Cytopathology: Oral

CPT Code(s):

Depending on the collection method:

  • 88108
  • 88112
  • 88106

Additional CPT codes may apply if special studies are required.

Specimen Requirements:

For FNA specimen requirements and collection instructions, refer to Cytopathology, Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) in this directory.

We recommend for specimens to be transported to the lab immediately. If immediate transportation is unavailable, place 30 mL of effusions/washings into ThinPrep® or SurePath® medium. If CytoLyt is unavailable, place the specimen into a sterile container with 3 units of heparin and refrigerate it.

Storage/Transport Temperature: Submit specimens according to Biological Substance, Category B, shipping guidelines.

Unacceptable Conditions: Frozen, sterile container > 2 hours old without heparin

Stability (collection to initiation of testing):

  • Ambient:
    • Slides: Indefinitely
    • ThinPrep®: 3 weeks
    • SurePath®: 4 weeks

Use:

This test is used as an important adjunct in the assessment of the patient with a potentially cancerous oral lesion.

Methodology:

Cytopathology

Reported:

1 - 3 days

Performed:

Monday - Friday