1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (calcitriol)
This test measures 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, the biologically active form of vitamin D. It is used to investigate calcium imbalance, kidney disease and...
Fluid Cytology
210.00
This test examines body fluid samples for abnormal or malignant cells. It helps investigate cancer, infection and inflammatory conditions causing fluid build-up.
Turnaround time
Results available 3 days after arrival in lab. Doctor's report sent the day after results available (if required)
Biomarkers count
1
Same-Day Appointments
UKAS Accredited Labs
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Under 18? Patients under 18 can only be seen at GB Medlabs and Clinilabs, Monday to Friday only.
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Details about Fluid Cytology
What is the Fluid Cytology Test?
Fluid cytology is a laboratory test that involves microscopic examination of cells present in body fluids. Commonly analysed fluids include pleural fluid (around the lungs), ascitic fluid (abdomen), pericardial fluid (around the heart) and cerebrospinal fluid.
The test evaluates the appearance, size and structure of cells to identify abnormal, inflammatory or malignant changes. It plays a key role in diagnosing cancer spread, detecting infection-related cellular changes and assessing unexplained fluid accumulation.
Fluid cytology is often requested alongside biochemical and microbiological fluid tests to provide a comprehensive diagnostic picture.
Why do I need a Fluid Cytology test?
You may need this test if fluid has accumulated in the body and the cause is unclear. Analysing the cells within the fluid helps determine whether the underlying cause is malignant, inflammatory or reactive.
Fluid cytology is particularly important when cancer is suspected or when imaging shows unexplained effusions. Early detection of malignant cells can significantly influence treatment planning and prognosis.
Symptoms and scenarios where testing is recommended:
- Unexplained pleural effusion
- Ascites of unknown cause
- Suspected cancer spread
- Persistent or recurrent fluid accumulation
- Shortness of breath due to fluid
- Abdominal swelling
· Monitoring known malignancy
- Excluding malignant causes of effusions
Benefits of the Fluid Cytology Test
- Detects malignant cells
Helps identify cancer involvement in body fluids. - Supports cancer staging and prognosis
Provides valuable information for treatment planning. - Differentiates malignant from benign causes
Helps distinguish cancer from inflammatory or reactive changes. - Guides further diagnostic investigations
Results inform imaging, biopsy or specialist referral. - Useful in unexplained fluid accumulation
Adds clarity when imaging alone is inconclusive. - Minimally invasive diagnostic tool
Uses fluid already collected for clinical reasons. - Complements biochemical and microbiology tests
Provides cellular insight alongside chemical analysis. - Widely used in oncology and internal medicine
Established role in clinical diagnostics.
Step-by-Step: How Testing Works
Sample Collection Method
This test requires a body fluid sample collected by a clinician.
Fluid Aspiration and Analysis
- A clinician collects fluid under sterile conditions.
- The sample is sent to the laboratory for cytological preparation.
- Cells are examined under a microscope by a specialist pathologist.
- A detailed cytology report is issued.
Access your report
Results are shared with your referring clinician to guide diagnosis and management.
Your Results Explained
Negative / Benign Findings
No malignant cells detected.
Cells appear reactive or inflammatory only, suggesting a non-cancerous cause.
Atypical / Suspicious Cells
Cells show abnormal features but are not definitively malignant.
Further testing or repeat sampling may be recommended.
Malignant Cells Detected
Cancerous cells are identified in the fluid.
This confirms malignant involvement and requires urgent specialist referral.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
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Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
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Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pleural, ascitic, pericardial and other body fluids.
It can confirm malignant cells but may not identify the primary cancer.
Discomfort is related to fluid aspiration, not the laboratory test itself.
No fasting is required.
Accuracy is high but depends on fluid type and cell yield.
Yes, absence of malignant cells does not fully exclude cancer.
Typically, within a few days, depending on complexity.
Yes, especially in recurrent effusions.
Inflammatory patterns may suggest infection, but cultures are often required.
Urgent referral to oncology or the relevant specialist is recommended.
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