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UF Health University of Florida
Pathology Laboratories UF Path Labs - Department of Pathology
Results Portal

Cytopathology: Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL)

CPT Code(s):

  • 88108
  • 88112
  • 88106

Additional CPT codes may apply if special studies are required.

Specimen Requirements:

Collection: BAL

We recommend for specimens to be transported to the lab immediately. If immediate transportation is unavailable, place 30 mL of effusions/washings into ThinPrep® or SurePath® medium. If CytoLyt is unavailable, place the specimen into a sterile container with 3 units of heparin and refrigerate it.

Storage/Transport Temperature: Submit specimens according to Biological Substance, Category B, shipping guidelines.

Unacceptable Conditions: Frozen, sterile container > 2 hours old without heparin.

Stability (collection to initiation of testing):

  • Ambient:
    • Sterile Container: 2 hours
    • ThinPrep®: 3 weeks
    • SurePath®: 4 weeks
  • Refrigerated: Add 3 units of heparin (48 hours)

Use:


This test is used to diagnose pulmonary disease, including infections and cancer.

Methodology:


Cytopathology

Reported:


1 – 2 days