Fine Needle Aspiration Without Slides

Useful For

Detection of malignant, pre malignant and benign processes.

Method Name

Cytology

Aliases

Fine Needle Aspiration; FNA; Lymph Node; Salivary Gland Masses; Breast Cyst; Masses, Fine Needle Biopsy

Specimen Type

Fine Needle Aspirate

Specimen Required

  1. Label the CytoLyt preservative container with patient’s full name, date of birth and source of specimen
    1. Specimen can be expressed directly into the Cytolyt preservative container without touching the CytoLyt solution or container.
      1. Once all potential passes to obtain specimen are complete, thoroughly rinse the needle/syringe with the CytoLyt to maximize the cell sample.
        1. NOTE! CYTOLYT IS TOXIC AND NOT STERILE. DO NOT USE NEEDLES RINSED IN CYTOLYT TO OBTAIN ADDITIONAL SPECIMEN FROM PATIENT IF NEEDLE IS PLACED INTO THE CYTOLYT SOLUTION!

Specimen Minimum Volume

Though a minimum of 1 adequate pass is required, 3 passes per site is preferred to ensure adequate cellularity for a diagnosis.

Specimen Stability Information

Transport at room temperature.

Rejected Due To

  • Missing or discrepant information
  • Improper fixation
  • Insufficient quantity or leaked specimen

Performing Laboratory

Glens Falls Hospital laboratory, Cytology department.

Day(s) and Time(s) Performed

Cytology testing is performed Monday through Friday between 8 am and 4 pm

Analytical Time

  • Expected turnaround time is 3 to 4 weekdays.

Specimen Retention Time

  • Specimens are retained for two weeks after the results are released.

CPT Code Information

  • 88305 (If applicable)
  • 88112

Analytical Time

  • Expected turnaround time is 3 to 4 weekdays.