Instructions for Collection and Transport

Specimen is collected by physician 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 include the following information: source of specimen, patient’s clinical findings, prior treatment and previous biopsy results. Internal specimens should be transported to Cytology or CSR Laboratory immediately. Remote specimens should be transported refrigerated on freezer packs. Specimen should reach Main Campus Laboratory within 12 hours for optimum preparation.

Note:  For co-testing, pap smear and HPV, please only collect into one PreservCyt Solution Vial.  Both tests are successfully performed from the same vial.  There is no evidence to support any benefit to collecting two separate vials.