VanderLaan PA. Collection and Handling of Thoracic Small Biopsy and Cytology Specimens for Ancillary Studies Guideline from the College of American Pathologists (CAP): implications for the cytology community.
J Am Soc Cytopathol 2020;
9:286-290. [PMID:
32439185 DOI:
10.1016/j.jasc.2020.04.001]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The methods of collecting and handling thoracic small biopsy and cytology specimens can greatly impact downstream ancillary testing success, especially for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The College of American Pathologists (CAP) in collaboration with multiple other professional societies has recently developed an evidence-based laboratory practice guideline to provide clarity on how to best optimize these pre-analytic variables for small thoracic specimens. A total of 16 guideline statements were developed based on systematic literature review and expert panel consensus, covering topics ranging from optimal materials and techniques for fine-needle aspiration and small biopsy sampling to acquire sufficient amounts of material, to the use of rapid on-site evaluation to help appropriately triage, handle, and process these specimens. These guideline statements hold many implications for the practicing cytologist, though perhaps none more important than the recognition that the variety of cytology specimens we work with on a daily basis (including smears, cell blocks, and liquid-based cytology) can certainly be used for ancillary studies if supported by adequate validation studies. This commentary provides a brief overview of the newly developed CAP thoracic small biopsy and cytology specimen collection and handling guideline, as well as a discussion of how it may specifically impact the cytology community.
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