Abstract
Skeletal muscle biopsies present unique preparatory challenges to the histotechnologist and unique diagnostic challenges to the clinician and pathologist. A muscle biopsy sample does not proceed through conventional fixation, nor is it processed via routine surgical pathology paraffin methods. A muscle biopsy must be dealt with as fresh tissue whose subsequent processing is a low-temperature freezing method that is ideally accomplished in a timely manner after surgical excision for optimal staining results. A panel of histological (nonenzyme) and enzymatic staining methods should be used on every muscle biopsy for full and complete clinical diagnostic results. Electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry may add valuable information in some cases. Many of these special procedures are not undertaken in the standard histology laboratory and are sent to specialized referral laboratories for testing and interpretation.The aim of this review is to reveal and summarize the unique aspects of muscle biopsies to ensure that any laboratory faced with handling a muscle biopsy will be prepared to take the correct action for optimal processing results. We also introduce the reader to muscle pathology and discuss the clinical utility of muscle biopsy in diagnosis of patients with neuromuscular disorders. (The J Histotechnol 30:257, 2007)Submitted September 24, 2007; accepted with modifications October 8, 2007
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
