cytology
Pronunciation: sy-TOL-uh-jee
Microscopic examination of individual cells to detect abnormal cellular changes indicative of cancer or precancer.
Full Definition
Cytology is the branch of pathology that involves the microscopic examination of cells obtained from various body sites to diagnose disease, particularly cancer and precancerous conditions. In cancer screening, cytological examination typically involves analyzing cells that have been naturally shed or deliberately collected through techniques such as fine needle aspiration, brushing, or scraping. The cytologist examines cell morphology, nuclear characteristics, and cellular arrangements to identify abnormal changes that may suggest malignancy or dysplasia. Common cytological screening tests include Pap smears for cervical cancer and sputum cytology for lung cancer.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguished from histology, which examines tissue architecture. Cytology focuses on individual cell characteristics.
In Context
- "Cervical cytology revealed high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions requiring immediate follow-up." — Pathology report
- "The cytology laboratory processes approximately 500 Pap smears daily for cancer screening." — Laboratory operations manual