Cytotechnologist
さいぼうけんさし
Industry & Occupation
Classification
- Major : Medical, Nursing, and Health Occupations
- Middle : Medical Technicians
- Minor : Medical Laboratory Technologists
Summary
Medical technologist who observes human cells under a microscope to detect abnormalities such as cancer and infections.
Description
Cytotechnologists specialize in cytology, a type of pathological examination. They prepare collected cells as specimens, stain them, and observe them under a microscope to detect lesions such as cancer and inflammation. They primarily perform cervical cancer screenings in gynecology and cell examinations of pleural and ascites fluids, collaborating with pathologists to prepare diagnostic reports. Precise specimen preparation and staining techniques, deep knowledge of cell morphology, and advanced microscopy operation skills are required.
Future Outlook
With the progress of an aging society, demand for cancer screening is steadily increasing. Even with the advancement of AI-assisted image diagnostic technologies, the importance of final confirmation by experts remains high.
Personality Traits
High Concentration / Meticulous / Patient / Strong Sense of Responsibility
Work Style
Day Shift / Hospital Employment / Private Laboratory Employment / Research Institute Employment / Shift Work
Career Path
Clinical Laboratory Technician → Cytotechnologist → Senior Cytotechnologist → Laboratory Manager → Chief Technician
Required Skills
Cell Morphology Diagnosis / Cell Specimen Preparation / Microscope Operation / Papanicolaou Staining / Quality Control
Recommended Skills
Digital Pathology / Immunocytochemistry / Molecular Diagnostics / Reading English Literature
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | Logical thinking is necessary to identify subtle abnormalities in cell morphology. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | High attention to detail is essential to not miss subtle cellular changes. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Work involves strictly following standardized procedures. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Mainly involves seated microscope observation work. |
Related Qualifications
- Certified Cytotechnologist by the Japanese Society of Clinical Cytology
- Clinical Laboratory Technician
Related Jobs
- Clinical Laboratory Technician
- Microbiology Technician
- Pathology Technician