Which specimen type must be sent to pathology dry?

The correct answer is that calculi must be sent to pathology dry. This is because calculi, which are solid mineral deposits that form in various organs of the body, need to be assessed in their natural state to accurately evaluate their composition and structure. Moisture can alter the integrity of the specimen, influencing the accuracy of tests and diagnostic evaluations in the laboratory.

In contrast, other specimen types like tissue samples, fluid aspirates, and skin biopsies are typically preserved in specific solutions or containers designed to maintain their cellular and structural integrity during transportation and processing. These solutions help to prevent degradation and allow for the necessary histological examination. Thus, maintaining the correct condition for these different specimen types is essential for accurate pathological analysis.