Cytology – Body Fluid

Cytologic evaluation of body fluid samples. Includes gross examination, total protein concentration, cell counts (where indicated and with EDTA and non-flocculent samples), preparation of direct, concentrated and cytocentrifuge slides (where indicated), and evaluation by a clinical pathologist.

1.0 mL body fluid and air-dried slides

None

Fluid: EDTA tube (purple top) and non-additive tube. 

For small volume samples where two tubes cannot be collected, EDTA tube (purple top) is preferred.

Label all samples.

Provide the origin of the fluid (e.g. pleural effusion, joint fluid, transtracheal wash fluid) and a brief clinical description or history.

An additional fee will be charged for cases with no location and no clinical description.

The Cytology – Body Fluid test only applies to fluid collected from a normal anatomic structure (e.g. thoracic cavity, joint space, airway). If fluid is collected from a mass, Cytology – Aspirate/Smear (1161) will be ordered.

For samples arriving in our Canyon laboratory, protein concentrations, cell counts (where indicated/possible), and slide preparation will be performed on the day of arrival. Slides may be digitally scanned and reviewed remotely using validated whole slide imaging (WSI) technology to allow for rapid turnaround times. Some cases may be forwarded to College Station for review of glass slides (e.g., pathologist request, cases with high numbers of slides). In cases where glass slide review is required, final reporting may be delayed by an additional business day. Pathology reports will indicate whether each case was reviewed using WSI or glass slides.