Specimen Requirements

Specimen Type:  Urine

Note:  Urine for cytology does not need to be collected in a sterile container.

Preferred:  CytoLyt® Fixative

1. Place up to 20 mL of urine into CytoLyt® fixative. Slides will be prepared at Alomere Health Pathology. If urine specimen is >20 mL:

A. Concentrate by centrifugation for 10 minutes at 1,500 rpm.

B. Pour off supernate and add sediment to CytoLyt® fixative.

2. Label CytoLyt® container with patient identification and specimen source.

3. Specify specimen source on requisition and label all containers.

4. Complete a “Cytology Examination Request Form” in “Forms” in “Special Instructions” and forward it with the specimen.

Acceptable:  Direct Smears

1. Label polysine slides with patient identification.

2. Centrifuge urine for 10 minutes at 1,500 rpm.

3. Pour off supernate and carefully smear sediment onto slides. Prepare 2 to 4 slides.

4. Immediately place slides in 95% alcohol.

5. Place up to 20 mL of remaining urine in CytoLyt® fixative and submit with prepared slides.

6. Specify specimen source on requisition and label all slides and containers.

7. Complete a “Cytology Examination Request Form” in “Forms” in “Special Instructions” and forward it with the specimen.