Ch1: Lab Staff

Question 1

Pathologist

Answer 1

Physician who reads and interprets the results of laboratory tests or examines tissues under a microscope to diagnosis and monitor disease. Pathologists are experts in diagnosing such diseases as cancer, diabetes, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), hepatitis, and thyroid conditions. The American Board of Pathology requires 5 years of training following graduation from medical school to be eligible to take examinations leading to board certification as a clinical/anatomic pathologist.

Question 2

Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) or Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS)

Answer 2

Holds a minimum of a baccalaureate degree and is responsible for performing a full range of laboratory tests, confirming the accuracy of test results, and reporting laboratory findings to the pathologist and other physicians. Medical technologists work in five major areas of the laboratory: blood banking, chemistry, hematology, immunology, and microbiology.

Question 3

Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)

Answer 3

Under the supervision of the medical technologist, performs general tests. Medical laboratory technicians have special training in addition to a high school diploma or an associate degree.

Question 4

Phlebotomy Technician (PBT)

Answer 4

Collects blood samples to be used in many laboratory tests to detect and monitor treatment. Phlebotomists have training in addition to a high school diploma.

Question 5

Cytotechnologist (CT)

Answer 5

Examines cells under the microscope to detect signs of cancer in the earliest stages, when a cure is most likely. Cytotechnologists must hold baccalaureate degrees and have special training to search out the smallest abnormalities in color, shape, or size of cells.

Question 6

Histotechnologist (HTL)

Answer 6

Prepares body tissue samples for microscopic examination by the pathologist using sophisticated techniques such as immunohistochemistry. Histotechnologists must hold baccalaureate degrees and have special training to freeze, cut, mount, and stain the tissues, often while the patient is still in surgery, thus playing a major role in the diagnosis of malignancy.