Diana, This has always been an issue for us. We wrap currettings in lens paper, and my best guess is that the embedders scrape the paper to get the tissue off and scrape up small amounts of the lens paper, which then shreds. I tell them to be careful and try not to scrape too hard, but it doesn't always help.
Laurie Colbert -----Original Message----- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Diana McCaig Sent: Tuesday, October 22, 2013 4:32 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Endometrial biopsies In the past when we receive these samples there has been no issues cutting them. Over the past few months there has been a tendency for these blocks to shred into fine strips when cut. Almost like there was sand in the blocks. Mollifex, decal, warm or cold, doesn't matter they still shred. Getting levels is such a challenge. I have inquired at the collection site to determine if there is a change in the process of collecting that could cause this. I have ensured the samples are not left on gauze or something to allow them to dry out. Even blocks with lots of blood and/or mucous will shred as well as blocks with only a scanty amount present. Is anyone else experiencing this. Diana Chatham Kent Health Alliance _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet _______________________________________________ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet