What is a Pathologist?

About Pathologists

Pathologist focuses primarily on the identification and diagnosis of diseases through the analysis of organs, tissues, and bodily fluids. They specialize in the study of samples removed from the body surgically (biopsy) as well as inspecting the whole body (autopsy.)

A pathologist examines the causes, pathways, and spread of diseases in the body by identifying abnormalities and changes in the functions of the human body and its parts. To analyze and identify these changes, Pathologists study tissues and fluids removed from the body through biopsy or other means such as blood tests and urine tests.

Pathologists have extensive knowledge of laboratory analysis as well as training in the subjects of chemistry, microbiology, and hematology. They have the expertise and training to perform toxicology tests, conduct post-mortems, and provide other medical specialists with reports and findings based on the analysis of samples.

Laboratory analysis of bodily fluids can include blood, urine, and tissue samples as well as other specimens such as semen, saliva, cervical fluid, and fluids surrounding the lungs and heart.

Analysis of samples allows Pathologists to identify the presence of cancerous or non-cancerous anomalies, diagnose immune diseases, and determine the cause of death.

Pathologists work in conjunction with a multitude of medical specialists across many fields of medicine including collaborating with Geneticists, Oncologists, Dermatologists, Rheumatologists, Vascular Surgeons / Phlebologists, and Nephrologists to provide accurate identification, prevention, and diagnosis of disease within the body.

Useful Resources

Canada

Canadian Association of Pathologists

United States of America

College of American Pathologists

Australia

The Royal College of Pathologists of Australia

New Zealand

Medical Council of New Zealand

United Kingdom

Royal College of Pathologists

Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland