Cytological Studies, Discharge

Cytological Studies, Discharge

Mnemonic

LAB2061
FCYTO

Test Performance Schedule

Monday-Friday except holidays

Result Availabilty

Varies

Container

30 mL Cytolyt Solution vial or
Glass slides (Contact Laboratory)

Volume

Pref. Vol.: Entire specimen
Min. Vol.: 1 spray-fixed smear

NOTE: Inclusion of patient clinical information is essential

Collection Instructions

Nipple:
• Using a pencil, label frosted end of slides with patient's name
• Soak nipple with warm, sterile saline-saturated cotton or gauze for 10-15 minutes
• Then gently strip subareolar area and nipple with thumb and forefinger
• When secretion occurs, allow "pea" sized drop to accumulate on apex of nipple
• Place slide end upon nipple and bring across quickly
• Immediately spray slide with Cytology Spray Fixative
• Make as many smears as amount of specimen allows (later smears usually contain more abnormal cells)
• For smears from both breasts; identify as "left" or "right" on slides and requisitions
• Specimen may also be collected directly into a 30 mL Cytolyt® Solution vial

Wound:
• Collect secretion on slide
• Immediately spray with Cytology Spray Fixative
• Document specimen source on slide and requisition

Transportation Instructions

• Place fixed, dried slides face up in a slide mailer
• Maintain slides and fixed specimens at room temperature

CPT Codes

88104

Effective/Revised

10/15/12