Since they are designed to carry out specialised functions, centrifuges come in various builds and forms. For example, a cytology centrifuge is used to concentrate cells in fluid specimens.
They are then placed onto a microscope slide for examination. Unlike other kinds of centrifuges, a cytology centrifuge is more compact and smaller. They are also typically used in various areas of clinical laboratory tasks.
Preparation Procedure
A specific procedure is employed when using a cytology centrifuge. The procedure begins by attaching a funnel assembly to the front of the microscope slide. The funnel’s surface assembly that is attached to the slide is lined with filter paper so any excess liquid of the smear is absorbed.
After a few drops of fluid has been placed into the funnel, the assembly is placed into the centrifuge before running it at 600-800 x g. Using low force is crucial so the specimen’s cell structure is preserved once the centrifuge has been operated.
Centrifugal Force: How it is Used
Centrifugal force is responsible for forcing the fluid into the assembly so it goes toward the funnel’s opening and concentrates the cells in an area of the slide. The cells are concentrated by 20-fold then it creates a one-cell-thick monolayer that makes it eligible for cellular morphology assessment.
Where Cytology Centrifuge are Used
A cytology centrifuge is typically used in various lab diagnostic procedures, including:
- Examining liquid specimens such as body fluids and fine needle aspirates in cytopathology
- Assessing of differential cell counts on body fluids, including synovial, cerebrospinal, and serous fluids
- Gram staining of fluid specimens to determine the presence of microorganisms
Since cells will be placed in the centre of the fluid smear on the slide, they can look compressed compared to those at the periphery resulting from the centrifugation process. It is also possible for the cell nuclei to develop holes, lobes, and clefts. To minimise similar effects, specimens with high cell counts should be diluted before the sample is prepared.