Special Stain, Calcium (Von Kossa)
Also known as: CALCIUM SS
Use
The Special Stain, Calcium (Von Kossa) test is designed for histological examination to demonstrate the presence of calcium deposits in tissue samples. This is particularly useful in identifying pathological calcifications which occur in various diseases and conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, chronic renal failure, and vitamin D intoxication. It aids pathologists in diagnosing and understanding the etiology of calcified lesions within tissues.
Special Instructions
For processing, tissue samples must be formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded before being submitted for analysis. Any slides sent should be unstained, positively charged, and adequately protected. An electronic request is preferred, but an ARUP Anatomic Pathology Form with an ARUP client number can also be used if electronic ordering is unavailable. Use ARUP's tissue transport kit for shipping. Contact ARUP Client Services for additional coordination.
Limitations
This test is a stain and return (technical) service. It's specific for calcium but may not differentiate between other mineral deposits without adjunctive stains. Proper specimen handling is crucial to prevent artifacts. Results may vary if nonrepresentative tissue types are submitted or if specimens are depleted.
New York Approved
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 10746-6
Result Turnaround Time
1-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Tissue (FFPE)
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
1 slide
Container
positively charged slides in a tissue transport kit
Collection Instructions
Formalin fix (10 percent neutral buffered formalin is preferred) and paraffin embed specimen. Transport tissue block or 2 unstained (3- to 5-micron) slides.
Storage Instructions
Room temperature or refrigerated. Ship in cooled container during summer months.
Causes for Rejection
Nonrepresentative tissue type, depleted specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Indefinitely |
| Refrigerated | Indefinitely |
| Frozen | Unacceptable |