Specimen Type/Requirements

Air dried or fixed slides or needle rinse in CytoLyt

Specimens obtained via 18-gauge or smaller needle.
NOTE: For core needle biopsies use Tissue Exam (PATH1006)

Collection Instructions:

1. Gather supplies.
   1. Prefilled CytoLyt containers (if rinsing needles or not making slides)
   2. Charged slides & Chemical Resistant Slide marker (if making slides)
   3. 95% alcohol for slide fixation
   4. Slide transport vials with 95% alcohol
   5. Patient labels
2. Obtain specimen.
3. Slide preparation collection method:
   1. Label each slide with 2 unique patient identifiers (name, MRN, DOB) and site being sampled.
   2. Place a small, pea-sized amount of sample on middle of slide (avoid frosted end).
   3. Use either spreader slide or pull apart method to smear sample across slide.
   4. Immediately fix slide in 95% alcohol
      1. If using pull apart method, fix one slide and air dry the other.
   5. Rinse needle into prefilled CytoLyt container, if desired.
   6. Repeat with each pass.
   7. Start process over for each new site sampled.
4. Fluid only collection method:
   1. Label prefilled CytoLyt container with 2 unique patient identifiers (name, MRN, DOB), site being sampled, and date/time of collection.
   2. Expel sample into CytoLyt container.
   3. Rinse needle into CytoLyt and then discard needle.
   4. Repeat with each pass.
   5. Start the process over with a new CytoLyt container for each new site sampled.
5. Prepare specimen for transport to lab.
   1. Each site must be in its own biohazard bag to prevent cross contamination.
   2. Place alcohol fixed slides into labeled prefilled 95% alcohol slide transport vial.
   3. Place air dried slides into plastic slide holder or securely closed carboard tray.