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Pathology Handbook

The RMH Pathology Handbook is a reference guide to help clinicians select tests and collect the correct specimen.

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Direct Immunofluorescence (DIF) on fresh tissue

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Pseudonyms

IF, DIF, Tissue, Histology, Histopathology, Biopsy

Collection Requirements

Fresh tissue placed on saline soaked gauze immediately.

Do not allow the tissue to dry out. Keep sample refrigerated.

See notes.

Tube Colour

Yellow top universal

Test image(s)

Requires own tube?

No

Department

Anatomical Pathology

Availability

Weekdays Business Hours: Contact 03 9342 8703. Out of Hours: Contact On-Call Pathologist via RMH switch 03 9342 7000.

Fee

Medicare rebatable

Notes

Refrigerate/send to Pathology CSR as soon as possible.

For Histological analysis it is recommended a separate formalin fixed sample is collected.

Immunofluorescence staining involves staining frozen sections of fresh (unfixed) biopsy samples. Optimum results are obtained by minimizing the time interval between excision of the biopsy and freezing the specimen for sectioning.

Specimens commonly received for IF:

Skin punch biopsy for immunobullous disorders or vasculitis

Oral biopsy for immunobullous disorders

Renal biopsy if anti-Glomerular Basement Membrane disease is a possibility

Test code: HIST

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