A system for imaging a cytological sample includes a sample holder configured to hold a cytological sample. A spatial filter is disposed at a distance z1 from the sample holder on first side of the sample holder, the spatial filter having an aperture disposed therein configured to allow the passage of illumination. An imaging sensor array is disposed at a distance z2 from the sample holder on a second, opposite side of the sample holder. An illumination source is configured to illuminate the cytological sample through the aperture, the spatial filter being interposed between the illumination source and the sample holder.