Histology Technicians
What is a Histology Technician?
Histology technicians are specialized medical professionals responsible for preparing and processing tissue samples for microscopic examination. They play a crucial role in the diagnosis of diseases by assisting pathologists in examining tissues from biopsies, surgeries, and autopsies. Their work involves cutting thin slices of tissue, staining them with chemicals to highlight different cellular components, and mounting them on slides for analysis. Histology technicians are trained to use a variety of laboratory equipment and techniques to ensure that the samples are prepared accurately and efficiently.
Typically working in hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, or research institutions, histology technicians must possess a deep understanding of cellular structure and tissue function. They are knowledgeable about the various staining techniques and the principles behind them, which allows them to enhance the visibility of specific cell types and pathological changes. Attention to detail is vital in this profession, as even minor errors in sample preparation can lead to misdiagnosis or faulty research outcomes.
In addition to technical skills, histology technicians often collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including pathologists, medical lab technologists, and oncologists, to ensure that the interpretation of tissue samples is accurate. Continuous education and training are essential in this field, as advancements in technology and techniques are common. As a vital part of the healthcare team, histology technicians contribute significantly to patient care and medical research.
Tasks
- Archive diagnostic material, such as histologic slides and blocks.
- Cut sections of body tissues for microscopic examination, using microtomes.
- Embed tissue specimens into paraffin wax blocks, or infiltrate tissue specimens with wax.
- Freeze tissue specimens.
- Maintain laboratory equipment, such as microscopes, mass spectrometers, microtomes, immunostainers, tissue processors, embedding centers, and water baths.
Technology Skills
- Medical software
- Label making software
- Spreadsheet software
- Electronic mail software
- Office suite software
Tools Used
- Microtomes
- Histological knives or knife holders or blades
- Drying cabinets or ovens
- Laboratory staining dishes or jars
- Tissue processors
Detailed Work Activities
- Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis.
- Collect biological specimens from patients.
- Maintain medical laboratory equipment.
- Operate laboratory equipment to analyze medical samples.
- Prepare materials for preservation, storage, or display.
Work Interests
-
Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
-
Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
-
Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$36770.0 - $93900.0
New job opportunities are likely in the future. : Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.