I analyze tissue samples taken during brain and spinal cord surgery in order to classify tumors based on their cellular characteristics and determine how aggressive they are likely to be. There are more than 120 recognized types of central nervous system tumors, so making a precise diagnosis is essential; the work we do in the laboratory — including molecular genetic assessments — guides treatment decisions.
A pathologist is a doctor who uses a microscope to make a diagnosis from cell and tissue samples. They analyze the samples to learn the cause and effects of a health condition.