The focus of the anatomic pathology division at UPMC is the visual detection of disease from tissue specimens.
We examine cells from organs involved by a suspected disease — such as cancer of the liver, kidney, or breast — and analyze their changes and abnormalities.
By understanding the changes in a person's cells, we can begin to understand the patient's symptoms.
We use a microscope to look at individual cells in detail. This allows us to see anything out of the ordinary and determine the overall health of your cells.
Although pathologists do not see the patient in person, we look at your medical information, including results of your doctor's physical exam, medications,radiology reports and laboratory tests to help determine the best diagnosis. By understanding what is wrong with your cells and tissues, we can begin to understand why you are having symptoms. Our diagnostic report can help your doctor develop the best treatment plan.
Tens of thousands of pathology samples come to our lab each year, and, as they arrive, we sort them by organ system.
Diagnostic pathologists with particular expertise in an organ group then analyze the samples, formulate a diagnosis and work with each patient's physician in a highly specialized collaboration to determine the best treatment plan. This often involves meeting with your physician and reviewing your pathology specimen over the microscope.
Our anatomic pathology division is organized into the following Centers of Excellence, each of which specializes in the pathology of a specific organ or system:
Learn how you can help us help others by supporting our pathology research.
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