Cytology 1 and 2

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of exfoliative vaginal cytology?

To diagnose otitis externa

To collect samples for fecal cytology

To detect bacterial and fungal infections

To determine the stage of the estrous cycle in bitches and queens (correct)

What is the first step in obtaining a vaginal cytology sample?

Introduce the lubricated speculum into the vagina

Rotate the swab

Clean and rinse the vulva (correct)

Stain the slides with diff quik

What is the characteristic of vaginal epithelial cells during estrus?

They become smaller and more irregular

They disappear

They become large and flattened with small or absent nuclei (correct)

They remain unchanged

What is the purpose of tracking changes in the morphology of desquamated vaginal epithelial cells?

To monitor changes in estrogen levels Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the stage of estrus characterized by a swollen vulva, reddish discharge, bitch will attract but not accept male in attempts to breed

Proestrus Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of staining the slides with diff quik?

To highlight cellular morphology Signup and view all the answers

What stage of estrus do you suspect if you see noncornified squamous epithelium, intermediate or parabasal epithelial cells, neutrophils (may be) present in small numbers, and RBCs are seen

Anestrus Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of fecal cytology?

Analyzing fecal samples for bacterial and fungal infections Signup and view all the answers

What stage of estrus do you suspect when the animal has a history of proestrus, discharge has changed from red to pinkish (and becoming whiter in the late stages), the bitch accepts males and microscopically squamous epithelium is cornified (there are also neutrophils and RBCs are present but decreased)

Estrus Signup and view all the answers

What stage of estrus do you suspect if vulvar swelling and discharge have decreased, the bitch no longer attracts males, cornified epithelium is replaced by non cornified squamous epithelium, neutrophils are present again and RBC are absent

Diestrus Signup and view all the answers

Which stage of estrus (in canine) is longest, lasting 60 days, without vulvar discharge, predominant cell is noncornified epithelium and progesterone secretion is at its peak

Diestrus Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for collecting multiple swabs during the examination of the external ear canal?

To examine for parasites Signup and view all the answers

The onset of diestrus is marked by a precipitous decline in the number of superficial cells and reappearance of intermediate and parabasal cells. Most commonly, the cellular profile changes within a single day from essentially 100% superficial cells to less than 20%. However, It is best to confirm the onset of diestrus by examining a smear prepared of diestrus day __

2 Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using oil immersion lens during the cytological examination of the external ear canal?

To examine for bacteria and yeast Signup and view all the answers

[In the ear canal] Microscopically you should see none to occasional bacteria. Many of the bacteria are potentially pathogenic if and when the conditions are optimal to colonize in the ear canal. In bacterial infections the cytological examination can reveal large numbers of bacteria along with what cell?

Polymorphonuclear cells Signup and view all the answers

Normal flora of the ear canal can contain a small number of bacteria, which of the following is a normal inhabitant of the external ear canal and also the most common cause of mycotic otitis externa

Malassezia spp Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic shape of yeast cells observed during the cytological examination of the external ear canal?

Both A and C Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended method for collecting a sample for otitis externa diagnosis?

Using a cotton swab to collect a sample from the ear canal Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of mycotic otitis externa?

Malassezia spp Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of otitis externa in dogs?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic of the squamous epithelial cells during Estrus?

Cells with no nucleus and abundant basophilic cytoplasm Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of Clostridium perfringens infections in the intestines?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the longest stage of the canine estrous cycle?

Diestrus Signup and view all the answers

Malassezia (formerly known as Pityrosporum spp) is a

Budding, gram positive yeast Signup and view all the answers

Method for diagnosing Clostridium perfringens infections in the intestines?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the false pregnancy seen in dogs?

Pseudocyesis Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended stain to use during the fecal cytology examination?

Diff-Quik Signup and view all the answers

What is the main advantage of the non-aspiration technique in highly vascular areas?

It reduces the risk of blood contamination. Signup and view all the answers

What is the blood smear technique used for?

To prepare slides from samples with large fluid components Signup and view all the answers

This method takes some experience Inexperience hands the cytologic smear is often unreadable because too many of the cells are ruptured or is insufficiently spread

Squash preparation Signup and view all the answers

What are the benefits of the combination technique

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What kind of areas will you use a nonaspiration technique on

Highly vascular areas Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of making multiple smears from an aspirate?

