ProPath Test Menu


Renal Biopsy


TEST DIRECTORY
Test Name
Renal Biopsy
Description
The routine evaluation of a percutaneous renal biopsy involves examination of the tissue under light, immunofluorescence, and electron microscopy. There are a number of reasons for the biopsy, including establishing the exact diagnosis, helping to determine the recommended therapy or to decide when treatment will be futile, and ascertaining the degree of active and chronic changes.
Test Code
555
SPECIMEN REQUIREMENTS
Specimen Requirements
Obtain biopsy specimens by percutaneous needle biopsy needle biopsy or "open" wedge biopsy. A needle biopsy should measure 1 mm x 3 mm, and a wedge biopsy should measure 2 mm x 3 mm.
It is important to
  1. label all specimen containers with two identifiers – acceptable identifiers include patient’s name, date of birth, social security number, requisition number, and medical record number;
  2. always use a sharp razor blade or scalpel to avoid crushing tissue;
  3. cut wedge biopsy tissue into tissue blocks 1-2 mm on a side – the thickness should not exceed 2 mm but the length may measure up to 5 mm;
  4. place portions of tissue from both wedge and needle biopsy source in the appropriate solutions;
  5. send a copy of patient’s renal history with the completed R-requisition.
Supplies for Submission
A ProPath-provided Renal Biopsy Kit contains the following:
  • Specimen handling procedure
  • Routine biopsy specimen container – contents: 10% neutralized buffered formalin
  • Immunofluorescent histology specimen container – contents: Michel’s tissue fixative
  • Electron microscopy specimen container – contents: Carson-Millonig phosphate-buffered, 4% formaldehyde
Specimen Collection
Please refer to instructions in Renal Biopsy Specimen Collection.
Storage Requirements
Store specimens at room temperature (15 to 30°C) until transported. DO NOT freeze. Transport specimens within 72 hours.
GENERAL AND TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Turn Around Time
1-3 days
CPT Code
88305, 88313x6, 88346x9 (if transplant x10), 88348