Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology

Cytopathology, 612-873-3084

The field of Diagnostic Cytopathology involves the interpretation of cells that are spontaneously exfoliated (i.e., urine, body cavity fluids, sputum, etc.), removed from tissues by abrasion (i.e., Pap smear, brushings, washings), or sampled by fine needle aspiration (FNA). FNA is a minimally invasive, cost-effective, and highly accurate diagnostic procedure performed by the pathologist to evaluate palpable masses, or by the radiologist or endoscopist to evaluate deep-seated masses using various imaging techniques. During endoscopic examination of the gastrointestinal tract, the endoscopist uses ultrasound guidance to perform the FNA of primary intramural masses of the digestive tract, pancreas, mediastinum, retroperitoneum, and peripancreatic lymph nodes. HCMC is one of the largest referral centers in the Mid-West for patients with these conditions.

The Cytopathology Service at Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC) actively participates in all aspects of Diagnostic Cytopathology as well as cytopathology research and training programs for pathology residents of the University of Minnesota Pathology Residency Program. In addition, the Cytopathology Service at HCMC supports the only cytopathology fellowship program in the state of Minnesota and a cytotechnology internship from the University of North Dakota School of Cytotechnology.

Expert Consultation
We welcome requests from physicians or patients seeking a rapid diagnosis or a second opinion. In addition to reviewing submitted slides and samples, our staff pathologists can also perform FNA from patients referred to our lab.

Our service provides diagnostic evaluation and second opinions in cytology samples from all body sites in particular gynecologic, breast, thyroid, and urine as well as specimens obtained by endoscopic ultrasound guided-fine needle aspiration. The members of the pathology staff at HCMC are recognized experts in gynecologic, pulmonary, urologic, and fine needle aspiration cytology, among other areas. The slides should be sent to the Cytopathology Service (address below).

Diagnoses Turnaround Time
Preliminary and often definitive diagnoses on fine needle aspiration biopsies performed by the pathologist, radiologist, or endoscopist are made immediately; final written reports are issued within one or two days. Final written diagnoses on submitted samples or slides are usually provided within one or two days always preceded by a telephone call to the submitting physician. Turnaround time for Pap Smears and other routine tests average one to three days.

ACCREDITATION:
The HCMC Cytopathology Service laboratory is accredited through the College of American Pathologists (CAP). The Cytopathology laboratory participates in CAP and American Society of Clinical Pathology proficiency testing programs in cytology.