Assay/ Test

Fine Needle Aspiration sample

Key Words

FNA

Specimen Collection

Fluid/ cells drawn off with needle. Can be collected in 25 ml universal pot or slide smear

Turnaround time

Estimated turnaround time: 7 days

Test indications

Used for the investigation of diseases, including but not limited to cancer and pre-cancerous conditions, infections, autoimmune disease and other related conditions.

Interferences

Direct slides should be labelled with patient’s name and date of birth.  Method of fixation should be stated, either air dried or alcohol fixed.

Needle washings should be collected in saline (injection type).  The needle can be flushed through with the fluid. 

Direct slides and needle washing samples should be sent together.

FNAs of cystic lesions where a quantity of fluid is aspirated should be sent in a universal container and be received in the laboratory within two hours of collection

Reference Range

N/A

Analytical error

N/A

Reference change value

N/A