Test Code Pathology Non-Gyn Request, GI Tract Cytology, Gastrointestinal Tract
Performing Laboratory
Memorial Hospital Laboratory-Cytology Laboratory | 304-388-5562 |
Specimen Requirements
- Patient must not be given breakfast and should fast overnight when stenosis is suspected.
- Place gastrointestinal brushings or gastrointestinal secretions in a screw-capped, plastic container.
- Fix specimen in 50% to 70% alcohol.
- Label container with patient’s first and last name and second identifier, date of collection, physician’s name, and hospital identification number (if applicable).
- Please complete a Cytology Request Form including patient’s name, date of birth, date of collection, physician’s name, address, specimen source, and pertinent clinical history; and forward it with the specimen.
- Place specimen in a plastic specimen bag with Cytology Request Form inserted into pocket separate from specimen; and, if possible, deliver specimen to Cytology Laboratory.
Specimen Rejection
The following specimens will be returned to submitting physician:
- Spilled specimens
- No requisition form
- Name on requisition does not match name on specimen
- Unlabeled specimen
- No doctor’s name given
Storage and Stability
14 days
Reference Values
Critical Value: All suspicious and positives
The cells observed in the specimen received may not represent the true nature of the lesion or clinical conditions because of sampling fallibility. A negative cytologic diagnosis does not rule out the possibility of an existing malignancy.
Methodology
A test for “Free Acid” or a like test cannot be combined with gastrointestinal cytology.
Days Test Set Up and Turnaround
Monday through Friday 8:00-5:00pm
Specimens received after hours, weekends, or holidays will be processed the next business day.
Results available within 4 business days
CPT Coding
88104