Testing Laboratory
Counties Manukau | Middlemore HospitalDepartment
Cytology
Delphic Registration Code (Alpha Code)
FNAS
Test Code (Numeric Code)
9039
Laboratory Handling
Transport
The specimen must be placed in CytoLyt and transported to the laboratory immediately at room temperature. If a delay is anticipated, the specimen should be refrigerated and transported within 24 hours.
Sample Stability
Specimens should ideally be processed immediately. If a delay is unavoidable, they may remain stable for up to 48 hours; however, the diagnostic quality of the sample cannot be guaranteed.
Synonyms
cytology fnas cytology
Turnaround Time
5 days
Only performed during normal business hours (Monday to Friday).
Specimen Type
- Aspirate
- Vitreous Fluid
Specimen Requirements
Tube/Container Type:
Preferred
- Please refer to Additional Information below
Paediatric Specimen Requirements
Tube/Container Type:
Preferred
- Please refer to Additional Information below
Pre-testing Requirements
Specimens must be submitted in CytoLyt preservative, using pre-filled conical tubes. These tubes can be obtained by contacting MMH Cytology on 09 276 0000 ext. 59495.
Where additional testing is required:
• Flow cytometry: A separate specimen must be submitted in IMDM or saline
• Microbiology testing: A separate sterile specimen (either neat or in saline) must be submitted to Microbiology
Ensure all specimens are correctly labelled and accompanied by appropriate clinical information.
Additional Specimen Information
Place the sample in a 50 mL conical tube containing CytoLyt preservative.
FINE NEEDLE ASPIRATIONS (FNA)
The yield of diagnostic information is directly proportional to adequate aspiration technique and preparation of material.
Material aspirated for Cytology assessment only should be rinsed into Cytolyt solution (provided by the laboratory). If an infectious aetiology / lymphoproliferative disorder is a possible alternated diagnosis, please provide additional aspirated material for microbiological culture / flow cytometry (and submitted in appropriate medium). Correct and relevant clinical information must be provided and accurate labelling of specimens intended for cytology and microbiology is required. All material should be sent to the laboratory as soon as possible.
RAPID ON-SITE EVALUATION (ROSE) FOR IMAGED GUIDED FNA
When a Cytopathologist is required to attend or perform a fine needle aspirate (FNA) a provisional opinion will be given regarding specimen adequacy followed by a formal report after re-examination of all the prepared material in the laboratory.
Specially trained cytoscientists may also attend ROSE for image guided FNA procedures.
Last updated: 15/09/2026