One procedure-one report: the Re-Imagine Cytopathology Task Force position paper on small tissue biopsy triage in anatomic pathology

Pulmonary Cytopathology: Current and Future Impact on Patient Care

Small biopsies of lung are routinely obtained by many methods, including several that result in cytologic specimens. Because lung cancer is often diagnosed at a stage for which primary resection is not an option, it is critical that all diagnostic, predictive, and prognostic information be derived from such small biopsy specimens. As the number of available diagnostic and predictive markers expands, cytopathologists must familiarize themselves with current requirements for specimen acquisition, handling, results reporting, and molecular and other ancillary testing, all of which are reviewed here.

Cytotechnology schools: Future outlook

Recent changes in the standard and guidelines governing the education of cytotechnologists herald in a new era of cytology education. The long-discussed move to master level education and name change of the professional to cytologist signifies an alignment with current and projected scope of mid-level diagnostic cytology practice. Cytotechnology programs going forward are charged with implementing curricular changes that prepare practitioners to perform tasks such as computer assisted screening, and cell block interpretation as well as to perform evidence-based research methods. Cytotechnology education programs are sure to face challenges particularly in student recruitment and the hiring of expert faculty. There are however opportunities for programs to develop innovative teaching techniques, recruit from underrepresented groups and collaborate to develop needed curricular resources. The future outlook for cytotechnology programs is that they are at a turning point, poised to educate the next generation of pathology extenders who will continue to be integral members of the patient care team.

Uses and limitations of small-volume biopsies for the diagnosis of lymphoma

Although surgical biopsy remains the gold standard for the diagnosis of lymphoma, small-volume biopsies including fine-needle aspiration and core needle biopsy are increasingly being used as a first line diagnostic tool. Small-volume biopsies are safe, rapid and cost effective; however, diagnostic utility varies by lymphoma subtype. It is important for pathologists and clinicians to recognize both the strengths and limitations of such biopsies.

Doing more with less: integrating small biopsies in cytology practice

Cytopathologists are at the forefront of specimen acquisition during many different procedures while providing rapid on site evaluation (ROSE). This has added pressure to cytopathologists as more and more ancillary testing is being requested on smaller amounts of tissue. By focusing on the most common organ sites: lung, head and neck, and pancreas, there is a discussion of what the cytopathologist needs to know to triage tissue successfully. Finally, there is a discussion of the logistical aspects of integrating small biopsies into everyday practice.