Cytological cell block in modern diagnosis and precision medicine

Abstract

Introduction: the cytological cell block emerged in the early twentieth century as a technique for processing material obtained from cytological specimens, such as body fluids and aspirates. Its development has improved morphological preservation and expanded the possibilities for performing ancillary studies on cytological material.

Objective: to analyze the clinical utility of the cytological cell block, its main preparation methods, advantages and limitations, as well as its applications in morphological, immunohistochemical, and molecular studies in the context of diagnosis and precision medicine.

Method: a literature search was conducted in PubMed, LILACS, SciELO, and Dialnet. Fifty-three articles were identified, of which 29 that met the established criteria were selected for the review.

Results: the reviewed evidence shows that the cytological cell block is a complementary tool that expands the diagnostic possibilities of cytological specimens. In certain specimen types and diagnostic settings, its incorporation into conventional cytology may increase diagnostic yield and facilitate ancillary studies, including immunohistochemistry and molecular techniques. Its utility depends on factors such as cellularity, specimen type, preparation method, fixation, and the ancillary studies required.

Final considerations: the cytological cell block expands the diagnostic use of cytological specimens and facilitates ancillary testing. Its performance depends on specimen quality and cellularity; therefore, standardized and validated procedures are required.