introduction

Question 1

define cytology

Answer 1

• the microscopic study and examination of cells and their structural characteristics
• primarily those exfoliated from tissues, lesions, and internal organs

Question 2

define histology

Answer 2

the study of the minute structure, composition, and function of tissues

Question 3

define histopathology

Answer 3

the study of diseased tissues

Question 4

define in situe

Answer 4

• in the body

Question 5

what are the 4 types of tissues examined in cytology?

Answer 5

• connective
• epithelial
• nervous
• muscle

Question 6

what is the purpose of cytology?

Answer 6

• identify the cell types present
• diagnostic treatment

Question 7

basic cytology sampling techniques

Answer 7

• swabbing
• scraping
• acetate tape test
• manual collection (semen, urine, feces)
• aspiration of solid/fluid masses (FNA)
• aspiration of fluid (bone marrow, spinal fluid, tracheal, bronchial, blood, centesis)
• imprints (biopsy)

Question 8

advantages of cytology:

Answer 8

• easy to collect
• fast collection
• minimal restraint
• inexpensive
• little risk to the patient
• results while you wait
• no special equipment

Question 9

disadvantages of cytology

Answer 9

• quality control issues
• needs some technical experience
• A poor sample will give poor results
• staining techniques are variable
• secondary contamination
• may not get a representative sample
• formalin fumes can destroy the sample

Question 10

common cytological problems

Answer 10

• too few cells
• blood contamination
• poor smear preparation