To increase the chances of getting a good quality slide. Signup and view all the answers

What is the disadvantage of using large needles for aspiration?

It increases the risk of blood contamination. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of blotting the tissue before making a slide?

To prevent blood contamination during slide preparation. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important that no downward pressure be applied when using the squash preparation method?

To prevent the rupture of fragile cells. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of using scrapings to collect cytologic samples?

It yields a large number of cells, especially on firm lesions Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to clean blood and tissue before making an imprint smear?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the main limitation of using impression smears to collect cytologic samples?

They often yield a small number of cells and are contaminated with bacteria and blood Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between impression smears and scrapings?

The technique used to collect cells Signup and view all the answers

When is it recommended to use a combination of techniques to collect cytologic samples?

When the lesion is difficult to access Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for leaving some smears unstained when collecting cytologic samples?

To allow for further testing or analysis Signup and view all the answers

Cocci is

Gram positive Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to prepare the site before collecting cytologic samples?

To ensure the site is clean and free of debris Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between blood smear technique and squash preparation?

The technique used to collect cells Signup and view all the answers

What is a disadvantage of using large needles for aspiration?

It increases the risk of blood contamination Signup and view all the answers

When unidentifiable yeast or hyphae are observed in the ear what should be done?

Culture Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the Combination Technique?

To combine the advantages of the Blood Smear and Squash Techniques Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of the Starfish Technique?

It is a modification of the Squash Technique Signup and view all the answers

Otodectes cynotis is a common problem in dogs and cats characterized by

Reddish brown or black granular discharge is seen Signup and view all the answers

What is a common problem encountered when using the Squash Technique?

Inexperienced hands Signup and view all the answers

Clostridium perfringens is

Both A and C Signup and view all the answers

Certain factors may cause CP organisms to undergo enteric sporulation, during the sporulation process the enterotoxin is released, what does enterotoxin production cause

Causes intestinal damage and fluid accumulation in the intestines Signup and view all the answers

Preparation of collection site depends on site of collection. What kind of preparation does a superficial site require

Preparation similar to a venipuncture Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of vaginal epithelial cells during Anestrus?

Large and cuboidal with large nuclei Signup and view all the answers

Preparation of collection site depends on the site of collection. What does microbiologic test require

Generally do not require a surgical prep (depends on sample needed) Signup and view all the answers

Smear preparation technique used depends on?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

When should you leave some smears unstained

When sending to an outside lab Signup and view all the answers

Why should you imprint ulcers before cleaning

Highest bacterial count Signup and view all the answers

When imprinting cutaneous lesions or tissues collected during surgery/necropsy what must you do

Clean blood and tissue before imprinting Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for leaving some smears unstained when collecting cytologic samples?

To send samples to an outside lab Signup and view all the answers

Always cytologic findings must be interpreted along with history and clinical signs The Four stages of estrus are:

Anestrus, proestrus, estrus, diestrus Signup and view all the answers

4 types of otitis externa

Acute, chronic, bilateral, unilateral Signup and view all the answers

Signs of otitis externa (7)

shaking head, mal odor, pain, pruritus, alopecia around the ear, otic discharge, excoriation Signup and view all the answers

Conformation of the ear canal • Long , narrow ear canal • Traps moisture, foreign debris, and glandular secretions • _____ _ in the external ear canal will also inhibit ventilation and increase the retention of cerumen

excessive hair Signup and view all the answers

• Animal’s habits can lead to a predisposition for otitis For example

Hunting dogs, swimmers, allergies, parasites, bacteria, yeast, tumors, trauma Signup and view all the answers

• Obtain ear swag sample ____ otoscope examination has been performed

After Signup and view all the answers

[ear] Cytological examination should be evaluated for (7)

Bacteria, yeast, fungal hyphae, mites, neutrophils, cerumen, neoplastic cells Signup and view all the answers

Findings that must be recorded for bacteria (5)

type and morphology, grouping, quantity, FOV Signup and view all the answers

Findings that must be recorded for yeast (2)

Quantity and FOV Signup and view all the answers

Things that CP can cause (5)

Diarrhea, gas, abdominal discomfort, occassional hemorrhagic diarrhea, occasional vomiting Signup and view all the answers

Slide preparation for mites includes (4)

Mineral oil, swab with or without oil, slide, 10x observation Signup and view all the answers

