Shipments

Tissue specimens are to be fixed in formalin before packaging and transport.
Shipment of specimens in liquid formalin is discouraged as formalin is a
hazardous material. After a specimen has been fixed in formalin on-site, it
only needs to be kept moist during transport for histopathologic assessment.
It is recommended that the specimen be placed in formalin soaked gauze and
then sealed twice for transport so that no leakage occurs (double ziplock
baggie or ziplock baggie inside a tape sealed container such as a urine cup,
pill container, etc). Be sure to include a requisition form which includes
the patient’s name, age, date of birth (if known), site of biopsy, brief
history, clinical impression or diagnosis, physician name and e-mail contact
information. For additional shipping instructions or for questions, contact
Dr. Walker.

For travelers carrying specimens back to the US, it is recommended that they
carry a letter with them (as well as a copy to be included in the package in
checked baggage). This can be shown to Customs/Immigration, if necessary.
These specimens do not need to be mentioned on any paperwork upon entering
the US as the specimens are not infectious. A letter from Dr. Walker can be viewed by clicking this link.