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Histopathologists detect and analyze diseases in body tissue samples, using equipment and laboratory techniques to identify abnormalities at the cellular level. They specialize in specific tissue types or diseases and may work in hospitals, research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, or animal care centers. To become a histopathologist, one must obtain a four-year degree from an accredited medical school, complete a residency program, and pass a certification exam.
A histopathologist is a clinical laboratory doctor who specializes in detecting and analyzing disease in body tissue samples. He or she plays a very important role in confirming the patient’s diagnosis and determining the best course of treatment for various conditions. Using sophisticated equipment and laboratory techniques, a histopathologist can identify viruses, bacteria, cancer and other abnormalities at the cellular level. Most professionals work in specialized hospitals and clinics, although some histopathologists are employed by private research institutions, pharmaceutical companies and animal care centers.
Histopathologists use microscopes, chemical dyes, lasers, and scalpels to carefully investigate the components of tissue samples. With the help of histology technicians and other specialists, a histopathologist can identify a specific disease and advise doctors on the best ways to treat it. To ensure accuracy, he or she may need to review established research literature on a disease. The doctor keeps detailed notes about laboratory procedures and writes official reports about his findings.
Many histopathologists specialize in specific tissue types or certain diseases to provide expert analysis of samples. Some professionals focus on the heart and blood vessels, for example, while others investigate problems related to the lungs or brain. A histopathologist may also focus on diagnosing cancer, viral infections, or autoimmune disorders.
Some histopathologists choose to work in veterinary medicine, applying the same skills used in hospital laboratories to detect disease in animal tissue. Others perform forensic investigations, participating in autopsies to discover causes of death and assist in criminal investigations. Additionally, a histopathologist may conduct general scientific research at a university or pharmaceutical company to examine the effects of drugs on different diseases in order to help establish better treatment methods.
A person who wants to become a histopathologist must first obtain a four-year degree from an accredited medical school. Upon graduation, a new physician typically begins a three- to four-year residency program in a hospital laboratory to gain first-hand experience in the practice of histology and pathology. During a residency, an individual attends regular lectures and works alongside established pathologists to master the skills needed to do the job.
A new histopathologist is required to pass an extensive certification exam after in-residence training to begin working independently. Certification is administered by a specialized regional or national governing board, such as the American Board of Pathology in the United States. Becoming certified is essential for pursuing permanent careers in hospitals and private practices.
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