Pathologist how-to

How to Sign Out a Biopsy

Accurate reports guide treatment.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Accurate reports guide treatment. In short: review; examine; order, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Review clinical history.

  2. Examine slides at low and high power.

  3. Order special stains if needed.

  4. Make the diagnosis.

  5. Report margins and key features.

  6. Communicate critical results.

Safety reminders for pathologists

  • Handle specimens with biosafety precautions
  • Use formalin safely
  • Follow sharps safety
  • Ensure correct specimen labeling

Histology · Biopsy · Frozen section · H&E stain · Immunohistochemistry · Margin: see the full pathologist glossary.

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