Brush Biopsy Specimen

• Performing lab: Cytopathology (N018); Ext: 4-1550
• Availability: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday
• Turnaround time: One to two working days
• Specimen type: Bronchial brush, esophageal brush, gastric brush, ureteral brush, pancreatic brush
• Container:
  • Coplin jar filled with 95% ethyl alcohol (to be used if slides are prepared on site.)
  • Container filled with RPMI.
• Volume: 1-6 slide(s) (if slides are prepared on site) and/or brush cut off and placed in RPMI for processing in the Cytopathology laboratory (N018)
  • Minimum volume: 1 prepared slide and/or brush submitted in RPMI

Specimen transport requirements

• Cytologic specimens should be labeled with printed barcoded labels (do not put label on tops)
• Placed in a biohazard bag and transported with the printed requisition to the Cytology Laboratory, N018
• Logged in and placed on the top shelf of the refrigerator
• Prepared slides must be labeled with two identifiers

Causes for rejection

• Inadequate identification
• Improper fixation
• Specimen type not identified

More information

• Complete the Non-Gyn cytology order in Epic to include pertinent history, prior diagnostic/therapeutic procedures, X-ray, clinical findings and results of prior surgeries.
• Outreach facilities should use the preprinted “University Outreach Pathology Requisition” and submit with the sample.
• Indicate request for additional special stains or other procedures.
• Indicate if body fluid precautions are necessary.