Leading Cytology Lab and Cytopathology Services

At Pathology Services, our cytology lab provides advanced diagnostic testing that supports early detection, accurate diagnosis, and effective treatment planning. Our board-certified pathologists and ASCP-certified cytotechnologists deliver precise, dependable results across a wide range of gynecologic, non-gynecologic, and fine needle aspiration (FNA) specimens.

As a trusted regional leader in cytopathology, we combine scientific expertise with a rigorous quality assurance program to ensure excellence in every case. Our team has consistently passed the CAP Pap Proficiency Exam since its inception in 2005, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to accuracy and patient care.

A Commitment to Diagnostic Quality

Our cytology department maintains a robust quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) program to uphold the highest standards in laboratory performance. This includes:

• Direct screening of all Pap tests with a minimum 10% rescreen of negatives
• Continuous correlation between Pap smear and biopsy results
• Retrospective review of Pap cases when new high-grade or malignant findings are identified
• Ongoing cytology statistical documentation in compliance with CLIA
• Individualized patient and physician reporting for abnormal or follow-up cases
• Regular continuing education and proficiency testing through the College of American Pathologists

Every specimen is carefully handled, labeled, and reviewed to ensure diagnostic precision and consistency across all cases.

Gynecologic Cytology

Our cytology lab processes a high volume of gynecologic samples, including the SurePath™ and ThinPrep Liquid-Based Pap Test, one of the most effective cancer-screening tools available today. The Pap test has reduced cervical cancer mortality by nearly 70%, and when paired with high-risk HPV testing, provides a powerful combination for detecting precancerous changes.

HPV testing can be ordered alone, alongside a Pap test, or as a reflex for atypical cytologic findings. Genotyping for HPV types 16, 18, and 45 is also available upon request.

Non-Gynecologic Cytology

Our laboratory also performs cytologic evaluations on a variety of specimen types to identify infections, inflammatory conditions, and malignancies. These include:

• Fluids: pleural, peritoneal, pericardial, ascitic, cyst, synovial, and others
• Washings & Brushings: bronchial, bladder, gastric, nasopharyngeal, and peritoneal
• Sputum and urine specimens (collected per laboratory instructions)
• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and other body fluids
• Nipple discharge and cyst fluids

When adequate material is available, cell blocks are prepared to provide additional histologic detail and improve diagnostic accuracy.

Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) and Rapid Assessment

Our cytopathology team provides FNA evaluations for breast, thyroid, lymph node, salivary gland, lung, and soft tissue masses.

• On-site adequacy assessments are available for select cases, offering rapid feedback to guide specimen collection and minimize repeat procedures.
• Ultrasound-guided aspiration and rapid assessment evaluation are also supported for accurate and efficient sample handling.

Air-dried smears are recommended for specific lesions, including those where hematologic or lymphoproliferative disorders are suspected.

Collection and Handling Guidelines

Proper specimen collection and timely submission are vital for accurate results.

• Prepared smears should be fixed immediately after collection.
• Fluid specimens must be sent in leak-proof containers, refrigerated, and shipped with cold packs unless preserved in an appropriate medium.
• Each submission should include a fully completed cytology requisition form with specimen type, source, and relevant clinical history.

For detailed instructions on specimen preparation and transport, please contact our Cytology Laboratory directly.

Excellence in Cytopathology, Close to Home

As one of the region’s most trusted cytopathology providers, Pathology Services is proud to offer expert analysis, personalized service, and responsive turnaround times. Our local presence ensures that every test is performed with care, precision, and a commitment to improving patient outcomes across the communities we serve.