Cytology, also known as cytopathology, is a medical field focused on examining cells from bodily tissues or fluids to make a diagnosis. Pathologists, who are specialized physicians, typically analyze these cells under a microscope, identifying characteristics or abnormalities that may indicate various health conditions. Since cells are microscopic, only a small tissue sample is required for cytology testing.
Cytology has widespread applications in different medical fields, with its primary use revolving around cancer screening and diagnosis.
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There are two main types of cytology:
Exfoliative Cytology: In this type, cells are either naturally shed by the body or manually collected from the tissue's surface. Examples include Pap smears for gynecological samples and endoscopic procedures for gastrointestinal tract samples.
Interventional Cytology: This type involves healthcare providers obtaining cell samples through methods like fine-needle aspiration (FNA). FNA is commonly used to sample fluid-filled or solid lumps under the skin, lymph nodes, and various body cavities.
Cytology tests are performed on various parts of the body, including:
Gynecologic
Urinary
Breast
Thyroid
Lymph nodes
Respiratory system
Eye
Ear
Cytology serves primarily for cancer diagnosis and screening. It is also utilized for diagnosing infectious diseases, inflammatory conditions, examining thyroid lesions, and evaluating diseases affecting specific body cavities.
A cytology test typically involves four steps:
Cytology tests are crucial for early disease detection and diagnosis, providing valuable insights into a patient's health condition. If you have further questions or concerns about cytology testing, it is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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