Ethical problems in cytology.

Great advances in medical science have raised a number of ethical issues, many of which affect cytopathology. Some of the main issues addressed in this paper relate to the organization of a cytology laboratory: internal and external quality control, adequate staffing levels and staff education, cytopathology reporting format and contents, confidentiality issues, relationship with the clinicians and involvement of cytopathologists in clinical management teams. Quality control has to be provided within cytology departments but external quality assurance is also essential, with national monitoring. New technologies should be used according to the best scientific methods, following cytological analysis. Scientific work in cytology has to respect the general principles of scientific ethics. The patient's interest has to be the main reason for such work.