Diagnostics - Histopathology and cytopathology lab Flashcards
1
Q
What do histopathologists look at
A
Tissues e.g.
- biopsies
- resection specimens from surgery
- frozen sections
- post-mortems
2
Q
What do cytopathologists look at
A
Cells e.g.
- Smears
- Fine needle aspirates
3
Q
How long does it take to get a result from different types of tissue
A
- Frozen section : 30 minutes
- Biopsies : 2-3 days
- Resection specimens : 5-7 days
4
Q
What do you look for in a biopsy
A
- Is it normal
- Is it inflamed - if so what is the cause
- Is it cancer - if so what type
5
Q
What to look for in resection specimens
A
- How far has the cancer spread out
- Is it all out
6
Q
What are the two types of post-mortem
A
Hospital post-mortem - when the family gives permission after the medics request it
Coroner’s post-mortem - suspicious circumstances
7
Q
How are sections obtained
A
- Specimen fixed in formalin
- Embedded in paraffin wax
- Sections cut
8
Q
What is done to a section
A
- Stains
- Identification of specific antigens using antibodies
- Molecular tests
