Skin Biopsies
- Label the body of the container with the patient's identifying information (at least first and last name) and the site of the biopsy.
- If the specimen is an excision, orient the ellipse with a suture or surgical ink on one side. Please tell us on the requisition which aspect of the specimen is labeled.
- Shave and punch biopsies are typically not oriented unless large. Again, if you do choose to orient these specimens, be sure to specify the orientation on the requisition.
- Place the specimen into the formalin container as soon as possible and close the lid tightly.
- Complete the Summit Pathology Surgical Pathology requisition, including the following information:
- Patient's full name
- Date of birth
- Complete address
- Medical record number (for hospital patients)
- SSN
- Submitting physician
- Other physicians who should receive a copy of the report
- Date of specimen collection
- Appropriate clinical history, including previous biopsy results if applicable
- ICD-9 code
- Site of specimen (be specific!)
- Any special studies requested
- Insurance information (may be copied front and back and attached to requisition)
- Place the container in the main part of the plastic biohazard bag supplied by Summit Pathology, and the requisition in the outside dry pouch.
- Place the bag in your office's location for Summit Pathology courier pickup.
- For a STAT pickup or other questions, please call us at 970-461-6091.