Abstract: A method and apparatus for collecting a cell sample from a liquid specimen utilizes a collection receptacle in which the specimen is deposited, with a filter media being place in communication with a discharge port in the collection receptacle and a transfer device for drawing specimen from the collection receptacle and through the filter for capturing the cellular component of the specimen on the filter media for defining a cell sample for analysis. The collection receptacle, filter media and carrier therefor and the transfer device may be supplied in kit form for use in a clinical environment. A hypobaric vessel may be used and the transfer device and this vessel may also serve as a disposal receptacle for the liquid specimen passed through the filter media.