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HelpTest Code LABCNONG Cytology, Breast Discharge
Additional Codes
| Test Name in EPIC | EPIC Test Code | Mnemonic |
|---|---|---|
| CYTOLOGY, NON-GYNECOLOGIC | LABCNONG | Non-Gyn |
Useful For/Utility
Differentiate between benign and malignant processes, determinine primary vs. metastatic disease, aid in diagnosis of infectious and inflammatory disease
Methodology
Microscopic evaluation of stained slides.
Clinical Information
Breast discharge is a typical part of breast function during pregnancy or breast-feeding. It may also be associated with menstrual hormone changes and fibrocystic changes. The milky discharge after breast-feeding usually affects both breasts and can continue for up to two or three years after stopping nursing. A papilloma is a noncancerous (benign) tumor that can be associated with breast discharge. The discharge associated with a papilloma often occurs spontaneously and involves a single duct. Breast discharge has also been present in patients with breast cancer. Testing the discharged fluid can help clinicians distinguish, differentiate and/or aid in determining the cause of the discharge.
Specimen Requirements
Specimen source is required.
For best results, specimen must arrive as soon as possible after collection.
Specimen Type: Breast discharge
Container/Tube: Glass slides
Specimen Volume: Slides
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 or MRN, and source of specimen (right or left breast).
2. Gently massage nipple to produce discharge (if necessary)
3. Allow a pea sized amount of discharge to accumulate on apex of nipple.
4. Place glass slide evenly upon nipple and slide across.
5. Immediately place slide in a container with 95% ethanol or fix slide immediately with cytology spray fixative or before slides dry. Hold spray about 12 inches away from slide.
6. Prepare as many slides as the amount of material allows, the later smears usually contain more abnormal cells.
7. Place slide(s) in a transport container.
Specimen Transport Temperature
Ambient/Refrigerate OK/Frozen NO
See "Resources" link for additional transport 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 or Date of Birth, provider's name, date and time of collection, and specimen source. An EPIC order label is preferred.
All pertinent clinical information must be available to the laboratory.
The following specimens are at risk of being delayed and/or discarded:
-No requisition form or EPIC order
-Name on requisition or EPIC order does not match name on specimen
-Broken slide that cannot be reconstructed
-Unlabeled specimen
-No provider name given
-Air-drying artifact
Place specimen in a plastic specimen bag with request form (if present) inserted into the pocket separate from specimen.