1. FINE-NEEDLE ASPIRATION (FNA) /BIOPSY: FNA biopsy involves the aspiration of cells or tissue fragments from palpable or radiographically identifiable lesions using a thin needle attached to a syringe. Cytopathologists evaluate FNA specimens to diagnose tumors, infections, inflammatory conditions, and other lesions.

2. GYNECOLOGICAL CYTOLOGY (PAP SMEAR): Gynecological cytology involves the examination of cells obtained from the cervix (Pap smear), vagina, or endometrium to screen for cervical cancer, detect precancerous lesions (e.g., cervical dysplasia), and diagnose infections and inflammatory conditions of the female reproductive tract.

3. NON-GYNECOLOGICAL CYTOLOGY: Non-gynecological cytology includes the examination of cells obtained from various body sites outside the female reproductive tract, such as the respiratory tract (sputum, bronchial washings), urinary tract (urine), gastrointestinal tract (gastric washings, bile duct brushings), thyroid gland (fine-needle aspiration), lymph nodes, and body cavity fluids (pleural, peritoneal, and cerebrospinal fluid).

4. LIQUID-BASED CYTOLOGY: : Liquid-based cytology is a technique used to prepare cytology specimens, such as Pap smears and non-gynecological samples, for microscopic examination. Cells are collected in a liquid medium, processed to remove debris and mucus, and transferred onto slides for staining and evaluation.

5. IMMUNOCYTOCHEMISTRY (ICC): Immunocytochemistry involves the use of antibodies labeled with fluorescent or chromogenic markers to detect specific antigens or proteins within cytology specimens. ICC enhances the diagnostic accuracy of cytological evaluations by identifying cell types, characterizing tumors, and confirming infectious or inflammatory processes.

6. ANCILLARY TESTING: Cytopathology laboratories may offer additional ancillary tests to complement cytological evaluations, including flow cytometry, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and molecular genetic testing. These tests provide valuable diagnostic and prognostic information, particularly in the evaluation of tumors and infectious diseases.

7. QUALITY CONTROL AND ASSURANCE: Cytopathology laboratories implement stringent quality control measures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of cytological interpretations. Quality assurance programs monitor the performance of laboratory procedures, equipment, and personnel to maintain high standards of diagnostic accuracy and patient care.

8. CONSULTATION SERVICES: Cytopathologists provide consultation services to clinicians, surgeons, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals. They interpret cytology results, provide diagnostic opinions, offer recommendations for patient management, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams in the treatment of patients with cytological abnormalities.