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Cytology of Tissue Fluid from Nasopharyngeal Aspiration (Cellular Analysis)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test examines cells collected from your nasal passage to check for abnormalities, such as infections, inflammation, or signs of cancer.

Quick summary

["A simple test to help diagnose health concerns in your upper airway."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33718-8
Short code
Cytology Tiss FNA Doc Cyto
Synonyms
Cytology Tiss FNA Doc Cyto
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
cyto-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

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent sore throat, unexplained weight loss, or unusual growths in the throat. It can also help monitor conditions like cancer, infections, or immune disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

You may need to rinse your mouth with water before the test to clear mucus. No special preparation is usually required, but avoid eating or drinking for a few hours beforehand if instructed.

During the Test

A healthcare professional will gently insert a small tube into your nose to collect fluid from your throat. A few cells will be taken, and you may feel a slight discomfort but no pain.

What Happens Next

The collected cells are analyzed under a microscope to identify any abnormal patterns, such as cancer cells, infections, or inflammation. Results may take several days to weeks, depending on the lab.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test helps detect early signs of conditions like nasopharyngeal carcinoma, infections (e.g., Epstein-Barr virus), or other cellular abnormalities. It is crucial for diagnosing and guiding treatment plans, especially in high-risk populations or those with persistent symptoms.

Short name

Nasopharyngeal Cytology

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results typically take between 3 to 14 days, depending on the lab’s workload and complexity of the analysis. Your healthcare provider will contact you once they have the findings.
Is there any pain or discomfort during the test?
You may feel mild discomfort or slight irritation, but there is usually no significant pain. The procedure is quick and performed with care to minimize any discomfort.
Can I eat or drink after the test?
You can resume normal activities immediately after the test. However, avoid eating or drinking for a few hours if your provider instructed you to do so before the procedure, as part of the preparation.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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