Useful For
Diagnose primary or metastatic malignant neoplasms; differential diagnosis of benign versus malignant processes; aid in the diagnosis of infectious and inflammatory disease
Method Name
Cytology
Aliases
Breast Smear, Nipple Secretion, Cytology - Non GYN
Specimen Type
Nipple Discharge
Specimen Required
- Nipple discharge can be placed directly into a:
- ThinPrep Pap smear vial (most ideal for transport and preperation)
- or a 50 mL conical centrifuge tube with screw cap containing 30 mL of Cytolyt fixative.
- A pap smear collection device, such as a spatula, could be used to transfer the specimen from the patient to the vial
- Containers can be obtained from the Cytology section of the Laboratory.
- Write patient’s name, date of birth and the collection date on the label on the container.
- It must be indicated if the nipple discharge is obtaind from the “Right” or “Left” nipple.
- Always add as much specimen as possible to ensure adequate cellularity to make a diagnosis
- Please ensure top is on tight prior to transport to the lab.
Specimen Minimum Volume
Pea-sized drop
Specimen Stability Information
- ThinPrep Pap smear vial (most ideal for transport and preperation), at room temperature.
- or a 50 mL conical centrifuge tube with screw cap containing 30 mL of Cytolyt fixative, 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 2 to 4 business days.
Specimen Retention Time
- Specimen is held for two weeks after the report is verified.
CPT Code Information
- 88112
Analytical Time
- Expected turnaround time is 2 to 4 business days.