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HelpCytology, Fine-Needle Aspiration (FNA), Miscellaneous
Performing Laboratory
Billings Clinic LaboratoryMethodology
Includes Diff-Quik® staining of air-dried smears, slide preparation by liquid prep, cell block differentiation (if appropriate), and microscopic cytologic examination.Useful for the diagnosis of primary or metastatic neoplasms; can aid in the diagnosis of certain infectious and nonneoplastic processes.
Specimen Requirements
See “Fine-Needle Aspirations” in “Cytopathology Specimen Collection and Handling” in “Special Instructions.”Note: Please complete a “Reference Pathology/Non-Gynecologic Cytology Request Form” in “Request Forms” in “Special Instructions” including specimen source and all pertinent clinical data (clinical symptoms, history of malignancy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and tentative diagnosis), and forward it with the specimen.
Reference Values
Descriptive diagnosis of microscopic findings are generally categorized as positive, inconclusive, or negative for malignancy.Nondiagnostic or unsatisfactory results are given when material is inadequate for a diagnostic interpretation.