[Pathology] Introduction

Pathologists specialise in the diagnosis and monitoring of disease using samples of tissues and fluids from patients.

 

Etymology

Ancient Greek πάθος (páthos) = disease
Ancient Greek λογία (logia) = study

Pathology = the study of disease

 

Responsibilities

• Obtaining and interpreting evidence which confirms or excludes a potential diagnosis. 
• Obtaining and interpreting information about the physiological status of a patient, which facilitates the monitoring of many diseases.
• Undertaking pre-clinical research in the labs

Classically pathologists would have little contact with patients, but over time the role has become very diverse and subspecialised. There are many opportunities for patient contact and clinical work.

• Outpatient clinics

 

Subspecialties

• Forensic pathology  
• Haematology  
• Histopathology 
• Immunology 
• Medical biochemistry 
• Medical genetics  
• Medical microbiology 
• Medical mycology 
• Medical toxicology   
• Medical virology