Specimen Type/Requirements

Collection Instructions:

1. Collect urine specimen (AVOID first-morning voided specimen which often shows marked degenerative changes in the cells).

2. Label a specimen container in the presence of the patient at the time of collection. The container label must have the following information:

• Two unique patient identifiers (acceptable identifiers include: patient's name, medical record number, date of birth)
• Specimen source and method of collection
• Collection date and time

3. Send immediately to the lab. Refrigerate the specimen if there is any delay in transporting the specimen to the lab. Note: If a delay of more than 1 day is expected in transporting the specien to the lab -- add fixative (step 4). 

4. Add Fixative: 

• Add 50% ethanol to the specimen to achieve approximately 1:1 specimen:fixative ratio. Excessive fixative will not harm the specimen. 
• Alternatively, CytoLyt may be added to the specimen to achieve approximately 1:1 specimen:fixative ratio. Excessive fixative will not harm the specimen.

5. Transportation:

• Specimens must be submitted in an appropriately labeled container with a secure lid to prevent leakage during transport and placed in a biohazard bag. 
• All specimens must be submitted with the appropriate cytology test requisition.