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Updated: Jun 2, 2026

Adaptation of Semiautomated Circulating Tumor Cell (CTC) Assays for Clinical and Preclinical Research Applications
Published on: February 28, 2014
From critical values to critical diagnoses: a review with an emphasis on cytopathology
Christopher N Chapman1, Christopher N Otis
1Department of Pathology, Baystate Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Springfield, Massachusetts 01199, USA. Christopher.otis@bhs.org
Abstract:
The concept of critical values in the medical laboratory found its roots in clinical pathology nearly 40 years ago. The goal of this review was to trace the evolution of the critical value concept from clinical into anatomic pathology with specific emphasis on cytopathology. Difficulties in the meaningful application of the critical value concept in the practice of cytopathology are reviewed along with ambiguities that have yet to be fully resolved. Suggestions that may enhance the operational success of critical value policies in cytopathology and a central role for the cytotechnologist are presented. Cooperation between key pathology and clinical organizations is essential for improvement in the critical value process.
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