Clinical Pathology

Core Areas of Clinical Pathology

  1. Hematology
    • Study of blood and blood-forming tissues.
    • Common tests:
      • Complete Blood Count (CBC) – RBCs, WBCs, platelets.
      • Peripheral smear – Evaluates blood cell morphology.
      • Coagulation tests – PT, aPTT, INR for bleeding/clotting disorders.
  2. Clinical Biochemistry (Clinical Chemistry)
    • Analyzes chemical components of body fluids (mostly serum or plasma).
    • Common tests:
      • Glucose, urea, creatinine, electrolytes.
      • Liver function tests (LFTs), renal function tests (RFTs).
      • Lipid profile, hormone assays, enzyme markers (e.g., amylase, ALT).
  3. Microbiology
    • Identification of infectious agents (bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites).
    • Techniques:
      • Culture and sensitivity, Gram staining, acid-fast staining.
      • Antigen detection, PCR, serology (e.g., ELISA).
  4. Immunology and Serology
    • Detects antibodies/antigens in blood or body fluids.
    • Used in:
      • Autoimmune diseases (e.g., ANA test).
      • Infectious diseases (e.g., HIV, hepatitis).
      • Allergy testing, immune deficiencies.
  5. Clinical Urinalysis
    • Examination of urine for:
      • Physical properties (color, clarity).
      • Chemical tests (protein, glucose, ketones).
      • Microscopy (cells, crystals, casts, bacteria).
  6. Body Fluid Analysis
    • Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), pleural, peritoneal, synovial fluid analysis.
    • Includes cell counts, protein/glucose levels, and microbial cultures.

Role of the Clinical Pathologist

  • Oversees laboratory operations and ensures accuracy, reliability, and quality control.
  • Correlates laboratory results with clinical findings.
  • Advises clinicians on appropriate test selection and interpretation.

Principles of Clinical Pathology

  1. Sample Collection and Handling
    • Proper techniques are vital for valid results.
    • Includes use of anticoagulants, correct sample timing, and storage.
  2. Reference Ranges
    • Normal values used to interpret test results.
    • Must consider age, sex, physiological conditions (e.g., pregnancy), and population norms.
  3. Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA)
    • Regular checks to ensure test reliability.
    • Involves internal QC and external proficiency testing.
  4. Automation and Technology
    • Modern labs use automated analyzers for speed and accuracy.
    • Integration with LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems).

Common Diseases Diagnosed by Clinical Pathology

AreaDiseases Diagnosed
HematologyAnemia, leukemia, infections
BiochemistryDiabetes, liver/kidney disease, dyslipidemia
MicrobiologyTuberculosis, UTIs, meningitis, STIs
ImmunologyHIV/AIDS, SLE, rheumatoid arthritis
UrinalysisKidney disease, diabetes, urinary infections