Pathology

Cancer Pathology at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth

Pathology is the study of the nature, origin, progress and behavior of disease. Pathology experts at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth play an integral role by providing critical information about your cancer diagnosis.

Pathologists work closely with your other doctors. They are part of a multidisciplinary team that meets regularly to discuss your cancer care plan.

How Pathology Works

When a doctor removes tissue from your body — either by biopsy or major surgery — your care team sends the sample to our pathology team for processing. Pathologists study the tissue alongside your medical history and imaging findings to determine if there is an abnormality. If so, the pathologist helps to define how the abnormality may behave.

Many abnormalities are benign (non-cancerous), but the findings often help your cancer care team create your customized care plan. When cancer is present, pathologists define the type of tumor and provide key details used by your care team to form your treatment plan.

World-Class Testing, Close to Home

At BID Plymouth, our pathologists have relationships with experts across the nation in many types of cancer. We consult with these experts when needed. Our team adheres to strict guidelines. State and nationwide regulatory agencies closely monitor our processes to assure quality and safety for you and all our patients.

Our own specialists and physicians at BID Plymouth may coordinate your care with other cancer protocol experts from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston.