The field of pathology in Ashland is vital in the diagnoses and treatment of cancer. Pathologists are doctors who examine tissue biopsies to determine if the patient has benign or cancerous tissue. Pathologists also use their skills to interpret lab tests, helping to prevent or monitor illnesses. Pathologists are the specialists who diagnosis and determine the type of cancer for the necessary treatment.

The expertise of a pathologist is crucial in diagnosing ovarian tumors for appropriate treatment. By using microscopic examination, they can examine the ovarian tissue provided by a biopsy and determine whether the tumor is nonmalignant or malignant. Because ovarian tumors can range in type and behavior, proper diagnosis of the tumor will provide the correct treatment. The correct identification of ovarian tumors can be challenging to the pathologist due to the many different kinds of tumors that originate in the ovaries.

When a patient is suspected of having breast cancer, the physician will consult with a pathologist to determine if it is indeed cancer as well as if the cancer has spread and to what extent. Other vital information will also be collected, which will be used in selecting the primary treatment, estimating the prognosis and assessment of the outcome. Information can include the size of the tumor, if it has metastasized to the lymph nodes, the type of tumor and the determination of if the lymphatic vessels and blood vessels have been invaded. When a mastectomy is performed, the pathologist will examine a specimen of the mastectomy using fluorescent in-situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry for determining the best chemotherapy to use for the patient.

Pathology in Ashland also plays a vital role in determining other forms, which can include prostate, skin, rectal and lung cancer. Due to the high level of responsibility the pathologist has, this specialty training consist of 4 years of college, 4 years of medical school and 3 to 8 years of internship and residency training. They must then pass an examination to obtain a license to practice.

To determine the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, a pathologist may use radioisotopes, microscopes and other types of equipment. They also may use scientific approaches and computerized data for testing the process of the cancer. Using microscopes, they utilize their specialty training to examine cells and the pattern of the cells. They may do special stains if needed and report their finding back to the physician.