Cytology

Fast, expert cytology reporting from experienced Veterinary Clinical Pathologists.

At BattLab, we provide a comprehensive cytology service for a wide range of veterinary species, including companion animals, equine, farm animals, exotic pets, wildlife and zoo species.

With no species surcharge, rapid turnaround times and direct access to our Clinical Pathologists, we make it easy to obtain high-quality diagnostic interpretation, whatever the species or sample type.

Every submission is reviewed by Francesco Cian (DVM, DipECVCP, FRCPath, MRCVS) or Kathleen Tennant (BVetMed, FRCPath, MRCVS), ensuring expert interpretation and clinically relevant reporting. Most cytology submissions are reported within 24 hours of receipt, helping you make timely clinical decisions while giving you the opportunity to discuss challenging cases directly with the pathologist reporting your sample.

Samples We Accept

We routinely examine samples from a wide variety of sources, including:

• Fine needle aspirates (FNA)
• Impression and tissue touch preparations
• Air-dried smears
• Fluid-filled masses
• Body cavity effusions
• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
• Synovial fluid
• Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and transtracheal washes
• Urine and prostatic washes
• Bone marrow aspirates

Whether you’re submitting a routine cutaneous mass, an equine lesion, a reptile aspirate or a sample from a zoological collection, every case receives the same specialist attention.

Sample Submission

To achieve the highest diagnostic quality, we recommend the following:

• Include a concise clinical history and anatomical site for every sample.
• Clearly label all frosted-end slides, particularly when submitting multiple lesions.
• Keep cytology slides separate from formalin-fixed tissues, as formalin vapour can affect staining quality.
• For fluid samples, submit both EDTA and plain tubes, together with one or two direct air-dried smears whenever possible.
• If microbiological culture may be required, submit a separate plain tube for culture.
• Bone marrow aspirates should always be accompanied by a concurrent EDTA peripheral blood sample (or one collected within 24 hours).

Need Advice?

Our Clinical Pathologists are happy to discuss sampling techniques, case suitability or result interpretation before or after submission.

Call us on 02476 323275 to discuss your case.