Cytopathology

The Papanicolaou Cytopathology Laboratory at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medicine is a full-service laboratory accredited by both the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and the Joint Commission. We provide comprehensive services to the hospital and its clinicians. Our laboratory routinely receives and offers diagnostic testing of gynecological, non-gynecological, and fine-needle aspiration (both clinician- and pathologist-performed) biopsy specimens. Our team processes 54,000 specimens each year, including 42,000 gynecologic and 12,000 non-gynecologic specimens, 4,500 of which are obtained via fine-needle aspiration biopsy.

Pleomorphic adenoma of parotid gland (Fine needle aspiration, Diff-Quik stain)

The laboratory is named after Dr. George N. Papanicolaou, the inventor of the widely used Pap smear test and many aspects of non-gynecologic cytopathology. Today our laboratory is under the direction of Momin Siddiqui, MD, a widely renowned authority in cytopathology. It is staffed by other expert cytopathologists with subspecialty training, cytotechnologists, preparatory technologists, transcriptionists, and clerical staff members. We provide our clients with the highest possible quality service, using continuous quality control and internal personnel training procedures. We continually strive to expand and customize our services to the individual needs of our clients. We also participate actively as part of each patient's clinical decision-making team and contribute our expertise to the hospital's various tumor boards.

A one-year fellowship training program in cytopathology is also offered, along with high-quality education in all aspects of cytopathology to anatomic pathology residents at all levels. Weill Cornell cytopathologists also sponsor the annual Papanicolaou Tutorial, a comprehensive three-day CME course on diagnostic cytopathology at the end of every July — one of only a handful of such courses offered around the country.

Specific cytopathology services offered include:

Gynecologic Cytopathology (Pap test) Services

• Use of ThinPrep liquid-based preparation.
• Use of upgraded computerized-automated ThinPrep slide imaging system.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) test for ASC-US triage or primary screening of women equal to or more than 30 years of age.

Fine-Needle Aspiration Services

Our cytopathologists perform and provide on-site interpretation of fine-needle aspirations of palpable and non-palpable masses obtained under radiologic guidance — including transabdominal and endoscopic ultrasound, computed tomography (CT scan), and stereotactic guidance. This includes the on-site interpretation of specimens obtained in the operating room. We provide fine-needle aspiration services Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm. To arrange for FNA services, call 212-746-2829.

Non-Gynecologic Cytopathology Services

• Pulmonary: sputum, bronchial brushing/washing, bronchoalveolar lavage, with evaluation for malignancy or for opportunistic infections using AFB and GMS staining.
• Urologic: voided or catheterized urine, bladder wash, ureteral or renal pelvis washing/brushing.
• Body cavity fluids: pleural, pericardial, and peritoneal.
• Cerebrospinal fluid analysis.
• Gastrointestinal: oral, esophageal, gastric brushing/washing, biliary system brushing.

It is the goal of our laboratory to report the results of all tests within two to three business days of receipt of the specimen. Results can be sent by either fax or secure e-mail.