Tissue Investigation and Consequences of Diagnosis
Tissue Investigation and Consequences of Diagnosis
Tissue Investigation
Sample Collection
- Samples for tissue investigation can be collected through procedures such as biopsies, surgical excisions, and aspirations.
- A key role of biomedical scientists is ensuring these samples are collected appropriately and stored correctly to maintain cell structure and tissue integrity.
Histopathology
- Histopathology involves studying changes in cells and tissues as a result of disease.
- Techniques include fixation, to preserve tissue structure; sectioning, to create thin slices of tissue; and staining, which helps to highlight specific cellular components.
- Histopathologic studies can identify abnormalities like inflammation, cancer, and infections.
Cytopathology
- Cytopathology focuses on the study of cells in disease.
- Samples for cytopathological examination can come from body fluids or directly from tissues.
- This science allows for the identification of malignancies and inflammatory conditions, among other diseases.
Consequences of Diagnosis
Diagnostic Accuracy
- The accuracy of tissue investigations is critical, since diagnoses directly influence the treatment plan a patient receives.
- Incorrect tissue investigation can lead to misdiagnoses, potentially resulting in inappropriate or delayed treatment.
Patient Anxiety
- The process of tissue investigation and waiting for a diagnosis can cause significant patient anxiety.
- Clear communication and timely delivery of results are essential to mitigate this.
Treatment Implications
- Once a diagnosis is made, a series of potential treatments may be considered.
- These can range from conservative management and monitoring through to surgical intervention, radiotherapy or chemotherapy
- The type of tissue disorder, its severity, its progression, and the patient’s overall health all impact the chosen course of treatment.
Prognosis
- A diagnosis from tissue investigation gives an indication of the probable course and outcome of a disease - the prognosis.
- Information from tissue investigation can also be used to stage a disease, which refers to the extent of the disease within the body.
- Understanding the severity and progression of the disease helps healthcare professionals provide a more accurate prognosis, enabling better treatment planning.