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HelpTest Code Path Non-Gyn Sputum Cytology, Sputum
Useful For
Cytologic examination of a sample from the upper respiratory tract for the detection and diagnosis of organisms, malignant neoplasms and other respiratory disorders.
Synonyms/Keywords
.Sputum For Cytology
Specimen Requirements
| Specimen Type | Preferred Container/Tube | Acceptable Container/Tube | Specimen Volume | Specimen Minimum Volume (allows for 1 repeat) |
Pediatric Minimum Volume (no repeat) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sputum | Sage Container | Nont applicable |
Collection/Processing Instructions
Specimen must be a "deep cough" specimen (not saliva). Expectorate sample into a specimen cup (or sage container) containing 70% ethyl alcohol.
PREFERRED: Collect an early morning specimen each day for 3 days and submit in separate containers. Each container will be evaluated and charged separately.
ALTERNATE: Multiple specimens may be collected throughout the day and added to the same container.
NOTE: If a culture is also requested on the same specimen, specimen should be submitted fresh in a sagecontainer (without the alcohol fixative). Specimen must be sent to Microbiology for culturing BEFORE adding the alcohol fixative.
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature |
|---|---|
| Sputum | Refrigerate |
Test Information
Include specimen source, pertinent patient history, clinical information and appropriate ICD-10 code on the request form or electronic order.
If multiple specimens are collected, record the date and time of collection on each specimen container. Each specimen must be accompanied by a separate electronic order or requisition form.
A fungal stain may be added to the order upon request. Add the comment Silver Stain" or Fungal Stain" the electronic order comments section or write on the test requisition form.
Interferences
Specimen is considered unsatisfactory if pulmonary macrophages are not present. Unfixed sputum may be unacceptable. Consult Cytopathology with questions, 800-222-5835, ext. 16155.
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 | Light Microscopy |
CPT Codes
| CPT | Modifier (if needed) |
Quantity | Description | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 88104 | Cytology Smear(s) with Interpretation | |||
| 88305 |
|
Cell Block | ||
| 88312 | Special Stain |
Outreach CPT Codes
| CPT | Modifier (if needed) |
Quantity | Description | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 88104 | Cytology Smear(s) with Interpretation | |||
| 88305 |
|
Cell Block | ||
| 88312 | Special Stain |
Ordering Applications
| Ordering Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Cerner | Pathology Non-Gyn Request |