Cytopathology

Overview

In the Section of Cytopathology, five double board certified faculty members and approximately 30 other personnel provide diagnoses based on cell specimens, including exfoliated cells from surfaces such as cervical cytology, cells from various body cavities and effusions, and fine needle aspiration (FNA) specimens. All pathologists and cytotechnologists at work here are tested annually and certified for proficiency by an agency deemed by Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

Highlights:

• In the year ahead, the section will process some 35,000 GYN, 11,000 non-GYN and 3,000 FNA procedure specimens.
• The FNA procedure, performed at bedside or in the clinic, provides immediate interpretation in over 90% of patients. Done either by cytopathologists or by other physicians with their support, this rapid diagnosis of tumors enables planning for definitive surgery without invasive biopsies.
• Translational research here aims to apply modern molecular techniques to diagnoses of cytopathology specimens, including protein, RNA and DNA level techniques.
• Trainees in the section’s ACGME-approved Fellowship Training Program are much in demand.

Contact:

Location: 6 Founders

Prabodh Gupta, MD, director
215-662-3238
gupta@mail.med.upenn.edu