pathology

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The term pathology translates as "theory of suffering", that is, of pathological organ and tissue changes: The focus is on the cause and development of diseases and their effects on the structure and function of the body.

Much more than an autopsy

In public, pathology is usually only associated with the autopsy of the dead - the cutting (dissection) of corpses in order to investigate the traces of an illness or the cause of death.

Today the main focus of the work of a pathologist is the early detection of diseases: The doctor examines and assesses tissue and cell samples from patients with regard to cancer or infectious diseases. For example, if a suspicious lump is found in a woman's breast, doctors take a tissue sample (biopsy). The pathologist analyzes these to find out whether the cell changes are benign or malignant. If breast cancer is actually diagnosed, the pathologist examines other parameters that are decisive for the therapy, such as how badly the cancer cells have already degenerated and whether they need hormones for their uncontrolled growth. All examination results together give the pathological finding.

Note: Sometimes the pathologist has to quickly examine tissue removed during an operation (rapid section diagnosis) in order to give the surgeon the advice on how to proceed - for example, how far he needs to remove tissue from the edges of the tumor.

How do you become a pathologist?

Pathologists are doctors who have completed specialist training in pathology. This additional training usually lasts six years. Around 800 pathologists work in German hospitals nationwide.

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