Breast Discharge Cytology
Also known as: Breast Smear, Nipple Discharge
Use
Diagnose primary or metastatic malignant neoplasms; differential diagnosis of benign versus malignant processes; aid in the diagnosis of infectious and inflammatory disease
Special Instructions
Include patient's name, date of birth, sex, Social Security number, previous malignancy, drug therapy, radiation therapy, mammogram, and all other pertinent clinical information on the request form.
Limitations
Drying of smear(s) before fixation will render the specimen unsatisfactory for evaluation. It is crucial to ensure the smear is fixed immediately to maintain the integrity of the sample for accurate cytological interpretation.
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 22633-2
- 52797-8
- 47526-9
- 22638-1
- 22636-5
- 22639-9
- 19139-5
- 22634-0
- 22635-7
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Other
Volume
Pea-size drop
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Cardboard or plastic slide holder(s), Coplin jar(s)
Collection Instructions
Gently grip subareolar area and nipple with thumb and forefinger. When secretion occurs, allow pea-sized drop to accumulate on apex of nipple. Touch a clean slide to the nipple and withdraw quickly. Immediately spray slide with fixative or place slides in 95% ethyl alcohol. Repeat procedure until all secretions from nipple are collected on two or more slides. Using a graphite pencil, label the frosted end of the slide with the patient's name.
Storage Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature.
Causes for Rejection
Improper labeling; improper fixative; air-drying artifact