In the present article, an imperative cytogenetic technique - fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is reviewed- which is a substantial tool of choice for localization of specic nucleic acids sequences in native context. This technology is extensively utilized in genomic and cell biological research as well as for diagnostic applications in various fields. Over the period, several procedures and alterations have been instated to optimize the detection of nucleic acids. It is the definitive standard practice for the detection of chromosomal aberrations. Even though the FISH has high specificity and shows the capability of direct quantitative imaging, certain limitations still masksits systematic practise in diagnostic purposes. To stimulate the widespread use of FISH in diagnostic and clinical practices for these applications, restrictions suchas prolonged assay period and expensive probe consumption is to be addressed. In the study the prime focus is to highlight the selected historical outlooks on FISH, review its contemporary implementations, challenges faced in diagnostic and clinical scenario and to provide a perspective on the future progression.