Histopathology – Oral Biopsy

Histologic evaluation of antemortem, formalin fixed oral tissue.

Specimen in 10% neutral buffered formalin (NBF)

A minimum formalin to tissue ratio of 5:1 is recommended to ensure total fixation. A 10:1 ratio is ideal.

Sealed, leak-proof, wide mouth plastic container. Samples submitted in glass containers are not acceptable and will incur an additional processing charge.

Label all samples. Ship at ambient temperature.

This test is for the specific evaluation of antemortem, formalin fixed, oral and maxillofacial pathology and is geared towards dentists, oral surgeons, oncologists, and general veterinarians with a dental interest. The test is most useful with the submission of clinical photos and imaging (radiographs/CBCT) for the full evaluation of oral pathologic disease. Images will be fully evaluated and are pertinent when evaluating oral pathologic disease, along with a thorough clinical history. Dental charting, previous biopsy reports, or prior vet records as relevant to the oral mass/disease are also encouraged. Trimming will be supervised by a boarded pathologist with additional training in dental pathology. All cases involving decalcification with margin analysis (i.e. enbloc resections, mandibulectomies, maxillectomies) will be trimmed via the bandsaw and have a gross exam performed when needed.

Provide the location of the biopsy and a clinical description or history documenting the current problem, clinical/surgical findings, diagnostic image findings, and suspected diagnosis. Include current or past pertinent medications.

Biopsies from additional sites from the same animal on the same accession are $26.75 each. Tissues that qualify as additional sites include biopsies collected from separate sites, multiple organs, or multiple masses. Each location, organ, and mass is charged as a separate site. Multiple incisional, punch, or needle biopsies from the same location are charged as a single site.

Unfixed (fresh) tissue and tissue requiring decalcification may incur additional charges and will take longer to process, potentially delaying turnaround time.

Send imaging and records to clientservices@tvmdl.tamu.edu, attn: oral pathology.