Fecal smear steps (3) and 4 to identify?

make thin smear, heat fix or air dry, stain with diff quick, under oil to identify spores Signup and view all the answers

Smear preparation tips Cytologic samples can be collected in 4 ways, what are they

Imprints, scraping, swabbing, aspirating Signup and view all the answers

• Prepared from tissues collected during necropsy, surgery, or external lesions • Advantage o Collection yields large number of cells especially on firm lesions where it is difficult to obtain cells

imprints Signup and view all the answers

• Prepared from tissues collected during necropsy, surgery, or external lesions Disadvantage o Difficulty in collecting them o Superficial nature of the collection procedure often does not give a true representation of cells. This hinders their use as a diagnostic tool

Scrapings Signup and view all the answers

Method of collection generally used only when imprints, scrapings and aspirates are not possible because of location Such as fistulous tracts, vaginal cytology, ears

Swabs Signup and view all the answers

Things/areas that can be FNA (not specific organs) (4)

Lymph nodes, skin, internal organs, masses in thorax or abdomen Signup and view all the answers

Internal organs that can be FNA

liver, spleen, kidneys, lungs, prostate, thyroid Signup and view all the answers

Aspiration of the surrounding tissue should be avoided

Large mass = Redirect needle without releasing negative pressure, release pressure before withdrawing from mass Small mass = Relieve negative pressure during redirection, negative pressure is applied only when the needle is static Tissue biopsy = Sampling of piece of tissue for cytologic and/or histopathologic examination <ul> <li>= -</li> </ul> Signup and view all the answers

When performing an FNA the mass, tissue or organ is identified how

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Why is FNA a preferred method for obtaining samples from masses

Both A and B Signup and view all the answers

The FNA method (aspiration or nonaspiration) depends on what

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

FNA technique, _ gauge needle, mL syringe, the softer the tissue the __ the needle and syringe (separate with commas)

25, 6, softer Signup and view all the answers

Larger needles often leads to poor quality slides, Tissue cores tend to be aspirated, which results in poor yield of free cells suitable for diagnosis, Tend to cause greater blood contamination

True Signup and view all the answers

Smaller needles often leads to poor quality slides, Tissue cores tend to be aspirated, which results in poor yield of free cells suitable for diagnosis, Tend to cause greater blood contamination

False Signup and view all the answers

Size of syringe is influenced by the consistency of the tissue being aspirated (12ml over all good average), 3ml good for lymph nodes, Fibrosarcoma requires a larger syringe because of firmness of the tumor

True Signup and view all the answers

Size of syringe is NOT influenced by the consistency of the tissue being aspirated (12ml over all good average), Any size is good for lymph nodes, Fibrosarcoma requires a smaller syringe because of firmness of the tumor

False Signup and view all the answers

At this point your needle is out of the mass o Remove needle from _ of syringe o Draw _ into the syringe o _ needle onto the syringe o Depress the plunger o Expelling aspirate onto the _ of a slide o The needle should be ____ to the slide to allow for a single droplet of material vs a spray Separate with commas

hub, air, replace, rapidly, close Signup and view all the answers

• Modification technique of the original nonaspiration method o Using a __ gauge needle on a 3 cc syringe o Draw a few cc of air into the syringe barrel _ collection this allows for rapid expulsion of the material onto the slide o Grasp needle and syringe at the _ for maximum control o Mass _ with free hand o Needle is __ o Move the needle back and forth in a _ motion trying to stay on the same tract o This allows cells to be collected by _ and tissue pressure o careful not to contaminate sample with tissues o Withdraw the needle releasing pressure o Quickly expel material onto slide o Smear promptly o Optimal to perform multiple attempt at various sites Separate with a comma

small, before, hub, stabilized, inserted, stabbing, cutting, surrounding, without Signup and view all the answers

A tissue biopsy is the sampling of a piece of tissue for cytologic and/or histopathologic examination. It consists of : Gentle with a , Then excision, a biopsy can be used or -guided biopsy . Fix tissue samples for histopathologic examination in 10% _ _-buffered formalin. To ensure adequate fixation, place slabs of tissue no more than cm wide in fluid (10% formalin). Fill tight jars containing formalin at approximately 10 times the specimen's ___. With large tissues, remove the sample to a jar with formalin once fixed for 34 hours (separate with a comma)

abrasian, blade, punch, endoscope, neutral, phosphate, 1, volume, smaller, less Signup and view all the answers

