| Methodology: |
Microscopy
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| Performed: |
Mon-Fri
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| Reported: |
1-5 days
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| Specimen Required: |
Patient Prep: Indications: Detection and characterization of malignant cells in the eye. In cytology, vitreous fluid is most commonly evaluated to detect and characterize malignancy which may have gained access to the eye. Vitreous fluid specimens require special collection procedures under the direction of an ophthalmologist. In addition, due to lack of nutrients in this fluid, cells may rapidly degenerate rendering morphologic evaluation less than optimal if adequate care is not taken.
Collect: For vitreous fluids, there is no minimum amount, but collect as much as possible.
Supplies: Standard vitreous aspiration equipment. Standard vitreous aspirate collection container for vitreous fluid. Fixative (50% ethyl alcohol).
Collection Procedure: Using standard vitreous collection procedures, collect an appropriate amount of vitreous fluid. In general, morphology of cells within vitreous fluid can be adequately maintained with prompt refrigeration for 24 hours. Although a fresh specimen is preferred, if a longer time period between collection and processing is anticipated, the specimen may be preserved by adding an equal volume of 50% ethyl alcohol to the specimen. Label the specimen with patient's first and last name, date of birth and specimen source. Submit the specimen to the Cytopathology Laboratory along with the completed Cytology request form.
Note: Specimens submitted for immunocytochemical testing must be submitted fresh. If necessary, on-call personnel can be utilized during the evenings or on weekends for processing of urgent specimens or those which need to be processed rapidly to avoid degeneration.
Unacceptable Conditions: Refer to the Specimen Rejection section in the Specimen Transport Guide.
Stability (collection to initiation of testing): Refrigerated: 72 hours
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