This is a sticky situation that boils down to state law.  In Illinois we
implemented a new law this year requiring us to offer the miscarriage
(regardless of gestational age)to the family for funeral purposes.  If they
decline and it is less than 20wks we handle it as a specimen and then
dispose of it like any other specimen.  20wks and greater is handled as a
stillbirth.
Charles R. Embrey Jr., PA(AAPA), HT(ASCP)
Histology Manager
Carle Clinic
Urbana, IL
 

-----Original Message-----
From: rueggp [mailto:rueggp@earthlink.net]
Sent: Thursday, August 01, 2002 9:44 AM
To: HistoNet Server
Subject: POC


I asked about this before and only got a couple responses.  I am
interested in how you are handling "products of concept", fetus, embryo,
etc.  Do the families have access to these tissues?  Do you ask
permission of the patient to use thier cells for research, such as with
stem cell harvasting, tissue culture, cloning, etc.?  Is there a clear
policy in place at your institution regarding this?
I would like to be updated from UK people on your "tissue retention"
situation there.  When I was there in Oct. 2001, everything had to be
returned to the patient if requested, even single cells, blocks, and
slides.
Patsy