Cell Culture Only (Solid Tissue)
Cell Culture Only (Solid Tissue)
Cell culture from tissue increases the number of cells for further diagnostic testing. Tissue types taken from a biopsy include skin, product of conception, or tumors. Maternal cell contamination (MCC) is recommended for POC. This test can also be used to maintain cells for additional reflex or repeat testing.
Cell growth cannot be guaranteed. Cell growth is dependent on several factors including inadequate amount of specimen, age of specimen, exposure of specimen to extreme temperatures, specific preservatives, and the type of tissue sent for culture.
Please note:
- A report is not generated for cell cultures unless a culture failure occurs.
- Turnaround time can take up to 6 weeks.
Clinical Information
Tissue may be cultured for a broad spectrum of testing ranging from chromosome analysis to biochemical enzyme analysis. Analysis of direct affected tissue is recommended over a cultured sample for somatic mosaic conditions.
Technical Information
Specimens are cultured and harvested per standard laboratory procedures (The AGT Cytogenetics Laboratory Manual, 3rd ed, 1997).
Specimen Requirements
Solid tissue is required for this test. Using a sterile technique, obtain a 5mm biopsy of unmacerated tissue and place in a tube containing transport media or a sterile solution such as a balanced salt solution.
DO NOT allow the specimen to come into contact with formalin or other fixatives as cells will not grow.
Transport Instructions
The specimen should be kept at room temperature if transported immediately. If the specimen is not being immediately transported to the laboratory, it may be refrigerated. Do not freeze. The sample should be sent by courier or overnight mail to arrive at the laboratory within 24 hours. Shipping Monday through Thursday is recommended.
Prenatal Specimen Requirements
For fetal tissue, placental tissue (fetal membranes or chorionic villi) or a piece of amnion is requested in addition to the fetal specimen (for all cases). If fetal samples are obtained at autopsy, skin, gonad or thymus are preferred for chromosome analysis.
Products of conception should be placed in a sterile container for transport. The specimen must be kept moist – there is usually sufficient fluid present to ensure moisture. However, if necessary, a sterile solution (such as tissue culture media or sterile saline) can be added by aseptic technique
DO NOT allow the specimen to come into contact with formalin or other fixatives as cells will not grow.
Prenatal Transport Instructions
The specimen should be kept at room temperature if transported immediately. If the specimen is not being immediately transported to the laboratory, it may be refrigerated. Do not freeze. The sample should be sent by courier or overnight mail to arrive at the laboratory within 24 hours. Shipping Monday through Thursday is recommended.
Associated Tests
Connect With Our Experts
Call 1-800-473-9411 to speak with our team of laboratory genetic counselors for questions or additional information.
Robin Fletcher, MS, CGC
Falecia Thomas, MS, CGC
Alex Finley, MS, CGC