IBMS Congress 2025

Does the WHO standard address diagnostic uncertainty in semen analysis?

9am – 9.30am BST, 23 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Cytopathology

Post vasectomy semen analysis: Is it time for a change?

9.30am – 10am BST, 23 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Cytopathology

Abstract

It is vitally important to both patients and surgeons that there is a test which can confirm vasectomy success. Patients want to know that they can safely stop additional contraception with minimal pregnancy risk, as soon as possible. Doctors want to know that they have done a good job and that there is a very high likelihood their patients can be declared sterile on first post vasectomy semen testing. Therefore a test needs to be simple to achieve high compliance, timely to fulfil both patient and doctor’s needs and accurate so that both can rely upon it.

Current guidelines for post vasectomy semen analysis are conflicting not only between countries but also between different organisations within the same country. Local laboratories may apply guidelines diversely or report in such a way as to make interpretation of results difficult. Commissioners may insist vasectomy surgeons comply with outdated practices. All of these factors cause confusion for patients and doctors.

Two recently published papers provide compelling evidence that postal semen testing can fulfil many of the requirements of post vasectomy semen analysis (PVSA).

The first paper showed that a postal strategy significantly increased compliance to PVSA with similar failure detection rates. It proposed a testing strategy which incorporates postal and fresh testing, which was then endorsed by the FSRH (known as the College of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare from August 2025) and published in their 2024 Service Standards for Vasectomy.

If evidence from the subsequent second paper is incorporated into this current strategy, this could significantly enhance the accessibility and convenience of PVSA, reduce the burden on services, and ensure more men are able to access reliable follow-up testing. without compromising safety or quality

Learning outcomes

By the end of the presentation the delegates should:

• Have knowledge of the current guidelines
• Be aware of the evidence for change
• Be aware of how PVSA could change

Evaluating sperm quality: Scientific insights and key considerations for male reproductive health

10.30am – 11am BST, 23 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Cytopathology

Abstract

Male fertility is a critical yet often underexplored component of reproductive health. This session will offer a concise overview of male fertility, focusing on biological foundations, key reproductive metrics, and the impact of lifestyle and environmental factors. It examines current sperm assessment techniques and the implications of sperm quality on fertility outcomes.

This session will also highlight emerging research, along with potential strategies for improving male reproductive health. Ethical considerations surrounding fertility treatments and new technologies are also addressed. The goal is to provide a holistic understanding of male fertility and present practical strategies for improvement, offering insights valuable to clinicians, researchers, and public health professionals alike.

This presentation will cover:

• Biological factors
• key metrics
• lifestyle and environmental impact
• sperm assessment techniques
• fertility implications
• emerging research
• improvement strategies
• ethical considerations

Psychosexual aspects of subfertility

11am – 11.30am BST, 23 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Cytopathology

Abstract

Sexual difficulties can predate assisted conception and be the primary cause of subfertility in between 5-69% (international data). It is poorly researched and rarely managed effectively in the lead up to assisted conception or during. The process whereby a recreational activity become about procreation increases sexual difficulties and subsequent assisted conception and sometimes failure can increase sexual difficulties to a point where few are still enjoying sex.

People will choose the people that they wish to disclose a sexual difficulty to, and this can frequently be the scientists talking to them about collecting gametes so all members of the team should be aware of how to talk about sex and signpost to specialists. Difficulties with ejaculation during assisted conception cycles can be catastrophic and are relatively easily identified before they occur.

This presentation will describe the sexual difficulties that impact on subfertility and be increased by the process of trying to conceive by whatever means. The aim is to enable attendees to know about how to approach a consultation where sex is discussed, think about ways to help affected people and where to source help if further support is required.

Reproductive renaissance: Andrology training and reflection of one year on the HSST

11.30am – 12pm BST, 23 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Cytopathology

Abstract

This presentation will cover:

The pathways for training and development to include the specialist, ARCS and how these can support development.

HSST review following Year 1 of training as a Consultant Scientist

Lymphoma histology for Cytologists

9am – 9.30am BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Cytopathology

Abstract

The aim of the session is to provide a brief overview of the histology of a normal lymph node and common lymphomas seen in clinical setting and their histological features, with some discussion on the molecular techniques which are now performed routinely as part of the subtyping process.

