Diagnostic Cytopathology Scheme

The Diagnostic Cytopathology Scheme assesses 2 archival stained preparations from 2 distinct cytology specimens, which are designated on the accompanying delivery letter issued with each run. It is available to both public and private institutions within the UK and overseas.

Staining Criteria Handbook available in Members' Area

No. of assessment runs:

6 distributions over a 12 month period

Stains assessed:

Selected / In-house Material (all runs)

Papanicolaou

Romanowsky

Specimen Types:

Serous Fluid

Head and Neck

Respiratory

Urine

A preparation technique is not specified, and the laboratory / organisation are free to use any suitable technique to adequately demonstrate the staining method.

This scheme does not assess H&E stained preparations.

UK NEQAS CPT follows RCPath guidance which explicitly states that H&E should not be used for cytology preparations. The BSCC does not specifically exclude H&E as a cytology stain, but equally does not advocate its use.