Histological Examinations:

when is it needed and why?

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What is Histology?

Histology is the study of body tissues at a microscopic level. It provides insights into the structure of cells and organs. Histological analysis helps to identify cellular alterations that might signal different diseases, making histology an indispensable diagnostic tool.

Why does the choice turn to us?

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1
Synergy of Expertise
By combining our knowledge and ideas, we deliver services at the highest level of modern science.
2
Technology and Innovation
Cutting-edge equipment and collaboration with a global network of scientists, doctors, and specialists unlock endless possibilities for us.
Pathological Anatomy: A Guide to Cancer Medicine

Pathological Anatomy include the following components:

  • Histopathology – the study of tissues to detect microscopic changes
  • Cytopathology — the study of cells detached from tissues or present in bodily fluids

At OLYMP CDL biological material is processed using advanced technical and methodological solutions. This enables us to:

  • Arrive at accurate diagnosis based on histological and cytological data
  • Provide a foundation for further therapeutic or diagnostic decisions in patient treatment
We employ all possible methods to ensure diagnostic accuracy and successful treatment.
Science of Suffering

The Role of a Pathologist

One of the key responsibilities of a pathologist is detecting malignant tumors.
  • Physicians send tissue or cell samples obtained through biopsy or surgery for examination.
  • Only a pathologist can accurately classify a tumor, something that cannot be achieved with other laboratory methods.

Diagnosis and Treatment

A diagnosis based on additional studies (such as immunohistochemistry or molecular pathology) serves as the foundation for determining the treatment strategy:
  • Surgical intervention
  • Chemotherapy
  • Radiation therapy
Trust. Openness. Friendliness.
We build our work on the principles of trustworthy, open, and friendly collaboration with medical organizations and colleagues. Our team adheres to an approach based on:
  • Teamwork
  • Responsibility and responsiveness
  • Respectful communication
Each specialist in our laboratory is evaluated and developed according to their individual skills and area of responsibility.
To achieve the highest level of diagnostics in histopathology, cytology, and molecular pathology, we rely on the following:
  • Mutual support
    Employees work closely together, assisting one another.
  • Continuous development
    Regular training for both medical and non-medical staff.
By combining professionalism, advanced equipment and a cohesive team, we ensure high-quality diagnostics at every stage.
Histology

Lymph Node Preparation

Lymph nodes should be thoroughly sectioned before fixation to allow formalin penetration for detailed diagnostics.

Special Cases

Proper labeling is mandatory for specimens such as skin excisions or mucosectomy samples with narrow safety margins.

Kidney Biopsy:

  • Samples should be fixed in 10% formalin (tissue-to-formalin ratio 1:10)
  • Formalin is supplied to partner clinics
Molecular Pathology

Material Fixation

Biopsy samples and small tissue specimens should be fixed in 10% formalin (ratio of at least 1:10).

Processing of Large Samples:

  • Organs (e.g., intestines, stomach) should be opened, cleaned, and fixed in formalin
  • For large samples (liver, kidneys, spleen), deep incisions are recommended to allow formalin penetration without compromising tissue structure

Indications for Microsatellite Analysis

Microsatellite analysis is performed in the following cases:

  • Colorectal cancer before the age of 50
  • Synchronous or metachronous carcinomas associated with HNPCC-related tumors (colon, rectum, stomach, ovaries, etc.)
  • MSI-histology:
    • Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes
    • Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes
    • Medullary growth
  • Family history:
    • First-degree relative with colorectal cancer before the age of 50
    • At least two relatives with colorectal cancer or HNPCC-related tumors
Breast Pathology
Breast Pathology is one of the key focus areas of our laboratory. We actively collaborate with mammology centers such as Divera and participate in the mammographic screening program.
Breast cancer is the most common malignant tumor in Kazakhstan.

Facts and Statistics (2023):

  • In 2023, oncological diseases ranked 7th among all diseases in the country and 2nd in mortality (after circulatory system diseases).
  • More than 205,000 oncology patients are under dynamic observation in Kazakhstan.
  • Over 37,000 new cases are diagnosed annually. 56% of those affected are of working age.
  • Cancer incidence structure: 1st place – Breast cancer (13.2%), 2nd place – Lung cancer (10%), 3rd place – Colorectal cancer (9,3%)*.
  • Women with triple-negative breast cancer are three times more likely to have BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations.

Pathological Diagnosis of Breast Cancer

The gold standard for histopathological diagnosis is core needle biopsy. After histological confirmation of the diagnosis, the pathologist perform:
  • Tumor typing (determining the tumor type)
  • Stage and grade assessment
  • Prognostic and therapeutic parameters – evaluated after surgical tumor removal
After macroscopic processing of the resection specimen, the pathologist defines the following diagnostic parameters according to recommendations:
  • Tumor Typing (Determination of Tumor Type)

    The pathologist specifies whether the tumor is invasive or non-invasive (carcinoma in situ).
  • Non-Invasive Carcinomas (Preinvasive, Intraepithelial):

    • Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS)
    • Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS)
    • Paget’s Disease of the Nipple
Invasive Carcinomas
Immunohistochemical Markers
According to the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the following receptor expressions must be determined for each breast carcinoma:
Receptor expression is of two key importance:
Receptor expression is assessed semi-quantitatively. It is crucial to consider that fixation artifacts in tissue samples may cause regional receptor expression. Therefore, if neoadjuvant therapy is not prescribed, receptor expression analysis should be performed on resected tissue material.

Standards for Receptor Evaluation