This document gives guidelines on the handling, documentation, storage and processing of frozen tissue specimens intended for RNA examination during the pre-examination phase before a molecular assay is performed.

This document is applicable to any molecular in vitro diagnostic examination performed by medical laboratories and molecular pathology laboratories that evaluate RNA extracted from frozen tissue. It is also intended to be used by laboratory customers, in vitro diagnostics developers and manufacturers, biobanks, institutions and commercial organisations performing biomedical research, and regulatory authorities.

Tissues that have undergone chemical stabilization pre-treatment before freezing are not covered in this document.

NOTE International, national or regional regulations or requirements can also apply to specific topics covered in this document.