Understanding

Histopathology testing involves microscopic examination of tissue specimens on specially prepared glass slides using chemical stains to highlight specific structures. This allows visualization of tissue architecture and cytology to detect abnormalities indicative of infection, inflammation, malignancy, or other disease processes.

Steps in Histopathology Testing:

Key steps in histopathology testing in Varanasi include:

Specimen Collection: Tissue samples are obtained through biopsy, surgery, or autopsy and immediately fixed in a formaldehyde solution.
Tissue Processing: Fixed tissues undergo dehydration, clearing, infiltration, embedding and sectioning to prepare extremely thin slices that can be mounted on glass slides.
Staining: Sections on the slides are stained with chemicals like hematoxylin and eosin (H&E). Special stains can also be used to highlight specific features. This allows cellular details to stand out.
Microscopic Analysis: The stained slides are visualized under a microscope by the histopathologist to examine tissue architecture, cell morphology, and any abnormalities.
Diagnosis And Reporting: Based on the microscopic observations, the histopathologist generates a pathology report with descriptions, conclusions and a definitive diagnosis to guide patient treatment.

Clinical Applications of Histopathology Tests

Tissue pathology testing allows minimally-invasive diagnosis of a wide spectrum of conditions, with applications across all fields of medicine.

Cancer Diagnosis: One of the most common uses of histopathology is for the diagnosis of cancer. The microscopic examination of tumor samples can determine whether tissue is benign, malignant or uncertain. Specific types of cancer can also be identified.
Infectious Disease Diagnosis: Certain infections, such as tuberculosis, can be diagnosed by identifying the causative agents under the microscope. The findings help determine appropriate antibiotic treatment.
Inflammatory Disease Diagnosis: Diseases involving inflammation, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, can be diagnosed and differentiated through histopathological analysis. This helps guide treatment plans.
Transplant Assessments: Histopathology allows for the evaluation of tissue structure and health when transplanting tissues or organs. It verifies the viability of donor tissue as well as monitors for rejection.
Toxicity Evaluation: The effects of toxic substances can be evaluated through histopathology. Cellular changes seen under the microscope may indicate toxicity. This has applications in environmental, pharmaceutical and medical research.

Key Features

Our histopathology laboratory at Heritage Hospital is equipped with advanced instruments operated by highly skilled staff, allowing prompt and reliable testing. Key features include:

Automated tissue processors that rapidly dehydrate, clear and infiltrate batches of specimens to prepare sections for microscopy.
Precision microtomes and cryostats that cut extremely thin, high-quality sections consistently across entire tissues for excellent visualization.
High-resolution light microscopes fitted with cameras to examine slides. Images can be captured and digitized for improved diagnosis, second opinions, research and archiving.

What to Expect with Diagnostic

Procedure Post Procedure

Procedure

Tissue examination in Varanasi generally requires a tissue sample obtained either through a biopsy or surgical procedure. Some general tips to prepare before a biopsy are:

No special preparation is required for a simple needle or surgical biopsy performed under local anesthesia.
For a bone marrow biopsy, inform your doctor about any bleeding disorders or anticoagulant medications you are taking, as these may need to be stopped temporarily.
Follow any other specific instructions from your doctor, such as discontinuing certain medications prior to the biopsy.
Ensure you have a responsible adult accompany you for the biopsy procedure. Arrange for transportation back home afterwards.
For a surgical biopsy done under general anesthesia, you will need to fast for 6-8 hours beforehand as per standard protocols.

Post Procedure

Our team of highly qualified histopathologists analyzes the microscopic and molecular findings from the tested specimen and compiles an actionable pathology report for your care team with the following:

Specimen size and type, collection date and other case details
Macroscopic observations
Microscopic observations: Thorough descriptions of tissue architecture patterns, cell morphology changes, and detection of microorganisms like bacteria/viruses.
Additional information from special stains/immunostains if done
Correlation with radiology and clinical findings
Definitive diagnosis with details on staging and grading to guide treatment for diseases like cancer
Recommendations on additional molecular testing, if required, for personalized management.

Advantages of Histopathology Tests

Specialized Pathologist Care

Our team of reputed pathologists have many years of experience across a wide range of specialties and subspecialties. You can be assured of accurate results.

Automated Tissue Processing

We have automated tissue processors that allow us to prepare specimens and provide timely reporting of results, usually within 24-48 hours.

Advanced Diagnostic Capabilities

Our hospital is equipped to handle challenging, highly complex cases thanks to in-house expertise in neuropathology, hematopathology, cytopathology, dermatopathology, gastrointestinal pathology and head & neck pathology.

Tissue-Based Precision Testing

We offer advanced molecular diagnostic tests on tissue samples, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), cytogenetics, and immunohistochemistry when required for greater insight.

Collaborative Pathology Care

Our pathologists work closely across departments with your surgeons, oncologists, physicians and other specialists involved in your care for better patient outcomes.

Caring Guidance

We understand this can be an anxious time for patients and family members. Our staff provides information and support throughout the process. You can rely upon our empathy and compassion.

FAQ’s

To examine tissue in order to find out manifestation of disease like cancers, infections etc.

Tissues are processed using auto process and reported on H&E stained slides.

Cost of the tests is inclusive of everything. The tests cost may be known from the Reception Counters.

Generally, prior payment of full cost is essential . However, in certain deserving cases the cost may be paid in two parts or discount may be permissible.

As per TAT schedule defined in test information booklet.

Processing is done by technicians and reporting is done by doctors of respective discipline.

Yes

Generally, tests does not require prior consent except in certain tests like FNAC, Bone Marrow Aspirations and Viral Marker.

Patient as well as Patient Attendant can sign the Consent form

All the basic sterilization precautions are taken.

The patients are monitored for bleeding and pain at the site of procedure for 10-15 min.

None of the procedure done at the lab requires hospitalization

No, except in bone marrow aspirations.

As defined in test information booklet.

Syncope, Pain, Bleeding, Infections.

Yes, repeat tests are being performed free of cost on request by treating physician.

Yes

Histopathology Tests