Cytopathology
Cytopathology is the study of individual cells to detect disease. Unlike histopathology, which examines tissue architecture, cytopathology focuses on cellular detail, providing faster, less invasive insights into whether a growth or abnormality is cancerous, pre-cancerous, or benign.
- Immunocytochemistry
Ancillary immunocytochemistry refers to the use of immunocytochemical techniques as an additional (ancillary) method to improve the accuracy of cytological or cell based diagnosis, especially when evaluating small cell samples such as those obtained by fine needle aspiration (FNA). It involves applying antibodies that bind to specific markers (proteins) on or in the cells to help identify what kind of cells they are (cancerous vs. benign, or which type of cancer).
- Liquid-Based Cytology (LBC)
A modern technique where the sample (usually from a pap smear or needle aspiration) is collected into a liquid preservative instead of being smeared directly on a slide. Cells from the sample are placed into a vial of liquid. The liquid is processed in the lab to remove debris and excess mucus. A thin, even layer of cells is placed on a slide for microscopic examination. Liquid based cytology is better than traditional smears due to cleaner and more uniform slides, fewer unsatisfactory or unclear results, and it allows additional tests (like HPV testing or immunocytochemistry) on the same sample.
- Cell Block Preparation
This technique processes fluid samples (like pleural fluid or aspirates from lumps) to make small tissue-like blocks from the cells, which are then cut into thin sections, just like biopsy specimens. The fluid with cells is centrifuged (spun) to collect the cells at the bottom. The cell pellet is fixed and embedded in paraffin wax. Thin sections are then cut and stained for examination, just like a biopsy. This method allows for more detailed study, especially if cancer is suspected, enables immunohistochemistry (staining for specific markers) and helps when the cytology smear is inconclusive.
At Apollo Athenaa Women’s Cancer Centre, cytopathology plays a vital role in the diagnosis and monitoring of breast and gynecologic conditions. Our expert pathology team performs and interprets a range of cytology-based tests that support early detection, reduce unnecessary surgeries, and help guide further treatment.
Key Features
- Performed and interpreted by pathologists with expertise in breast and gynecologic cytology, ensuring utmost accuracy.
- Rapid, preliminary diagnosis of suspicious lesions or body fluids.
- Advanced techniques such as liquid-based cytology, cell block preparation, and ancillary immunocytochemistry enhance diagnostic precision.
- Integrated into the multidisciplinary diagnostic workflow.
Benefits
- Offers fast, early diagnosis with minimal discomfort
- Helps distinguish between benign and malignant processes
- Reduces unnecessary surgical interventions when a lump is non-cancerous
- Supports monitoring of known benign conditions without repeated biopsies
- Plays a central role in screening, like pap smears for cervical cancer prevention
Cytopathology at Apollo Athenaa is seamlessly integrated into our diagnostic workflow, giving women timely answers with the least possible disruption. Whether used as a first step or part of ongoing cancer surveillance, it reflects our commitment to safe, personalised, and effective care.
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