Background

Disorders of the blood and lymphatic systems are among the most varied in all of medicine.  There have been tremendous advances in the treatment of these previously fatal diseases.  Molecular biology has revealed characteristic abnormalities in genes which have been utilized to manufacture cures.  Most of the exciting advances in medicine have focused on the role of the diagnostic pathologist utilizing these new techniques. 

In addition, there are a number of sophisticated examinations that may be performed upon the aspirate specimen. When fresh, a portion of the aspirate may be sent for microbiological cultures, flow cytometry, cytogenetics, molecular diagnostics including gene rearrangement, electron microscopy, and tissue culture

• Bone Marrow
• Complete Blood Count (CBC) and Peripheral Smear
• Disorders of mast cells
• Disorders of red blood cells (Anemia, Thalasemias)
• Disorders of white blood cells (Castleman's disease)
• Disorders of platelets (Thrombocytopenia)
• Disorders of Histiocytes and Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis
• Extramedullary Hematopoiesis
• Leukemias
• Lymph Node
• Lymphomas 
• Myelodysplastic Syndromes
• Myeloproliferative Disorders
• Multiple Myeloma and disorders of plasma cells
• Post-Transplantation Lymphoproliferative Disorders
• Spleen
• Thymus gland
• Tonsils

Deletion-Loss of segments of genes or chromosomes.

Flow Cytometry-A diagnostic technique which separates and identifies cells of the blood and bone marrow by size and scatter of a laser light.  By adding monoclonal antibodies, specific cell populations, such as blasts. may be isolated and quantified.

Hemolysis-The destruction of red blood cells.

Translocation-A genetic term describing the breakage and insertion of segments of DNA and genes into different locations, sometimes on different chromosomes.  This event occurs in many cancers and is considered an important step in neoplasia.  In addition, these sites of translocation can be identified with molecular probes, aiding in the diagnosis.

Basic Principles of Disease
Learn the basic disease classifications of cancers, infections, and inflammation

Commonly Used Terms
This is a glossary of terms often found in a pathology report.

Diagnostic Process
Learn how a pathologist makes a diagnosis using a microscope

Surgical Pathology Report
Examine an actual biopsy report to understand what each section means

Special Stains
Understand the tools the pathologist utilizes to aid in the diagnosis

How Accurate is My Report?
Pathologists actively oversee every area of the laboratory to ensure your report is accurate

• Pathologists Who Make A Difference
• Search for a Physician Specialist

Last Updated 4/4/2003

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