Introduction

The cellular pathologist plays an important role as a diagnostician and in providing prognostic information by examination of specimens removed for diagnosis and definitive surgery for gynaecological cancers. The pathologist is an essential member of the multidisciplinary team and, through discussion with other team members, helps in formulating important management decisions. This section describes the salient features that would enable the gynaecologist to aid and understand the pathologist in this process.

Sending specimens to the laboratory

FIXATION

Most specimens are sent to the laboratory in fixative, most commonly 10% formalin (4% formaldehyde) solution. Fixation serves to:

1. • harden tissue to allow sectioning

2. • preserve tissue by preventing autolysis

3. • inactivate infectious agents

4. • enhance avidity for dyes.

The requesting clinician can aid the pathologist by sending the tissue in adequate fixative (10–15 times in volume relative to size of tissue) and by opening large specimens along anatomical planes, thus allowing penetration of fixative.

THE REQUEST FORM

The form accompanying the specimen contains vital details, such as patient details, to prevent misidentification and to prevent serious errors, as well as clinical details, with contact information.