Cytotechnologist Careers: Behind the Microscope in the Fight Against Cancer
A cytotechnologist is a licensed healthcare professional who specializes in the microscopic examination of human cells. Working closely with pathologists in laboratories, these highly skilled medical specialists can identify subtle cellular changes to detect precancerous and cancerous conditions as well as inflammation, viral and bacterial infections and other abnormalities.
As experts in evaluating human cells, cytotechnologists play a crucial role in cancer screening. Their vital work can help physicians diagnose cancer at an early stage when treatment is usually most effective. They also provide essential information to guide treatment decisions and patient care.
Currently, the career prospects for a cytotechnologist are excellent. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 11% increase in job growth between 2018 and 2028, with expected job placement for recent graduates near 100%.
What does a cytotechnologist do at a cancer center?
By identifying cellular abnormalities early, cytotechnologists perform transformative work, helping patients seek the prompt treatment they need to overcome cancer and other potentially serious illnesses.
The cytology process begins with the collection of a cell sample by a healthcare provider. This may involve:
- Collecting a sample of a bodily fluid or discharge, such as saliva or urine
- Brushing or scraping tissue from the surface of the body
- Using fine-needle aspiration to draw a sample of fluid or tissue from a specific area of the body
If the cytology test involves a fluid sample, the provider will place the specimen in a small container. If the cytology test involves a tissue sample, the provider will smear or spread the specimen on glass microscope slides. The container or slides will then be sent to a pathology laboratory for analysis by a cytotechnologist.
Before analyzing a fluid cytology sample, the cytotechnologist may place the fluid in a centrifuge. The centrifuge will spin the fluid rapidly, using centrifugal force to separate its various cellular components. After collecting the cells needed for analysis, the cytotechnologist will place them on glass microscope slides. The cytotechnologist may then use advanced staining techniques to enhance the visibility of the cellular structures and any abnormalities.
After processing and staining the cytology samples, the cytotechnologist will examine the cells under a microscope. If any abnormalities are found, the cytotechnologist will mark the slides with a special pen, document their findings and submit a report to a pathologist for further evaluation.
Through close collaboration, cytotechnologists and pathologists can diagnose and treat cancer—in many cases, long before it could be detected otherwise. For instance, a fine needle can be used to aspirate lesions located deep within the body, greatly enhancing the likelihood of diagnosing tumors previously considered to be inaccessible.
Opportunities at Moffitt Cancer Center
If you are independent, meticulous and comfortable with a high level of responsibility in a vital healthcare setting, a role as a cytotechnologist at Moffitt can provide a highly satisfying career path. Apply now, and contribute to the early detection of cancer, enhance patient care and work on the cutting-edge of diagnostic innovation.