With endoscope specimens, gently __ specimens collected by endoscopy from the tip of the endoscope with . the specimen gently on a paper towel to remove . Then place on a small piece of _ and allow the tissue to dry on the "". Once done, __ or specimens with the attached "_" specimen side down in fixative.(separate with commas)

flush, sterile, saline, blot, excess, blood, wooden, tongue, depressor, splint, immerse, float, splint Signup and view all the answers

Most common problems of tissue biopsies are _ cells seen, lesions do not _ well (mesenchymal neoplasms). Needle may the site of lesion during collection. sample collection. inadequate _ (aspiration technique). slow or ____ needle passes (nonaspiration technique) ... (separate with commas)

few, exfoliate, miss, timid, negative, pressure, shallow Signup and view all the answers

• Anytime you can visualize material in the hub of the needle you should _ and __ (separate with a comma)

stop, make, smears, immediately Signup and view all the answers

• Blood seen on impression smears often results from a __ to _ tissue before making slides (separate with a comma)

failure, blot Signup and view all the answers

In poorly prepared slides high cell yield is _____ when slides are prepared poorly. Smears should be made immediately to prevent _ or ___. If a lot of material is recovered be prepared to make _ slides or _. Too thick of smears are useless as there are not enough _. Smears should be air dried _. Make good quality slides as possible to submit to ____. Cells are often fragile and break apart easily so having more than 1 or 2 slides can be beneficial

useless, drying, clotting, 2, more, cells, immediately, as, many, lab, Signup and view all the answers

For smears for solid masses, several methods can be used. The method used depends on 2 things. List them . (combination of methods is acceptable)

Experience of the person, characteristics of the sample Signup and view all the answers

Squash preparation method consists of: _ aspirate onto the of the slide. Place a spreader slide over the aspirate . Quickly and smoothly across the first slide. It is important that no pressure be applied because this causes ____ of cells. (separate with commas)

Expel, middle, second, horizontally, slide, downward, rupture Signup and view all the answers

Steps of the combination technique: Place aspirate on __ of the slide, draw back spreader slide until it contacts of the sample and push the slide _(blood smear). Next, place a spreader slide _ over the back 1/3rd of the sample. Allow sample to . Quickly and smoothly _ the slide (squash method). The __ third of the saple is left untouched . (Separate with commas)

middle, 1/3rd, forward, horizontally, spread, slide, middle. Signup and view all the answers

One modification of the squash technique is the _, where you drag the aspirate with the tip of a needle to make a __

Starfish, starfish Signup and view all the answers

Line concentration techniquer is ________________________ (one sentence

Blood smear without the feathered edge Signup and view all the answers

Preparation of smears from fluids should be made immediately after collection, be sure to collect in __. Smears can be prepared from _ or ___ samples. _ if low cellularity is expected. You may use the blood smear, squash prep, and line smear technique, _, _ and ___ influence selection. (separate with commas)

EDTA, fresh, centrifuged, centrifuge, cellularity, viscosity, homogeneity Signup and view all the answers

In centrifuged samples, excessive fluid keeps cells from spreading well. Be sure to centrifuge at a rate similar to __ samples. Once done the supernatant is separated from the sediment, resuspend the sediment in a few drops of _. or _ _ technique is used (separate with commas)

urine, supernatant, blood, smear, squash, prep Signup and view all the answers

_ _ is used for samples of low cellularity

Line smear Signup and view all the answers

What are the 3 stain types that offer excellent nuclear and cytoplasmic detail and also allow viewers to see through the layers of the cell to evaluate nuclear and nucleolar changes (separate each stain with a comma)

romanowsky type stain, new methylene blue, papanicolau stain Signup and view all the answers

Cocci shaped bacteria are usually

Both A and B Signup and view all the answers

Rod shaped bacteria are usually

Both A and B Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic feature of Clostridium perfringens spores observed during the fecal cytology examination?

Both A and C Signup and view all the answers

Imprints are usually performed on

Both A and B Signup and view all the answers

Exfoliative vaginal cytology is useful adjunct to the history and clinical examination in determining the stage of the estrous cycle in bitches and queens, but it also assists with?

