Parotid Saliva Cytology (Fine Needle Aspiration)
This test involves collecting cells from the parotid gland using a fine needle aspiration to examine for abnormalities, such as inflammation, infection, or potential cancerous growths.
["A diagnostic procedure to assess the parotid gland’s health through cell sampling."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 31198-5
- Short code
- Cyto Parotid FNA
- Synonyms
- Cyto Parotid 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent swelling, pain, or lumps in the parotid gland area, unexplained weight loss, or a history of head/neck cancer. It helps rule out conditions like salivary gland tumors, infections, or autoimmune diseases.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll likely be asked to rinse your mouth with water beforehand to clear saliva. The procedure is quick, usually taking a few minutes, and may involve a local anesthetic. You may feel slight discomfort but shouldn’t experience significant pain.
During the Test
A healthcare professional will insert a thin needle into the parotid gland under guidance (often ultrasound or visual inspection). A small amount of fluid or cells will be collected for microscopic examination. The needle is removed once the sample is obtained.
After the Test
You may experience mild bruising or swelling at the injection site, which usually fades within a day or two. Avoid eating or drinking for a short time after the procedure to prevent contamination of the sample.
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.
◆Associated findings1
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