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. 2025 Jan-Feb;14(1):55-63.
doi: 10.1016/j.jasc.2024.10.001. Epub 2024 Oct 16.

Tools, techniques, and challenges in preparing cytology specimens for ancillary studies: results of the ASC Optimizing Cytology and Small Biopsy Specimen Processing for Ancillary Studies task force survey

Jonas J Heymann  1 , Cristiana M Pineda  2 , Christine N Booth  3 , Elizabeth Jenkins  4 , Joshua R Menke  5 , Sara E Monaco  6 , Ritu Nayar  7 , Michiya Nishino  2 , Sinchita Roy-Chowdhuri  8 , Roberto Ruiz-Cordero  9 , Donna K Russell  10 , Anjali Saqi  11 , Kaitlin E Sundling  12 , Michael J Thrall  13 , Vanda F Torous  14 , Christopher J VandenBussche  15 , Paul A VanderLaan  2 , M Lisa Zhang  14 , Momin T Siddiqui  16
Affiliations

Tools, techniques, and challenges in preparing cytology specimens for ancillary studies: results of the ASC Optimizing Cytology and Small Biopsy Specimen Processing for Ancillary Studies task force survey

Jonas J Heymann et al. J Am Soc Cytopathol. 2025 Jan-Feb.

Abstract

Introduction: Ancillary testing on cytopathology and other small biopsy specimens is crucial for diagnosis and provides critical information to clinicians. Testing is dependent on preanalytic factors and would benefit from standardization of specimen collection protocols across laboratories. To assess institutional practices and areas of need for evidence-based standards, we surveyed current practices across cytopathology laboratories.

Materials and methods: A twelve-question electronic survey was distributed to American Society of Cytopathology (ASC) members through email, social media, and the ASC from January 8, 2024 to March 1, 2024. Survey responses were tabulated.

Results: Of 294 respondents, 257 (87%) completed at least 10/12 questions. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded cell blocks (CBs) are utilized for immunohistochemistry, molecular testing, and in situ hybridization by 89%, 84%, and 71% of respondents, respectively. For fine needle aspirations, no collection medium is utilized by a majority of respondents. In contrast, 61% utilize no collection medium for fluids; 64% predominantly utilize liquid-based preservatives for other exfoliative specimens. For CB preparation, 58% of respondents use coagulating agent; 67% use no fixative before formalin. The two most significant factors limiting clinical utility of ancillary testing in cytology specimens are low cellularity and lack of validation (49% and 23% of respondents, respectively).

Conclusions: There is wide variation in current practices among laboratories, reflecting lack of consensus. Although laboratories utilize different collection media for different specimen types, for CB utilization, current survey results are similar to those reported previously. ASC has convened a task force to facilitate specimen standardization and minimize variability among preanalytic factors.

Keywords: Ancillary studies; Cell block; Fixation; Immunohistochemistry; Molecular diagnostic techniques; Preanalytic factors.

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