N.C. Court Rejects Attempts by Lab to Block Release of Original Tissue Samples to Asbestos Experts

ASHEVILLE, N.C. –– A federal court has rejected Duke University Health Systems’ attempts to obtain a protective order blocking the release of original tissue samples to experts retained in an asbestos case, saying the move will not detrimentally affect the lab’s accreditation.

In the April 8 opinion, the U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina said that precluding the release of the tissue samples would prejudice the defendants.

The plaintiffs in this action allege that Billy David Harris developed mesothelioma as a result of asbestos exposure. After Harris’ death, tissue samples were taken from his …