Cytology (also known as Cytopathology, Cytopathologies): The study of single cell as a unit of living organisms. Cytopathology, a branch of this discipline, studies structural changes of cells in diseases and is used in diagnosing diseases.

NIH MeSH · D000093222Disciplines and Occupations

Cytology

Also known asCytopathology · Cytopathologies

Definition

The study of single cell as a unit of living organisms. Cytopathology, a branch of this discipline, studies structural changes of cells in diseases and is used in diagnosing diseases.

MeSH classification

  • H01.158.273.198
  • H02.403.650.500.500

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Common questions about Cytology

What does Cytology mean in medicine?
The study of single cell as a unit of living organisms. Cytopathology, a branch of this discipline, studies structural changes of cells in diseases and is used in diagnosing diseases. This definition is taken from the National Library of Medicine's MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) 2026 release, which is the standard vocabulary used to index PubMed and most medical literature.
Is Cytology known by any other names?
Yes. Cytology is also referred to as Cytopathology, Cytopathologies in different clinical, research and patient-facing contexts. The MeSH descriptor groups all of these synonyms under a single canonical concept so research and records stay consistent.
Where does Cytology sit in the medical classification?
Cytology falls under the broader medical category "Disciplines and Occupations" in the MeSH hierarchy (tree numbers: H01.158.273.198, H02.403.650.500.500). Browsing the related concepts on this page takes you to neighbouring topics in the same branch of medicine.
Where can I get a plain-language explanation of Cytology?
For a plain-language explanation of Cytology - including symptoms, treatments and what it means for an Indian patient - ask GoDavaii's Health AI. It works in 22+ Indian languages, is free and needs no signup. Tap "Ask GoDavaii AI about Cytology" above.

Source: NIH MeSH 2026 (D000093222) — National Library of Medicine, public domain. View official MeSH record ↗