Cytopathology Trends in Nepal-Historic and Current Practices and Future Directions

Cytopathology in Nepal has expanded considerably over recent decades, playing a key role in the diagnosis of both malignancies and infectious diseases. This article reviews the historical evolution, current practices, specimen types, processing techniques, and reporting systems in Nepal. It also outlines cytopathology training, workforce development, and cervical cancer screening initiatives. Despite this progress, access to advanced ancillary techniques such as immunocytochemistry and molecular testing remains limited, with reliance on referral laboratories. Ongoing challenges include resource constraints, uneven infrastructure, and limited subspecialty training opportunities. Strengthening diagnostic capacity through expanded infrastructure, quality assurance, and targeted training will be essential for future growth. Due to limited published data, some observations are based on the authors' experience.