Pathology is the medical specialty that investigates the causes, mechanisms, and effects of disease. It bridges basic science and clinical practice, helping doctors understand how diseases develop and how they affect the body.

 Main Branches of Pathology

1. General Pathology

• Studies basic disease processes like inflammation, necrosis, cell injury, and healing.

• Forms the foundation for all other branches.

2. Systemic Pathology

• Examines diseases affecting specific organ systems (e.g., cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal).

3. Histopathology

• Microscopic examination of tissues to diagnose diseases, especially cancer.

• Involves biopsy and autopsy analysis.

4. Cytopathology

• Studies individual cells (e.g., Pap smears) to detect abnormalities and malignancies.

5. Clinical Pathology (Laboratory Medicine)

• Involves lab testing of blood, urine, and other body fluids.

• Includes:

  • Hematology: Blood disorders

  • Clinical Chemistry: Metabolic and biochemical analysis

  • Microbiology: Infectious diseases

  • Immunology: Immune system disorders

6. Forensic Pathology

• Investigates causes of death, often in legal or criminal cases.

• Includes autopsy and toxicology.

7. Molecular Pathology

• Uses genetic and molecular techniques to diagnose diseases.

• Crucial for personalized medicine and cancer genomics.

8. Neuropathology

• Focuses on diseases of the brain and nervous system.

9. Dermatopathology

• Specializes in skin diseases at the microscopic level.

10. Renal Pathology

• Studies kidney diseases through biopsy and lab analysis