Pre testing requirements as per ward protocols.
A large volume of fluid is preferred (200 - 300mL).
Fluids should be collected in a screw-capped container. Please ensure that the cap is closed to ensure specimen does not leak in transit. Specimens MUST be properly labelled with patient details - full name and NHI or full name and date of birth, and accompanied with a matching request form.
Where possible, add anti-coagulant (EDTA, sodium citrate or heparin) to prevent fluids from clotting.
If specimens are delayed or late in the day, please refrigerate (4 degrees Celsius) and send immediately the next day.
Send to laboratory promptly.
Aliquot Instructions
Additional Referral/Aliquot Information
Refrigerate if delayed eg. overnight or at weekends. Spin down sample using the senders' protocol. Add sufficient CRR to the deposit to lyse the red blood cells and fix the specimen (1mL of CRR per drop of red blood cells). Resuspend and send to CHL promptly at room temperature.
Room temperature if in CRR.
Test Method
Cytological examination of slides.
Specimens centrifuged and cellular material is transferred onto glass slides, fixed and stained for cytological examination under a microscope.
Surplus material may be made into a Cytology cellblock for ancillary studies e.g. special stains; immunohistochemistry.
Non-Funded Test Cost
$111.49 (Exclusive of GST)
Billing Code
9713
Additional Costing Information
Test-adding Cytology can be done for up to 7 days on the original specimen. BUT delays in fixation may make cytological examination and interpretation difficult. A repeat sample may be advisable in this situation, if easily obtainable.
Samples are stored in a refrigerator until reported (usually within 7 days) before being discarded.
