The Pathology Department plays a crucial role in diagnosing diseases by analyzing tissues, blood, and other bodily fluids. It is integral to patient care, providing essential information that guides treatment decisions across various medical specialties.
Diagnostic Services
- Histopathology: Examination of tissue samples under a microscope to diagnose diseases such as cancer, infections, and inflammatory conditions. This includes biopsy analysis and surgical pathology.
- Cytopathology: Study of individual cells to diagnose diseases, commonly used in pap smears for cervical cancer screening, fine needle aspiration biopsies, and other cytological evaluations.
- Hematology: Analysis of blood samples to diagnose conditions like anemia, leukemia, clotting disorders, and other blood-related diseases. This includes complete blood count (CBC), blood smear examination, and coagulation studies.
- Clinical Chemistry: Testing of bodily fluids, primarily blood and urine, to assess organ function and diagnose metabolic disorders. Common tests include glucose levels, liver and kidney function tests, and electrolyte balance.
- Microbiology: Identification and study of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites to diagnose infections and determine appropriate antimicrobial treatment. This includes culture and sensitivity testing.
- Molecular Pathology: Use of DNA, RNA, and protein analysis to diagnose genetic disorders, cancers, and infectious diseases. Techniques include PCR, FISH, and next-generation sequencing.
- Immunopathology: Study of the immune system's role in disease, including autoimmune disorders, allergies, and immunodeficiency conditions. This involves testing for antibodies, immune cell counts, and immune system function.
- Autopsy Services: Post-mortem examinations to determine the cause of death, study disease processes, and contribute to medical knowledge. Autopsies also play a role in quality assurance within healthcare institutions.
Specialized Services
- Onychopathology: Focused on diagnosing and characterizing cancers through tissue biopsies, cytology, and molecular techniques, aiding in personalized treatment plans for oncology patients.
- Neuropathology: Specialized examination of nervous system tissues to diagnose neurological conditions, including brain tumors, neurodegenerative diseases, and infections of the nervous system.
- Dermatopathology: Diagnosis of skin diseases through microscopic examination of skin biopsies, including skin cancers, inflammatory skin disorders, and infections.
- Renal Pathology: Study of kidney tissues to diagnose renal diseases, including glomerulonephritis, diabetic nephropathy, and transplant-related conditions.
- Forensic Pathology: Investigation of sudden, unexpected, or suspicious deaths, often involving legal proceedings. This includes determining the cause, manner, and circumstances of death through autopsy and other examinations.
Laboratory Management
- Quality Control: Implementation of strict protocols to ensure accuracy and reliability of test results, including regular calibration of equipment, use of control samples, and participation in external quality assessment programs.
- Turnaround Time: Ensuring timely processing of samples and reporting of results to facilitate prompt diagnosis and treatment, particularly in urgent cases such as suspected infections or cancers.
- Data Management: Efficient handling and storage of patient data and test results, often using Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) to track samples, manage workflow, and report results.
- Safety Protocols: Adherence to safety standards for handling biological samples, hazardous chemicals, and infectious agents, ensuring the safety of laboratory staff and the environment.
