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Test ID: CTI    
Chromosome Analysis, Skin Biopsy

Method Description Describes how the test is performed and provides a method-specific reference

The specimen is cut into small pieces and treated with enzymes. The tissue is then placed into a tissue flask with Chang and MEM-alpha-medium containing 20% fetal bovine serum and antibiotics to establish a fibroblast culture. The fibroblasts are exposed to ethidium bromide, colcemid, and hypotonic solution, and fixed with glacial acetic acid and methanol. Metaphase cells are dropped onto microscope slides and are routinely stained by G-banding, but other staining methods are frequently employed as needed. At least 20 metaphases are examined. Minimal evidence for the presence of an abnormality is defined as 2 or more metaphases with the same structural abnormality or chromosome gain (trisomy), or 3 or more metaphases lacking the same chromosome. Five to 10 metaphases are captured using a computer-based imaging system and karyograms are prepared from 2 or more representative metaphases. (Dewald GW: Chromosome study of autopsy tissue. In Current Methods of Autopsy Practice. 2nd edition. Edited by J Ludwig. Philadelphia, WB Saunders Company, 1979, pp 155-159)

Day(s) and Time(s) Test Performed Outlines the days and times the test is performed. This field reflects the day and time the sample must be in the testing laboratory to begin the testing process and includes any specimen preparation and processing time required before the test is performed. Some tests are listed as continuously performed, which means assays are performed several times during the day.

Samples processed Monday through Sunday. Results reported Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. CST.

Analytic Time Defines the amount of time it takes the laboratory to setup and perform the test. This is defined in number of days. The shortest interval of time expressed is "same day/1 day," which means the results may be available the same day that the sample is received in the testing laboratory. One day means results are available 1 day after the sample is received in the laboratory.

23 days

Maximum Laboratory Time Defines the maximum time from specimen receipt at Mayo Medical Laboratories until the release of the test result

24 days

Specimen Retention Time Outlines the length of time after testing that a specimen is kept in the laboratory before it is discarded

Until reported

Performing Laboratory Location The location of the laboratory that performs the test

Rochester