Histopathology

What is Histopathology?

Histopathology is the study of diseased tissues under a microscope to help diagnose medical conditions. 

In this process, a small sample of tissue—called a biopsy or surgical specimen—is taken from the body. The sample is then processed, sliced into very thin sections, stained with special dyes, and examined by a pathologist. By looking at the cells and how they are arranged, the pathologist can determine whether the tissue is normal, inflamed, precancerous, or cancerous.

Histopathology is especially important in the diagnosis of cancer, where it can confirm the type of cancer, how aggressive it is, and sometimes how likely it is to respond to treatment. It is also used to study infections, autoimmune diseases, organ rejection after transplant, and many other conditions.

The results of histopathology are usually reported back to the treating doctor, who uses the findings to decide on the best treatment plan for the patient.