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Pathology Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pathology

[pəˈθɒlədʒi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical study

Pathology is the branch of medicine that involves the study of the causes and effects of diseases, particularly through the examination of tissues, organs, bodily fluids, and autopsies. It plays a critical role in diagnosing diseases and formulating treatment plans by identifying various abnormalities at the cellular and molecular levels. Pathology provides insights not just into diseases but also into the underlying mechanisms of health and disease processes. The knowledge gained from pathology aids in clinical decision-making and can impact patient prognosis and outcomes.

Synonyms

disease study, medical pathology, pathogenesis.

Examples of usage

  • The pathology report confirmed the diagnosis of cancer.
  • She specializes in surgical pathology.
  • Understanding pathology is essential for effective treatment.
  • The doctor explained the pathology of the disease.
  • Pathology involves various laboratory techniques.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Development

  • Pathology has been pivotal in the development of modern medicine, helping identify diseases based on symptoms and tissues.
  • In the 19th century, scientists like Rudolf Virchow advanced pathology by linking cell changes to diseases.
  • Pathology was essential in understanding infectious diseases, leading to the development of vaccines and antibiotics.

Scientific Impact

  • The field is divided into sub-disciplines like anatomic pathology (study of tissues) and clinical pathology (study of laboratory results).
  • Technological advancements, like imaging and molecular techniques, have greatly enhanced how diseases are diagnosed.
  • Pathologists play a critical role in cancer diagnosis by examining tissue samples for malignant cells.

Cultural Representation

  • Pathology often appears in literature and movies, dramatizing the quest for cures and the moral dilemmas faced by medical professionals.
  • Various TV dramas depict forensic pathology, showcasing the intersection of science and crime investigation.
  • Artworks often represent disease in various forms, reflecting society’s fears and fascinations with mortality.

Relation to Psychology

  • Pathology extends into psychological studies, exploring how mental illnesses manifest and their physical effects on the body.
  • The term 'psychopathology' specifically refers to the study of psychological disorders.
  • Understanding emotional and behavioral disorders often requires a pathological perspective to uncover underlying diseases.

Origin of 'pathology'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'pathos' meaning 'suffering' and 'logia' meaning 'study'.
  • It was first used in the late 19th century to describe the study of disease.
  • The term has expanded to include not only diseases but their causes and effects on the body.

The word 'pathology' originates from the Greek words 'pathos', meaning 'suffering' or 'disease', and 'logia', meaning 'study'. It was first used in the early 19th century, as the field of medicine was becoming more scientific and focused on understanding diseases. Over time, pathology has evolved into a critical discipline within medicine, encompassing various subfields such as surgical pathology, forensic pathology, and clinical pathology. The importance of pathology in diagnosing diseases has grown, particularly with advancements in technology and laboratory techniques that allow for more detailed examination of biological specimens. As a result, pathology has become integral to patient care, linking laboratory findings to clinical practice.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,301 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.