Test Code 00018 Cytology, Miscellaneous Lesion
Methodology
Includes Papanicolaou stain, slide preparation by THIN PREP® and/or Tzanck smear preparation, and microscopic cytologic examination.
Useful for detection of viral inclusions, inflammatory processes, and fungal infections.
Specimen Requirements
DRY LESION
Container/Tube: Vial with CYTOLYT® fixative
Specimen Volume: Entire specimen
Collection Instructions:
1. If lesion appears dry (eg, blisters), scrape gently but firmly with a wooden spatula.
2. Deposit material from spatula or swab directly into vial with CYTOLYT® fixative.
3. Label vial (not lid) with patient’s legal name, date of birth, specimen source, and date and time of collection.
Note: Specimen source, patient’s name, age, and sex are required
Forms: “Cytology Requisition” (Listed in Special Instructions)
MOIST LESION
Container/Tube: 2 to 4 slides
Specimen Volume: Entire specimen
Collection Instructions:
Note: Crushed or air-dried smears are of limited diagnostic value. Gentle smearing and immediate fixation are imperative.
1. If lesion appears moist or purulent, swab material using a cotton swab.
2. Smear material directly onto glass slide. Immediately place prepared slide in 100% ethanol fixative, or spray with Cytospray® fixative.
3. Label slides with patient’s legal name and date of birth.
Note: Specimen source, patient’s name, age, and sex are required.
Forms: “Cytology Requisition” (Listed in Special Instructions)
Specimen Retention Time
Two weeks from received date
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Friday
Maximum Laboratory Time
5-10 days from received date
Specimen Stability
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
Fresh | Refrigerate | ASAP |
Fixative | Ambient | 2-3 days |
Frozen | NO |
Reference Values
An interpretive report will be provided.
Performing Laboratory
Logan Health Medical Center Laboratory
Test Classification and CPT Coding
88104
Special Instructions
Note: Complete ALL information including specimen source and all pertinent clinical data (clinical symptoms, history of malignancy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and tentative diagnosis) and forward with specimen