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22371 Cytology, Breast (Nipple Secretion) Smear

Cytology, Breast (Nipple Secretion) Smear
Test Code: Pathology Non-Gyn Request
Synonyms/Keywords
​Nipple Discharge Cytology, Breast Smear Cytology​
Useful For
​This test is utilized for the detection and diagnosis of benign, malignant and inflammatory conditions of the breast.
Specimen Requirements
Specimen Type Preferred Container/Tube Acceptable Container/Tube Specimen Volume Specimen Minimum Volume
(allows for 1 repeat)		 Pediatric Minimum Volume
(no repeat)
Smear​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​
Collection Processing Instructions
Smears may be prepared in the physician's office or at the patient's bedside.
 
PREFERRED:  Label a one-end frosted slide with at least two patient identifiers (i.e. patient's name and medical record number).  Collect specimen by gently massaging the nipple and then squeezing to express the secretions onto the slide(s). Gently press the slide against the nipple and then smear the material expressed. Spray fix slides immediately to prevent air-drying.
 
ALTERNATE:  Immediately after collection, slide(s) may be fixed by immersion in 95% ethyl alcohol.
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type Temperature
​Smear ​Room Temperature
Interference
Unfixed smears may not be acceptable. Consult Cytopathology with questions (1-800-222-5835, ext. 1-6155.)​
Performing Laboratory Information
Performing Location Day(s) Test Performed Analytical Time Methodology/Instrumentation
Marshfield​Monday-Friday​ 2 day​ Light Microscopy​
Test Information
Include specimen source, pertinent patient history and appropriate ICD-10 code on the electronic order or test requisition form. 
Reference Range Information
Performing Location Reference Range
Marshfield​ Interpretative Report​
Outreach CPTs
CPT Modifier
(if needed)		 Quantity Description Comments
88160​ ​ ​ Cytology Smear Other Source​ ​
Synonyms/Keywords
​Nipple Discharge Cytology, Breast Smear Cytology​
Ordering Applications
Ordering Application Description
If the ordering application you are looking for is not listed, contact your local laboratory for assistance.
Specimen Requirements
Specimen Type Preferred Container/Tube Acceptable Container/Tube Specimen Volume Specimen Minimum Volume
(allows for 1 repeat)		 Pediatric Minimum Volume
(no repeat)
Smear​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​
Collection Processing
Smears may be prepared in the physician's office or at the patient's bedside.
 
PREFERRED:  Label a one-end frosted slide with at least two patient identifiers (i.e. patient's name and medical record number).  Collect specimen by gently massaging the nipple and then squeezing to express the secretions onto the slide(s). Gently press the slide against the nipple and then smear the material expressed. Spray fix slides immediately to prevent air-drying.
 
ALTERNATE:  Immediately after collection, slide(s) may be fixed by immersion in 95% ethyl alcohol.
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type Temperature
​Smear ​Room Temperature
Interference
Unfixed smears may not be acceptable. Consult Cytopathology with questions (1-800-222-5835, ext. 1-6155.)​
Useful For
​This test is utilized for the detection and diagnosis of benign, malignant and inflammatory conditions of the breast.
Reference Range Information
Performing Location Reference Range
Marshfield​ Interpretative Report​
For more information visit:
Performing Laboratory Information
Performing Location Day(s) Test Performed Analytical Time Methodology/Instrumentation
Marshfield​Monday-Friday​ 2 day​ Light Microscopy​
For billing questions, see Contacts
Outreach CPTs
CPT Modifier
(if needed)		 Quantity Description Comments
88160​ ​ ​ Cytology Smear Other Source​ ​
For most current information refer to the Marshfield Laboratory online reference manual.