It is a NYS regulation to keep all paraffin blocks for 20 years.  Space is
definitely an issue.


(AP regulations state that paraffin blocks should be retained for 5 years.
In a recent CAP Today, it was suggested that this time  be extended for
either all blocks or tumor blocks because of the potential for new testing
capabilites (for example her 2-neu) that might be developed.  We have
limited storage space as well as spare time to keep two filing systems for
blocks.  I would appreciate all comments on this issue, do you keep longer
than 5 years or not?, if you do what system do you have in place?  all
blocks or selective blocks? )

thanks,
Sheila