Pathology and Pathological Disorders

Cytopathology and Histopathology

Cytopathology is a specialized diagnostic technique that focuses on the examination of individual cells extracted from various body sites to identify diseases and abnormalities. It plays a crucial role in detecting infections, inflammatory conditions, and malignancies. One of the most renowned cytopathology tests is the Pap smear, which was developed over 50 years ago and remains one of the most effective and widely used screening tools for cervical cancer and its precancerous changes. Alongside cytopathology, histopathology or cellular pathology examines tissue samples (histology) and cells (cytology) under the microscope, often including post-mortem examinations (autopsies). Histopathologists analyze whole tissue sections to determine disease presence, progression, and severity, requiring a keen eye for detail and extensive knowledge of tissue structure and pathology. Both cytopathology and histopathology are essential for accurate disease diagnosis, guiding treatment planning and patient management across a wide range of medical conditions.