Both A and C Signup and view all the answers

Clostridium perfringens is??????

Both A and C Signup and view all the answers

Disadvantages of the imprint method

Both A and C Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Cytological Examination of the External Ear Canal

Evaluate for bacteria, yeast, fungal hyphae, mites, neutrophils, cerumen, and neoplastic cells
Record findings, including bacteria type and morphology, quantity, and field of view (FOV)

Normal Ear Canal Flora

Small number of bacteria, typically cocci-shaped (Staphylococcus and Streptococcus spp.) or rod-shaped (Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Proteus mirabilis)
Presence of Malassezia spp. (formerly Pityrosporum spp.) yeast, a normal inhabitant of the external ear canal

Mites

Common problem in dogs and cats, caused by Otodectes cynotis
Characterized by reddish-brown or black granular discharge, with secondary bacterial and/or yeast infections possible

Fecal Cytology

Examine for Clostridium perfringens (CP) and other enteric bacteria
Identify spores, which are typically present in high numbers in cases of CP enterotoxin production

Diagnosis of CP Enterotoxin Production

Must be examined during a clinical episode
Use fecal cytology or Enterotoxin ELISA test to diagnose
High numbers of CP spores on fecal cytology serve as a quick and simple screening test

Vaginal Cytology

Evaluate for stages of estrus, including anestrus, proestrus, estrus, and diestrus
Identify cornified epithelial cells, neutrophils, and RBCs to determine stage of estrus cycle

Stages of Estrus

Anestrus: no vulvar swelling, noncornified squamous epithelium, and few neutrophils
Proestrus: swollen vulva, reddish discharge, and noncornified cells becoming cornified
Estrus: discharge changes to pinkish-white, all squamous epithelial cells are cornified, and neutrophils present
Diestrus: vulvar swelling and discharge decrease, noncornified epithelial cells predominate, and neutrophils present

Cytology Sample Collection and Preparation

Preparation of Collection Site

Depends on the site of collection, e.g. superficial site requires preparation similar to a venipuncture, while surgical preparation is required for aspirates of internal organs, joints, body cavities, bone marrow, and spinal tap
Microbiologic tests generally do not require a surgical prep, depending on the sample needed

Imprints

Used for external lesions, especially on living animals, but also on tissue removed during surgery or necropsy
Easy to collect, but results may not always be satisfactory
Collect fewer cells than other methods, and may be contaminated with bacteria, blood, or other substances

Scrapings

Prepared from tissues collected during necropsy, surgery, or external lesions
Advantage: yields a large number of cells, especially on firm lesions where it is difficult to obtain cells
Disadvantage: difficulty in collecting them, and may not give a true representation of cells due to the superficial nature of the collection procedure

Fine Needle Aspirates (FNA)

Used for lymph nodes, skin, subcutis, internal organs, and masses in the thorax or abdomen
Preferred method for obtaining samples from masses, as it avoids superficial contamination and allows for cells to be collected from various areas within the lesion
Collected either by aspiration or nonaspiration techniques, depending on the type of lesion and the preference and experience of the collector

Aspiration Technique

Mass is held firmly to aid penetration and control of the needle
Needle with syringe attached is introduced into the center of the mass, and strong negative pressure is applied
Multiple areas of the mass should be sampled, and aspiration of the surrounding tissue should be avoided

Nonaspiration Technique

Works well for highly vascular areas, and involves using a small gauge needle on a 3 cc syringe
Modification of the original nonaspiration method, where a few cc of air are drawn into the syringe barrel prior to collection
Allows for rapid expulsion of the material onto the slide, and cells are collected by cutting and tissue pressure

Tissue Biopsy

Sampling of a piece of tissue for cytologic and/or histopathologic examination
Methods include gentle abrasion with a blade, excision, punch biopsy, and endoscope-guided biopsy
Fix tissue samples in 10% neutral phosphate-buffered formalin for histopathologic examination

Endoscope Specimens

Gently flush specimens collected by endoscopy with sterile saline, and blot gently on a paper towel to remove excess blood
Immerse or float specimens with attached "splint" in fixative

Common Problems

Too few cells seen, due to lesion not exfoliating well, needle missing the site of the lesion, timid sample collection, inadequate negative pressure, or slow or shallow needle passes
Blood contamination, which can be avoided by using nonaspiration technique or smaller needles
Poorly prepared slides, which can be improved by making smears immediately, using the correct technique, and submitting multiple slides to the lab

