Specimen Requirements

Preferred Specimen(s)

Anal/rectal specimen collected using a dacron/polyester swab or anal/rectal brush and submitted in 3 mL Preservcyt® transport medium ThinPrep® vial or Aptima® specimen transfer tube (green label)

Minimum Volume

1.5 mL

Collection Instructions

To collect an anal-rectal sample, a wetted, non-lubricated Dacron/Polyester swab is used. The Dacron/Polyester swab is inserted about 3 cm (or until resistance is met) into the anal canal past the anal verge, into the rectal vault. This is done without visualization of the anal canal. Firm lateral pressure is applied to the swab handle as it is rotated and slowly moved in and out. Slowly withdraw swab from the anal canal. Swish the swab vigorously in PreservCyt® fluid in the ThinPrep® vial. Discard the swab. Cap and tighten the ThinPrep® vial.

Follow the same procedure if using a brush to collect an anal-rectal sample. Avoid using cotton swab on a wooden stick because the handle may break and splinter during collection. Swab that is grossly contaminated with feces should be discarded and the collection repeated.

Transport Container

Liquid cytology PreservCyt® (ThinPrep®) vial

Transport Temperature

Room temperature

Specimen Stability

• Room temperature: 30 days
  Refrigerated: 30 days
  Frozen: Not established

Reject Criteria

Digene® vials • SurePath™ vials