Pathology
,Definition & Scope
Pathology = Study of structural, biochemical, and functional changes in cells, tissues, and organs underlying
Uses morphologic, microbiologic, immunologic, and Explains signs & symptoms a
molecular techniques. therapy.
Bridge between basic sciences & clinical medicine — Builds on knowledge of norm
scientific foundation for all of medicine. mechanisms of injury & dea
,Branches of Pathology
1 2
General Pathology Systemic Pathology
Studies common cellular & tissue reactions to injurious stimuli. Studies diseases of specific organ
Reactions often not tissue-specific (e.g., acute inflammation in Examines structural & functional
bacterial infection looks similar in most tissues). each system.
, Four Core Aspects of Disease
1. Etiology – Cause of disease 2. Pathogenesis – Seque
• Genetic: Inherited/acquired mutations, polymorphisms.
biochemical, and cellula
to disease expression.
• Environmental: Infectious, nutritional, chemical, physical
factors. • Central to understanding dise
• Many diseases are multifactorial (e.g., atherosclerosis, • Advanced tools: Genomics, p
cancer). data → precision medicine.