Sign in →

Test Code 1013 Sputum Cytology

Important Note

Microbiology testing cannot be performed on fixed specimens.

Methodology

Screening and Interpretation by Pathologist

Performing Laboratory

Alomere Health Hospital Laboratory

Specimen Requirements

Specimen Type:  Sputum

Preferred: CytoLyt® Fixative

1. Place up to 20 mL of sputum into CytoLyt® fixative. Slides will be prepared at Alomere Health Pathology.

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. Apply a representative sample onto 1 end of a slide. Place a second slide on top of first slide to obtain an even spread of material, and then separate the slides. Prepare 2 slides.
3. Immediately place slides in 95% alcohol.

4. Place up to 20 mL of remaining sputum into CytoLyt® fixative and submit with prepared slides.

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

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

Specimen Transport Temperature

Ambient

Reference Values

Negative for malignancy

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Friday

Test Classification and CPT Coding

88104 - cytopathology, nongyn, smear (if appropriate)

88112 - cytopathology, nongyn, ThinPrep® (if appropriate)

 

Special Instructions