Cytotechnology

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Cytotechnology is the microscopic interpretation of cells to detect cancer and other abnormalities.^[1] This includes the examination of samples collected from the uterine cervix (Pap test), lung, gastrointestinal tract or body cavities.^[2]

Cytotechnologists are allied health professionals trained in cytotechnology; they evaluate specimens on glass slides using microscopes. While computer technologies perform an initial evaluation, the cytotechnologist performs the secondary evaluation and determines whether a specimen is normal or abnormal. Abnormal specimens are referred to a pathologist for final interpretation.

Different countries have different certification requirements and standards for cytotechnologists. In the United States, after earning a baccalaureate degree, individuals attend an accredited program in cytotechnology for 1 or 2 years, and are then eligible to take a certification exam offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology.^[3] The American Society for Cytotechnology sets U.S. professional standards, monitors legislative and regulatory issues, and provides education.