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title: Histopathologic Examination
url: "https://www.yyhmedical.com/en/guide/technology/histopathology-exam"
type: MedicalWebPage
inLanguage: en-US
---

# Histopathologic Examination

> Histopathologic examination involves analyzing tissue samples under a microscope to evaluate tissue structure and cellular features.

## Overview

Histopathologic examination involves analyzing tissue samples under a microscope to evaluate tissue structure and cellular features. It may be combined with immunohistochemistry and molecular testing to diagnose and classify cancer.

  

For most solid tumors and lymphomas, pathology is a key part of establishing a definitive diagnosis. It can determine whether a lesion is benign or malignant and provide information about the tumor's histologic type, grade, and biological features, helping guide staging, treatment decisions, and prognosis.

## When It Is Used

When imaging identifies a suspicious mass, nodule, or abnormal lymph node, a tissue sample may be needed to determine the nature of the lesion.

  

For solid tumors such as lung, breast, stomach, and colorectal cancers, histopathology can establish the cancer type and may be combined with immunohistochemistry and molecular testing to guide treatment.

  

For lymphoma, obtaining an adequate lymph node or other involved tissue is particularly important because classification often requires assessment of tissue architecture, cell morphology, immunophenotype, and genetic or molecular features. Blood cancers such as leukemia and multiple myeloma are more commonly diagnosed using bone marrow, peripheral blood, and related laboratory testing.

## Examination Process

Tissue samples may be obtained through needle biopsy, endoscopic biopsy, or surgical removal, depending on the location and characteristics of the lesion.

  

In the pathology laboratory, the tissue is processed, sectioned, stained, and examined under a microscope by a pathologist. Additional tests, including immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, or molecular testing, may be performed when needed.

  

For some rare or complex cancers, particularly lymphomas and soft tissue tumors, additional testing or expert pathology review may be needed before a final diagnosis can be made.

## Considerations and Limitations

Pathology results can be affected by the biopsy site, amount of tissue obtained, and sample quality. If the sample is too small, contains extensive necrosis, or does not adequately represent a heterogeneous tumor, additional sampling or repeat biopsy may be needed.

  

Pathology findings are also interpreted together with clinical information, imaging, laboratory results, and molecular or genomic testing when appropriate.

  

Because biopsy is an invasive procedure, possible risks include local pain, bleeding, or infection. The specific risks depend on the biopsy site and technique used.

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