Anatomic Pathology

Question 1

What is anatomic pathology

Answer 1

Pathology:
1. Clinical -> biochem analysis of bodily fluids, OR cytology (FNA, smear, imprint)
2. Anatomic -> gross & microscopic evaluation of tissue morphology
- patterns, interactions b/w cells & adjacent tissue

Question 2

Cons to anatomic pathology

Answer 2

longer turnaround times (~2days), more invasive, often requires anesthesia

Question 3

Pros to anatomic pathology

Answer 3

more definitive; can grade, count mitotic figures, etc.; IHC (can ID tumor antigens)

Question 4

What is the optimal location to sample?

Answer 4

the interface of tumor + healthy tissue

can see cancer cells infiltrating healthy tissue cells

Question 5

Are larger or smaller sample collections preferred? Why?

Answer 5

Larger
- better “whole” picture of in vivo situation, as more samples = more opportunities for investigation if needed

Question 6

What is the optimal sample submission size and tissue:formalin ration?

Answer 6

• < 1cm in size (starburst size)
• 1:10 tissue:formalin w/ partial thickness breadloaf slices

Question 7

Screening samples for necropsy (7)

Answer 7

1. Lung
2. Liver
3. Kidney
4. Spleen
5. SI
6. LI
7. Heart

plus all lesions

Question 8

What are critical aspects of your sample submission that you should never neglect?

Answer 8

A thorough Hx and Ddx list!

Question 9

What are the important components of every morphologic diagnosis?

Answer 9

Organ, disease process, lesion distribution, severity, chronicity

Question 10

What is the distribution of pneumonia?

Answer 10

Cranioventral; inflamed, consolidated lung lobe

Question 11

What are some reasons why a tissue sample (biopsy or necropsy) may not yield a diagnosis?

Answer 11

• disease too acute w/ no morphological changes yet
• the hx/clinical data and sample mismatch
• improper storage/handling
• poor sample margins
• sample is necrotic
• incorrect sample location