Specimen Requirements

Acceptable Specimens:

Cyst, pericardial, peritoneal, pleural, or synovial fluid

1. Collect all fluid obtained (minimum volume:  1 mL) from procedure in a screw-capped container. No preservative.

2. If there is a large amount of fluid collected, mix contents well and send 50 mL to 2, 200 mL.

3. Label container with patient’s name (first and last), date of birth, date and actual time of collection, and type of specimen.

4. Forward promptly. If there is a delay in transport, refrigerate specimen, and send specimen refrigerated

Note:  Complete a “Request for Specimen Analysis” in “Request Forms” in “Special Instructions” including patient’s name (first and last), date of birth, date and actual time of collection, type of specimen, pertinent clinical history, previous history of malignancy, masses etc., and billing information. Forward it with the specimen.