BRONCHOALVEOLAR LAVAGE

Indications:

For the detection and characterization of microbiologic pathogens (primarily Pneumocystis jiroveci, viral, fungal and bacteria) in immunocompromised patients; for detection and characterization of malignancy.

Specimen Required:

Bronchoscopically-obtained lavage (preferably at least 20 ml) of the distal airways and alveoli in the distribution of the suspected lesion.

Supplies:

Standard bronchoscopy equipment

Sterile plastic specimen container

Collection Procedure:

Using standard bronchoscopy technique, lavage the lung distribution in question with sterile saline. Collect the lavage specimen in a sterile specimen container. Label the container with the correct patient information and submit the specimen, along with the completed request form to LMC. Be sure to indicate the exact source of the specimen, (i.e. right or left side and lobe). If transport will be delayed, refrigerate the specimen. Do not add fixative to the specimen. If microbiology studies are desired, indicate all the studies to be performed on the requisition slip. At LMC Laboratory, a portion of the specimen will be divided and sent for microbiology studies (currently sent to Quest Diagnostics). The remaining specimen will be processed for cytologic evaluation.