What does an Anatomic Pathologist do?

An Anatomic Pathologist diagnoses diseases by examining tissues, organs, and body fluids taken from a patient through procedures like biopsies or surgeries.

Is an Anatomic Pathologist a doctor?

Yes, an Anatomic Pathologist is a medical doctor who has completed medical school and specialized training in pathology.

How do I get referred to an Anatomic Pathologist?

You typically don't get referred directly; your primary doctor or specialist will send your tissue samples to an Anatomic Pathologist for analysis when needed.

What's the difference between Anatomic and Clinical Pathology?

Anatomic Pathology focuses on tissue and organ examination, while Clinical Pathology specializes in laboratory analysis of blood, urine, and other body fluids.

How long does it take to get results from Anatomic Pathology?

The time for results varies, often from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the complexity of the tests and the urgency of the diagnosis.

Will I meet the Anatomic Pathologist who examines my sample?

Generally, patients do not meet the Anatomic Pathologist directly, as their work is lab-based and focused on diagnosing the samples.

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Finding out what's causing your health concerns is the first step toward getting better. When your doctor needs a closer look at tissues or cells from your body, they'll often work with an Anatomic Pathologist. These medical doctors are experts in diagnosing diseases by examining samples under a microscope.

An Anatomic Pathologist plays a vital role in your healthcare journey, often working behind the scenes to provide crucial information that guides your treatment. They can identify everything from infections to cancer, ensuring you receive the correct diagnosis quickly. Use our directory to find a skilled Anatomic Pathology specialist near you who can help uncover the answers you need for your health.

Conditions treated

Cancer diagnosis
Tumor identification
Infections
Inflammatory diseases
Organ disease
Genetic disorders
Autoimmune conditions
Developmental abnormalities

Common procedures

Biopsy analysis
Surgical pathology
Cytology interpretation
Autopsy examinations
Immunohistochemistry
Molecular diagnostics
Electron microscopy

When to see a anatomic pathology

Your doctor orders a biopsy.
You have an abnormal tissue growth.
There's an unexplained cellular change.
Your doctor suspects a specific disease.
You need a definitive cancer diagnosis.

First visit

At your first 'visit' to an Anatomic Pathologist, you typically won't be there in person. Your tissue samples, taken by another doctor, will be sent to the pathologist for detailed examination under a microscope. The pathologist then prepares a detailed report for your treating physician.

Typical cost

Out-of-pocket costs for Anatomic Pathology services can range from $100 to over $1,000, largely depending on the complexity of the tests, but are typically covered by insurance after deductibles and co-pays.