Pathology
Gastrointestinal Pathology
Gastrointestinal (GI) Pathology
Pathology Services
Gastrointestinal (GI) pathology is the field of pathology that involves the study of diseases affecting the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. Our laboratory offers comprehensive testing and evaluation services for GI pathology to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of these disorders.
Our specialists are equipped to perform a variety of tests and evaluations, including morphologic evaluation, which involves analyzing tissue samples from biopsies to detect abnormal cell growth and changes. Immunohistochemistry testing, a technique that uses antibodies to identify specific proteins or markers, is also available to help determine the specific type of cancer or disease present.
In addition to these traditional methods, our laboratory offers genetic testing to analyze DNA mutations that may contribute to the development of GI disorders. Microsatellite instability (MSI) testing is also available to detect certain genetic changes that are associated with an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Our laboratory’s board-certified pathologists provide expert review of GI biopsies, and second-opinion GI consultations are available to ensure accurate and thorough diagnoses. With our advanced technology and experienced specialists, we can provide detailed and comprehensive testing and evaluations to aid in the detection and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders.
Where Innovation Meets Precision:
Collection Materials
Ensure proper patient identification by asking the patient for their name, date of birth, and other identifying information as required. Verify patient identification with a government-issued photo ID or another form of identification as required by laboratory policy.
Label all samples collected with the patient’s name, date of birth, specimen type, and a unique identifier that corresponds with the requisition form.
Place appropriate biopsy sample in corresponding labeled 20mL NBF collection jar, ensure the lid is screwed tightly.
Follow proper sample collection procedures for all Colonoscopy, ERCP, Flex Sigmoidoscopy, upper/lower GI series and all Endoscopic procedures. Properly transport and store specimens as required.
Submission Requirements
Biopsies are submitted in 10% NBF (Neutral Buffered Formalin) at room temperature.
Specimen Storage & Transportation
Transport the specimen to the laboratory as soon as possible, local courier services are available for pickup and delivery. Shipping of specimens within medical institutions should comply with internal guidelines of the institution.
The best recovery is obtained when specimens are stored and transported between 15-30°C.
Shipping Guidelines
Pack and ship GI biopsy samples as UN 3373 Biological Substance, Category B, in accordance with the current edition of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations and U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Transporting Infectious Substances Safely.
Collection Kits
Exova specimen collection kits consist of:10% NBF (Neutral Buffered Formalin) Pre-Filled Tote Pak Cs/128, 20ml; Polyethylene Zip Biohazard Bag(s) 5 cm – 9 cm with absorbent pad.
Do not use materials after the expiration date, refer to printed dates on collection jars.
Turnaround Times
Finalized pathology report will be available within 24-48 hours.
Rejection Criteria
Specimens not in adherence to laboratory policy regarding proper collection and preservation of specimen will be rejected from acceptance. Rejection criteria include unlabeled samples whereas the patient or sample identification cannot be confirmed, sample container(s) received without any tissue present, samples received in incorrect or expired fixative.