Cytopathology Sample Submission Hints
Undesired cytological specimen
Thick material located in one spot, not distributed and smeared all throughout the slide.
Adequate cytological specimen
Thin preparation. Material located at one edge of the slide and homogeneously smeared. It is recommended to submit two smears, one with no fixative, and the second cytospray-fixed right after specimen is smeared.
Undesired vaginal/endometrial swab
The swab should not be submitted for cytopathological testing. The swab is only useful for bacteriological, mycotic evaluation. The cells dry out and die when left in the swab.
Adequate submission of vaginal/endometrial smears
After obtaining the sample, the cotton tip must be gently rolled on a glass slide. The already prepared smear must immediately be cytosprayed or air-dried. Is recommended not to leave the smear in the open as it can get contaminated.
Inadequate specimen submission
The fluids must be submitted in a plastic or glass tube. For safety purposes, no syringes and/ or needles should be submitted.
Adequate fluid specimen submission for cytopathological evaluation
It is important to submit and process the fluids as soon as possible whenever submitted for cytopathological evaluation. If the fluid is not to be processed within the next 24 hours, it is recommended to add ¼ parts of alcohol in 3/4 parts of specimen. Bloody fluid can be submitted in a purple-top (EDTA) tube for good preservation.
Please indicate in the submission form if alcohol was added to the specimen.
