ACGME accredited one-year fellowship program in cytopathology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health & Hospital System offer intense training in all aspects of cytopathology through utilization of an annual volume of about 65,000 specimens of gynecologic and nongynecologic material from out-patient and in-patient clinical services of a 900-bed teaching hospital. Training involves direct participation in cytopathologic evaluation as well as teaching responsibilities and ongoing research activities. Teaching experience includes active participation in lectures and seminars as well as informal sessions with medical students, graduate students, and other pathology residents. Special emphasis is given to aspiration cytopathology through close cooperation between the Pathology Laboratory, Clinical Services and the Radiology Department. The fellow performs all superficial FNAs in FNA clinic and becomes proficient both in the techniques and in the interpretation of material so obtained. The Laboratory of Diagnostic Cytology is computerized and opportunities for experience in computer techniques related to cytopathology are part of the program. (For basic program description see main listing.)

General Information

The fellow will have increasing levels of responsibility commensurate with level of performance. Emphasis is also placed on the integration of surgical pathology with cytology and the use of both air-dried Diff-Quick and alcohol-fixed Papanicolaou stains, as well as liquid-based monolayer preparations. The fellow will participate in the services, teaching and research activities of the laboratory. Thus the cytopathology fellowship emphasizes achievements of competence in acquiring good diagnostic and procedural skills, developing professional communication skills and utilizing these skills to develop positive interactions with other physicians. The fellow is expected to participate in laboratory quality control, and understand the basics of laboratory management to positively impact patient care.