Pathologists are the medical professionals who test tumors. When a doctor suspects cancer, a procedure called a biopsy is typically performed to obtain a sample of abnormal tissue.
The Role of a Pathologist in Tumor Testing
After a tissue sample is removed during a biopsy, it is sent to a specialized laboratory where a pathologist examines it. As described in the information dated 17-Jan-2023, a pathologist's responsibilities include:
- Microscopic Examination: Looking at the tissue under a microscope to identify abnormal cells and determine if they are cancerous.
- Additional Tests: Running other specialized tests on the cells in the sample to gather more detailed information about the tumor, such as its type, grade, and specific characteristics that can guide treatment decisions.
This detailed analysis by a pathologist is crucial for a definitive cancer diagnosis and for guiding the appropriate course of treatment for a patient.
