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Dear All,

The value and relevance of cytology (exfoliative and fine needle aspiration biopsy) as a significant diagnostic modality cannot be overemphasized, especially in a country like ours, given its several significant attributes such as a cost-effective, safe, reasonably accurate, and accessible technique. There is a substantial amount of evidence of its utility for diagnosis and triage across various body sites. However, as a result of variable expertise across different regions and the relatively less common inclusion of ancillary techniques on cytology samples, there are associated challenges. It is noteworthy that cytologic material as a “pure” sample can be triaged for all the ancillary techniques, including molecular.

As challenges lead to opportunities, one of the recent developments in cytology on the global platform is the first-time collaboration between the International Academy of Cytology (IAC) with the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)-World Health Organization (WHO). This collaboration aims to develop reporting systems in cytopathology for various organ systems namely lung, pancreaticobiliary, lymph nodes, spleen, and thymus; soft tissue, breast, liver along with kidney and adrenals with world experts. These systems which will appear in the form of respective “purple books” will be great resources for a more objective way of cytology reporting particularly about clinical relevance. It is heartening to know and share with you that there is a substantial representation of our country, including our state.

The state of Maharashtra has significantly contributed towards quality-based pathology practice in our county with eminent, internationally renowned histopathologists and cytopathologists. The Association of Cytologists of Maharashtra (ACM) with a wonderful team of committed office bearers aims towards spreading the value and knowledge of cytopathology, especially among younger pathologists, across the state by conducting yearly conferences and other educational events (online) and further in the country by bridging with the Indian Academy of Cytologists (IAC).

It is my proud privilege to serve as the President of the ACM for the year 2023 and be able to contribute further towards the legacy established by the former Presidents, chairpersons, and executives of this prestigious association. I would appeal to more pathologists, cytopathologists, and cytotechnologists to join this association as valuable members and contribute by sharing their knowledge and expertise taking this association to greater heights.

#Together we achieve more#.
Regards and wishes,
Bharat Rekhi MD, DNB, MIAC, FICP, MCAP(Affl), FRCPATH
Professor, Pathologist,
Tata Memorial Hospital, Parel, Mumbai.