Instructions for Collection and Transport

Specimen is collected by physician using a moistened Dacron swab or cytobrush and labeled with 2 patient identifiers and site identifying words. Do not add fixative to the specimen. If more than one site is sampled, site specific identifying words must be present on appropriate specimen containers. Cytology Epic order must contain the following information: source of specimen, patient’s clinical findings, prior treatment,and pertinent previous biopsy results. Internal specimens should be transported to Cytology or CSR Laboratory immediately. Remote specimens should be transported refrigerated on freezer packs. Specimens should reach Main Campus Laboratory within 12 hours for optimum preparation.