Keynote Message

Cytology can be employed by clinicians in the diagnostic workup of a wide variety of disease processes. Applications are endless and the diagnostic value of this tool can be further maximised by combining it with appropriate complementary diagnostic investigations such as imaging, cytochemistry, immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry, PCR, culture, and serology. In the introduction of this masterclass, indications, expectations and limitations of cytology, and the general principles of sample acquisition, slide examination, and cytology reporting will be briefly discussed. Cytology of skin masses, lymph nodes and internal organs will then be illustrated by critically appraising value and limitations in the diagnosis of different conditions, using also case examples.

Key References

1.  Piviani M, Sánchez MD, Patel RT. Cytologic features of clear cell adnexal carcinoma in 3 dogs. Veterinary Clinical Pathology. 2012;41:405–411. DOI: 10.1111/j.1939-165X.2012.00434.x

2.  Mesquita L, Mortier J, Ressel L, et al. Neoplastic pleural effusion and intrathoracic metastasis of a scapular osteosarcoma in a dog: a multidisciplinary integrated diagnostic approach. Veterinary Clinical Pathology. 2017;46:337–343. DOI: 10.1111/vcp.12474

3.  Rout ED, Avery PR. Lymphoid neoplasia. Veterinary Clinics: Small Animal Practice.2017;47:53–70. DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2016.07.004

4.  Johnson MC, Myers AN. Cytology of skin neoplasms. Veterinary Clinics: Small Animal Practice. 2017;47:85–10. DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2016.07.006

5.  Barger AM. Cytology of bone. Veterinary Clinics: Small Animal Practice. 2017;47:71–84. DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2016.07.005

6.  Raskin RE, Meyer DJ. Canine and Feline Cytology. 3rd edition. Elsevier;2016.