Skin Secrets Revealed: Dr. Joya Griffin on Why Cytology is a Game-Changer
When it comes to diagnosing skin and ear problems in pets, few tools are as powerful—and underappreciated—as cytology. To shed light on this cornerstone of veterinary dermatology, we turned to Dr. Joya Griffin, a board-certified veterinary dermatologist known for her expertise, compassion, and ability to make complex medicine approachable.
Why Cytology Matters
“Cytology is the foundation of dermatology,” says Dr. Griffin. “It’s quick, minimally invasive, and provides critical information about what’s going on at a cellular level.”
In simple terms, cytology means looking at cells under the microscope. For pets struggling with itchy skin, ear infections, or mysterious lesions, those cells often hold the key to diagnosis. By identifying bacteria, yeast, inflammatory cells, or parasites, veterinarians can pinpoint the root of the problem and craft targeted treatment plans.
Everyday Applications
Cytology isn’t just for complicated cases. It’s a day-to-day necessity in general practice. According to Dr. Griffin, “If you’re treating a pet for otitis externa (ear infection), you really can’t skip cytology. It’s the best way to confirm what organisms are present and how the infection is responding to therapy.”
In dermatology, cytology guides:
Ear infections: Differentiating between yeast and bacterial overgrowth.
Skin lesions: Identifying inflammatory cells, infections, or neoplastic (tumor) processes.
Chronic cases: Monitoring treatment progress and detecting relapses early.
The Client Connection
One of cytology’s hidden strengths is its ability to build client trust. Showing pet parents actual images of what’s happening under the microscope makes the invisible visible. “It’s powerful when an owner sees yeast cells or cocci bacteria on the slide. They understand immediately why treatment is necessary,” explains Dr. Griffin.
Teaching the Next Generation
As an educator and mentor, Dr. Griffin emphasizes cytology as a skill every veterinary professional should master. “It’s not about having the fanciest tools—it’s about developing a trained eye. The more you practice, the more confident you become.”
Her advice for students and young veterinarians? Never underestimate cytology. “It’s easy to overlook, but cytology saves time, reduces guesswork, and elevates the quality of care we can provide.”
The Bottom Line
Cytology may be small-scale—just a smear on a slide—but in the hands of an experienced veterinarian like Dr. Joya Griffin, it unlocks big answers. Whether it’s solving the mystery of a stubborn ear infection or confirming the cause of chronic itching, cytology remains an indispensable part of keeping pets comfortable, healthy, and thriving.
