Diagnostic Cytopathology Cell Block Scheme

Cell blocks represent an important and valuable tool in a modern cytopathology era and many Cytopathology centres routinely carryout preparation of cell blocks to aid in patient diagnostics. This requires in depth technical knowledge along with a judgement of when such a preparation is relevant to the investigation and to the pathologist. Different methods have been described for cell block preparation, however the extent of technical variability as well as technical problems in a daily practice are unknown. 

In 2022, UK NEQAS CPT, in cooperation with the European Federation of Cytology Societies (EFCS), carried out a survey with the aim to gather information on Diagnostic Cytopathology Cell Block services and to assess the need and interest for an EQA scheme for cell blocks. Following this survey, the team worked to develop a pilot scheme to trial the usefulness and suitability for cytopathology laboratories. After two successful pilot runs, UK NEQAS CPT were able to launch the scheme fully and are currently the only External Quality Assurance (EQA) scheme covering this part of Diagnostic Cytopathology and the specialist knowledge aspect of the service.

The cell block pilot report can be viewed here.