Histology: the study of tissues

Pathology is the medical specialty that prepares and examines pieces of tissue and cells under a microscope. This helps us find out if there is a certain disease. We do this at the request of medical specialists and general practitioners. We can also detect early signs of certain diseases. This is done for population screening (like Fundashon Prevenshon), general practitioners, or medical specialists.

The pathologist discusses the results and works together with the specialists who are treating the patient.

Cytology: the study of cells

HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) Testing on Cervix Cytology Samples

When testing cervical samples for (pre-)stages of cervical cancer, the same sample used for Thin Layer Cytology can also be tested for HPV.
This test is done by the Microbiology Department of MLS (see also the Microbiology Guide).

Research has shown that some types of HPV, called high-risk types, are linked to the development of cervical cancer.
In over 99% of people with cervical cancer, HPV is present.
Genital HPV infection is mostly spread through sexual contact. Most infections go away by themselves. But if the HPV infection stays in the body, it can lead to early stages and later, to cervical cancer.

There are more than 100 known types of HPV. About 40 of them infect the female genital area.
Currently, 18 types are considered high-risk.
HPV is detected using molecular biology testing.

General Information

The person requesting the test is responsible for sending the correct and complete sample with the correct documents.
MLS is responsible for processing the request properly and sending the results back to the requester.

The Pathology Laboratory is accredited by the RvA according to NEN-EN-ISO 15189:2012 under registration number M014.

Available Tests

• Cervical smears (for national screening and on doctor’s request)
• HPV testing on cervical smears via the Pathology and Microbiology departments of MLS

Requesting and Sending Samples for Diagnostic Testing

Request Procedure (Cytology)

• Write the patient’s full personal information clearly on the request form and on the sample (containers/slides).
• Write your name and organization clearly.
• Mention the total number of containers and/or slides sent.
• Make a clear description of the type and source of the material.

Sending Thin Layer (Hologic Thin Prep) Cervix Cytology

• Use the special containers provided by MLS.
• After collecting the sample, rotate the brush firmly 10 times in the liquid inside the Thin Prep container.
• Do not leave the brush in the container; throw it away.
• Write the patient’s name and date of birth on the container.
• For safety, the patient is not allowed to deliver the sample to MLS themselves.
• The doctor is responsible for delivering the sample to MLS within 7 days.
• The sample can be stored at room temperature (25°C or lower) and must not be placed in direct sunlight.
• It can also be kept in the refrigerator.
• Contact MLS to arrange for pickup of the sample.

Sending Conventional Cervix Smears

• After taking the sample, spread it thinly and evenly on a microscope slide with a frosted edge.
• Write the patient’s name and date of birth in pencil on the frosted edge.
• Only smear one side of the slide.
• Fix or let the sample air dry immediately.
• If smears are taken from more than one location, mark the slides with I, II, III, etc., and mention this on the request form with the location details.
• Place the slides in a plastic or foam box for transport.
• Do not expose the slides to formaldehyde (fumes).

Sending Vaginal Smears

• Use the same type of container as for the Thin Layer Cervix smears.
• Follow the same instructions as for the Thin Layer Cervix smears.
• Write the patient’s name and date of birth in pencil on the container.

Factors That Can Affect Testing or Results

• Sample is left to dry too long
• Not enough fixative used
• Wrong type of fixative used
• Sample is damaged
• Slide came into contact with formaldehyde (fumes)
• Too much “hydrosoluble lubricant gel” used before taking the sample

Turnaround Times for MLS Pathology (from day of receipt)

• Cervix cytology results are ready within 10 working days

Note: If large numbers of samples are received at once, delays may occur.
Also, if HPV testing is requested as well (handled by the Microbiology department), the result may take longer.

Comments, Suggestions, Complaints, and Medical Advice

As a service department, we welcome feedback, complaints, and suggestions to improve cooperation.
You can also ask for medical advice about test requests or understanding test results.

Please contact the Pathology Department at 7368455.

Requesting an Urgent Test (CITO)

CITO means the test will be given priority and the result will be called directly to the requester by the pathologist or analyst.
Please write ‘CITO’ or ‘URGENT’ and your phone number clearly on the request form.