What does a genitourinary pathologist do?
A genitourinary pathologist specializes in diagnosing diseases of the urinary tract and male reproductive system by examining tissue samples, biopsies, and bodily fluids. They work closely with urologists and oncologists to provide accurate diagnoses, which are crucial for guiding treatment decisions and managing genitourinary conditions such as cancers, infections, and inflammatory diseases.
What conditions are commonly diagnosed in genitourinary pathology?
Commonly diagnosed conditions in genitourinary pathology include urinary tract infections, kidney stones, bladder cancer, prostate cancer, interstitial cystitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and renal cell carcinoma.
What are the common tests performed in genitourinary pathology?
Common tests include urinalysis, urine culture, renal function tests (e.g., serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen), cystoscopy, imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, CT scan), prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, and biopsies of the kidney, bladder, or prostate.
How does genitourinary pathology differ from other pathology specialties?
Genitourinary pathology focuses specifically on diseases affecting the urinary system and male genital organs, analyzing tissue samples from kidneys, bladder, prostate, and testes. It requires specialized knowledge of these organs' histological features and related disease patterns, differing from other pathology specialties that focus on different systems or disease types.
How are biopsies used in genitourinary pathology?
Biopsies in genitourinary pathology are utilized to obtain tissue samples from organs such as the kidneys, bladder, prostate, or testes to diagnose conditions like cancer, infections, and inflammatory diseases. They help in assessing the nature and severity of the pathology, guiding treatment decisions.