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Test Code Path Non-Gyn Bronch Wsh Cytology, Bronchial Washings

Important Note

Order as "Pathology Non-Gyn Request"

Useful For

This test is utilized to evaluate the status of the bronchioles and alveoli beyond the reach of the bronchoscope, aiding in the diagnosis and localization of lung tumors and identification of the causative agents of pulmonary infections.

 

Samples are obtained during a bronchoscopy procedure by instilling normal saline into the selected bronchus and reaspirating the fluid.  This process may be performed several times to one area or to different areas.

Synonyms/Keywords

Bronchial Wash, Bronchial Lavage

Specimen Requirements

Specimen Type Preferred Container/Tube Acceptable Container/Tube Specimen Volume Specimen Minimum Volume
(allows for 1 repeat)
Pediatric Minimum Volume
(no repeat)

Washing or

Lavage

Sage Container,
Centrifuge Tube
       

Acceptable Body Sites

Bronchial, Left Upper Lobe (LUL) Bronchial, Left Lower Lobe (LLL) Bronchial, Right Upper Lobe (RUL) Bronchial, Right Middle Lobe (RML) Bronchial, Right Lower Lobe (RLL) Bronchial, Lingula

Collection/Processing Instructions

Submission of specimen volumes greater than 35 mL is requested; optimal volume for routine cytological testing is 10 mL.



PREFERRED:  After collection, send the fresh specimen in the appropriate container to the lab.  Lab personnel must fix specimen within 2 hrs. of collection by adding 30 mL of Cytolyt.  

 

ALTERNATE:  If there will be a delay of more than two hours, fix specimen by adding 30 mL of Cytolyt.  

 

NOTE:  If a culture is also requested on the same specimen, collect specimen in a sage container without the alcohol fixative (fresh specimen).  Specimen must be sent to Microbiology for culturing BEFORE adding the alcohol fixative.

Specimen Stability Information

Specimen Type Temperature
Washing Refrigerate
Lavage Refrigerate

Test Information

Include specimen source, pertinent patient history and clinical information and appropriate ICD-10 code on the electronic order or test requisition form.  

 

If multiple specimens are collected during a bronchial procedure, label each container with the appropriate site, date and time of fixation and fixative type.   


Additional special stains may be requested.  Add the appropriate comment for the requested special stains (i.e. Fungus/Silver Stain/MS, Iron Stain/FE/Hemosiderin, Lipid Stain/Oil Red O/ORO, AFB) to the electronic order comments section or write on the test requisition form.  

Interferences

Specimens not fixed within two hours of collection may not be acceptable.  Consult Cytopathology with questions (800-222-5835, ext. 1-6155).

Reference Range Information

Performing Location Reference Range
Marshfield Interpretative Report

Marshfield Labs Performing Department

Marshfield Labs Cytopathology

Performing Information

Performing Location Day(s) Test Performed Analytical Time Methodology/Instrumentation
Marshfield Monday-Friday 2 days ThinPrep, Light Microscopy

CPT Codes

CPT Modifier
(if needed)
Quantity Description Comments
88112     Cytology ThinPrep  
88305     Cell Block  
88312
 
  Special Stain  
88313     Special Stain  

Outreach CPT Codes

CPT Modifier
(if needed)
Quantity Description Comments
88112     Cytology ThinPrep  
88305     Cell Block  
88312
 
  Special Stain  
88313     Special Stain  

Ordering Applications

Ordering Application Description
Cerner Pathology Non-Gyn Request