Cytotechnologist
Field of Study — Clinical Laboratory Science
Cytotechnologists are specially trained laboratory technologists who study the structure and function of cells in the human body. They examine cell samples under a microscope to detect any changes that could indicate a disease, such as cancer.
Cytotechnologists:
- prepare slides of cell samples for examination.
- examine smears of cell samples on slides using a microscope.
- detect and report abnormalities in the color, size and shape of cellular components and patterns.
- use automated equipment and instruments, including microscopes, to prepare samples for microscopic study.
- analyze test results with pathologists and relay them to physicians.
- may assist physicians with collecting cell samples.
Most cytotechnologists work in hospitals, clinics or private laboratories under the supervision of pathologists. Some may work in universities as professors or researchers. Histotechnologists and histologic technicians prepare tissue samples for examination by a pathologist. Their work is an essential part of determining whether a patient is suffering from a disease, dysfunction or malignancy.
Educational Requirements
Students intending to pursue a career as a cytotechnologist should prepare by taking challenging high school courses in science, math and English. Students must complete three years of college prior to entering a 12-month clinical internship program in cytotechnology (offered at a college or hospital).
Educational Institutions
There are currently no programs available in Virginia.Professional Associations
- American Society for Clinical Pathology
2100 W. Harrison St.
Chicago, IL 60612
(312) 738-1336, ext. 440
http://www.ascp.org - American Society for Cytotechnology
1500 Sunday Drive
Suite 102
Raleigh, NC 27607
(919) 861-5571
1-800-948-3947
http://www.asct.com - American Society of Cytopathology
400 W. 9th St.
Suite 201
Wilmington, DE 19801-1555
(302) 429-8802
http://www.cytopathology.org