Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) - Quality issues in molecular cytogenetics

Abstract

Major quality issues of molecular cytogenetics are: • Manpower: Well-trained personal, knowing chromosomes on GTG-band level and pitfalls of FISH-techniques are a must. • Equipment: All laboratory equipment has to be available in double, to guarantee continuous work in case of damage of one machine. • Microscope: The maximum time of operation of fluorescence microscope lamps and filters have to be observed. • Probes and samples: Protocols with clear instructions for handling/ work-up of DNA-probes and tissue samples must be adapted by each user to the specific requirements. • Evaluation and reporting: While evaluation can be done by technical staff, the final approval of the result and the reporting has to be done by a correspondingly qualified PhD and/or MD.