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Test Code
10469
Test Name
Cytopathology, Direct Smears Cytology
CPT Codes
88104, 88173
Included Tests
  • Cytologic evaluation for diagnostic malignancy or viral changes.
Expected Turnaround Time
2 - 4 days
Clinical Utility
  • Cytologic evaluation for diagnostic malignancy and some infectious agents.
Specimen and Container Info
Alternate Specimen:
Min. Volume External: Adequate viable cellular material for diagnositc evaluation.
Volume External:
Alternate Container:
Collection Instructions
  • Slides must be labeled with patient's full name and second patient identifier (i.e., DOB, MR#) on the frosted end of the slide in pencil; do not use marker or pen.
  • Submit smears AIR DRIED (NO FIXATION) and note on accompanying requisition "Smears Air dried."
Processing and Submission Instructions
  • For lesions of skin or vulva, which are dry surfaces, it is helpful to moisten the lesion with saline before scraping it.
  • Submit specimen with an EPIC order, a completed Cytology Non-Gyn Requisition (HNL-32) or one of the laboratory's appropriate electronic forms.
  • Cytologic herpetic interpretation is not a confirmatory study; cellular changes only suggest viral infection.
Methodology
Cytopathology
Reference Intervals
  • Negative for diagnostic malignancy or negative for viral changes.
Performing Location
Roble Road Core Laboratory
Testing Schedule
Routine, Monday - Friday no holidays
The American Medical Association (AMA) Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes published by HNL Lab Medicine are guidelines and are intended for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the exclusive responsibility of the billing entity. View the Terms.
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