Smear Preparation

There are several methods, including squash, blood smear, combination, and line smear techniques
Method used depends on the experience of the person, characteristics of the sample, and combination of methods
Smears should be made immediately after collection, and cells should be spread evenly to prevent drying or clotting

Stains

Romanowsky type stain, New Methylene Blue, and Papanicolaou stain are commonly used
Papanicolaou stain provides excellent nuclear and cytoplasmic detail, but requires multiple steps and considerable time

Cytology Sample Collection and Preparation

Preparation of Collection Site

Depends on the site of collection, e.g. superficial site requires preparation similar to a venipuncture, while surgical preparation is required for aspirates of internal organs, joints, body cavities, bone marrow, and spinal tap
Microbiologic tests generally do not require a surgical prep, depending on the sample needed

Imprints

Used for external lesions, especially on living animals, but also on tissue removed during surgery or necropsy
Easy to collect, but results may not always be satisfactory
Collect fewer cells than other methods, and may be contaminated with bacteria, blood, or other substances

Scrapings

Prepared from tissues collected during necropsy, surgery, or external lesions
Advantage: yields a large number of cells, especially on firm lesions where it is difficult to obtain cells
Disadvantage: difficulty in collecting them, and may not give a true representation of cells due to the superficial nature of the collection procedure

Fine Needle Aspirates (FNA)

Used for lymph nodes, skin, subcutis, internal organs, and masses in the thorax or abdomen
Preferred method for obtaining samples from masses, as it avoids superficial contamination and allows for cells to be collected from various areas within the lesion
Collected either by aspiration or nonaspiration techniques, depending on the type of lesion and the preference and experience of the collector

Aspiration Technique

Mass is held firmly to aid penetration and control of the needle
Needle with syringe attached is introduced into the center of the mass, and strong negative pressure is applied
Multiple areas of the mass should be sampled, and aspiration of the surrounding tissue should be avoided

Nonaspiration Technique

Works well for highly vascular areas, and involves using a small gauge needle on a 3 cc syringe
Modification of the original nonaspiration method, where a few cc of air are drawn into the syringe barrel prior to collection
Allows for rapid expulsion of the material onto the slide, and cells are collected by cutting and tissue pressure

Tissue Biopsy

Sampling of a piece of tissue for cytologic and/or histopathologic examination
Methods include gentle abrasion with a blade, excision, punch biopsy, and endoscope-guided biopsy
Fix tissue samples in 10% neutral phosphate-buffered formalin for histopathologic examination

Endoscope Specimens

Gently flush specimens collected by endoscopy with sterile saline, and blot gently on a paper towel to remove excess blood
Immerse or float specimens with attached "splint" in fixative

Common Problems

Too few cells seen, due to lesion not exfoliating well, needle missing the site of the lesion, timid sample collection, inadequate negative pressure, or slow or shallow needle passes
Blood contamination, which can be avoided by using nonaspiration technique or smaller needles
Poorly prepared slides, which can be improved by making smears immediately, using the correct technique, and submitting multiple slides to the lab

Smear Preparation

There are several methods, including squash, blood smear, combination, and line smear techniques
Method used depends on the experience of the person, characteristics of the sample, and combination of methods
Smears should be made immediately after collection, and cells should be spread evenly to prevent drying or clotting

Stains

Romanowsky type stain, New Methylene Blue, and Papanicolaou stain are commonly used
Papanicolaou stain provides excellent nuclear and cytoplasmic detail, but requires multiple steps and considerable time

Vaginal Cytology

Exfoliative vaginal cytology is useful in determining the stage of the estrous cycle in bitches and queens.
Assists with optimal timing of mating or artificial insemination in small animals.
Helps in diagnosing vaginitis.
Technique:
- Animal is restrained in a standing position.
- Vulva is cleaned and rinsed.
- Lubricated speculum is introduced into the vulva.
- Sterile premoistened (saline) swab is introduced into the vagina.
- Swab is rotated and removed.
- Swab is gently rolled on 2 or 3 clean microscope slides.
- Slides are dried and stained with Diff-Quik.
Evaluation of smear:
- Cytologic findings must be interpreted with history and clinical signs.
- Four stages of estrus: anestrus, proestrus, estrus, and diestrus.
- Rising levels of estrogen cause vaginal epithelium to become "cornified".
- Tracking changes in morphology of desquamated vaginal epithelial cells provides a convenient means of assaying changes in estrogen levels.

