At the end of the year, the fellow is expected to be able to run a cytopathology laboratory independently, and assume a consultant and leadership role in this field. The accompanying schedule is not intended to be a rigid routine, but rather a guide that assures the coverage of most aspects of diagnostic cytopathology in a balanced fashion. Experience with special stains, immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry and the application of electron microscopy to cytology will be emphasized in certain phases of the training. The valuable knowledge in cytopreparatory techniques will give the physician an insight into the problems in slide processing and methods to correct them, and the quality of work to be expected in a good laboratory. Attendance of aspirations performed by the radiologists is an important opportunity to assure optimal sampling of deep organs and to communicate with our clinical colleagues.
Fellows actively participate in adequacy checks of pathology, pulmonary and radiology aspirates.
Extensive study material is available and should be thoroughly reviewed to enrich the fresh material received daily in the laboratory. The fellowship encourages self motivation and learning in a broad sense, under the tutelage of senior cytopathologists. However, specific topics may be covered in the initial phases by some of the faculty every week in tutorial sessions arranged at a mutually agreeable time. This facilitates the familiarization of the fellow with the terminology and criteria used in the laboratory. Exposure to several senior faculty enhances a broad approach to the field of cytology.