Cytology is the study of individual cells to detect diseases. It is a minimally invasive diagnostic technique widely used for early detection of cancer, infections, and inflammatory conditions.
Cytologists and cytopathologists examine cells collected from various body sites to diagnose diseases. Their key responsibilities include:
Diagnosis: Identifying abnormal, precancerous, or cancerous cells.
Screening: Detecting early disease changes, especially in cervical cancer through Pap smears.
Guidance for Treatment: Helping clinicians plan further tests, biopsy, or treatment based on findings.
Cytology tests are recommended for evaluating suspicious lumps, lesions, infections, and abnormal secretions. Common indications include:
• Screening for cervical cancer (Pap test)
• Lumps in breast, thyroid, or lymph nodes
• Body fluids such as urine, pleural fluid, CSF, or ascitic fluid
• Suspected inflammatory or infectious diseases
• Early detection of malignancies
Pap Smear (Cervical Cytology): A screening test for early detection of cervical cancer and precancerous cell changes.
Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC): A quick procedure using a thin needle to collect cells from lumps or swellings.
Body Fluid Cytology: Examination of fluids such as pleural, ascitic, pericardial, CSF, or synovial fluid for infection, inflammation, or cancer cells.
Urine Cytology: Evaluation of urinary cells to detect bladder and urinary tract cancers.
Bronchial Scrape & Bronchoalveolar Lavage Cytology: Useful in diagnosing lung infections, tuberculosis, and lung cancers.
Breast Cytology: FNAC of breast lumps to differentiate benign and malignant lesions.
Thyroid Cytology: FNAC of thyroid nodules to identify neoplastic or inflammatory conditions.
Gastrointestinal Cytology: Brushings from esophagus, stomach, and intestines for cancer detection.
Cytospin Preparations: A technique that concentrates cells from body fluids for detailed examination.