INFORMATION ON SUBMITTING A SAMPLE
What muscle should I biopsy?
- For exertional rhabdomyolysis, polysaccharide storage myopathy, myofibrillar myopathy: Semimem/tendinosus
- For generalized atrophy: Sacrocaudalis dorsalis medialis muscle
- For focal muscle atrophy: the atrophied muscle
How do I handle the muscle sample?
- Beginning July 1, 2022, we will only accept formalin fixed samples. We have perfected IHC stains for formalin-fixed tissue and can diagnose equine muscle diseases using these stains on a smaller sample
- Obtain a 1/2-inch cube of semimembranosus or sacrocaudalis (if atrophy)
- Leave biopsy in air while you suture
- Optional, cut the biopsy in half across with width of the muscle (not lengthwise) and place in the cassette so the two halves can be sectioned simultaneously.
- Place in at least 130 mls (4.5 ounces) 10% neutral buffered formalin 3-5 min after you take the biopsy
When should we schedule a biopsy?
Biopsies can now be scheduled anytime. IHC stains work best on samples that have not been in formalin for more than 5 days.