Method and apparatus for preparing cytological specimens

A method for automatically collecting particles of interest from each of a plurality of sample vials, comprising the steps of:

• (a) loading a plurality of closed, capped sample vials into a sample vial tray, the sample vials containing a respective patient fluid sample having particles of interest therein;
• (b) loading the sample vial tray included the plurality of sample vials loaded therein into a first loading station;
• (c) after the sample vial tray is loaded into the first loading station, removing an individual first sample vial from the sample vial tray;
• (d) transferring the individual first sample vial to a specimen collection apparatus;
• (e) agitating the individual first sample vial using an automated agitator so as to disperse particles of interest in the respective patient fluid sample contained therein;
• (f) uncapping the individual first sample vial;
• (g) collecting particles of interest from the uncapped individual first sample vial;
• (h) recapping the individual first sample vial;
• (i) returning the individual first sample vial to its respective location in the sample vial tray;
• and
• (j) repeating steps (c) through (i) for each remaining sample vial of the plurality to collect respective particles of interest until all of the sample vials have been processed.