LOINC Code 18503-3: Microscopic observation Cyto stain Nom (Superficial tissue fine needle aspirate)

What is this code?

LOINC codes identify tests, measurements, observations, survey items, and clinical questions in a standardized way. It is associated with the component Observation. It is commonly used with the system or sample type Superficial tissue.FNA.

When is it used?

• Used in lab systems, EHRs, and clinical data exchange.
• May identify a test, observation, survey item, or clinical document request rather than a diagnosis.
• Status: ACTIVE
• Order vs observation: Both
• Method: Cyto stain

What it does not mean

• The code identifies the observation or test, not the actual result.

Key facts

• Microscopic observation [Identifier] in Superficial tissue fine needle aspirate by Cyto stain
• Observation
• CYTOLOGY; Cytology stain; Cytostain; Fine needle; Identity or presence; Nominal; Pap Smear; Pap Stain; Papanicolaou smear; Point in time; Random; St; Stains; Stn; Superf Tiss; Superf Tiss FNA

Where you may see this code

You may see this code in lab systems, lab reports, EHR exports, interoperability feeds, or other structured clinical data exchanges.

Common synonyms

Frequently asked questions