Test Name
BODY FLUID CYTOLOGY
Aliases
PLEURAL FLUID CYTOLOGY; PERITONEAL/ ASCITIC FLUID CYTOLOGY; SYNOVIAL/ JOINT FLUID CYTOLOGY; PERICARDIAL FLUID CYTOLOGY; CEREBROSPINAL FLUID CYTOLOGY.
Abbreviations
-
Test Classification
INDIVIDUAL
Department
ANATOMIC PATHOLOGY
Sub Department
CYTOLOGY
TAT Category
ELAPSED (CONTINUOUS) TIME
Estimated TAT
7
TAT Units
DAYS
Test Requirements
TEST ORDERING INSTRUCTIONS:
Fill out test request form fully & legibly. Provide your contact information & complete history with relevant investigation details (lab, imaging). Specify the exact fluid source (e.g. pleural fluid, ascitic fluid, CSF, urine, right knee joint fluid etc.).
SAMPLE TYPES:
Fluid from variable sources. Exact anatomic site and where applicable laterality (left or right) must be specified.
CONTAINER/ PRESERVATIVE
Provide ≥10mL fluid in sterile, labeled, leak-proof container.
Clinical Utility
Body fluid cytology is a test where fluids from different parts of the body are examined under a microscope. It's helpful for:
1. Detecting cancer cells that have spread to body fluids.
2. Diagnosing infections in fluids like urine or joint fluid.
3. Identifying inflammation in the lungs or abdomen.
4. Checking for abnormal cells in spinal fluid.
5. Monitoring treatment progress for certain conditions.
6. Guiding further medical tests or treatments.
Last Review
26th Feb 2026