Cytology of abdominal fluid (abdominal fluid fine-needle aspiration analysis)
This test examines cells collected from fluid around your abdomen to check for abnormalities, such as infections, inflammation, or cancer.
["It helps diagnose conditions like peritoneal cancer, infections, or fluid buildup."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 31196-9
- Short code
- Cyto Abdomen FNA
- Synonyms
- Cyto Abdomen FNA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 136
- Ref high
- 145
- Critical range
- 120 N/A – 160 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- cyto-stain
- CPT
- 84295
- SNOMED
- 110741000
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained abdominal swelling, pain, or fever, or if they suspect conditions like peritoneal carcinomatosis (spread of cancer to the abdomen), an infection (peritonitis), or other fluid-related issues. It’s also used in cases of suspected ovarian or abdominal tumors or after certain surgeries to monitor fluid accumulation.
How the Test Works
A fine-needle aspiration is used to collect a small sample of fluid from your abdomen. The fluid is then analyzed under a microscope to identify cell types, count cells, and look for abnormal cells or signs of disease.
Sample Collection Process
The procedure is typically done in a doctor’s office or clinic. You may receive a local anesthetic to numb the area. A thin needle is inserted into the fluid-filled space, and fluid is drawn out. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What to Expect After the Test
You may feel mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site, but most people experience minimal pain. You can usually return to normal activities immediately. Follow-up care depends on your doctor’s findings.
Reference range
Adult: 136-145 mmol/LN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Results can indicate conditions like malignant tumors (cancer), benign tumors, inflammatory processes, or infections. High cell counts or abnormal cell shapes may suggest cancer, while increased white blood cells could point to infection. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Short name
Abdominal fluid cytology
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive or abnormal result mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Is this test painful?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy