Histotechnician

A histotechnician is a laboratory professional who prepares tissue samples for microscopic examination by pathologists. The role is essential in histopathology and cytology laboratories found in hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, medical schools, and research facilities. In some settings the term histotechnologist is used for more advanced practitioners; the two titles vary by education and responsibilities.

Duties commonly include receiving and accessioning specimens, processing tissues through fixation, dehydration, clearing, and embedding in paraffin; cutting thin sections with a microtome (typically 4 to 6 microns) and placing slides for staining; performing routine stains such as hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and applying special stains as needed. Technicians may conduct immunohistochemical (IHC) staining under supervision, prepare slides for review by a pathologist, and ensure proper labeling and documentation. They also monitor equipment, maintain reagent inventories, and follow safety and quality-control procedures to prevent contamination and ensure accurate results.

Education and certification: typical education includes an associate degree in histotechnology or medical laboratory technology, with programs often accredited by NAACLS in the United States. After training, individuals may pursue certification such as the ASCP Histotechnician (HT) or Histotechnologist (HTL) credentials; licensure requirements vary by jurisdiction. Ongoing continuing education is common to maintain certification and stay current with laboratory practices.

Work environment and career: histotechnicians work under the supervision of pathologists in regulated laboratory settings. Responsibilities may extend to quality assurance, workflow optimization, and supervision of other staff. Career advancement opportunities can include senior technician roles, specialization in immunohistochemistry or molecular pathology, or management positions within a pathology laboratory.