When using histology as a diagnostic tool, it is important to ensure morphological preservation of the tissue samples. We are looking for changes related to disease and want to minimize the changes made from tissue degradation after death (post-mortem). Due to this it is necessary to use tissue samples as fresh as possible.
Recommended equipment:
• Scalpel
• Sample cup w/formalin (can be ordered from Blue Analytics)
• Waterproof marker for marking the sample cups.
• Packaging for submission
The tissue samples must be stored in formalin. To ensure adequate fixation, it is important that the formalin penetrates the tissue before decomposition starts. The tissue samples should therefore have a maximum thickness of 5 mm. The ratio between tissue and formalin should be at least 1:10.
For diagnostic purposes the sampling should consist of an organ package from each individual. The package should minimum consist of gills, heart, head kidney, pylorus caeca, liver, spleen and skin/skeletal muscle.
If VHS or VNN in cod is suspected, eye and brain should be included.
If nephrocalcinosis or HSS is suspected, mid kidney should be included.
Post-mortem changes will occur most rapidly in the gills and then in the pylorus and liver. Removal of gills must therefore always take place quickly after killing.
When sampling whole fry, the abdomen should be opened to ensure good penetration of the formalin.
Storage and submission:
• To ensure good sensitivity for any immunostaining, the tissue should be sent in quickly for processing after extraction.
• Sample cups are labelled and packed in proper packaging.
• The tracking number for the shipment is to be sent to: mottak@blueanalytics.no
• By agreement, samples can also be delivered at Blue Analytics.
• The completed sample submission form should be placed in a plastic bag and must always be included in the package. Sample submission form histopatology and bacteriology
Delivery address:
Blue Analytics AS
Kong Christian Frederiks plass 3, entrance A, 1st floor
5006 Bergen
Norway