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Cytotechnologist

Cytotechnologists are medical laboratory technologists who specialize in cytology (the study of human cells). Through cell analysis, cancer and other cellular diseases or abnormalities can be detected in the early stages of development.

Early detection allows for effective treatment of lung, stomach, mouth, cervical and other cancers. With minimal supervision from the pathologist, the cytotechnologist prepares slides of cellular samples from various parts of the body such as the female reproductive tract, the oral cavity, the lung or any body cavity which sheds cells. The cells are then examined under a microscope for minute differences in color, size and shape to separate normal cells from cells with medical disorders and diseases. The most familiar cytologic test is the Pap smear, which tests cervical cancer in the female reproductive tract. The cytotechnologist prepares a preliminary report for the pathologist who determines if further analysis is required. When abnormal cells are found, the cytotechnologistworks with a pathologist to arrive at a final diagnosis.

The cytotechnologist works independently with little supervision. He/she must be patient, precise and have relatively good eyesight. Above all, the cytotechnologist must enjoy making decisions and taking responsibility, since his/her findingswill directly affect a patient's course of treatment. Most cytotechnologists work in hospitals or private laboratories. Others teach or work on research projects.

Job Outlook
The demand for trained cytotechnologists is high and is expected to remain high.

Educational Requirements
The minimum educational requirement for the cytotechnologist is an associate degree or two-to-three years of college with emphasis in biological sciences, both followed by completion of a twelve-month accredited certificate program in cytotech nology.

A bachelor's degree in cytotechnology is available and there is a trend to require a bachelor's degree for certification. Certification as a cytotechnologist CT (ASCP) is available and recommended upon successful completion of an accredited program and the American Society of Clinical Pathologist's Certification examination.

Educational Programs - Chicago Area