What does pathologist mean?
A pathologist is a doctor who specializes in the study of disease. By examining tissue samples, blood, cells, and related material under a microscope, pathologists identify disease processes and help establish diagnoses. Their findings guide clinicians in deciding how a condition should be treated, and they may also perform autopsies in forensic investigations. The role differs from that of a radiologist, who interprets medical images, and from that of a clinical laboratory scientist, who may carry out tests without being a physician. Pathology is especially important in areas such as cancer diagnosis, where the examination of a biopsy can reveal the type and extent of a tumour. The word is also used more broadly for professionals who study disease outside direct clinical practice, including veterinary and experimental pathologists.
nounA medical specialist who studies diseases by examining tissues, cells, blood, and other bodily materials, often to determine the cause and nature of an illness. Pathologists may also perform autopsies and advise on disease diagnosis and treatment.
- A physician who specializes in the study of disease and disease processes, usually through laboratory examination of tissue and other clinical samples.
"The hospital pathologist examined the biopsy results before the patient's treatment plan was finalized."
"The pathologist identified an unusual pattern of inflammation in the tissue sample."
"Forensic pathologists use autopsy findings to investigate the circumstances of sudden or unexpected deaths."
The regular plural is used for two or more medical specialists.
"The pathologists reviewed the slides together before issuing their report."
While patients may never meet the pathologist who examines their samples, that specialist's analysis can determine the diagnosis and shape the treatment that follows.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pathologist come from?
Pathologist is formed from pathology, a word built from Greek pathos, meaning suffering or disease, and the Greek-derived suffix -logy, referring to the study of something. The addition of -ist forms a noun denoting a specialist who practises that study. The vocabulary belongs to a family of English words influenced by Greek roots, including pathological and pathogenic.
Related word forms
How pathologist is actually used
The term is professional and normally refers to a medically qualified specialist. In British and American usage, a pathologist may work in clinical medicine, forensic investigation, or both.