Intermediate
Technical
IVT
cytopathology
Pronunciation: sahy-toh-puh-THOL-uh-jee
Medical specialty focused on diagnosing disease through examination of individual cells.
Full Definition
Cytopathology is a medical specialty that involves the microscopic examination of cells obtained from body fluids, fine needle aspirations, or surface scrapings to diagnose disease, particularly cancer. Unlike histopathology, which examines tissue architecture, cytopathology focuses on cellular morphology, nuclear features, and individual cell characteristics. Common applications include Pap smears for cervical cancer screening, fine needle aspiration of suspicious masses, and examination of pleural or peritoneal fluids for malignant cells.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from histopathology in diagnostic contexts.
In Context
- "Cytopathology examination confirmed malignant cells in the pleural fluid." — Pathology report
- "The cytopathology department processed over 500 FNA specimens monthly." — Laboratory report
Also known as
cytology
Contrasted with
histopathology
Don't confuse with
histopathology
cytogenetics