Cytological Techniques

Diagnostic Cytology

-Microscopic examination of cells from different body sites for diagnostic purposes. (Consistency and
Reliability are most important.)

Methods of Specimen collection

A. Exfoliative Cytology

B. Fine needle aspiration

What should be in the requisition?

-Patient label with name, hospital & room number

-Requested test

-Specimen source

-Date and Time of specimen collection

-Pertinent Clinical information

-Requesting physician

-Location ordered form

Criteria for specimen rejection

-Specimen is received unlabeled, mislabeled, or separated from its requisition; it will be rejected.

-If there is any conflict or concern about the specimen being difficult to replace or irreplaceable.

Exfoliative Cytology Specimens

-Respiratory samples

-Urinary samples

-Discharge or secretion samples

- Gastrointestinal tract sample

-Skin or mucus sample

Bronchial Alveolar Lavage

Materials Needed: Clean, Leakproof container

-Lavage specimen collected during the endoscopic examination should be collected and properly labeled.

-Volume not less than 5mL. 50mL is preferred.

The specimen should be delivered as soon as possible to Central Receiving. If any delay is anticipated,
refrigerate immediately.

-A Cytology requisition/transmittal should be submitted to include the patient’s name, hospital number,
room number, requesting physician.

-Include pertinent clinical information

Bronchial Brushings

Materials needed: Frosted end glass slides