What does cytology look for

Cytology is the exam of a single cell type, as often found in fluid specimens.
It's mainly used to diagnose or screen for cancer.
It's also used to screen for fetal abnormalities, for pap smears, to diagnose infectious organisms, and in other screening and diagnostic areas.

Cytology tests have many benefits due to the small amount of tissue or fluid sample that is needed for the test.
Compared to a tissue biopsy, which healthcare providers also use to determine a diagnosis, a cytology test:

1. Is less invasive

Causes less discomfort and pain.
Is less likely to cause complications.
Costs less.

There are two main kinds, or branches, of cytology:

1. exfoliative cytology and intervention cytology

Healthcare providers can use cytology tests for almost all areas of your body.
Some common types of cytology tests include:Gynecologic cytology.
Urinary cytology.
Breast cytology.
Thyroid cytology.
Lymph node cytology.

Cytology (also known as cytopathology) involves examining cells from bodily tissues or fluids to determine a diagnosis.
A certain kind of physician, called a pathologist, will look at the cells in the tissue sample under a microscope and look for characteristics or abnormalities in the cells.