UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH SCHOOL OF MEDICINE
DEPARTMENT OF PATHOLOGY

• The brain should be fixed in 10% formalin (preferably buffered) at the time of autopsy.
• After 7-10 days fixation it should be rinsed in water for 2 hours, covered with numerous moist paper towels and placed in a sealed plastic bag.
• The bag should be sealed within a larger plastic bag (a trash or hazardous waste bag will work fine) to prevent leakage should the bag tear.
• The double bag ensemble should be placed in a sturdy cardboard box surrounded by styrofoam chips to prevent movement, securely tape the box.
• This package should be addressed to:

Dr. Ronald L. Hamilton
Presbyterian University Hospital, A506
Division of Neuropathology
200 Lothrop Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Phone (412) 647-6615
Fax (412) 647-5602

• Please call ahead to alert us to expect the delivery
• The cost of an outside consult for the evaluation of Alzheimer's Disease is $500
• A report will usually be generated within 20 working days of receipt of the brain, however, if additional stains are required for the diagnosis of a dementia other then Alzheimer's, there may be further delay.
• A copy of our report will be sent to the Pathologist who sent the brain. It is the responsibility of this pathologist to distribute that report to the patient's physician(s). Do not hesitate to call Dr. Hamilton with any questions you may have.