Extending the boundaries of cytology: a personal and professional journey

INTRODUCTION. This story begins with the revolution in Iran in the 1979 and charts my journey from early rebellion against the status quo, to coming to the UK to learn English and get an education through training in a cytology laboratory where I learned about cytology both as an art and a science. The story continues with my rise in cytology and my challenges on the way. It shares the learning from 13 public works which shows how I have made a difference to my profession by helping to: define its standards and boundaries; extend those boundaries; develop educational practices and produce textbooks and training materials that are used throughout the profession; and improve diagnostic services that have led to improved quality and reduced costs. Finally, I reflect on the implications of what I have learned for my profession and my own practice.