What Is Histotechnology?

Histotechnology is the branch of biology that studies the microscopic anatomy of biological tissues in order to diagnose and treat diseases.

Those who work in this field are specialised medical lab workers called histology technicians or histotechnologists. The main role of these histotechnologists is to use specific reagents, chemicals and dyes to prepare surgical specimens for microscopic screening by a surgical pathologist.

Histotechnologists must combine their knowledge of chemical reactions and tissue composition in order to stain the tissue in a way that distinguishes distinct tissue and cellular structures. Looking at these tissue cells under a microscope allows the pathologist to decide on a clinical diagnosis and guide treatment for the patient.

Read on to learn more about the role of a histotechnologist.

 

Histotechnologist: Duties and Responsibilities

A histotechnologist’s primary duty is to prepare thin slices of human, animal, or plant tissue on slides for analysis by:

• Examining, fixing, and processing the tissue for proper sample preservation
• Embedding processed tissue in paraffin wax
• Cutting a tissue sample with a microtome or cryostat
• Mounting the tissue sample on a slide.
• Staining or dying the sample to emphasize abnormalities

Histotechnology also involves preparing and examining solutions for contamination, impurities or instability, as well as performing preventative and corrective maintenance of equipment and instruments.

 

What Skills Does a Histotechnologist Need?

• Knowledge of biology, immunology, molecular biology, anatomy and chemistry
• The ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and accountability
• Ability to listen and follow precise protocols and written instructions
• Strong fine motor skills
• Detail-oriented work ethic
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Excellent time management and organisation
• Strong problem solving skills and critical thinking