Cytotechnologists are specially trained individuals who are responsible
for detecting small changes or abnormalities in cells. Their work is
critical in the early detection and diagnosis of cancers and other
diseases. They examine samples under a microscope, studying the slides for
minute abnormalities in a cell's shape, color, or size. These findings are
usually the first warning signs of cancer and are used to indicate whether
it is benign or malignant. Cytotechnologists usually work under the
direction of a clinical pathologist who is responsible for any final
diagnosis. During their specialized training, cytotechnologists learn a
staining technique that makes cells easier to differentiate from
surrounding tissue. These cellular samples may be obtained from various
bodily structures, such as the lungs, the oral cavity, the female
reproductive tract, or any body cavity that sheds cells. Examination of
Pap smears continues to be a major role for cytotechnologists.
Cytotechnologists are also responsible for detecting abnormal hormone
conditions and other pathological disease processes, which can have an
adverse affect on a patient's health. Anyone interested in this highly
technical field should be a responsible decision-maker and an efficient
problem solver.
Work Environment:
Cytotechnologists usually work in hospitals, clinics, and private
laboratories. Other places of employment are research laboratories,
educational institutions, and government facilities. They work with a
variety of lab equipment and are often seated for long periods of time
while they perform their duties.
High School Preparation:
High school students interested in a career as a cytotechnologist should
take courses in biology, algebra, chemistry, physics, health
occupations/medical professions education, computer skills, English,
geometry, and physical science.
College Requirements:
Individuals interested in cytotechnology should be careful about selecting
an educational program because prospective employers may have preferences
as to program accreditation. Students must receive bachelor's degree in
cytotechnology from an accredited institution. Then they are eligible to
take the national certification examination. Once all of these
requirements are met, an individual may use the initials CT. Students
interested in cytotechnolgy should contact schools for information
concerning admission and course of study.
For educational institutions in
Mississippi
offering this course of study
click here.
Career Outlook:
Employment opportunities for cytotechnologists are expected to grow about
as fast as the average for all other occupations. There is an expected
increase of 10% to 20% over the next eight years. The volume of laboratory
tests will increase with population growth and the development of new
tests. The rapidly growing older population will be another reason for
this growth, since older people tend to have more medical problems that
will require more lab work. New advancements in powerful diagnostic tests
will also add to a rise in employment in this sector. As in most
occupations, many openings will result from the need to replace workers
who transfer to other companies, retire, or stop working for some other
reason.
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Salary:
Average Annual Salary
$49,900
Salary Range
$41,500-$56,200
Professional Organizations:
American Society for Cytotechnology
4101 Lake Boone Trail, Suite 201
Raleigh, NC 27607
Phone: (919) 787-5181
Web: www.asct.com
American Society of Clinical Pathologists Board of Registry
2100 W. Harrison Street
Chicago, IL 60612-3798
Phone: (312) 738-1336
Web: www.ascp.org
American Society of Cytopathology
400 W. 9th Street, Suite 201
Wilmington, DE 19801
Phone: (302) 429-8802
www.cytopathology.org
Mississippi Society of Cytopathology
The University of Mississippi
Department of Cytotechnology, School of Health Related Professions
2500 North State Street
Jackson, MS 39216-4505
Phone: (601) 984-6358
www.shrp.umc.edu
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