Introduction:
Anatomical Pathology is a medical specialty that deals with the study of tissues and organs to diagnose and treat diseases. At Peter Mac, Anatomical Pathology plays a significant role in cancer diagnosis and treatment. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Anatomical Pathology at Peter Mac, its importance, and how it helps in the treatment of cancer.
Importance of Anatomical Pathology at Peter Mac:
Anatomical Pathologists at Peter Mac are an integral part of the cancer diagnosis team. They examine tissues obtained through biopsies or surgical resections to determine the presence or absence of cancer cells. The information provided by Anatomical Pathologists is crucial for making accurate diagnoses and determining optimal treatment plans.
Types of Tests Performed:
Anatomical Pathologists at Peter Mac perform various tests on tissue samples to diagnose cancer accurately. These tests include:
– Histopathological Examination: This involves examining thin slices of tissue under a microscope to detect any abnormal changes.
– Immunohistochemistry: This test uses antibodies that bind to specific proteins on tumor cells, helping to identify the type of cancer.
– Molecular Testing: This test analyzes DNA or RNA samples obtained from tumors to identify genetic mutations that may be targeted by specific drugs.
How Anatomical Pathology Helps in Cancer Treatment:
The information provided by Anatomical Pathologists is critical for deciding which treatments are best suited for a patient’s particular cancer type. For instance, patients with HER2-positive breast cancers may benefit from targeted therapies such as trastuzumab. Moreover, some types of tumors may require additional testing to determine if they have certain genetic mutations that can be treated with specific drugs.
In conclusion, Anatomical Pathology plays an essential role in diagnosing and treating cancer at Peter Mac. The expertise provided by Anatomical Pathologists ensures accurate diagnoses by identifying specific cancer types and mutations. This information helps oncologists determine optimal treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique cancer type, leading to better treatment outcomes.