Molecular pathology test protocol
From 4 October 2022, the Department of Clinical Neuropathology has transferred to Synnovis LLP (a partnership between Guy’s and St Thomas’ and King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trusts, and SYNLAB UK & Ireland).
The Neuropathology department carries out around 400 molecular pathology tests a year. These include DNA testing of common brain tumour prognostic markers such as MGMT promoter methylation status and the sequencing of IDH1, IDH2 and BRAF V600E using state of the art pyrosequencing. 1p/19q co-deletion and c-MYC proliferation tests are performed using fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH). The number of markers tested is rapidly increasing. Please contact the department for a current list.
1. Phone us in advance
Contact the Neuropathology Laboratory at King’s College Hospital on 020 3299 1957 to let staff know when to expect delivery. If there is no answer, then phone the department office on 020 3299 1955 and leave a message. The department is open from 8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
2. Sample Requirements and Packaging
Ten unstained formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue sections, cut at 4-5µm thick (from a representative block of tumour) are required for all molecular pathology tests. If you have insufficient material or if you require multiple tests on the same samples please call the laboratory on 020 3299 1957 to discuss any additional requirements prior to sending.
3. How to package and transport the sample
The unstained slides must be packed into clean slide carriers taped shut to ensure they are not damaged during transit. A letter explaining the clinical details should accompany the sample. Post in a padded envelope to:
Department of Clinical Neuropathology, 1st Floor, Academic Neuroscience Centre,
King’s College Hospital,
Denmark Hill,
London SE5 9RS
Contact us
If you have any difficulties or questions, in the first instance contact Ross Laxton
on 020 3299 2375.
Alternatively, phone Peter Bannister, Laboratory Manager, on 020 3299 1951.