Beyond Tissue in the Era of Liquid Biopsy: Pathologists' Perspectives and Insights

Liquid biopsy is transforming cancer diagnostics and management by enabling minimally invasive molecular profiling through blood. Beyond plasma, cytology specimens such as pleural effusions, cerebrospinal fluid and urine offer valuable sources for molecular testing. In this narrative review, we highlight the central role of cytopathology in integrating liquid biopsy into clinical practice, discussing pre-analytical and analytical challenges across different samples and exploring the contribution of artificial intelligence in improving both morphological and molecular interpretation.