Get Precise Services:
Pathology
Advanced Service Lab
A pathology lab, also known as a clinical laboratory, is a facility where medical tests and analyses are conducted on patient specimens to diagnose diseases, monitor health, and guide treatment decisions.
Here is a detailed overview of a typical pathology lab:
Warning: Trying to access array offset on value of type bool in /home/u261804378/domains/hndlab.com/public_html/wp-content/plugins/elementor/includes/base/widget-base.php on line 223
Warning: Undefined array key -1 in /home/u261804378/domains/hndlab.com/public_html/wp-content/plugins/elementor/includes/base/controls-stack.php on line 695
Sections
Specimen Reception and Accessioning
- Specimen Collection: Samples such as blood, urine, tissue, and other body fluids are collected from patients.
- Accessioning: Each specimen is assigned a unique identifier to track it through the testing process.
Hematology
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): Measures the number of red cells, white cells, and platelets in the blood.
- Coagulation Tests: Assess the blood’s ability to clot.
Clinical Chemistry
- Biochemical Tests: Analyze blood and other body fluids for substances such as glucose, cholesterol, electrolytes, enzymes, and hormones.
- Toxicology: Tests for the presence of drugs and toxins.
Microbiology
- Culture and Sensitivity: Identifies infectious organisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi) and determines their sensitivity to antibiotics.
- Parasitology: Examines specimens for parasites.
Immunology/Serology
- Antibody Testing: Detects antibodies in the blood to diagnose infections and autoimmune diseases.
- Allergy Testing: Identifies specific allergens causing allergic reactions.
Histopathology
- Tissue Processing: Prepares tissue samples for microscopic examination.
- Slide Examination: Pathologists examine stained tissue slides to identify abnormalities.
Cytology
- Pap Smears: Screens for cervical cancer.
- Fine Needle Aspirations: Examines cells extracted from lumps or masses.
Molecular Pathology
- Genetic Testing: Analyzes DNA/RNA for genetic disorders and mutations.
- PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): Amplifies DNA sequences to detect genetic material of pathogens.
Lab Personnel
Pathologists
- Medical doctors specialized in diagnosing diseases by examining tissues, cells, and organs.
Medical Laboratory Scientists/Technologists
- Perform complex tests and procedures, analyze results, and maintain lab equipment.
Phlebotomists
- Specialize in drawing blood from patients.
Lab Technicians
- Assist in specimen processing and basic lab tasks.
Quality
Internal Quality Control (IQC)
- Routine checks within the lab to ensure test accuracy and reliability.
External Quality Assessment (EQA)
- Participation in external programs to compare and improve lab performance.
Safety
Biosafety
- Adhering to protocols to prevent exposure to infectious agents.
Chemical Safety
- Proper handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals.
Regulatory Compliance
- Meeting standards set by accrediting bodies and government regulations (e.g., CLIA, CAP).
Technological Advances
Automation
- Use of automated analyzers to increase efficiency and reduce human error.
Digital Pathology
- Use of digital imaging for remote diagnosis and consultation.
Artificial Intelligence
- AI algorithms to assist in interpreting complex data and improving diagnostic accuracy.
Challenges
Sample Integrity
- Ensuring proper collection, storage, and transport of specimens.
Data Management
- Handling large volumes of data and integrating with electronic health records (EHR).
Cost Management
- Balancing the costs of advanced technology with the need for affordable testing.