The Division of Neuropathology at the University of Virginia performs the full range of biopsy and identification services, including histochemistries and electron microscopy. The Division has particular strengths in:

• Specialized analyses for pituitary tumors. These analyses are critical to the strength of our Neuroendocrine Center and Pituitary Tumor Program. Because pituitary adenomas are rare, the Neuropathology Laboratories at UVA stand almost alone in providing the breadth of immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy required for a full understanding of the biologic nature of the tumor. These analyses determine the hormone content of tumor cells and the degree of cellular differentiation of pituitary adenomas.

• Processing, analysis and interpretation of muscle and peripheral nerve biopsies. Many competent community pathologists lack the specialized facilities for proper preparation of nerve and muscle biopsies, and perform only routine paraffin/H&E sectioning. This minimal analysis can limit the opportunity to uncover subtle but real disease processes. The Neuropathology Laboratory of the University of Virginia Health System offers a complete panel of special stains, including frozen section muscle enzyme histochemistry, and when indicated, immunohistochemistry for specific markers of inclusion body myositis and muscular dystrophies. We also can perform electron microscopic analysis for specialized cases, including suspected mitochondrial cytopathies and demyelinating processes, for example.
  
  

For more information about these services, please call (434) 982-4293 or email the Neuropathology Laboratory Manager.

Neuropathology Physicians: