Introduction to Pathology

Definition of Pathology

• Derived from Greek terms: "pathos" meaning suffering and "logos" meaning study.

Branches of Pathology

• Histopathology (anatomical pathology): Study of diseased tissues.
• Forensic Pathology: Application of pathology to legal questions and investigations.
• Clinical Pathology: Involves microbiology, mycology, virology, and parasitology to diagnose diseases.
• Chemical Pathology: Focuses on the biochemical analysis of body fluids for disease identification.
• Molecular Pathology: Examines the molecular basis of disease.

Aspects of Disease

• Etiology: The cause of disease, which can be genetic (inherited mutations) or acquired (infectious agents, nutritional deficiencies).
• Pathogenesis: Process of development and progression of disease at the cellular and molecular levels.
• Morphologic Changes: Structural alterations in cells and tissues linked to specific diseases.
• Functional Derangements: Changes in normal function resulting in clinical manifestations like symptoms and signs.

Etiology

• Can be categorized as genetic (e.g., hereditary mutations) or acquired (e.g., infections, chemicals).
• Typically multifactorial, involving multiple factors contributing to disease onset.

Pathogenesis

• Involves the sequence of cellular, biochemical, and molecular events triggered by harmful agents impacting cells or tissues.

Morphologic Changes

• Structural alterations that characterize a disease or help diagnose it through histopathology.

Functional Derangements

• Reflect the clinical manifestations that can progress and determine the clinical course and outcomes of diseases.

How Disease is Studied in Histopathology

• Involves several methods:
  • Postmortem examinations to diagnose diseases after death.
  • Cytology: Study of individual cells to assess disease.
  • Histology: Examination of tissue sections to identify disease.
  • Use of request forms to guide diagnostic processes.
  • Collaboration within Multidisciplinary Teams (MDTs) to integrate expertise.

Infection Prevention

• Implements universal precautions to minimize risk of infectious spread.
• Employs biosafety measures to protect laboratory staff and patients.
• Ensures containment protocols are followed.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is used to safeguard against exposure.

Ethical Aspects in Pathology Practice

• Addresses ethical considerations in anatomical, clinical, and forensic pathology, ensuring integrity and respect for individuals involved.

This quiz covers the foundational concepts of pathology, including its definition, branches, and aspects of disease. Explore histopathology, forensic pathology, and the role of biochemical analysis in diagnosis. Test your understanding of etiology, pathogenesis, morphologic changes, and functional derangements.