BRONCHIAL BRUSHINGS

Indications:

For the detection and characterization of bronchoscopically identifiable or centrally located pulmonary lesions, premalignant/malignant pulmonary lesions and/or identification of some microbiologic pathogens (primarily viral and fungal).

Specimen Required:

Bronchoscopically directed brushings of the identified lesion.

Supplies:

Standard bronchoscopy equipment with brush

Clean plastic specimen container

Frosted end slides

95% Alcohol fixative in specimen container

Collection Procedure:

1. Prior to collection, label the glass slides with the patient’s name (last, first) and the specimen site (right or left if applicable).

2. Using standard bronchoscopy technique, identify the lesion in question and obtain a brushing sample of the lesion.

3. Upon obtaining the bronchial brushing, quickly roll the brush over the surface of the prelabeled slides.

4. Immediately immerse the slides into fixative. Fixation is critical. Air drying artifact may severely limit the specimen adequacy.

5. Place the brush in the 95% alcohol, break off the end of the brush and secure the lid on the specimen container.

Label the specimen with the exact specimen source (i.e., right or left, RUL, LLL), correct patient information and submit the specimen along with the completed requisition form to LMC.