Cytological Examination of the Vaginal Smear

Evaluate for:
- Bacteria (rods, cocci).
- Yeast (Malassezia spp).
- Fungal hyphae.
- Mites.
- Neutrophils.
- Cerumen.
- Neoplastic cells.
Recording findings:
- Bacteria: type/morphology, grouping, quantity, and FOV.
- Yeast: quantity and FOV.
- Record anything else seen and quantify.

Ear Cytology

Cytological examination of the external ear canal is useful in diagnosing otitis externa.
Common causes of otitis externa:
- Bacteria.
- Yeast (Malassezia spp).
- Mites.
- Fungal hyphae.
Collection of sample:
- Cotton swab.
- Obtain sample after otoscope examination has been performed.
- Roll swab on a clean slide.
Evaluation of smear:
- Bacteria: rods, cocci, and quantity.
- Yeast: "peanut-shaped" organisms, dark blue staining, budding.
- Mites: reddish-brown or black granular discharge, secondary bacteria and/or yeast.
- Fungal hyphae: rare.

Fecal Cytology

Cytological examination of feces is useful in diagnosing Clostridium perfringens (CP) infection.
CP: enteric anaerobic gram-positive rod, normal enteric bacteria, sporulation.
Enterotoxin production causes intestinal damage and fluid accumulation in the intestines.
Diagnosis:
- Must be examined during a clinical episode.
- Enterotoxin ELISA test.
- Fecal cytology: high numbers of CP spores serves as a quick and simple screening test.
In-house test:
- Fecal smear: make a thin smear of the feces, heat fix or air dry, stain with Diff-Quik.
- Identify spores under oil immersion.

Review

Technique and evaluation of exfoliative vaginal cytology.
Stages of estrus: clinical signs and cytological findings.
Common causes of otitis externa.
Cytological examination of the external ear canal.
Fecal cytology.

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Description

This quiz assesses your knowledge of the steps involved in examining an ear swab for various microorganisms, including bacteria, yeast, and parasites. It covers the procedures for collecting and staining the swab, as well as the evaluation of findings.

Cytology 1 and 2

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of exfoliative vaginal cytology?

What is the first step in obtaining a vaginal cytology sample?

What is the characteristic of vaginal epithelial cells during estrus?

What is the purpose of tracking changes in the morphology of desquamated vaginal epithelial cells?

What is the name of the stage of estrus characterized by a swollen vulva, reddish discharge, bitch will attract but not accept male in attempts to breed

What is the purpose of staining the slides with diff quik?

What stage of estrus do you suspect if you see noncornified squamous epithelium, intermediate or parabasal epithelial cells, neutrophils (may be) present in small numbers, and RBCs are seen

What is the primary focus of fecal cytology?

What stage of estrus do you suspect if vulvar swelling and discharge have decreased, the bitch no longer attracts males, cornified epithelium is replaced by non cornified squamous epithelium, neutrophils are present again and RBC are absent

Which stage of estrus (in canine) is longest, lasting 60 days, without vulvar discharge, predominant cell is noncornified epithelium and progesterone secretion is at its peak

What is the primary reason for collecting multiple swabs during the examination of the external ear canal?

What is the purpose of using oil immersion lens during the cytological examination of the external ear canal?

Normal flora of the ear canal can contain a small number of bacteria, which of the following is a normal inhabitant of the external ear canal and also the most common cause of mycotic otitis externa

What is the characteristic shape of yeast cells observed during the cytological examination of the external ear canal?

What is the recommended method for collecting a sample for otitis externa diagnosis?

What is the primary cause of mycotic otitis externa?

What is the primary cause of otitis externa in dogs?

What is the characteristic of the squamous epithelial cells during Estrus?

What is the primary cause of Clostridium perfringens infections in the intestines?

What is the longest stage of the canine estrous cycle?

Malassezia (formerly known as Pityrosporum spp) is a

Method for diagnosing Clostridium perfringens infections in the intestines?

What is the term for the false pregnancy seen in dogs?

What is the recommended stain to use during the fecal cytology examination?

