How is the Aspirate Sample Processed in the Laboratory?
Once obtained, the aspirate sample undergoes several steps in the laboratory:
1. Fixation: The sample is preserved using fixatives like alcohol or formalin to maintain cell structure. 2. Smearing: The aspirate is spread onto glass slides to create a thin, even layer of cells. 3. Staining: The slides are stained using appropriate histological stains to enhance cellular features. 4. Microscopic examination: A pathologist examines the stained slides under a microscope to identify any pathological changes.