Pathology is categorized into two main subfields: general pathology and systemic pathology. General pathology focuses on the abnormal responses of cells and tissues, which are fundamental to the onset of diseases. Systemic pathology, on the other hand, examines the specific responses of particular organs and tissues to various stimuli.
In pathology laboratories, various specimens such as cervicovaginal smears, ultrasound- or CT-guided fine needle aspirations, tru-cut biopsies, small biopsies, excisional biopsies, and surgical specimens are meticulously analyzed. The liquid-based smear technique is commonly employed for cervicovaginal smears. For biopsy specimens and surgical materials, particularly in tumor cases, advanced staining methods like histochemistry and immunohistochemistry are highly recommended. Additionally, intraoperative frozen section procedures are performed to provide rapid diagnoses within 15 to 30 minutes upon request.
