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The field of pathology is often a mystery. In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain. Society’s perception of pathology as an enigma will be no more!
Pathologists often study human tissue, blood and fluids under microscopes in labs to figure out what went wrong. They also study gene therapy and ways to improve genetic diseases.
The information they collect helps physicians treat their patients.
They study diseases that seem to have no effective cures. They do research and try to understand what changes in the body when things go wrong and what changes when healing begins.
Get insider details in Episode 44 as Dr. G and his guest, pathologist Michael Lawler, M.D., Ph.D., discuss the secrets of pathology.
Guest
Myths vs. Facts
“Pathologists are often involved in the diagnosis of illness.” – Fact
That’s the role of the pathologist.
“Most medical graduates will never do a rotation in pathology.” – Fact
A lot of medical students may have spent a day or so in a pathology lab, but there’s not much exposure in clinical training.
“Since it happens on TV, testing results are instant, right?” – Myth
There are tests that come out very quickly. But most tests require time.
“Pathologists are often known as “the doctor’s doctor” because without them, clinicians would not have the answers they need.” – Fact
Without pathologists providing diagnoses, physicians can’t properly treat their patients.
“Pathologists have no contact with living patients." - Fact
A lot of pathologists don’t have much contact with living patients. Although pathologists who do research may have some contact with living patients.
"Pathologists work alone in labs doing tedious, repetitive jobs.” – Both
They sometimes work alone. But most pathologists work with others as a team in a lab.
“Artificial intelligence is going to take over the pathology profession.” – Myth
Computers can see a picture differently than people do. You can’t train a computer to recognize and replicate the experience a human has.
Listener healthy OH-YEAH!
“I often jump on my Peloton bike for the 10–20-minute sessions. I never regret the boost of energy.” – L.C.
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