Specimen containers and storage of specimens

Sample containers

Container type		Description	Use
Fixed or air-dried slides		Slide carrier If alcohol spray fixative is required (see cytology sample table), this available from the cytology laboratory.	Cytology samples
Plain container		Sterile container If cytology green collection fluid, or cytorich red preservative are required (see cytology sample table), these are available from the cytology laboratory.	Cytology samples
Plain universal		Sterile container If cytology green collection fluid, or cytorich red preservative are required (see cytology sample table), these are available from the cytology laboratory.	Cytology samples
CellPath CellStor		Container prefilled with formalin Available from the histology laboratory	Small histopathology samples
Bucket		Bucket prefilled with formalin Available from the histology laboratory. Unfilled specimen containers for specific, lung specimens to be received fresh also available from histology.	Larger histopathology samples
One-Piece Microbiopsy Cassette		Tissue Cassette	For prostates core samples
One-Piece Microbiopsy Cassette		Tissue Cassette	For small tissue samples

Most specimens for histology need to be placed in an appropriately sized container with adequate amount of formalin (ideally 10x the volume of the sample) as soon as removed from the patient.  Specimen containers of all sizes, pre-filled with formalin, are available from histology, please contact the laboratory. For specimens to be sent to the department not in formalin, empty specimen containers of all sizes are also available.

Prior to transport to the laboratory, it may be necessary to temporarily store specimens. All specimens that are placed into Formalin should be kept at room temperature until transported to the laboratory. Specimens in Formalin should not be placed into the fridge as this will have a negative impact on fixation and therefore preservation of the tissue.

All dry specimens and specimens in gel transport medium ideally should be transported to the laboratory immediately. Where this is not possible, these specimens should be stored in the fridge.

(Last reviewed April 2023)