• Sample Details The Pathology Department, APHA, Weybridge UK, also known as the Reference Laboratory (RL), select a panel of unstained multiblocked sections from a range of TSE positive and negative cases and despatch them to the Participating Laboratory (PL). If BSE cases are included, then they will be treated with formic acid (decontamination) prior to tissue processing and despatch.
  • Method PrP Immunolabelling.

Overview

The purpose of this scheme is to verify diagnostic methods used in diagnostic laboratories and for participants to demonstrate their proficiency in performing immunohistochemistry staining techniques on TSE material.

Result input

On receipt of the unstained sections, the PL should immunolabel using their own routine PrP immunolabelling protocol.

The labelled slides should be returned to the RL along with a copy of the Immunohistochemistry PrP protocol used, a descriptive assessment of each case with a diagnosis and the appropriate control slides (which can be returned on request). If possible, two unstained sections from the PL’s positive control block should be included to help resolve any anomalies in interpretation should they arise.

Immunolabelling and interpretation of the section controls, and the supplied unstained sections, are assessed at the RL. The RL compares corresponding immunolabelled sections with the descriptive assessment and immunolabelling produced by the PL. The PL is then sent a performance report.

It is also permittable to return digital pathology images, when discussed with and agreed with the RL. The image resolution must be clear and in a format accessible to the RL e.g. JPEG, TIFF.

Results deadline (from date of shipping)

14 days

PT Report

The PT report is checked and signed by the head of the RL and returned electronically in PDF format

Health and Safety

This material is for in vitro use only, not for use in animals.

Import Permit

It is the responsibility of the participants to check with their customs authority if an import permit is required to import VETQAS® PT samples. If a permit is required, we must receive a valid copy of the permit before the scheduled distribution date. Please note, if we do not receive the permit by the scheduled distribution date the samples will not be shipped and there will be no refund.

Provision of external services

Aspects of the Proficiency Testing schemes may at times be performed by a competent external service provider, for which VETQAS® is responsible.

Additional Information

In the event of poor performance, follow-up advice and repeat PT can be offered. Separate quotations for this will be provided on an individual basis. Extra charges may be made for this. Unless you specify otherwise, sections will be cut at 5 mm and air dried at 37 °C onto charged microscope slides.