Cytopathology Of Orofacial Lesions

In the diagnosis of any lesion,it is not the appearance of any one cell alone but the disturbed relationship of each cell to the other that is so important.Recent improvements in diagnostic techniques,specimen collection,quantitative image analysis techniques and issue of time and cost effectiveness have stimulated a renewed interest in cytology. Cytopathology is a branch of pathology that studies and diagnoses diseases on the cellular level,by studying the structure of all normal and abnormal components of cells and the changes, movements of such components. Cytological evaluation can be used as a tool for Mass Screening Program and for monitoring patients following treatment for oral cancer. Mass screening programs have been successfully worked out worldwide and in a set up like India where incidence of tobacco usage is dangerously high,it must he adopted as a part of national health policy.But one must keep in mind the importance of being aware of the normal cytological appearance prior to the examination of pathological cells.