URINE CYTOLOGY

---

Specimen: At least three separate specimen collections should be submitted, one on each day. The first urine passed in the morning should not be collected due to cellular degeneration overnight. The urine specimens should be collected in sterile containers and delivered to the laboratory without delay, or kept refrigerated until the third specimen is produced and then delivered promptly. Some laboratories prefer the addition of a preservative into the collecting bottle; consult pathologist.

Method: Papanicolaou staining and microscopy.

Application: Investigation of possible urothelial neoplasia, cystitis, including radiation and cytotoxic drug injury.

Interpretation: The report may include the identification of malignant cells and their possible site of origin. The presence of infection or inflammation can also be detected and crystals may be seen.

Reference: Koss LG. Diagnostic Cytology of the Urinary Tract. Raven Press 1996.

---