Non-GYN slides and/or FNA slides must be kept for how many years?

• A. 2 years
• B. 5 years
• C. 10 years
• D. 20 years

Answer: (C)

Ten years is the typical retention period for non-GYN slides and FNA slides. This span gives enough time for a possible re-review if a diagnosis is questioned, for correlating with future imaging or clinical history, and for quality assurance and medico-legal documentation. Shorter periods, like two or five years, might not cover occasions when a second opinion or a late follow-up is needed, while twenty years generally exceeds routine needs and adds unnecessary storage costs. Of course, exact requirements can vary by local regulations and institutional policy, so follow the guidelines your lab is required to meet.