Histology
Histology, also known as microscopic anatomy or microanatomy, is the in-depth study of the cells in tissues. Histology cannot be performed with the naked eye. At Surgipath and Cytology Lab, we use the method of histology to review anything that is removed from a body, to understand an occurrence such as illness and disease.
How it works…
A sample of tissue is removed from a person, whether through surgery, biopsy or autopsy. That sample, called a specimen, goes through an initial preparation stage, where it is stabilized in small containers called cassettes, which secures the tissue for processing. From this process, the tissue is placed in a mold with hot paraffin wax, which cools to form a solid block that protects the tissue.
This paraffin wax block with the embedded tissue is cut into very thin slices, which are then placed on glass slides and dipped in a series of stains and dyes to change the colour of the tissue. This makes cells easier to see under a microscope. At this stage, the pathologist evaluates the structure of the cells to determine the occurrence.
Appointment not required.
Results are available within 3 weeks.