When doctors need to understand what's happening in our bodies, especially when it comes to diseases, they use different techniques to look at samples from tissues and cells. Here are some of the most common methods:

1. Histopathology: This method looks at thin slices of tissue under a microscope after coloring them with special dyes. It helps doctors spot unusual cell changes, especially for diagnosing cancers.

2. Cytopathology: In this approach, cells are taken from body fluids or lumps (like during a Pap smear) and looked at closely under a microscope. This helps in finding cancer.

3. Immunohistochemistry (IHC): This technique uses special proteins called antibodies to find certain markers in tissues. It helps doctors better understand different types of tumors based on these markers.

4. Molecular Pathology: This includes methods like PCR and sequencing to look for genetic changes. It’s very important for treating patients based on their unique genetic makeup.

5. Electron Microscopy: This gives very detailed pictures of cells, allowing scientists to see tiny structures that might be abnormal.

Each of these methods is important. They help doctors make correct diagnoses and decide on the best treatment options.