Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the laboratory open to accept samples on the weekend?
A: No, the Genetic Diagnostic Laboratory is open Monday-Friday from 9am-5pm.
Q: What do I do if a sample is drawn on a Friday?
A: If sample is drawn on a Friday, please refrigerate it for shipment on the following Monday.
Q: What is the minimum blood requirement?
A: Obtain 2 EDTA tubes (lavender top) of blood – approximately 4 mL per tube.
For a newborn sample, obtain 2 EDTA tube (lavender top) of blood – approximately 1-2 mL per tube.
Q: How do I ship blood samples?
A: Ship at room temperature via Federal Express or other overnight courier that guarantees AM delivery to arrive Monday-Friday.
Q: How do I ship frozen tumor samples?
A: Send frozen tumor on dry ice via Federal Express or other overnight courier that guarantees AM delivery to arrive Monday-Friday.
Q: How do I ship paraffin-embedded tumor samples?
A: Ship at room temperature via Federal Express or other overnight courier that guarantees AM delivery to arrive Monday-Friday.
Q: Does the lab accept sent DNA?
A: Yes, but the lab does not prefer this. Please call for sample requirements.
Q: Does the lab offer prenatal testing?
A: The lab offers prenatal testing for most of our genetic tests. Please contact the laboratory prior to sending a prenatal sample. The lab prefers to be notified of the expected prenatal sample at the time the procedure is scheduled. Please call with any questions regarding prenatal samples.
Q: What is the CPT code and/or price for this particular test?
A: Information on CPT codes and pricing can be found on the test information webpage for that particular test. Additionally, this information can be accessed here.
Q: What is the laboratory’s cancellation policy?
A: Cancellation or revision of submitted test orders within 48 hours of sample receipt will not incur any charges. Please perform the following steps to cancel a test.
- Complete a test cancellation form. A copy of this form can be found here.
- Fax (215-573-5940) or email (gdllab@pennmedicine.upenn.edu) completed form
Tests with an expedited turnaround time such as prenatal analysis or Level 1 Congenital Hyperinsulinism 4 gene panel cannot be canceled once sample has been received by the laboratory.
After 48 hours, requests for cancellation or revision of an ordered test will be handled on a case by case basis. A fee for DNA extraction may be applied if sample has been processed. Please call the laboratory at 215-573-9161 to determine the status of your patient’s sample.