The utilisation of cytopathology technique at Makerere University Pathology Laboratory, Kampala, Central Uganda

Abstract

Abstract Background: Cytopathology plays a central role in the early detection and management of benign and malignant conditions. Makerere University Pathology Laboratory (MUPL) provides diagnostic cytopathology services for patients from across Uganda. This retrospective study assessed the utilisation of cytopathology technique and evaluated predictors of malignancy from 2015 to 2019. Methods: A total of 400 archived cytopathology records were reviewed. Data on patient demographics, specimen type, and diagnostic outcome were extracted. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were performed using SPSS version 25. Chi-square tests and independent t-tests explored associations, while binary logistic regression identified independent predictors of malignancy. Significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Of the 400 cases, the mean age was 44.2 ± 13.7 years; 68.5% were female. Cervical (31.0%) and breast (27.5%) specimens predominated. The overall malignancy rate was 24.5%. A significant association was found between specimen type and malignancy (χ² = 23.7, p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that increasing age (AOR = 1.05; 95% CI: 1.02–1.08; p = 0.002) and breast specimens (AOR = 2.94; 95% CI: 1.31–6.58; p = 0.008) were independent predictors of malignancy. Conclusion: Cytopathology utilisation at MUPL has increased, with high diagnostic yield in breast and cervical lesions. Continuous investment in cytopathology infrastructure, training, and quality assurance is essential to enhance diagnostic accuracy and improve patient outcomes.