08) 8222 3530 to arrange a time for collection.

Request Forms

The Cytogenetics Unit will accept any other laboratory or hospital request forms with clinical details and tests requested clearly indicated.

The Laboratory Division can provide Medical Practitioners with Pathology Request/Assignment Forms that are printed with the Doctor's name, address and provider number. Please phone (08) 8161 6259 to arrange for the delivery of your pad of request forms.

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