This elective will introduce the student to the role of tissue examination in modern medicine. The student may be involved in a variety of experiences, including Gross examination of surgical pathology specimens, Processing and staining tissue, Frozen-section examination, Light microscopic diagnosis, Cytopathology, Autopsy pathology, and Electron microscopy. Clinical correlation of gross and microscopic findings is emphasized, and there will be a close affiliation with the surgical services and subspecialties. The proportion of time spent in these areas will be tailored to the student's interests. One formal presentation on a laboratory topic of the student's interest will be required in the four-week experience. Attendance and participation in a variety of surgical pathology and inter-service conferences are encouraged. Call is not generally required, but it may enhance the autopsy and surgical pathology experiences.

The student will rotate through the sections of the clinical laboratory as follows: (a) Hematology - learn how to evaluate electronic differential counts and how to evaluate peripheral smears; (b) Microbiology- learn proper specimen collection/preservation techniques and how to interpret Gram stains; (c) Chemistry/Special Chemistry- learn how to interpret chemistry tests in the clinical context; (d) Serology- learn about interpretation/indications for serologic tests; and (e) Blood Bank- learn about pre-transfusion testing, indications for T/S vs. T/X match, and proper blood product handling and storage. Procedures and skills include: (a) Learn about handling of cytology/histology specimens and how to perform simple gross tissue examinations; (b) Learn basics of histology and routing cytology and (c) Observe FNA procedures and understand the indications for this procedure.