Page 231 - pathology_services_handbook_5th_edition_2018

4.2 Body Fluid :

Specimen is collected into a normal clean plain container.
No fixatives or heparin to be added. Should be brought fresh without delay, within 2
hours to the Cytology Laboratory for immediate processing.

*TAT for body fluid is 14 working days. TAT for urgent cases is 3 working days. CYTOLOGY

Note : Avoid sending Body Fluid specimens on non working days or after office hour.
Cells in a fluid medium must not be permitted to degenerate, as it causes alteration to
cell morphology. If the specimen to be sent after office hour, anticipate refrigeration
o
o
of the specimen at 2 C – 8 C.
4.2.1 Sputum :

Morning specimen is required, before breakfast. Rinse mouth with water. Saliva and
post-nasal discharge should be discarded.

i. Deep cough specimen is required.
ii. Cough into wide mouth receptacle and despatch for immediate processing.

4.2.2 Bronchial Brushings :

Use clean glass slides.Label the slides with patient’s name and IC number. Brushings
should be smeared and fixed immediately in 95% alcohol for a minimum period of 30
minutes.

4.2.3 Aspirates and Washing :

Specimen is collected in a labelled container and sent to the laboratory immediately.

4.2.4 Nipple Secretion :

Specimen should be collected by applying the glass slide directly to the nipple, followed
by immediate fixation (as in PAP smear).

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