Liver

Abstract

Biopsies of the liver come in two forms: the delicate needle-core biopsy and the larger wedge biopsy. In either case, the specimen should be measured and submitted in its entirety for routine histology. Thin-core biopsies are particularly susceptible to desiccation. Therefore, unless special studies are indicated, biopsies should be placed in fixative in the operating room. The core biopsy can be embedded whole, while the wedge biopsy may be thick enough to warrant sectioning before submitting to the histology laboratory. When sectioning the wedge biopsy, identify the smooth capsule, and then cut the liver at 0.2-cm intervals perpendicular to this surface. Multiple slides should be prepared from each tissue block for histologic evaluation. Step sections are preferred to serial sections so that the intervening sections are available for special stains. If a storage disease is suspected, then a small portion of the biopsy should be placed in glutaraldehyde for electron microscopy.