CYTOLOGY, BREAST FLUID

Message

Submit the entire collection whenever possible. The ability to detect malignant cells significantly decreases with low volume specimens.

Test Code

CYREQ

CPT Codes
88108

Includes

Microscopic evaluation of cells with Pathologist interpretation.

Minimum Volume

Any volume is accepted

Other Acceptable Specimens

or Sterile Container

Instructions

Submit fresh. If specimen will be delayed more than 24 hours, CytoLyt solution may be added. A minimum 3:1 specimen to CytoLyt ratio is required.
Direct smears must be air dried for 10 minutes then spray-fixed before placing into a slide holder or immersed in 95% alcohol.
If preservative is not available, refrigerate specimen and transport ASAP.

Specimen Stability

Fresh specimen: 2-8°C up to 24 hours
CytoLyt added at minimum 3:1 ratio (specimen:CytoLyt): 8 days

Methodology
Microscopic identification

Setup Schedule

M, T, W, Th, F

Report Available

Analytic time: 2 days if paraffin block is prepared by Cytology as part of routine cell study. Report available within 1-3 days of receipt at the performing laboratory.

Performed By
Alverno Laboratories

Performing Laboratory
Alverno/Cytopathology

Last Updated: June 8, 2023

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.