Introduction to Pathology

Definition of Pathology

• Pathology translates to the study of disease and suffering (pathos and logos).
• Involves investigation of disease causes and changes in cells, tissues, and organs.
• The objective is to understand presenting signs and symptoms in patients.

Important Terminology

• Etiology: Refers to the origin of disease, including causes and modifying factors.

  • Common diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and cancer are due to a mix of genetic susceptibility and environmental triggers.
  • Understanding genetic and environmental factors is a major theme in modern medicine.

• Pathogenesis: Describes the steps in disease development.

  • Focuses on how etiologic factors lead to cellular and molecular alterations.
  • Provides insight into specific functional and structural abnormalities associated with diseases.

Relation Between Etiology and Pathogenesis

• Etiology explains why a disease arises.
• Pathogenesis outlines how the disease develops.
• Both concepts are essential for understanding diseases and developing effective treatments.

Role of Pathologists

• Pathologists diagnose and guide therapy by identifying morphological changes in cells and tissues.
• They analyze biochemical alterations in body fluids, including blood and urine.
• Various techniques are employed:
  • Morphologic
  • Molecular
  • Microbiologic
  • Immunologic

Pathology Disciplines

• Pathology is divided into two main branches:
  • General Pathology: Examines cellular and tissue changes caused by pathogenic stimuli across tissues.
  • Systemic Pathology: Focuses on reactions and abnormalities in specialized organs.

Study Structure

• The study begins with broad principles of general pathology.
• It then progresses to specific disease processes affecting individual organs.