How we do: optimizing bone marrow biopsy logistics for sign-out within 2 days.

Area of Science:

• Pathology
• Oncology Diagnostics
• Histotechnology

Background:

• Traditional bone marrow biopsy (BMB) processing is time-consuming, involving lengthy fixation and decalcification.
• The increasing demand for fast diagnostic tracks in oncology necessitates faster BMB processing methods.
• Microwave-enhanced tissue processing offers a potential solution for rapid BMB preparation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a novel method for rapid BMB processing using microwave technology.
• To assess the efficacy of a specific EDTA-based decalcification fluid (USEDECALC) combined with a microwave processor (LOGOS J).
• To determine if this rapid processing impacts morphology, immunohistochemistry, or DNA quality.

Main Methods:

• Bone marrow biopsies (BMB) were processed using a closed microwave-enhanced tissue processor (LOGOS J).
• Overnight fixation, decalcification with an EDTA-based fluid (USEDECALC), and paraffin impregnation were performed.
• Morphology, immunohistochemistry, and DNA quality were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The microwave-enhanced processing allowed for overnight fixation, decalcification, and impregnation of BMB.
• Histological morphology and immunohistochemistry results were preserved.
• Improved DNA quality was observed in the processed BMB samples.
• This method facilitates next-day reporting of BMB.

Conclusions:

• Microwave-enhanced processing with USEDECALC and LOGOS J provides a rapid and effective method for BMB preparation.
• This technique supports fast diagnostic tracks in oncology without compromising tissue quality or antigen integrity.
• The improved DNA quality further enhances the utility of BMB for molecular analyses.