peritoneal cytology
Microscopic examination of peritoneal fluid for malignant cells during abdominal surgery.
Full Definition
Peritoneal cytology involves the collection and pathological analysis of peritoneal washings to detect free-floating malignant cells within the abdominal cavity. This diagnostic technique is commonly performed during staging procedures for gastrointestinal and gynecologic malignancies, particularly gastric and colorectal cancers. Saline irrigation is instilled into the peritoneal cavity and aspirated for cytological examination. Positive peritoneal cytology indicates microscopic peritoneal dissemination and significantly impacts staging, prognosis, and treatment decisions, often upstaging the disease even when no visible peritoneal implants are present.
In Context
- "Peritoneal cytology was negative for malignant cells during the staging laparoscopy." — Pathology report
- "Positive peritoneal cytology upstaged the patient to stage IV disease." — Multidisciplinary conference note