Pathology Laboratory

The tissue or cell sample arrives at the laboratory properly labeled with patient information and site of origin.

The sample is placed in formalin to preserve its structure and avoid decomposition.

The tissue goes through a series of solutions that prepare it to be embedded in kerosene. This gives the tissue the right consistency to be cut into extremely thin sections.

Using a microtome, the tissue is cut into thin layers, approximately 4 micrometers thick (thinner than a human hair).

The sections are stained with special stains (such as hematoxylin and eosin) that highlight the cellular structures, facilitating observation under the microscope.

The pathologist examines the stained specimens under a microscope, looking for abnormalities or specific features that indicate disease or pathologic changes.

Based on the microscopic observations and, in some cases, additional studies such as immunohistochemistry or molecular studies, the pathologist prepares a detailed report with the final diagnosis.

Cells are collected from the area of interest (e.g., cervix for cervicovaginal cytology) using a brush, and then transferred to a bottle with a special liquid solution that preserves the cells.

the liquid sample is agitated to disperse the cells, removing impurities such as mucus, blood or unwanted cellular debris. This improves the quality of the sample for analysis.

Through an automated process, a thin layer of cells is transferred from the liquid solution to a glass slide, creating a uniform and easy-to-evaluate sample.

The cell sample is stained with special dyes that allow differentiation of the different cell structures and detection of any abnormalities, such as precancerous or infectious changes.

The pathologist examines the specimen under a microscope, evaluating the characteristics of the cells for signs of infection, inflammation or precancerous changes that may require follow-up.

Based on the cytology observations, the pathologist prepares a detailed report that will be sent to the treating physician for decisions on appropriate clinical management.