Geisinger Medical Laboratories Cytopathology Specimen Collection Instructions

Breast Nipple Secretions

Indications:	Detection of malignant cells or characterization of components in nipple discharge specimens.
Specimen Required:	Direct smear of nipple discharge.
Supplies:	Two clean glass slides with label area, fixative (spray fixative or 95% ethanol), request form.
Collection Procedure:	Label the two slides in pencil with the patient name. Collect a small amount of nipple secretion directly onto one of the slides. Oppose a second glass slide onto the first, allowing the collected material to provide surface tension between the two slides, and then gently and quickly pull the two slides apart in a horizontal motion to distribute the material in a thin film over both slides. The smears should be immediately fixed in either spray fixative or 95% ethyl alcohol to prevent air drying. Submit the specimen and the completed request to the Cytopathology Laboratory.

Reviewed/revised:  1/20/2011