Neoplastic pathology is all about finding and studying tumors. Here are some important methods used to do this:
Histopathology: This is the main technique. Doctors look at tissue samples under a microscope after staining them. For example, if someone has a possible tumor, a biopsy can show if it is benign (not harmful) or malignant (cancerous). It also helps to see how the cells are arranged and if there are any unusual features in the cells.
Immunohistochemistry (IHC): This method uses special proteins called antibodies to find specific markers in tissue samples. For instance, if a sample comes from a breast cancer patient, doctors can check for hormone receptors (like ER or PR). This helps in deciding the best treatment options.
Cytology: This technique looks at single cells, often taken from a tiny needle sample. For lung tumors, cytology can quickly tell if the cells are cancerous or not.
Molecular Techniques: Methods like PCR and next-generation sequencing can spot genetic changes in tumors. This is really important for targeted therapy. For example, knowing if there’s a K-RAS mutation in colorectal cancer can change how doctors plan the treatment.
Using these techniques together gives a complete picture of tumors, which is vital for helping patients effectively.
Neoplastic pathology is all about finding and studying tumors. Here are some important methods used to do this:
Histopathology: This is the main technique. Doctors look at tissue samples under a microscope after staining them. For example, if someone has a possible tumor, a biopsy can show if it is benign (not harmful) or malignant (cancerous). It also helps to see how the cells are arranged and if there are any unusual features in the cells.
Immunohistochemistry (IHC): This method uses special proteins called antibodies to find specific markers in tissue samples. For instance, if a sample comes from a breast cancer patient, doctors can check for hormone receptors (like ER or PR). This helps in deciding the best treatment options.
Cytology: This technique looks at single cells, often taken from a tiny needle sample. For lung tumors, cytology can quickly tell if the cells are cancerous or not.
Molecular Techniques: Methods like PCR and next-generation sequencing can spot genetic changes in tumors. This is really important for targeted therapy. For example, knowing if there’s a K-RAS mutation in colorectal cancer can change how doctors plan the treatment.
Using these techniques together gives a complete picture of tumors, which is vital for helping patients effectively.