Cytopathology is a part of the field of pathology involving cell damage and cell disease. A cytopathologist is a cellular pathologist who studies and diagnoses many diseases that occur at the cellular level. In order to determine a disease, cells of the body are examined under a microscope. This type of analysis allows a cytopathologist to distinguish between the symptoms and characteristics of many diseases.
Cytopathologists in Charleston, WV and other qualified professionals examine cells that are taken from cavities within the body, such as sputum, urine, or fluids that are concentrated within the abdomen or chest. Another method of cell extraction involves the insertion of a needle into tissues that may be abnormal, which are then examined under a microscope. The most common tissues that are examined are often taken from the cervix, thyroid, breast, liver and lymph node.
The field of cytopathology is mostly used in the diagnosis of cancer. In this instance, the cytopathologist works alongside oncologists and other doctors who specialize in the treatment, prevention and diagnosis of cancer. When making a determination of cancer, the cytopathologist examines bodily tissues that are obtained through a biopsy in order to make a determination if a cell is cancerous, non-cancerous or pre-cancerous. The conclusion that is formed after careful analysis of these cells, helps other physicians in knowing what the next steps are in the care of a cancer patient.
The many diagnostic tests that are conducted on cells which help to determine if the cells are cancerous can help to both treat cancer in the early stages and prevent it from progressing to further areas of the body. For example, the pap smear is a gynecological test which analyzes cells at the cellular level to detect cancer cells. A biopsy of breast tissue can also help make a determination if cancerous cells are present. These tests are conducted to help detect abnormal cells in their early stages, which can make treatment much more effective than if cancer is detected in a later stage of development. If a cytopathologist can make a determination of cancer in its early stages, the chances of survival are much greater for the patient.
A career in cytopathology often involves many years of schooling and training that extend beyond an undergraduate degree. After four years of medical school, a hopeful cytopathologist then spends the next two to three years in residency training. After this time, most cellular pathologists receive additional training and work closely with oncologists and other physicians who identify abnormal cell development before they progress to an advanced stage.
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