Specimen Type/Requirements

Collection Instructions:
1. Collect urine specimen (AVOID first-morning voided specimen which often show marked degenerative changes in the cells.)
2. Place up to 60 mL of urine into 120 mL specimen container(s) (use multiple containers if necessary) and fill to 120 ml with 50% alcohol (see fixation below).
3. Label a specimen container in the presence of the patient at the time of collection. The container label must have the following information:

• Two unique patient identifiers (acceptable identifiers include patient’s name, medical record number, date of birth)
• Specimen source and method of collection
• Collection date and time

4. Fixation:

• Add 50% ethanol to the specimen to achieve approximately a 1:1 specimen:fixative ratio. Excess fixative will not harm the specimen.
•  Alternatively, CytoLyt may be added to the specimen to achieve approximately 1:1 specimen:fixative ratio. Excess fixative will not harm the specimen.

5. Transportation: 

• Specimens must be submitted in an appropriately labeled container with a secure lid to prevent leakage during transport, and placed in a biohazard transport bag.
• All specimens must be submitted with the appropriate cytology test requisition.
• Submit to the main laboratory receiving area (Desk #41) on the fourth floor of the clinic.