Histopathology Biopsy Test

Histopathology biopsy-second opinion

It is a review of the histopathology test done somewhere else to confirm the specific medical diagnosis. In this test the patient seeks expert pathologist second opinion for a previously diagnosed disease to better manage the medical condition. This test is usually done in cases of malignancy which require correct diagnosis and prompt and apt treatment.

Histopathology test is a procedure where microscopic tissue examination is done in order to detect a particular disease/cancer. This test is done by a pathologist who examines tissue (also called specimen) obtained with the help of biopsy/surgery. Biopsy is a procedure where a small tissue sample is taken from disease organ for microscopic examination. Thus medical diagnosis is formed by pathologist based on histopathology test findings.

The specimen given to pathologist by treating doctor is categorised as small, medium, large or large complex/cancer based on size and site of specimen.

The specimens obtained in the lab for histopathological examination is processed and selective sections are made on glass slides for examination under the microscope.

Why is histopathology biopsy-second opinion test prescribed?

Your health care provider may prescribe this test to confirm disease of various organs. It also helps to know the severity of disease and decide management accordingly. It is also useful for diagnosis of malignancy, its grade, and prognosis and hence management protocol required.

Procedure and prerequisites

The various prerequisites for expert second opinion are:

• Histopathology slides
• Previous histopathology report of another lab
• Brief clinical history and examination report
• Other laboratory reports
• Radiographic reports
• Operative notes/discharge summary
• Present treatment provided to the patient

These all should be submitted along with test requisition form. Appropriate further testing is done on the received specimens to come at an optimal conclusion/diagnosis

The biopsy second opinion report contains the following:

• Type of specimen
• Gross examination
• Microscopic examination
• Impression
• Summary
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