Histopathology

We have a highly professional team that includes seven Histopathologists with special expertise in renal, liver, breast, head, neck and hematology. The technical staff is highly trained and experienced. We offer a wide range of services that include gynecological and non-gynecological cytology; fine needle aspiration biopsy in addition to routine histopathology. We have an extensive panel of immunohistochemistry being performed for the exact diagnosis of tumors. We have two autostainers for immunohistochemistry. Tumor diagnosis is also made accurate by correlation with radiologic findings and clinical details by our modern Laboratory Information System (LIS) which has made it possible to view every patient’s radiology and other parameters which are mandatory for accurate diagnosis. Moreover, the department is equipped with latest immunofluorescence techniques for diagnosis of renal and skin biopsies. This technique needs expertise and fluorescent microscope. In this regard, Nephrologists not only across northern areas of the country but also from Faisalabad, Lahore and Peshawar are sending tests for diagnosing renal diseases here. Frozen section facility for quick intra-operative diagnosis is also being used by adjacent large hospitals where the facility is unavailable. A separate frozen section laboratory, 2 cryostates, equipped with grossing stations and multihead microscope has been consolidated adjacent to the new operation theaters. This facilitates the surgeons who can come and communicate with the pathology team expeditiously so as to reduce operating time for the patients.

We are performing fluorescence in Situ Hybridization (FISH) technique for detection of Her2/Neu amplification in breast cancer in collaboration with our molecular department. In the coming year, we plan to use this for the detection of genetic abnormalities in other tumors as well. Our expert oncologists require this for planning exact treatment of cancer. Liver transplant at SIH has added another dimension to our pathology services as we are dealing with biopsies from donors and recipients as well as explanted livers. We are slowly going up the learning curve in this area which is so far unchartered territory in this country. The surgical pathology department also runs a vibrant residency program to obtain fellowship in this field. We aspire to become one of the best departments of Pakistan comparable to any in the developed world. A twice weekly tumor board meeting is held in the department attended by Oncologists, Radiologists, Pathologists and Surgeons to discuss treatment strategies for cancer patients. A fortnightly head & neck cancer center and sarcoma board also takes place every alternate Saturday to focus on these areas for malignancy. It is attended by ENT, Maxillofacial and Plastic surgeons as well as Radiologists, Oncologists and Pathologists. A monthly Nephrology and Urology meeting is also held to discuss the relevant cases with clinical colleagues