Learning Outcomes

Delegates attending this presentation will gain an understanding of:

• The normal lymph node and its components
• Common lymphomas and their histological features, and how it correlates with appearances in cytology.

Lymphoma Cytology – how far can we go?

9.30am – 10am BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Cytopathology

Learning outcomes

Delegates will gain knowledge on:

• The role of cytology in the diagnosis of lymphoma
• The limitations of cytology in the diagnosis of lymphoma
• Flow Cytometry on cytology samples
• Cytology and histology correlations

Reporting systems – serous fluid and urine cytology

10.30am – 11am BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Cytopathology

Abstract

This presentation will cover:

• Overview of the recommended reporting systems
• The importance of standardised communications with clinical teams and the impact to patients
• Application of the reporting systems based on morphological assessments and ancillary testing

Speakers

Dr Ash Chandra

Consultant Histo & Cytopathologist, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust

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WHO reporting systems – pancreatic and respiratory cytology

11am – 11.30am BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Cytopathology

Abstract

This presentation will cover:

• An overview of the recommended reporting systems
• The importance of standardised communications with clinical teams and the impact to patients
• Application of the reporting systems based on morphological assessments and ancillary testing

Comparison of roles and responsibilities of biomedical scientists in the UK compared with rest of Europe

11.30am – 12pm BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Cytopathology

Abstract

The roles of cytotechnologist and biomedical scientists in other European countries has been variable over the last twenty years and the recognition of the benefits biomedical scientists can offer to the screening programmes and non-gynae cytology has been slow to emerge. However, more recently there have been promising developments with recognition of training programmes and advanced roles in a range of specialties in cervical cytology, non-gynae cytology and histopathology.

Biomedical scientists working in non-UK labs can now access the IBMS qualifications which opens up opportunities to learn from our respective roles. This presentation will describe the changing roles of biomedical scientists in mainland Europe.

Learning Outcomes

• An overview of the unique opportunities available in the UK for BMS roles and the frameworks that have enabled this.
• Promotion of expanded roles and IBMS/RCPath qualifications
• Insight into the roles of cytotechnologists in Europe, common challenges, restrictions and the implications it has on individuals and cytology service provisions.

Speakers

Professor Allan Wilson CSci, FIBMS, FRCPath (Hon), MBA

Consultant Biomedical Scientist, IBMS Past President, Monklands University Hospital, NHS Lanarkshire

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Changing landscape of cervical cytology and diagnostic cytopathology (molecular/digital/AI)

2pm – 3pm BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 1 hour

Cytopathology

Learning outcomes

Delegates attending this presentation will be able to:

• Explain the fundamental concepts of digital pathology and artificial intelligence, including their roles and applications in modern cytology.
• Summarise recent advancements in cervical cytology, focusing on techniques, technologies, and methodologies that enhance screening and diagnosis.
• Analyse the latest innovations in diagnostic cytology, including improvements in accuracy, efficiency, and the integration of molecular techniques.
• Discuss strategies for integrating digital pathology and AI into clinical practice, emphasising the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in the evolving landscape of pathology.
• Understand how advancements in cytology and pathology can lead to improved patient outcomes.

Changes in treatment due to molecular testing (gynae and diagnostic cytology)

3pm – 3.30pm BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Cytopathology

Abstract

This presentation will cover:

• Application and relevance of molecular testing in Gynae and Diagnostic cytology
• How it is applied to patient pathways
• Implications to patients

Speakers

Mary Jones BSc, MSc, FIBMS

Senior Biomedical Scientist, Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, Molecular Cell Biology Unit - Histopathology

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Indeterminate thyroid lesions

4pm – 4.30pm BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Cytopathology

Absract

This presentation will cover:

• Overview of the Thy reporting systems
• New RCPath guidance
• Challenges with reporting indeterminate lesions
• Clinical limitations of Thy3a and Thy3f lesions
• What an indeterminate diagnosis means to the clinician and the patient

Speakers

Dr Ash Chandra

Consultant Histo & Cytopathologist, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust

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Idylla™ ThyroidPrint® study – UK multi-centre validation

4.30pm – 5pm BST, 24 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Cytopathology

Abstract

The prevalence of thyroid nodules in the general population is common. Correct diagnosis and risk stratification is vital to ensure appropriate patient management and prevention of unnecessary surgery for benign lesions. Molecular profiling is a valuable adjunct for risk stratification, reducing unnecessary surgical procedures. By identifying genetic alterations associated with malignancy, molecular assays help stratify patients into higher or lower risk categories, informing the need for surgical intervention. However, access to these expensive tests is limited, costly and poses significant delays. The ThyroidPrint® assay was developed to make molecular testing more accessible, affordable and rapid without the need for large expensive platforms and specialist expertise locally.

