Testing Laboratory
APS | Mt WellingtonDepartment
Cytology
Delphic Registration Code (Alpha Code)
MW NG Cyto
Test Code (Numeric Code)
9700
Laboratory Handling
Transport
Specimens should be submitted fresh and without delay following collection. Samples should be placed in a sterile, leak-proof container and transported to the laboratory as soon as possible, ideally within 1–2 hours of collection. If immediate transport is not possible, specimens should be refrigerated at 2–8 °C to minimise cellular degradation.
Sample Stability
Respiratory cytology specimens have limited stability due to rapid cellular degeneration. Fresh specimens (no preservative) are optimal if processed within 1–2 hours; specimens may be stored at 2–8 °C for up to 24 hours, though diagnostic quality may decline.
Synonyms
Bronchial Washing
Bronchial Brushing
Bronchioalveolar lavage
BAL
Turnaround Time
5 days
80% reported within 5 working days
Specimen Type
- Bronchial Brush
- Bronchial Washing
Specimen Requirements
Tube/Container Type:
Preferred
- Specimen Container
Paediatric Specimen Requirements
Tube/Container Type:
Preferred
- Specimen Container
Pre-testing Requirements
Labelling Requirements:
· Both container and the request form must be labelled with at least two patient identifiers (e.g., Full name, date of birth or NHI number).
· Site of specimen is also required.
· A matching requisition form must accompany the specimen container detailing relevant clinical details including any relevant previous details.
· Indicate clearly if microbiology testing is required, the sample will go to Awanui first before being tested at APS.
Additional Specimen Information
The operational hours for the Non-Gynae preparation area is 8am-4.30pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays), do not send specimens after hours.
Last updated: 07/05/2026