How should muscle samples be shipped?
Two muscle biopsies should be collected from each site. Wrap the largest biopsy specimen (0.5 X 0.5 X 1.0 cm) in a saline dampened (NOT DRIPPING WET) gauze sponge and placed into a dry water-tight container (for example, a 10 ml red top tube) and keep cold until shipped. A second smaller biopsy specimen from next to the original biopsy should be placed directly into 10% buffered formalin. Place all muscle specimens into a Styrofoam box with cold packs and ship by an overnight night service so the samples arrive into the laboratory within 24-36 hours of collection. It is critical that the muscle biopsies remain cold so we receive the tissue in good condition. A special collection technique is required for biopsy of a masticatory muscle. For collection of temporalis muscle biopsies, refer to our July 2002 Case of the Month.
