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Test Code LABPAP Cytology, Pap Test (Monolayer), Gynecologic

Important Note

A specimen received without a broom OR without both brush and spatula  will be discarded and recollection will be required for both cervical and vaginal specimens. 

Note: Neither the broom nor the brush are approved for use with patients >10 weeks pregnant.

Additional Codes

Test Name in EPIC EPIC Test Code Mnemonic
LIQUID-BASED PAP LABPAP GYN

 

Useful For/Utility

Pap tests screen for pre-cancerous and cancerous cells in the cervix.

Methodology

Microscopic evaluation of stained slides.

Clinical Information

A Pap test is a procedure to test for cervical cancer in  patients of any age.  A Pap test involves collecting cells from the cervix, the lower, narrow end of the uterus that is at the top of the vagina with a collection device. Organisms can also be seen including bacteria, fungus, Herpes, Trichomonas vaginalis, etc. HPV testing can be performed on the same sample.

Specimen Requirements

For best results, specimen must arrive as soon as possible after collection.

Specimen source is required.

Specimen Type: Monolayer pap test collection
Container/Tube: SurePath vial
Specimen Volume: Broom or brush/spatula combination in liquid media
Fixative: SurePath Vial
Amount of Fixative: Entire Prefilled SurePath Vial

 

Collection Instructions
Varies depending on collection device (See collection document provided by BD in Special Instructions)
Broom-type device: Rovers Cervex Brush or Cervex-Bush Combination
-Collect the cervical sample rotating the Rovers Cervex Brush 5X or the Rovers Cervex-Brush Combi 2X (Clockwise)
-(IMPORTANT) Detach collection device head into collection vial
-Ensure cap is secured properly

Spatula/Cervical brush combination:
-Rotate the spatula 360 degrees around entire ectocervix
-Insert Cytobrush into endocervix until only bottom-most bristles are exposed.
-Slowly rotate ¼ to ½ turn in one direction
-(IMPORTANT)Detach both collection device heads into collection vial
-Ensure cap is secured properly

Container must have the patient's full name, Medical Record Number, Date of Birth, provider’s name, date and actual time of collection, and specimen source. An EPIC order label is preferred.

 

 

Specimen Transport Temperature

Ambient/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

88142

Testing Algorithm

Note: This test can be ordered on any age patient.

In order to ensure reflex HPV testing, you must answer the HPV Reflex? question:

  • NEVER:  No HPV test will be performed
  • ALWAYS:  HPV testing will be performed
  • If ASCUS:  HPV testing will be performed if the interpretation is Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance: Atypical Glandular Cells, Not Otherwise Specified; Atypical Endocervical Cells, Not Otherwise Specified. 

Reference Values

An interpretive report will be provided using the Bethesda system.

Additional Information

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
-No collection device
-Broom, brush, and/or spatula missing

Place specimen in a plastic specimen bag with request form (if present) inserted into the side pocket separate from specimen.