Test Code NBLD0504 Fibroblast Culture for Genetic Testing
Additional Codes
Mayo Test Code: CULFB
Useful For
Producing fibroblast cultures that can be used for genetic analysis
Special Instructions
Method Name
Cell Culture
Specimen Type
TissueAdvisory Information
This test should be ordered if the specimen is chorionic villi or products of conception, or if cytogenetic testing is requested.
If the specimen is a tissue biopsy and no cytogenetic testing is needed, order FIBR / Fibroblast Culture, Tissue as these specimens are used for all other genetic testing and are cryopreserved for a minimum of 3 years once testing is complete.
Shipping Instructions
Advise Express Mail or equivalent if not on courier service
Necessary Information
Provide a reason for referral with each specimen. The laboratory will not reject testing if this information is not provided, but appropriate testing and interpretation may be compromised or delayed.
The additional tests desired must be indicated on the request form that accompanies the specimen.
Specimen Required
Submit only 1 of the following specimens:
Specimen Type: Autopsy
Supplies: Hank's Solution (T132)
Container/Tube: Sterile container with sterile Hank's balanced salt solution, Ringer's solution, or normal saline
Specimen Volume: 4-mm diameter
Collection Instructions:
1. Wash biopsy site with an antiseptic soap.
2. Thoroughly rinse area with sterile water.
3. Do not use alcohol or iodine preparations.
4. Biopsy specimens are best taken by punch biopsy to include full thickness of dermis.
Specimen Type: Chorionic villi
Supplies: CVS Media (RPMI) and Small Dish (T095)
Container/Tube: 15-mL tube containing 15 mL of transport media
Specimen Volume: 20-30 mg
Collection Instructions:
1. Collect specimen by the transabdominal or transcervical method.
2. Transfer the chorionic villi specimen 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.
Specimen Type: Products of conception or stillbirth
Supplies: Hank's Solution (T132)
Container/Tube: Sterile container with sterile Hank's balanced salt solution, Ringer's solution, or normal saline
Specimen Volume: 1 cm(3) of placenta (including 20 mg of chorionic villi) and a 1 cm(3) biopsy specimen of muscle/fascia from the thigh
Collection Instructions: If a fetus cannot be specifically identified, collect 50 mg villus material or tissue that appears to be of fetal origin.
Additional Information: Do not send entire fetus.
Specimen Type: Skin biopsy
Supplies: Hank's Solution (T132)
Container/Tube: Sterile container with sterile Hank's balanced salt solution, Ringer's solution, or normal saline
Specimen Volume: 4-mm diameter
Collection Instructions:
1. Wash biopsy site with an antiseptic soap.
2. Thoroughly rinse area with sterile water.
3. Do not use alcohol or iodine preparations.
4. A local anesthetic may be used.
5. Biopsy specimens are best taken by punch biopsy to include full thickness of dermis.
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
---|---|---|---|
Tissue | Refrigerated (preferred) | ||
Ambient |
Reject Due To
All specimens will be evaluated at Mayo Clinic Laboratories for test suitability.Day(s) and Time(s) Performed
Specimens are processed Monday through Sunday.
Results reported Monday through Friday; 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Performing Laboratory

Test Classification
Not ApplicableCPT Code Information
88233
88240
Forms
Final Disposition of Fetal/Stillborn Remains (if fetal specimen is sent) in Special Instructions. Only required for products of conception or stillbirth specimen.
Testing Algorithm
This processing test is for culturing fibroblast, chorionic villus, or products of conception specimens for cytogenetic, molecular genetic, or other testing. No analysis or interpretation of results is performed.
Once confluent flasks are established, the cultures are sent to other laboratories, either within Mayo Clinic or to external sites, based on the specific testing requested.
Specimen Minimum Volume
See Specimen Required
Reference Values
Not applicable