BREAST NIPPLE SECRETIONS

Indications:

Detection of both benign and malignant lesions of the breast.

Specimen:

Direct smear of nipple discharge.

Supplies:

Two glass slides (single-end frosted). Fixative (95% alcohol), or air-dried smears.

Collection Procedure:

1. Using a lead pencil, label the slides with the patient’s name and date prior to collection.

2. Collect a small amount of nipple secretion directly onto one of the slides. If the nipple appears crusty, gently remove crust with saline saturated gauze pads. Using pressure around areola area and nipple try to express fluid. As a drop appears, touch the glass slide to the nipple using a touch-roll motion.

3. Oppose a second glass slide onto the first, and then gently and quickly pull the two slides apart to distribute the material in a thin film over both slides.

4. Fix the smears immediately by immersing into a container of 95% alcohol. Alternatively, slides may be allowed to completely air dry.

5. Submit the specimen and completed requisition to LMC.