Ordering Guidance

This test should only be ordered on specimens for which a diagnosis of amyloid deposition has already been established. If the diagnosis is unknown, or the nature of the deposits is not established as being amyloid, order PATHC / Pathology Consultation or refer to the Pathology Consultation Ordering Algorithm.

If a pathology consultation is desired in addition to this test, order PATHC / Pathology Consultation alone and send the required paperwork with specimen. Indicate that amyloid protein identification is desired. If needed, this test will be added by the reviewing pathologist and will be reported with the consultation. For more information see PATHC / Pathology Consultation.

Shipping Instructions

Attach the green "Attention Pathology" address label (T498) to the outside of the transport container before putting into the courier mailer.

Necessary Information

1. Preliminary pathology report and history are required.

2. Include performed Congo red slide.

3. A brief explanatory note or consultative letter is also recommended.

Specimen Required

Specimen Type: Formalin-fixed or B5-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue block

Collection Instructions:

1. Do not send fixed tissue slides for testing. Testing can only be done on paraffin-embedded tissue blocks.

2. If Congo red stain has already been performed, send Congo red stained slide along with the tissue block.

Additional Information: Broken or cracked unstained slides will be rejected. Stained slides that were broken and repaired (ie, double mounted) at the client site will not be rejected, as, in most cases, they can still be reviewed under the microscope. However, due to the double mounting, digital scanning cannot be performed.