Testing Algorithm

A battery of enzyme histochemical stains or immunostains are performed; other tests can be performed as indicated at an additional charge. The reviewing neuromuscular pathologist will determine the need for additional testing.

Wet tissue for consultation: When adequate tissue is provided, routine testing will include teased fiber examination, Congo red stain, methyl violet stain, Masson's trichrome stain, leukocyte common antigen, luxol fast blue/PAS (periodic acid-Schiff) stain, KP-1 macrophage, methylene blue stain, hematoxylin and eosin stain, and Turnbull blue stain or Perl's Prussian blue stain.

Slides and blocks sent for consultation: Special stains and studies performed on the case should be sent with the case for review. In order to determine an accurate diagnosis, some of these stains or studies may be deemed to warrant repeat testing, at an additional charge, at the discretion of the reviewing Mayo Clinic neuromuscular pathologist. In addition, testing requested by the referring physician (immunostains, molecular studies, etc) may not be performed if deemed unnecessary by the reviewing Mayo Clinic neuromuscular pathologist. For all consultations, ancillary testing necessary to determine a diagnosis is ordered at the discretion of the Mayo Clinic neuromuscular pathologist. An interpretation, which includes an evaluation of the specimen and determination of a diagnosis, will be provided within a formal pathology report.

For more information see Pathology Consultation Ordering Algorithm.