Specimen Collection
All samples need to be
aseptically taken and placed immediately into transport media
(available on request from the Cytogenetic Laboratory).
Tissue biopsies: At least 0.5cm3 of viable (non-necrotic) tumour tissue
Fine needle aspirate (FNA): of good cellularity for lymphoma
Core biopsy: minimum of 1cm core biopsy
Note: Samples that are smaller than the minimum size will be accepted however this may comprise the obtained results.
Specimens placed in formalin with not be accepted.
Turnaround Time: 2 weeks, 4 days
It should be noted that the culture time for tumour samples varies for different types of tumour. Typically, lymph node samples and aggressive paediatric tumours will be cultured for 2-3 days, while some of the slow growing sarcomas might require up to 10 days of culture time
Assay Method
Cells from solid tumour samples are cultured and processed for G-banded karyotype analysis and/or FISH testing. A G-banded karyotype provides a whole genome analysis detecting both numerical and structural abnormalities.
The number of cells analysed and counted are based on the NPAAC guidelines.
Limitations: micro- deletions/duplications (below 10MB) and cryptic translocations may not be excluded.
For more information about FFPET FISH slide requirements see:
Molecular Cytogenetics (FISH)
Diagnostic Use and Interpretation
Obtaining metaphase cells from tumours can be challenging. All relevant clinical information should be clearly written on the accompanying request form. This will help us determine the type of cultures required and assist with result interpretation.
Contact Information
To contact the Cytogenetics team:
Specimen Transport Instructions for Referring Laboratories
All samples must be collected using sterile technique
Same day delivery (>8 degrees Celsius to <24 degrees Celsius).