Urine Cytology

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Testing Laboratory

Auckland Te Toka Tumai | Auckland Hospital

Department

Cytology

Delphic Registration Code (Alpha Code)

NGYN

Test Code (Numeric Code)

9032

Laboratory Handling

Transport

Send the specimen to the laboratory as soon as possible after collection. If transport is delayed, refrigerate at 3–6°C until delivery. The specimen should be transported to the laboratory on the day of collection.

Sample Stability

Fresh urine should be processed within 4 hours of collection for optimal cellular preservation. If processing is delayed, refrigerate at 3-6 to minimise bacterial growth and cellular degeneration. Addition of an equal volume of 50% alcohol may improve cellular preservation by reducing degeneration.

Synonyms

Cytology

Turnaround Time

5 days

80% reported within 5 working days, we follow the RCPA guidelines.

Specimen Type

  • Urine

Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred
  • Specimen Container
Minimum Sample Volume (ml)

70

Paediatric Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred
  • Specimen Container

Pre-testing Requirements

Collect a 2-3 hour urine specimen with a total volume of greater than 70 mL.
Do not submit first morning urine, as cellular preservation and diagnostic yield may be sub optimal.
Urobag (urinary drainage bag) specimens are not acceptable. For patients with an indwelling urinary catheter, collect a fresh specimen directly from the catheter sampling port.; Label the specimen with the patient's details, date and time of collection.

Last updated: 07/08/2026