The Cytopathology Fellowship consists of twelve months of experience-based training under the direct supervision of four board-certified cytopathologists. The fellow is responsible for daily sign-out of the cytology workload. On average, 35-50 cases are completed daily. These cases are all reviewed by the fellow who prepares the materials for sign-out. The fellow assures that all clinically relevant information has been researched, as well as any prior cases or concurrent patient materials. The fellow oversees the completion and editing of the final reports. These tasks are assisted with sophisticated laboratory information systems, including electronic patient medical records.

The fellow performs all requested clinic fine needle aspirations (FNAs) on palpable masses (averaging two-three FNAs daily). The fellow also oversees the review of material for adequacy in imaging guided (CT and sonography) FNAs. This requires patient interaction and review of pertinent radiographs with the requesting clinicians. This direct procedural experience provides excellent training in performance of the fine needle aspiration.
In the process of reviewing material at the bedside for adequacy, the fellow is also responsible for deciding what additional ancillary tests are necessary for providing a specific diagnosis. This experience provides training in the appropriate use of these studies. Appropriately collected specimens are submitted for flow cytometry, immunocytochemistry, molecular pathology, and cytogenetics.

An extensive study set of unusual cases is available to the fellow for thorough review. A wide range of material from both adult and pediatric patients is available with complete histories and follow-up.
Gynecologic cytology is experienced through the review of conventional pap smears and thin-layer preparations. The fellow rotates through the cytopreparatory area where the various techniques for preparation of these specimens are directly experienced. The lab utilizes automated computerized primary screening. The fellow reviews this technology through its daily use. The fellow is involved directly in the cytology laboratory continuing quality improvement program. Cytology-surgical pathology correlation is a fellow responsibility.

The fellow is directly involved in presentations of the cytology cases at multidisciplinary clinical conferences. Various teleconference lectures on topics in cytology are provided as well as quarterly CAP proficiency samples and monthly ASCP check samples. The fellow is required to attend the yearly cytology tutorial at the expense of the department.

The fellow has up to two months of electives available. Choices include but are not limited to surgical pathology, hematopathology and flow cytometry, and molecular pathology.