Renal Biopsy Service

The Department of Pathology at Saint Louis University School of Medicine has provided state-of-the-art renal biopsy service to the nephrology community and patients with renal disease for more than 35 years.

Renal Pathology Service Features

Expertise in adult and pediatric renal diseases, native and allograft biopsies
Rapid turnaround times:
Normal service - 24 hours or less for light and IF microscopy, 48 hours for EM
Emergency Service (upon consultation with pathologist) — weeknights, weekends and holidays
Rush service - Six hours from receipt of specimen, if delivered by 10 AM
Light microscopy: H&E, Jones' silver methenamine stain, Masson's trichrome stain, periodic acid-Schiff
Immunofluorescence studies: IgG, IgA, IgM, C3, C1q, albumin, fibrinogen, light chains (Kappa and Lambda), C4d
Electron microscopy
Immunohistochemistry
Discussion and review of slides with referring nephrologist
Competitive fee schedule

Address for Deliveries

Please call the Histopathology Laboratory at 314-617-2814 to determine the best method for preparing your specimen and the best address for delivery.

Histopathology Laboratory
Saint Louis University School of Medicine
1402 S. Grand Blvd.
Schwitalla Hall 4th Floor, Room M462
St. Louis, MO 63104
314-617-2814

Please call the laboratory to make arrangements for weekend or after-hours biopsy delivery. Our hours are Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 4:30 PM. We are closed weekends and holidays.

Collection Instructions & Requisition Form

The laboratory prefers to receive all renal biopsy samples fresh, according to the directions below. The specimen should be submitted to the laboratory within two hours of initial collection to prevent deterioration of the specimen.

Renal Biopsy Collection Instructions
Renal Biopsy Gross Description Worksheet
Glomeruli Identification Tutorial
Fresh Tissue/Electron Microscopy Requisition

Results

Results are called to the attending nephrologist within 24 hours. Written reports are available online and are also faxed to the nephrologist and referring pathologist. Our professional staff is available for consultation for patient management questions and interpretation of results.

Fees

The renal biopsy referral service maintains a competitive fee structure. For specific charges, please call 314-617-2835.