Pathologist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pathologist
[pรฆหฮธษl.ษ.dสษชst ]
Definition
medical profession
A pathologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing diseases by examining tissue samples, organs, and bodily fluids. They play a crucial role in patient care by providing accurate diagnoses, which often guide treatment decisions. Pathologists work in laboratories and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure effective patient management.
Synonyms
anatomical pathologist, diagnostic doctor, medical examiner.
Examples of usage
- The pathologist analyzed the biopsy results to determine the nature of the tumor.
- After the autopsy, the pathologist provided a detailed report on the cause of death.
- A pathologist's diagnosis confirmed the presence of infection in the patient.
- In medical research, pathologists contribute to understanding disease mechanisms.
- The hospital hired an additional pathologist to handle the increased workload.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word comes from the Greek words 'pathos' meaning 'suffering' and 'logia' meaning 'study'.
- Pathology as a field began in the 19th century when doctors started using microscopes to study tissues and cells.
- One of the earliest pathologists was Giovanni Maria Lancisi in the 18th century, who studied the effects of diseases on the body.
Science
- Pathologists play a critical role in cancer diagnosis, often examining biopsies that reveal the presence of cancerous cells.
- They utilize advanced technologies like genetic testing to understand diseases at a molecular level.
- Forensic pathologists assist in criminal investigations by determining the cause of death related to legal cases.
Pop Culture
- Pathologists are often depicted in crime shows and movies as key figures who solve mysterious deaths.
- Fictional characters like Dr. Temperance Brennan from 'Bones' bring awareness to the role of pathologists in solving crimes through science.
- The show 'CSI' frequently features forensic pathologists, illustrating their pivotal role in the criminal justice system.
Education
- To become a pathologist, one typically needs to complete medical school followed by several years of specialized training in pathology.
- Pathology residency programs allow doctors to learn through hands-on experiences in labs and hospitals.
- Continuing education and staying updated on new research is essential for pathologists due to the evolving nature of medical science.
Psychology
- Pathologists often interact with grieving families, which can be emotionally challenging and may require support skills.
- The process of delivering a diagnosis can affect both patients and their families, requiring pathologists to be sensitive communicators.
- Studies suggest that understanding disease mechanisms can alleviate some anxiety surrounding illness in patients and families.
Origin of 'pathologist'
The term 'pathologist' originates from the Greek words 'pathos', meaning 'suffering' or 'disease', and 'logos', meaning 'study'. It first came into use in the late 19th century as the medical field became more specialized. Pathology, as the study of disease, evolved significantly during this time, contributing to advancements in medical diagnostics. The role of pathologists became increasingly recognized as essential to the understanding and treatment of diseases, particularly with the development of laboratory techniques for examining tissues. Over the decades, the field has expanded further, incorporating molecular pathology and genomics, reflecting the growing complexity of disease mechanisms and the need for specialized knowledge to inform patient care.