what is pathology report

A pathology report is a medical report that describes the characteristics of a tissue specimen that has been removed from a patients body. The report is written by a pathologist, who analyzes and tests the specimen and then writes up a report for the medical provider who has either ordered the report or performed the procedure. The report includes identifying information such as the patients name, birthdate, and biopsy date, as well as details about where in the body the specimen is from and how it was obtained. It typically includes a gross description (a visual description of the specimen as seen by the naked eye), a microscopic description, and a final diagnosis. The final diagnosis is the "bottom line" of the testing process and is the most important part of the pathology report. The report may also include a section for comments by the pathologist. Pathology reports are used by medical providers to determine a diagnosis or treatment plan for a specific health condition or disease. The report is often quite long and complex and may contain highly technical medical terms. Patients are allowed by law to receive a copy of their pathology report, and they should ask their doctor to explain the results and what they mean.