Cytology & Histopatholgy
Cytology
This is where cells and microorganisms are studied under the microscope to identify the disease we need to treat. Samples are collected from the animal with a cotton bud and smeared on a glass slide. The slide is stained and examined under the microscope. We can often identify the basic type of organism, for example bacteria or yeast. There are some types of bacteria we don't like to find, as they can be more resistant to treatment. Their presence can alert us to the need to send a swab to the lab for culture to find the best antibiotic for the job.We are often concerned about lumps that grow on your pet’s skin or felt internally. Fine needle aspirates of these can also be stained and viewed under the microscope. In this area we will often seek the opinion of a specialist pathologist who will fax a result from the lab within 2 days.
Histopathology
Histopathology is a more accurate way to assess growths but requires a tissue sample to be sent to the pathology lab. We will recommend this if there is a chance that a lump we have removed is cancerous and could grow back. Results are faxed to us in 3-6 days.
Next: In-House Screening Tests
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