Peripheral Blood
For routine chromosome analysis, rapid chromosome analysis, and fluorescence in-situ hybridization for microdeletion syndromes, submit 5cc for adults or children, submit 2-3cc for infants in a sterile sodium heparin Vacutainer (72 U.S.P. for 5cc tube). Lithium heparin is contraindicated.
Rapid Chromosome Analysis
This test is offered as an adjunct to routine peripheral blood analysis and is set up from the same specimen. Additional charges apply and the test is not performed unless indicated on the requisition.
Bone Marrow
Submit 1-3cc bone marrow aspirate in a sterile tube containing UAMS Cytogenetics Transport Media. A sterile sodium heparin tube may also be used. Lithium heparin is contraindicated.
Leukemic Blood
For neoplastic studies submit 10cc of whole blood into a sodium heparin Vacutainer (143 U sodium heparin). Leukemic blood must contain a minimum of 4% blast cells. Lithium heparin is contraindicated.
Fine Needle Aspirate
Fine needle aspirate samples should be collected under sterile conditions and placed in UAMS Cytogenetic Transport Media.
Pleural Effusion and Ascites Fluid
An optimum pleural effusion specimen is 50-75cc; a minimum specimen of 20cc is acceptable. The specimen should be delivered in a sterile container to the Cytogenetics Laboratory as soon as possible. Next day delivery is acceptable but less desirable.
Cerebrospinal Fluid
This is not a routine cytogenetics test; however, it may be done on special request. Submit a minimum of 10cc of sterile CSF in a tube of UAMS Cytogenetics Transport Media and transport immediately to the Cytogenetics Laboratory.
Solid Tissues
Samples should be collected under sterile conditions and individual samples should each be placed in a sterile container of transport medium. Each sample should be labeled as to tissue type. Solid tissue specimens collected after hours should be taken to the Clinical Laboratory at UAMS and refrigerated until delivery to Cytogenetics. Do not put on ice.
From products of conception, fetuses, stillborns, or autopsy cases, to maximize the chances of successful growth in tissue culture, submit two or three of the following specimens: skin, cartilage, amnion, chorion, peritoneum.
To collect a skin specimen: clean area with alcohol or betadine. Using sterile tools, obtain a piece of skin at least 2 mm by 2 mm and deep enough to assure getting dividing cells. Place immediately in sterile transport medium.
Solid Tumors
Samples should be collected under sterile conditions; individual samples should each be placed into UAMS Cytogenetic Transport Media or in a sterile container with saline. If multiple samples are submitted each sample should be labeled as to tissue type or location.
Lymph Nodes
Lymph nodes or soft tissue (tumors of lymphatic origin) should be collected under sterile conditions and placed into UAMS Cytogenetic Transport Media.