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.