Provide a reason for referral and gestational age with each specimen, and verify the specimen source. The laboratory will not reject testing if this information is not provided, but appropriate testing and interpretation may be compromised or delayed.
Amniotic fluid:
1. Optimal timing for specimen collection is during 14 to 18 weeks of gestation, but specimens collected at other weeks of gestation are also accepted. Provide gestational age at the time of amniocentesis.
2. Discard the first 2 mL of amniotic fluid.
Additional Information:
1. Place the tubes in a Styrofoam container.
2. Fill remaining space with packing material.
3. Unavoidably, about 1% to 2% of mailed-in specimens are not viable.
4. Bloody specimens are undesirable.
5. If the specimen does not grow in culture, you will be notified within 7 days of receipt.
6. Results will be reported and also telephoned or faxed, if requested.
Chorionic villi:
1. Collect specimen by the transabdominal or transcervical method.
2. Transfer chorionic villi to a Petri dish containing transport medium.
3. Using a stereomicroscope and sterile forceps, assess the quality and quantity of the villi and remove any blood clots and maternal decidua.