Evaluation of resident-in-training examination in cytopathology

A cytopathology examination for residents was developed to determine its usefulness and ability to measure learning in cytopathology. Seventy-five resident-training programs participated in this study, which involved 143 beginning, 158 intermediate and 71 advanced residents as well as 63 pathologists and 118 cytotechnologists who considered themselves experienced practitioners. Scores increased significantly with training and practice (mean = 51%, 61%, 65%, 72% and 72%, respectively), although there was much overlap among groups. Of the 100 multiple-choice questions, the 50 involving interpretation of photographs produced the highest scores and greatest differences between advanced residents and experienced practitioners. Visual recognition and grading of cancer cells and visual recognition of normal cellular elements were the areas of greatest resident weakness. Resident recognition of verbal criteria was worse than visual recognition. Different strengths were identified for pathologists and cytotechnologists.