Cytology Breast 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.

AP003

• 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 unfixed or placed in Cytolet fixative. After collection, the 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 or preserved with Cytolyt fixative. Specimens can be refrigerated for a week or more and still be satisfactory. DO NOT freeze the specimens. Freezing will fracture cells.

1. Aspirated fluid should be collected in a clean test tube or container. DO NOT send specimen in syringe with needle attached. 2. DO NOT add any fixative or preservative. 3. Label container or syringe with patient's name and date of collection. Complete requisition form with all necessary information. 4. Send specimen and completed requisition form to the Laboratory or place in the refrigerator until delivery can be made.