Cytology is the study of cells and their structure, function, and pathology. It is a branch of pathology that focuses on the microscopic examination of cells. There are two main types of cytology: exfoliative cytology and intervention cytology.
Exfoliative Cytology
Exfoliative cytology is the study of cells that have been shed from the body’s surface. It is used to detect cancer and other diseases by examining cells that have been shed from the body’s surface. Examples of exfoliative cytology include Pap smears, sputum smears, and urine smears.
Intervention Cytology
Intervention cytology is the study of cells that have been removed from the body through a biopsy or other procedure. It is used to diagnose cancer and other diseases by examining cells that have been removed from the body. Examples of intervention cytology include fine needle aspiration biopsies, core needle biopsies, and excisional biopsies.
When is Cytology Used?
Cytology is used to diagnose cancer and other diseases. It is also used to monitor the progression of a disease or to determine the effectiveness of a treatment. Cytology tests are performed by a pathologist or a cytotechnologist.
How Does a Cytology Test Work?
A cytology test involves the collection of cells from the body’s surface or from a biopsy. The cells are then examined under a microscope to look for abnormalities. The pathologist or cytotechnologist will look for changes in the size, shape, and structure of the cells that may indicate the presence of cancer or other diseases.
How Do I Prepare for a Cytology Test?
Before a cytology test, you may be asked to provide a sample of your cells. This can be done by swabbing the inside of your cheek or by providing a urine or sputum sample. You may also be asked to provide a sample of your blood or tissue.
What Should I Expect After My Cytology Test?
After a cytology test, you may experience some discomfort or pain. You may also experience some bleeding or bruising at the site of the biopsy. The results of the test will be sent to your doctor, who will discuss the results with you.
What are the Risks and Disadvantages of Cytology Tests?
The risks and disadvantages of cytology tests include the risk of infection, bleeding, and bruising. There is also a risk of false-positive results, which can lead to unnecessary treatments or procedures.
What are the Benefits of Cytology Tests?
The benefits of cytology tests include the ability to detect cancer and other diseases early, which can lead to more effective treatments. Cytology tests are also less invasive than other types of tests, such as biopsies.
What Type of Results Do You Get From a Cytology Test?
The results of a cytology test will depend on the type of test that was performed. Exfoliative cytology tests can detect cancer and other diseases, while intervention cytology tests can provide more detailed information about the type and stage of the disease.
When Will I Know the Results of My Cytology Test?
The results of a cytology test can take several days to a few weeks to be available. Your doctor will discuss the results with you when they are available.
Is Cytology Part of Pathology?
Yes, cytology is a branch of pathology. Pathology is the study of the cause and effects of diseases.
What is the Difference Between Cytology and Histology?
The main difference between cytology and histology is that cytology is the study of cells, while histology is the study of tissues. Histology involves the examination of tissues under a microscope to look for abnormalities.
What is the Difference Between Cytology and a Biopsy?
The main difference between cytology and a biopsy is that cytology is the study of cells, while a biopsy is the removal of a sample of tissue for examination. A biopsy is used to diagnose cancer and other diseases, while cytology is used to detect cancer and other diseases.
References
- American Society for Clinical Pathology. (2020). What is Cytology? Retrieved from https://www.ascp.org/content/board-of-certification/what-is-cytology
- American Cancer Society. (2020). Cytology Tests. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/treatment/understanding-your-diagnosis/tests/cytology-tests.html
- National Cancer Institute. (2020). Cytology Tests. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/cytology-test
Keywords: cytology, exfoliative cytology, intervention cytology, cytology tests, pathology, histology, biopsy