Sejtpatológia

Sejtpatológia, also known as cytopathology, is a branch of pathology that studies diseases at the cellular level. It involves the examination of individual cells or small clusters of cells that have been shed or collected from various parts of the body. This examination is typically performed under a microscope by a pathologist or a cytotechnologist.

The primary goal of cytopathology is to detect cellular abnormalities, which can indicate the presence of precancerous changes or malignant tumors. It is also used to identify infectious agents, inflammatory processes, and other non-neoplastic conditions. Samples for cytopathological examination can be obtained through various methods, including fine-needle aspiration (FNA), exfoliative cytology (e.g., Pap smears), and fluid cytology (e.g., urine, cerebrospinal fluid).

One of the most well-known applications of cytopathology is the Pap test, used for the early detection of cervical cancer. Other common cytological examinations include breast FNA, thyroid FNA, and examination of pleural or peritoneal effusions. The interpretation of cytopathology slides requires specialized training to distinguish normal cells from abnormal ones and to classify the nature of the abnormality. While cytopathology can be highly effective in diagnosing diseases, it may sometimes yield equivocal results, necessitating further investigation with tissue biopsy.