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Bronchial Brushings for Cytology


TEST DIRECTORY
Test Name
Bronchial Brushings for Cytology
Description
Cytopathologic evaluation for the detection and characterization of malignancy. Note: ProPath does not perform culture and sensitivity testing.
Test Code
420
SPECIMEN REQUIREMENTS
Specimen Requirements
Obtain brushings during bronchoscopy.
Supplies for Submission
  • Glass slides
  • No. 2 pencil
  • Spray fixative
  • CytoLyt® or 95% ethanol
  • Specimen container
Specimen Collection
  1. Label all specimen containers with two identifiers. Acceptable identifiers include patient’s name, date of birth, social security number, requisition number, and medical record number.
  2. Label slides with patient’s full first and last name, using a pencil.
  3. Direct smear – Roll brush gently over 2/3 of the glass slide and immediately spray-fix or place in a container of 95% ethanol (NOT CytoLyt®).
  4. If submitting brush tip, place it into a container of CytoLyt® or 95% ethanol.
  5. Submit slides and brush together using one requisition, labeling them as ‘A’ and ‘B,’ respectively.
Storage Requirements
Store specimens at room temperature (15 to 30°C) until transported. DO NOT freeze.
Causes for Rejections
Click here for Specimen Rejection Criteria.
GENERAL AND TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Turn Around Time
2-3 days
Limitations
  • Specimens in incorrect fixative (such as formalin) can only be processed as cell blocks.
  • Allowing smears and brushes to dry before fixation may render them unsatisfactory for cytologic evaluation.
CPT Code
88160