Mandibular Submental Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (Cytologic Examination of Mandibular Submental FNA)
This test involves examining cells collected from the area under your jaw using a fine needle. It helps doctors check for abnormalities like infections, inflammation, or early signs of cancer.
["A simple procedure to inspect cells from your jaw area for potential health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 31194-4
- Short code
- Cyto Submandib FNA
- Synonyms
- Cyto Submandib 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 such as swelling, lumps, or persistent pain in the jaw area. It can also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions like salivary gland disorders or suspected lymph node involvement.
Procedure Details
The procedure is usually quick and done in a doctor’s office. A thin needle is gently inserted into the submental/mandibular region to collect cells. You may feel slight pressure but no pain. A local anesthetic can be used if needed. The collected cells are then sent to a lab for microscopic examination.
What to Expect After the Test
You can typically resume normal activities immediately after the test. There may be mild bruising or soreness, but this usually fades quickly. Avoid vigorous activity or brushing the area for a few hours. Follow-up instructions from your doctor will guide you on any specific care needed.
Preparation
No special preparation is required. You may eat and drink normally before the test. If you are on blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder, inform your doctor beforehand.
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
Short name
Mandibular Submental FNA Cytology
Frequently asked questions
This test is crucial for diagnosing conditions such as salivary gland tumors, infections, or inflammatory diseases. Cytologic examination can detect early signs of cancer, infections, or other abnormalities that may not be visible through imaging alone.
You may feel slight pressure but generally no pain. If a local anesthetic is used, you might feel numbness in the area for a short time afterward.
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on lab processing times.
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