Comparison of TriPath thin-layer technology with conventional methods on nongynecologic specimens

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the use of the TriPath PREP(TM) (previously called A utoCyte) (TriPath Inc., Burlington, North Carolina, U.S.A.) in nongynecolog ic cytologic material by performing side-by-side comparison of conventional preparations with TriPath-prepared slides. STUDY DESIGN: Ail initial study of 613 cases (set A) was conducted to compa re the TriPath PREP system with conventional methods for the evaluation of nongynecologic specimens, including urine, body cavity effusions, ct cerebr ospinal fluid, pulmonary and gastrointestinal specimens. Paired cases were evaluated for cellularity, staining qualify, preservation and representatio n of diagnostic material. Subsequent changes in the automated technique war ranted reevaluation of the TriPath method. The follow-up study of 259 cases (set B) was conducted with the same design as set A. Results of evaluated parameters were analyzed using the chi(2) test. RESULTS: Results of the two sets were strikingly different. Prior to techni cal changes made by the laboratory, the TriPath method was significantly in ferior. In the second set, the preferred material was most commonly the Tri Path-prepared material. In particular, the majority of urine samples were p repared better by the automated, thin-layer system. CONCLUSION The TriPath PREP system offers a reliable preparation of urine a nd has potential for other nongynecologic specimens, provided that careful attention is paid to technical details and some adjustments are made to acc ount for specimen variability.