Gynecologic Pathology and Cytopathology

The UCLA Outreach Cytology Section provides a full range of cytopathology services in all areas including gynecologic, non-gynecologic, exfoliative, body fluid, and aspiration type specimens. Patterns considered in the specimens from the various sites include the many types of inflammatory lesions, reactive processes, pseudoneoplastic processes, and bengin and malignant neoplasms. All gynecologic material is reported using Bethesda system.

A wide range of routine staining techniques are available. These include stains for carbohydrates, connective tissue, nerve structures, pigments, and microorganisms. More that 140 immunohistochemical antibodies are available for use when indicated. In properly preserved specimens other special studies can be done. These include flow cytometry, molecular studies and electron microsocopy. The facility includes a School of Cytotechnology, and the department is approved for post-doctorate level cytology fellows preparing to take the Cytopathology Board examination. When indicated, preliminary diagnoses are telephoned to the clinician’s office in advance of the written report.