Pathology tests database

Sample and container requirements

Fresh unfixed skin specimens are required for this process.

Minimum volume required

N/A

Special requirements

N/A

Patient preparation

Appointments are booked via the Dermatology Department.

Sample viability

N/A

Turnaround time

Diagnosis is available in most cases on the day of surgery.

Reference range

N/A

Clinical guidance

Mohs Micrograph surgery is a controlled surgery done in stages used to treat common types of malignant skin conditions such as basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), dermatofibrosarcoma protruberans (DFSP) and melanoma while the patient is either under local or general anaesthesia. These specimens are removed in such a way that there is minimal impact on the surrounding tissues whilst still ensuring that the entire lesion is removed. the procedure allows for a minimal surgical margin clearance.. During the surgery, after each removal of tissue and while the patient waits, the fresh tissue is snap frozen and sectioned for microscopic examination. The examination informs the decision for additional tissue removal. The process from specimen receipt in the laboratory to verbal report issued is carried out while the patient waits, however complex specimens with multiple sample blocks will take additional time. Mohs clinics are booked with the Department to ensure that there are clinical and technical staff are available to complete the test. Mohs surgery is carried out at Solihull and QE Hospital sites.

Notes