Abdominal Fluid Cytology
Also known as: Abdominal Effusion Cytology, Paracentesis, Pelvic Washings
Use
Establish the presence of primary or metastatic neoplasms; aid in the diagnosis of fungal and parasitic infestation of serous cavities
Special Instructions
Include patient's name, date of birth, sex, Social Security number, previous malignancy, drug therapy, radiation therapy, and all other pertinent clinical information, including history of alcohol abuse, on the request form.
Limitations
Allowing fluid to stand for a prolonged period before processing may cause deterioration and artifact. First tapping of fluids of long duration may be degenerated and require a second tap after reaccumulation. Proper labeling and fixation are imperative to avoid rejection. Specimens with improper labeling, gross contamination due to spillage, improper fixation, or those submitted in expired vials will be rejected.
Methodology
Chromosomal / Cytogenetics
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 22633-2
- 52797-8
- 47526-9
- 22638-1
- 22636-5
- 22639-9
- 19139-5
- 22634-0
- 22635-7
Result Turnaround Time
2-6 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Body Fluid
Volume
50 mL or more
Minimum Volume
More than 5 mL
Container
1200-cc Cardinal Health Guardian™ disposable hard canister or 120-mL BD Vacutainer® sterile urine collection cup
Collection Instructions
Label the container with patient's name, hospital number, room number, date, and type of specimen. Deliver immediately to the cytology laboratory. If more than a 24-hour delay is anticipated between collection and receipt in the laboratory, please add 1 mL (1000 units) of heparin for each 300 mL of collected fluid. To the entire volume (up to 1 liter) add an equal volume of 50% ethyl alcohol or Saccomanno fixative.
Patient Preparation
In order to suspend the cells in the fluid, move the patient into several different positions. Perform the paracentesis.
Storage Instructions
After hours, place in the laboratory refrigerator.
Causes for Rejection
Improper labeling; gross contamination due to spillage; improper fixation; specimen submitted in vial that expired according to manufacturer's label