Journal of Medical & Surgical Pathology
Open Access

The Importance of Surgical Pathology, its Advancements in Treatment and Technological Biopsies

Johan Hartman^{* *}Correspondence: Johan Hartman, Department of Clinical Pathology and Cancer Diagnostics, University of Karolinska, Stockholm, Sweden, Email:

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Description

Surgical pathology is a fundamental discipline within the field of medical diagnostics, playing a pivotal role in disease identification, prognosis determination, and treatment planning. It involves the examination of tissue samples obtained from patients through biopsies, surgical resections, and autopsies. Through the skilled analysis of these tissue specimens, pathologists provide invaluable insights into a wide range of diseases, from cancer to infectious conditions. In this article, we will discuss surgical pathology, highlighting its importance, procedures, and technological advancements.

The role of surgical pathology

Surgical pathology serves as a bridge between the clinical and laboratory aspects of medicine. Pathologists are responsible for examining tissue samples, identifying abnormalities, and providing clinicians with crucial diagnostic information. Their expertise is invaluable in various medical specialties, including oncology, gastroenterology, dermatology, and many others.

Disease diagnosis: Pathologists use specialized techniques and microscopes to identify the presence of diseases, such as cancer, infections, autoimmune disorders, and congenital conditions. Their accurate diagnoses guide treatment decisions and help patients receive timely and appropriate care [1].

Prognosis determination: Pathologists not only diagnose diseases but also assess their severity and predict their likely progression. This information aids in tailoring treatment plans and predicting patient outcomes.

Treatment planning: By examining tissue samples, pathologists can determine the best treatment approach. For instance, they can help identify specific molecular markers in cancer cells that may respond to targeted therapies.

Monitoring disease progression: In chronic conditions, such as diabetes or inflammatory bowel disease, surgical pathology helps track disease progression over time, guiding adjustments in treatment strategies [2].

The surgical pathology process

The journey of a tissue specimen from the patient to the pathologist is a carefully orchestrated process:

Tissue collection: Tissue samples are collected by medical professionals through procedures such as biopsies or surgical resections. The selection of the most appropriate method depends on the location and nature of the suspected disease.

Tissue preparation: Once collected, the tissue specimens are processed in the laboratory. They are fixed in formalin, embedded in paraffin wax, and sliced into thin sections. These sections are then mounted on glass slides for microscopic examination.

Microscopic examination: The glass slides containing tissue sections are examined under a microscope by pathologists. They look for cellular abnormalities, tissue structure, and other features that may indicate disease.

Special stains and molecular tests: In some cases, pathologists may use special stains or molecular tests to gain further insights into the tissue sample. This can include immunohistochemistry, Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH), and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).

Diagnosis and reporting: Pathologists make a diagnosis based on their findings and compile a comprehensive report. This report is then shared with the referring physician, who uses it to inform patient management [3].

Technological advancements in surgical pathology

Surgical pathology has evolved significantly over the years, thanks to technological advancements:

Digital pathology: Digital pathology involves the use of digital imaging systems to capture high-resolution images of tissue samples. These images can be stored, analyzed, and shared electronically, facilitating remote consultations and research collaborations.

Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI algorithms are being developed to assist pathologists in diagnosing diseases more accurately and quickly. These tools can identify patterns and anomalies in tissue samples, aiding in early disease detection.

Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS): NGS technologies enable the sequencing of DNA and RNA in tissue samples. This has revolutionized the understanding of genetic mutations in diseases like cancer, leading to personalized treatment approaches.

Telepathology: Telepathology allows pathologists to review and consult on cases remotely, making expert opinions accessible to healthcare facilities in underserved areas [4].

Conclusion

Surgical pathology is a cornerstone of modern medicine, contributing significantly to disease diagnosis, prognosis determination, and treatment planning. The dedicated work of pathologists, coupled with technological advancements, has enhanced the accuracy and efficiency of this vital medical discipline. As healthcare continues to evolve, surgical pathology will remain an indispensable tool in the quest for better patient care and outcomes.

References

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