Quote:
“No other test ever invented has been as successful as the Pap smear in eradicating cancer.” –R. DeMay
Definition of Profession:
Cytology is the study of the formation, structure and function of cells. Cytotechnologists are trained technologists to work with pathologists to detect changes in cellular material from all body sites in the early diagnosis of cancer and other diseases. Physicians use the information supplied by the cytotechnologists to make a diagnosis.
Cytotechnologists work with a wide variety of laboratory specimen preparations and a basic knowledge of contemporary procedures and technologies such as image analysis, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, electron microscopy, molecular diagnostic procedures, and automation. The cytotechnologist’s role extends beyond the detection of malignancy and includes such issues as quality improvement, laboratory management, teaching, research, and consumer/patient education. They should have excellent concentration and good judgment capabilities.
About the Field:
Cytotechnologists work independently doing meticulous microscopic work. They must be comfortable making decisions and assume a great deal of responsibility.Cytotechnologists are also responsible for the preliminary interpretation of specimens from other sites such as lung, bladder, body cavities, central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, liver, lymph nodes, thyroid, salivary glands and breast. Cytotechnologists work in collaboration with pathologists to diagnose benign and infectious processes, precancerous lesions and malignant disease. Providing a definitive diagnosis in a timely, safe and cost-effective manner helps save patient lives by allowing clinicians to provide necessary and appropriate treatment to patients as quickly as possible.
How To Get There:
A bachelor’s degree with three years of college education plus one calendar year of special instruction in cytotechnology is required for entry level competency. The curriculum emphasizes embryology, cytology as applied in clinical medicine, clinical medicine, human anatomy, cytophysiology, endocrinology, cytochemistry, parasitology, microbiology, histology, and inflammatory diseases. A bachelor’s degree is required to take the registry examination of the American Society for Clinical Pathology.
On The Job:
Cytotechnologists prepare slides of body cells and examine these cells microscopically for abnormalities that may signal the beginning of a cancerous growth.
Salary Range:
According to the American Society for Clinical Pathology, median hourly pay for cytotechnologists ranges from $16.70 to $24 per hour. A survey conducted by Wage Web found the average annual salary in cytotechnology was $41,560.
Tools of the Trade /Lifestyle:
They may work in hospitals, private laboratories, research or teaching positions. Cytotechnologists always work under the supervision of a pathologist.
State of the Art:
Since the inception of modern cytology in the 1950’s (thanks to the work of Dr. George Papanicolaou), the field of cytology had seen little change. Only in the past 15 years have technological advances led to the integration of molecular diagnostics, immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry and automation in the field of cytology. Automation has been one of the most significant changes in cytotechnology practice. Automation in cytopreparation and computer-assisted screening has contributed to an increase in the number of abnormal cases detected as compared to conventional practice and methods. Other benefits to automation include increased productivity, consistency and decreased turn-around time.
You are:
• have good practical and technical skills, including manual dexterity
• have an enquiring mind
• be able to work accurately and pay great attention to detail
• have a methodical approach to your work
• have strong problem solving skills
• have an aptitude for maths and IT
• be able to work well in a team
• be willing to take on responsibility.
Related Professions:
Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians analyze body fluids, tissue, and other substances, using a variety of tests. Similar or related procedures are performed by chemists and materials scientists, science technicians, and veterinary technologists and technicians.
