Cytologists Do It With Cells - Diagnostic Cytopathology, Essentials, Advances and More!

Diagnostic Cytopathology is used primarily to provide a diagnosis in symptomatic patients and those with suspected malignant disease. In many cases cells will naturally exfoliate, and will be present in fluids such as urine, sputum and serous fluids or can be 'washed off or 'brushed off using bronchoscopy techniques. Palpable and non-palpable lesions can be sampled using Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) techniques. Participation is intended to give beginner's an overview of Cytopathology preparation methods available for these sample types; the most common cell types encountered, benign and malignant. Information is aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of newly qualified cytotechnologists in NG Diagnostic Cytopathology or those who prepare samples but do not routinely pre-screen them. Looking at the more advanced techniques concentrates on FNA techniques and the use of immunocytochemistry on Cytopathology samples. FNA has been around since the 1800's but was introduced as a routine diagnostic procedure in the Karolinska Institute in Sweden in the 1970 1s and has since become a first line approach in the investigation of patients with palpable lumps. Superficial lumps on breast, thyroid, salivary gland, and lymph nodes are easily accessed by this procedure and with the aid of ultrasound (US) can be targeted with higher accuracy. Liver lesions are also accessible with US guidance. Lung lesions can be sampled using CT. Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) can be used for lymph nodes and pancreatic lesions. The workshop discusses all FNA samples and what cell types are found in both benign and malignant lesions. Rapid on Ste Evaluation (ROSE) clinics are discussed and how the use of suitably experienced Cytotechnologists can improve the efficiency of this service. Decisions can be made at such clinics re the need to obtain extra material for ancillary tests such as immunocytochemistry and molecular testing whish are now so important for refining a patient's diagnosis. Traditionally in many centres this service has been Consultant led with technical staff attending to prepare and stain the slides. Our experience has shown that cytotechnologist staff can provide a highly efficient service and reduce the need for attendance of Consultant medical staff. The workshop also provides the opportunity to highlight the pitfalls from sample to preparation to diagnosis and offer insight into problem solving and enhanced quality for diagnosis.

CEUs: This histology course is worth 1 continuing education credit and is available for 365 days from the date of registration.
This session is from the 2024 NSH Virtual Convention Program