Pathology tests database

Sample and container requirements

Fresh, unfixed samples must be collected in to a sterile 25ml universal container and the lid of the container must be applied securely. The sample container must be labelled with the following patient identifiable details (PID) in order for the sample to be accepted: • Full name • NHS Number • Date of Birth &/or Hospital Number

Minimum volume required

Up to 20 ml of sample

Special requirements

Any samples taken from patients identified as having high risk pathogens e.g HIV , Hepatitis B, TB must be clearly labelled to ensure safe handling by Cytology staff.

Patient preparation

For taking synovial/joint fluid samples we recommend that users follow their local protocols.

Sample viability

Fresh samples should be delivered to the laboratory as soon as possible after collection to minimise cellular degradation. If there is a delay in delivery of the sample to the laboratory, the sample should be refigerated (2-8 °c) until transport can be arranged.

Turnaround time

80% samples reported in 7 days and 90% in 14 days. For urgent samples, earlier reporting can be requested.

Reference range

N/A

Clinical guidance

Diagnostic/ non gynaecological Cytology specialises in the microscopic evaluation of fluids in the identification of benign and malignant conditions. Samples are collected using various techniques which obtain exfoliated cells from different sites in the body. Techniques include: •Collection of body fluids which contain naturally exfoliated cells e.g. urines, sputum, body cavity fluids •Use of brushes or washes to encourage removal of cells from tissue surfaces e.g bronchial brushing/ washing. •For lesions that can not be easily accessed using exfoliative methods, fine needle aspiration (FNA) can be used where a needle is used to access a lesion and remove cells using a syringe. The Cytology department uses the following investigative techniques: • Liquid based cytology (Hologic) • Direct spreads • Cytospins • Cell block preparation • Papanicolaou and May Grunwald Giemsa staining • Immunocytochemistry, molecular or special stains ancillary testing, if required.

Notes

The following consumables can be ordered by contacting the BHH Cytology department on 0121 4241191: Universal bottles containing Cytolyt® (fixative), slides, slide carriers, orange transport bags and non gynae cytology request forms. Please allow a minimum of 48 hours from request for receipt of consumables. Cytorich Red fixative can be ordered by contacting the Cytology department at QEHB on 0121 3713314 If additional tests for other pathology disciplines are required e.g. microbiology, please send a separate sample and request form to the relevant department as multiple requests sent on the same request form can result in tests being missed.