Specimen Requirements

Specimen Type: Gastric washings

Preferred: CytoLyt® Fixative

1. Express up to 20 mL of aspirated material 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. Centrifuge washings for 10 minutes at 1,500 rpm.

3. Pour off supernate and carefully apply material 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. Smear preparation should be performed gently to prevent crushing of cells. Prepare 2 slides.

4. Immediately place slides in 95% alcohol.

5. Place up to 20 mL of remaining washings into 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.