Sytologisesti

Sytologisesti, or cytologically, is an adverb describing observations or analyses performed at the cellular level. It derives from cytology, the branch of biology and medicine that studies cells in health and disease, including their structure, function, and interactions with their environment.

Cytology encompasses cell morphology, cytochemistry, and cytogenetics, and underpins diagnostic practices that rely on cell samples rather than tissue architecture. It is distinct from histology, which examines tissues, and from molecular genetics.

Common methods include exfoliative cytology (Pap smear, brushings, urine cytology), and aspirational cytology (fine-needle aspiration). Specimens are prepared as smears or cytospin slides and stained with Romanowsky-type or Papanicolaou stains; light microscopy is typical, with immunocytochemical or molecular assays used as needed.

Applications include cancer screening and diagnosis, inflammatory and infectious diseases, prenatal testing, and monitoring treatment response. Cytology is valued for being minimally invasive and rapid, but it may provide limited architectural information and depends on sample adequacy and interpretive expertise.

The field emerged in the 19th century with developments in cellular theory and microscopy; a landmark achievement was the Pap test for cervical cancer screening in the mid-20th century, significantly impacting public health.

See also: cytology, cytopathology, Pap smear, fine-needle aspiration cytology.