Histopathology is the study of diseased tissue, such as tissue obtained through a biopsy, by a specialized physician known as a pathologist. Tissue samples are studied under a microscope to identify how a disease develops. The tissue sample goes through a special process so that it can be analyzed on a slide, as opposed to cytopathology, where the samples are examined without being processed.
Histopathology specimens must be processed and fixed for examination. Two processes are used. The first is a chemical fixation procedure in which tissue samples are immersed in a paraffin or wax bath for a period of 12 to 16 hours. This allows the tissue to be cut into two to seven micron sections for examination.
The second process used is frozen sectioning. Tissue samples are frozen and thinly sliced, as in the chemical fixation process. Frozen sectioning is faster, although these samples are of lower quality than chemically fixed samples. Usually the frozen section is used to determine the edges or edges of a tumor while the surgery is being performed.
In both processes, the tissue is often stained with pigments to help the pathologist identify the structure of the cells and detect any abnormalities. With the improvement in recent technology, digital images are being used to aid in the scrutiny of tissue samples from surgeries, biopsies, and even autopsies to help discover the cause of death. Histopathology tests can also help determine the cause of various health problems in addition to cancer, including pregnancy problems, by examining the tissue of the placenta or the reaction of the tissues to certain medications.
In cancer treatment, a histopathological examination of the tissue removed for biopsy or surgery is very important in planning the proper course of treatment. The pathologist prepares the sample sent during surgery to examine and advise the surgeon whether or not to proceed or to inform him when the borders are clear. In a biopsy, the pathologist will determine what type of cells are involved and their stage, which helps decide which course of treatment is best for the identified cancer.
Histopathology physicians have a long educational path. In addition to an undergraduate degree in a chosen scientific discipline, a pathologist must also complete a four-year doctorate followed by three to eight years of residency. You are required to continue your education throughout your career.