Name of the Procedure:

Morphometric analysis, in situ hybridization (quantitative or semi-quantitative), using computer-assisted technology, per specimen; each additional single probe stain procedure

Summary

Morphometric analysis with in situ hybridization (ISH) is a laboratory procedure that uses advanced computer technology to analyze genetic material within tissues. This analysis helps identify and measure DNA or RNA sequences in tissue samples, using a specific probe stain for each additional test.

Purpose

This procedure is used to:

• Identify specific genetic markers or anomalies within tissue samples.
• Quantitatively or semi-quantitatively measure the presence of these markers.
• Aid in diagnosing various genetic conditions, cancers, or infectious diseases.

Indications

• Presence of tumors or suspected cancers.
• Genetic disorders that require precise identification of mutations.
• Conditions involving viral or bacterial infections that can be detected at the genetic level.

Preparation

• Follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Fasting or medication adjustments are generally not required.
• No specific pre-procedure diagnostic tests are typically needed.

Procedure Description

1. Tissue Preparation: Tissue samples are collected, often via biopsy.
2. Probe Staining: A probe stain specific to the genetic material of interest is applied to the specimen.
3. Hybridization: The tissue sample undergoes a process that allows the probe to bind to the targeted DNA/RNA sequences.
4. Analysis: Computer-assisted technology quantitatively or semi-quantitatively analyzes the hybridized tissue to measure the presence and amount of the genetic material.

Duration

The analysis of each additional probe stain typically takes several hours, but this can vary depending on the complexity of the test.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a specialized laboratory with the necessary computer-assisted technology.

Personnel

• Pathologists or laboratory technicians with expertise in genetic analysis.
• IT specialists managing the computer-assisted technology.

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risks; generally safe.
• Rarely, issues with sample integrity could affect results, necessitating re-testing.

Benefits

• Accurate identification of genetic markers.
• Improved diagnosis and tailored treatment plans.
• Results can often be available within days to a couple of weeks.

Recovery

• No physical recovery needed as it is a laboratory procedure.
• Follow any additional instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Alternatives

• Traditional staining techniques without computer assistance.
• Molecular genetic tests, such as PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction).
• Pros of alternatives: Sometimes quicker or less costly.
• Cons of alternatives: May be less precise or quantitative.

Patient Experience

• Since it is a laboratory procedure, the patient does not directly experience the analysis phase.
• Discomfort, if any, is associated with the initial biopsy for tissue collection.
• Pain management for the biopsy should be discussed with your healthcare provider.