Diagnostic Cytopathology Scheme
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.
