Cytohistological preparation techniques refer to a set of methods used to prepare specimens for cytological and histological examination. Cytology involves studying cells, their structure, and function, whereas histology deals with the study of tissues and their organization. These techniques are crucial in diagnosing diseases, monitoring the progression of conditions, and guiding treatment decisions.
The process of cytohistological preparation typically involves several steps. First, the specimen is collected, which can be done through various methods, such as fine needle aspiration (FNA), biopsy, or surgery. Once obtained, the specimen is fixed in a suitable solution to preserve its cellular and tissue structure. Fixatives commonly used include formalin or alcohol-based solutions.
Next, the fixed specimen undergoes various processing steps. These steps may include dehydration, clearing, and embedding, where the specimen is dehydrated using a series of alcohol solutions, cleared using a solvent, and embedded in a firm medium such as paraffin to facilitate sectioning. The embedded specimen is then cut into thin slices, also known as sections, using a microtome.
The sections are then mounted on glass slides and subjected to various staining techniques. Staining helps visualize different components of the cells and tissues, aiding in their identification and characterization. Common staining methods include Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining, which highlights nuclei and cytoplasmic structures, and special stains such as Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS) staining, which aids in the detection of specific substances.
After staining, the prepared slides are examined under a light microscope by a skilled pathologist or cytotechnologist. The resulting cytohistological preparations provide valuable information about cellular and tissue abnormalities, aiding in the diagnosis of diseases like cancer, infections, and inflammatory
