Pathology Handbook

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Cytology - Body Cavity Effusions/Fluids

Alternative Names:Ascitic Fluid for Cytology
Pleural Fluid for Cytology
Pericardial Fluid for Cytology
Peritoneal Fluid for Cytology
Thoracic Cavity Fluid for Cytology
Laboratory:Anatomical Pathology
Test Code:Various codes available - see Procedure Manual
Specimen Types:Fluid
Container Types:
See Detailed Information
Collection & Request Instructions:

Body Cavity Effusion Fluids for Cytology

 

Pleural fluids, ascitic (peritoneal) fluids and pericardial fluids should be put into special 120 ml effusion specimen containers. These containers are available from the Cytology laboratory. This volume allows adequate cellular material for all cytological testing, including preparation of cell blocks for immunohistochemical testing. 

 

Large volumes of effusion fluids in drainage bags and bottles are difficult for the laboratory to handle. Large volume collection for Cytology is not necessary and are discouraged from being sent to the laboratory.

Pleur-Evac chest drainage system units are NOT SUITABLE for Cytology specimen collection. These units provide no diagnostic sample for the laboratory. Pleur-Evac units WILL NOT be accepted and will be returned to the ward. Thoracic fluid sampling for Cytology must be accomplished by other means, such as via ATS bag connection.

Transport Instructions between Sites and/or Laboratories:Room Temperature
Use Esky from SDMH or CGMC to Alfred
Assay Frequency:Weekdays