Cytology Cerebrospinal Fluid

Submit specimen with a Pathology requisition.
Label specimen container with patient's complete first and last name, date of birth, date and time of collection, and specimen source.

AP006

• Send the specimen to the Laboratory in an appropriate closed, labeled container with the appropriate fixative for the tests requested. If you are unsure of the proper fixative, contact the Histology laboratory at extension 3405 for clarification. • Specimen source If submitting multiple specimens, the label must match the requisition as A, B, C, D, etc. Label specimen container with patient's complete first and last name, date of birth, date and time of collection, and specimen source. Optimally, the specimens should be submitted to the laboratory fresh. After collection, the unfixed material must be sent to the laboratory as soon as possible. Cellular autolysis begins immediately after the sample is collected (e.g., urine or bloody serous effusion). Collection of each type of specimen is presented here for correct procedure. Diagnostic cytology is based on three basic sampling techniques: (1) collection of exfoliated cells, (2) collection of cells removed by brushing or similar abrasive techniques, and (3) aspiration biopsy or removal of cells from non-surface bearing tissues by means of a needle, with or without a syringe. If there is an unavoidable delay encountered in the delivery of the specimens (e.g., weekend, etc.), specimens must be refrigerated. Specimens can be refrigerated for a week or more and still be satisfactory. DO NOT freeze the specimens. Freezing will fracture cells.

1. Cerebrospinal fluid should be placed in a clean test tube or container. 2. DO NOT add any fixative or preservative. 3. Label the tube with patient's name and date of collection. 4. If possible, do not collect cerebrospinal fluid during the weekend. If not, the specimen must be refrigerated promptly to retard cellular degeneration. 5. Pertinent history is particularly important for proper cytologic evaluation of cerebrospinal fluid (e.g., presence of ventriculo-peritoneal shunt, prior surgery, radiation, or intrathecally administered chemotherapy). 6. Send specimen and completed requisition form to the Laboratory.