The Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) offers digital cytology to account-holding clients. Digital cytology provides rapid evaluation of photos taken with microscope cameras or smart phones. This service provides an official report and cytologic interpretation, typically within one hour of submission (during business hours). To enhance this service, submission of glass slides for evaluation is included in the price of the digital cytology test.

Cytology Preparation

Smears for digital cytology can be prepared in the same manner as glass slides. Monolayers (thin areas) will be important for capturing high-quality images. Stain with standard in-house methods e.g. dip stains. If possible, retain some unstained preparations for follow-up submission.

Cameras

There are several options for taking microscopic images in-house. Options include: built-in microscope cameras, cameras with eye-piece adapters, and smart phones (alone or with stabilizer).

Image Acquisition

Digital cytology will be most rewarding for identification of infectious agents, inflammatory lesions, and monomorphic population of cells (neoplasia). 

Images should include:

  • A minimum of 2 images at varying magnifications.   
  • RBCs, neutrophils, or note magnifications to allow for evaluation of size. 
  • Multiple microscopic images and images of the gross lesion are encouraged. 
Submission of Images
  • Submit via the TVMDL Mobile app or email images to digitalcytology@tvmdl.tamu.edu.
  • If submitting via email, include the digital cytology submission form as a pdf or an image file.
  • There are multiple options for form submission.
    • The form can filled out on a computer and included as an attachment.
    • The form can be printed, completed by hand, photographed and submitted as an additional image.
    • Or, all the pertinent information from the form can be entered directly into the body of the email. 
  • Images should be saved as JPEG or PNG files.
  • Smart phone “medium” size / reduced file
  • The total number of images should be noted on the submission form, especially if multiple emails are sent. 
Results

Images submitted Monday-Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. will often have results available within one hour.

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