What action could increase GLP compliance when necropsy data were withheld from a pathologist?

• A. Check the SOP on the provision of necropsy records when pathology is required by the protocol, and add a new step to ensure these records always are sent with the specimens.
• B. Remove necropsy records from the protocol.
• C. Delegate this task to the pathologist without SOP.
• D. Limit necropsy data to reduce workload.

Answer: (A)

Providing necropsy records with the specimens is essential for GLP because the pathologist needs complete context to interpret findings accurately and to maintain data integrity and traceability. Checking the current procedure for how necropsy records are provided and adding a clear step that ensures these records accompany every specimen creates a consistent, auditable workflow. This prevents missing information, reduces the chance of protocol deviations, and supports regulatory requirements for complete documentation and data linkage. In practice, the workflow should specify who is responsible, when records must be collected, and how to verify that the data are sent with the samples, so the pathologist can conduct an informed assessment with all relevant details.

Removing necropsy records from the protocol would break the linkage between findings and the specimen, leading to uncertainty. Delegating the task to the pathologist without an SOP invites inconsistency and weakens traceability. Limiting necropsy data to cut workload sacrifices essential information that GLP requires for accurate interpretation and for a solid audit trail.