The lab experts at UPMC use advanced technology and state-of-the-art techniques to:
- Assess and diagnose diseases.
- Find answers for you and your doctors.
- Provide details to ensure a clear diagnosis.
We use the correct testing methods and analytic techniques to diagnose many health problems.
What Is Anatomic Pathology?
The focus of anatomic pathology is to detect disease from tissue samples.
We study cells from organs with a suspected disease — such as liver, kidney, or breast cancer. We look for any changes or abnormalities.
Taking a close look at your cells
We use a microscope to look at each cell in detail. This lets us see what's not normal and find out the health of your cells.
Although pathologists don't see you in person, we look at your health details to help decide the best diagnosis.
This may include:
- Results of your doctor's physical exam.
- Medicines you take.
- Radiology reports.
- Lab tests.
When we learn what's wrong with your cells and tissues, we can explore why you're having symptoms. Our diagnostic report can help your doctor create the best treatment plan for you.
Focusing on a specific organ
Tens of thousands of samples come to our lab each year. As they arrive, we sort them by organ system.
Diagnostic pathologists, who are all experts in a certain organ group, then study the samples.
Once we arrive at a diagnosis, we work with your doctor to help figure out the best treatment plan. This may involve meeting with your doctor to review your pathology sample.
Our anatomic pathology division at UPMC consists of many Centers of Excellence, including:
What Is Laboratory Medicine?
Our lab experts do tests on:
- Blood.
- Urine.
- Other body fluids.
We interpret those test results and share our findings with your doctor.
Together, we arrive at a diagnosis that will lead to a clear treatment plan.
Our lab medicine division consists of these specialties:
Taking a team approach
Although our group includes specialties, we work together and share our findings. This way, our insights help fellow doctors, you, and others who seek care at UPMC.
Our goal is to improve outcomes and advance scientific testing.