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(904) 244-0411

What to Expect/FAQ

What to expect

Surgical pathology studies involve tissue that is removed by a primary care physician, a specialist or a surgeon. Cytology usually involves collection of cells using a swab-like device. Fine-needle aspiration and ductal lavage are minimally invasive techniques for collecting very small tissue or fluid specimens. The physician performing the procedure will explain what is involved.

Laboratory studies are typically requested by a physician in order to provide information that can help diagnose or rule out an illness or to follow the progress of treatment. Laboratory tests may require a blood or urine specimen to be collected. Depending on the circumstances, a physician's staff may collect the specimen, or the patient may be given a container to take home to collect a specimen or sent to the laboratory or a blood drawing station. When the tests are completed, the referring physician will contact the patient to discuss the results.

Frequently asked questions

What are pathologists?

A pathologist is a medical doctor who has spent at least four years beyond medical school training in the specialty of pathology. Pathology is the scientific study of diseases. Pathologists help other physicians diagnose their patients' diseases by microscopically examining tissue and performing laboratory tests on body fluids, such as blood and urine. When requested, pathologists also perform autopsies in order to determine the cause of death or learn more about a disease process.

Does it hurt to have a blood specimen collected?

Blood is usually collected through a small needle inserted into a vein in the arm. The procedure typically involves very little pain.

How much blood will be needed?

The amount of blood required depends on how many, and the types of, laboratory tests ordered. A typical amount is one or two tablespoons.

Where can I get more information about the laboratory tests that are being performed on me?

There are several good resources for information about clinical laboratory tests:

  • Ask your doctor the purpose of the tests
  • Ask to speak to the laboratory director or pathologist about the tests that have been ordered by your doctor