Test Overview
Test Usage

To establish the presence of primary or metastatic neoplasm.

Reference Range *

Interpretive report provided.

* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.

Test Limitations

Improper fixation or air drying of cellular material may lead to specimen rejection or unsatisfactory results.

Test Details
Days Set Up
Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm
Analytic Time

24 - 48 hours

Soft Order Code
NGCSH
Synonyms
  • Nipple Discharge Cytology
  • NIPPLE DISCHARGE
  • ND
  • CYTONG
  • Cytology, Non-Gyn
Laboratory
Cytopathology
Section
Cytopathology
Specimen Requirements
Collection Instructions

Label a glass slide with patient's last name, first name and registration number (or other second unique patient identifier) using a graphite pencil (do not use ink, wax or crayon). If smears are prepared from both breasts, also specify right or left.

Gently strip subareolar area and nipple with thumb and forefinger. When secretion occurs, allow pea sized drop to accumulate on apex of nipple. Place slide on nipple and then draw slide quickly across nipple. Fix slide IMMEDIATELY with spray fixative. Repeat procedure until discharge is depleted.

Allow spray-fixed slides to dry completely and place into a slide holder. Submit with an appropriately completed requisition, including pertinent patient history.

Additional Information

Test includes pathologist interpretation of results billed as a separate additional charge or billed to the client as a global fee. Special stains and/or other ancillary studies will be performed when appropriate at an additional charge. By ordering this test the clinician acknowledges that additional reflex testing will be performed and billed at a separate additional charge if indicated.

Billing
CPT Code
88160-TC
Fee Code
23121
Pro Fee CPT
88160-26
Pro Fee Code
88160.1