What is the main advantage of the non-aspiration technique in highly vascular areas?

What is the blood smear technique used for?

This method takes some experience Inexperience hands the cytologic smear is often unreadable because too many of the cells are ruptured or is insufficiently spread

What are the benefits of the combination technique

What kind of areas will you use a nonaspiration technique on

What is the purpose of making multiple smears from an aspirate?

What is the disadvantage of using large needles for aspiration?

What is the purpose of blotting the tissue before making a slide?

Why is it important that no downward pressure be applied when using the squash preparation method?

What is the primary advantage of using scrapings to collect cytologic samples?

Why is it important to clean blood and tissue before making an imprint smear?

What is the main limitation of using impression smears to collect cytologic samples?

What is the primary difference between impression smears and scrapings?

When is it recommended to use a combination of techniques to collect cytologic samples?

What is the primary reason for leaving some smears unstained when collecting cytologic samples?

Cocci is

Why is it important to prepare the site before collecting cytologic samples?

What is the primary difference between blood smear technique and squash preparation?

What is a disadvantage of using large needles for aspiration?

When unidentifiable yeast or hyphae are observed in the ear what should be done?

What is the primary purpose of the Combination Technique?

What is the primary advantage of the Starfish Technique?

Otodectes cynotis is a common problem in dogs and cats characterized by

What is a common problem encountered when using the Squash Technique?

Clostridium perfringens is

Certain factors may cause CP organisms to undergo enteric sporulation, during the sporulation process the enterotoxin is released, what does enterotoxin production cause

Preparation of collection site depends on site of collection. What kind of preparation does a superficial site require

What is the primary characteristic of vaginal epithelial cells during Anestrus?

Preparation of collection site depends on the site of collection. What does microbiologic test require

Smear preparation technique used depends on?

When should you leave some smears unstained

Why should you imprint ulcers before cleaning

When imprinting cutaneous lesions or tissues collected during surgery/necropsy what must you do

What is the primary reason for leaving some smears unstained when collecting cytologic samples?

Always cytologic findings must be interpreted along with history and clinical signs The Four stages of estrus are:

4 types of otitis externa

Signs of otitis externa (7)

Conformation of the ear canal • Long , narrow ear canal • Traps moisture, foreign debris, and glandular secretions • _______ ___ in the external ear canal will also inhibit ventilation and increase the retention of cerumen

• Animal’s habits can lead to a predisposition for otitis For example

• Obtain ear swag sample ____ otoscope examination has been performed

[ear] Cytological examination should be evaluated for (7)

Findings that must be recorded for bacteria (5)

Findings that must be recorded for yeast (2)

Things that CP can cause (5)

Slide preparation for mites includes (4)

Fecal smear steps (3) and 4 to identify?

Smear preparation tips Cytologic samples can be collected in 4 ways, what are they

• Prepared from tissues collected during necropsy, surgery, or external lesions • Advantage o Collection yields large number of cells especially on firm lesions where it is difficult to obtain cells

• Prepared from tissues collected during necropsy, surgery, or external lesions Disadvantage o Difficulty in collecting them o Superficial nature of the collection procedure often does not give a true representation of cells. This hinders their use as a diagnostic tool

Method of collection generally used only when imprints, scrapings and aspirates are not possible because of location Such as fistulous tracts, vaginal cytology, ears

Things/areas that can be FNA (not specific organs) (4)

Internal organs that can be FNA

Aspiration of the surrounding tissue should be avoided

Conformation of the ear canal • Long , narrow ear canal • Traps moisture, foreign debris, and glandular secretions • _____ _ in the external ear canal will also inhibit ventilation and increase the retention of cerumen

FNA technique, _ gauge needle, mL syringe, the softer the tissue the __ the needle and syringe (separate with commas)

• Anytime you can visualize material in the hub of the needle you should _ and __ (separate with a comma)

• Blood seen on impression smears often results from a __ to _ tissue before making slides (separate with a comma)

Squash preparation method consists of: _ aspirate onto the of the slide. Place a spreader slide over the aspirate . Quickly and smoothly across the first slide. It is important that no pressure be applied because this causes ____ of cells. (separate with commas)

One modification of the squash technique is the _, where you drag the aspirate with the tip of a needle to make a __

_ _ is used for samples of low cellularity