This presentation will discuss:

• The current limitations of cytology on indeterminate THY3 thyroid lesions
• Molecular risk stratification and the benefits to patient
• The ThyroidPrint® test
• The study results3

Speakers

Leonie Wheeldon

Consultant Biomedical Scientist - Diagnostic Cytopathology, Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust

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The Scottish exclusion audit

9.30am – 10am BST, 25 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Cytopathology

Abstract

Following a major incident in the Scottish cervical screening programme in 2022, a full review of how women are excluded from the programme was undertaken. The review took over two years to complete and highlighted the need for accurate data recording and clear communication between clinicians, women and the programme team.

This presentation will describe the lessons learned from this extensive audit which has never been carried out in the UK and also the changes introduced to ensure all women are appropriately managed.

Speakers

Professor Allan Wilson CSci, FIBMS, FRCPath (Hon), MBA

Consultant Biomedical Scientist, IBMS Past President, Monklands University Hospital, NHS Lanarkshire

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Results of BAC survey - Impact of centralisation of services

10.30am – 10.50am BST, 25 September 2025 ‐ 20 mins

Cytopathology

Abstract

This presentation will discuss:

The BAC undertook a workforce survey in 2017, which was prior to the implementation of HPV primary screening and the resultant lab reconfigurations. This survey indicated that there could be workforce gaps in the future with an ageing, less mobile workforce. A further survey was undertaken in 2024, 5 years post HPV implementation, in order to get a clear view of the current state prior to the next round of commissioning and implementation of new NHSCSP initiatives.

Validating the Hologic Genius system for the NHSCSP

10.50am – 11.10am BST, 25 September 2025 ‐ 20 mins

Cytopathology

Abstract

A review of Derby Cytology's experience in the participation of a feasibility and workflow study to evaluate the performance of cervical cancer screening utilising the Hologic Genius Digital Cytology System.

Hologic Genius system – a service evaluation

11.10am – 11.30am BST, 25 September 2025 ‐ 20 mins

Cytopathology

Speakers

Nichole Villeneuve

Consultant Biomedical Scientist, North Bristol NHS Trust

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Global Digital Cytology

11.30am – 12pm BST, 25 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Cytopathology

Abstract

Digital cytology is fast emerging as the next logical step in the digitisation of pathology samples. following the national screening committee decision to approve the use of digital histopathology for reporting of biopsies generated by the cancer screening programmes, the next logical step is the use of digital algorithms in cervical cytology. Many other countries including Germany, France, Belgium and Australia have already adopted this new technology.

This presentation will describe the advantages of digital cytology and how it may address some of the issues within the UK screening programmes and provide an overview of the use of Digital cytology across the globe.    

Speakers

Professor Allan Wilson CSci, FIBMS, FRCPath (Hon), MBA

Consultant Biomedical Scientist, IBMS Past President, Monklands University Hospital, NHS Lanarkshire

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Interesting and difficult cases – cervical cytology

2pm – 2.30pm BST, 25 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Cytopathology

Abstract

Presentation and discussion of case studies from interesting and/or difficult cases in cervical cytology.

Speakers

Monika Bhardwaj

Consultant Biomedical Scientist, The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust

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Glandular lesions – impact of false negatives

2.30pm – 3pm BST, 25 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Cytopathology

Learning outcomes

Delegates will understand:

• Impact of false negatives
• Pitfalls
• Medici legal implications

A Canterbury Tale: Cervical screening scandals and litigation

3pm – 3.30pm BST, 25 September 2025 ‐ 30 mins

Cytopathology

Abstract

This presentation will discuss:

• Internal quality control and trend analysis
• Patient harm and impact of high profile cases
• Media and political  responses to screening problems
• Litigation