Tissue Cytology (for Pathologic Examination)
This test involves examining a sample of tissue removed from your body under a microscope to check for abnormal cells, inflammation, or other conditions. It helps doctors diagnose diseases like cancer, infections, or other tissue-related disorders.
A microscopic evaluation of tissue can reveal important clues about your health.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 47529-3
- Short code
- Cytology Tiss Doc Other Stn
- Synonyms
- Cytology Tiss Doc Other Stn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- xxx-stain
- 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
What Is Tissue Cytology Used For?
Tissue cytology is primarily used to detect and evaluate abnormal cells. This can include identifying precancerous changes, infections, or inflammatory conditions. It’s often performed on biopsies taken from organs, lymph nodes, or other body sites to guide treatment decisions.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A small sample of tissue is collected through a procedure called a biopsy. This may involve a needle or surgical removal. The sample is then prepared and examined under a microscope by a pathologist.
What Does the Test Involve?
The test involves analyzing cells from the tissue sample for structural abnormalities, such as cell shape, size, or arrangement. Special stains or techniques may be used to highlight specific features, like protein presence or DNA changes.
When Might You Need This Test?
You might need this test if you have symptoms like unexplained lumps, persistent sores, unusual bleeding, or if doctors suspect a condition like cancer, infection, or autoimmune disease. It’s also used in follow-up care for known conditions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Tissue cytology plays a critical role in early detection and diagnosis of diseases. Abnormal cells can indicate cancer, infections, or other disorders, allowing for timely treatment. Results guide decisions about further testing or therapy.
Frequently asked questions
Why was this test ordered?
What does a positive or abnormal result mean?
How long does it take to get results?
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