Specimen Collection and Shipping

Vysis ALK and Other Lung Specialty Tests

 

 

Sample Type for Vysis ALK 

 

Lung Cancer Tissue Specimens Fixed in Formalin Are Required for the Vysis ALK Test

     1. The specimen should be obtained by a surgeon ideally under the supervision of a pathologist
     2. Sufficient specimen should be obtained during a single surgical procedure for the range of tests that the pathologist may order

 

 

Accurate Results Begin with Proper Specimen Collection and Transport

     1. Complete the requisition:

          a. Include a copy of the patient note and/or prior pathology report.
          b. Provide contact information (name and phone #) for coordination of the block/slide procurement through
              pathology or the appropriate area.

     2. Place a barcode label (including at least one patient identifier) on each slide mailer or block cassette.

          a. A formalin fixed, paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue block from the patient’s lung cancer tissue is preferred.

               i. Preferred fixation duration for tissue samples is 6 to 48 hours.

          b. ALTERNATIVE: If a lung cancer tissue block is not available:

               i. Submit at least 3 unstained slide sections on positively charged slides cut to a thickness of at least
                 4-6 microns (for Vysis ALK) plus 7 unstained slide sections on positively charged slides cut to a thickness
                 of 10 microns (for Mutation testing).

     3. Place specimen container into CYNOGEN/PLUS box. Include refrigerated cold pack in warm weather (>80°F).

 

 

Formalin Instructions:

 

Preparing fresh tissue for formalin samples:

  • Prepare a sample with a maximum thickness of ~3mm (height, width, length)
  • A punch biopsy (provided) or a scalpel may be used
  • Place tissues in the formalin collection tube and close securely
  • Prepare a second sample repeating steps #1 and #2

 

*In winter months or extreme cold, keep cold pack at ROOM TEMPERATURE

 

 

Shipping

  1. Place the CYNOGEN/PLUS box and the requisition into a FedEx® Clinical Pak®.
  2. Adhere a FedEx label to the outside of the envelope.
  3. Call CYNOGEN/PLUS toll-free at 1-855-DX4LUNG (1-855-394-5864) for a pick-up.

 

For specimen collection or transport questions, please call 1-855-DX4LUNG (1-855-394-5864).

 

Clinical Pak® is a registered trademark of FedEx.