Written by experts from Washington University School of Medicine, this text is a thorough review of the specific molecular genetic techniques that can provide diagnostically useful molecular genetic information on tissue samples--including cytogenetics, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), PCR, electrophoresis and hybridization analysis, DNA sequence analysis, and microarrays. The first part of the book describes each technique, indicates its advantages, disadvantages, capabilities, and limitations, and systematically addresses sensitivity and specificity issues. Subsequent chapters, organized by organ system, detail the specific applications of these tests in surgical pathology. More than 150 full-colour and black-and-white illustrations complement the text.
CONTENTS: Contents


Review of DNA Structure and Function
DNA Damage, Mutations, and Repair
Cytogenetics
Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization
Polymerase Chain Reaction
Nucleic Acid Electrophoresis and Hybridization
DNA Sequence Analysis
Sensitivity and Specificity Issues
Microarrays
Clinical Testing of Patient Specimens
Tumors of Soft Tissues and Bone
Endocrine System
Molecular Diagnostics in Hematopathology
Neural Tumors and Neuromuscular Diseases
Gastrointestinal Tract
Reproductive Organs
Urinary Tract
Skin
Lung and Mediastinum Breast Head and Neck Infectious Diseases Identity Determination The Future