Home
HelpTest Code LABCNONG Cytology, Tzanck Smear
Additional Codes
| Test Name in EPIC | EPIC Test Code | Mnemonic |
|---|---|---|
| CYTOLOGY, NON-GYNECOLOGIC | LABCNONG | Non-Gyn |
Useful For/Utility
To confirm or exclude Varicella-zoster / Herpes simplex virus induced vesicles.
Methodology
Microscopic evaluation of stained slides.
Clinical Information
Tzanck smear can be used on moist (erosive, vesicular, bullous, and pustular) skin lesions by direct scraping of lesions to make smears. Direct smears of base or roof of vesicle are stained and reviewed by pathologist for presence of HSV.
Specimen Requirements
For best results, specimen must arrive as soon as possible after collection.
Specimen source is required.
Specimen Type: Lesion or vesicle cells
Container/Tube: Glass slide
Specimen Volume: Slide
Fixative: 95% alcohol or spray fixative
Amount of Fixative: Enough to cover slide(s)
Collection Instructions:
1. Using a lead pencil, label frosted end of glass slide with patient’s name (first and last), DOB, MRN, and source of specimen.
2. Collect specimen from a lesion or vesicle. If lesion appears encrusted, remove superficial layer and discard. With viable cells exposed, use a fresh spatula or swab to scrape lesion firmly several times.
3. Immediately smear specimen evenly onto a glass slide.
4. Place slide in a container with 95% ethanol or fix slide immediately with cytology spray fixative before slide dries. Hold spray about 12 inches away from slide.
5. Place slide(s) in a transport container.
Specimen Transport Temperature
Ambient OK//Refrigerate OK/Frozen NO
See "Resources" link for additional information (Cytology Specimen Regional Transport Table)
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Friday
Performing Laboratory
Cytology -
St. Joseph's Medical Center Lab
SMDC Clinical Lab
Fargo Hospital Lab
Test Classification and CPT Coding
88160
Reference Values
An interpretive report will be provided.
Additional Information
Container must have the patient’s full name, Medical Record Number, Date of Birth, date and time of collection, and specimen source. An EPIC order label is preferred.
The following specimens are at risk of being delay and/or discarded:
-Spilled specimen
-No requisition form or EPIC order
-Name on requisition or EPIC order does not match name on specimen
-Unlabeled specimen
-No provider name given
Place specimen in a plastic specimen bag with request form (if present) inserted into the pocket separate from specimen.