Pathology
Pathology is a medical specialty focused on the study and diagnosis of disease. At Fairbanks Memorial Hospital, our Anatomic Pathology team plays a critical role in patient care by providing timely, accurate interpretations of tissue and cellular specimens utilizing the most up-to-date immunohistochemical and special stains as well as specimen processing or frozen sections to support accurate diagnoses and timely patient care.
Pathology Experts
The Anatomic Pathology Department is staffed by three board-certified pathologists who bring broad diagnostic expertise across all major areas of pathology. Working closely with histotechnologists, laboratory assistants, transcriptionists, and office staff, our pathologists collaborate with providers from across the care spectrum to support high-quality, personalized treatment decisions.
Foundation Health Partners contracts with Pathology Consultants, LLC to provide on-site and on-call pathologist coverage 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This availability extends not only to our hospital but also to regional providers and clinics that rely on our pathologists’ insight for patient care decisions.
The following sections highlight the range of pathology services provided by our team. While each area is unique, all are supported by the same dedicated group of board-certified pathologists.
Breast Pathology
Our team evaluates breast tissue from biopsies, lumpectomies, mastectomies, and reconstructive surgeries. When cancer is identified, tumors are evaluated for key prognostic and therapeutic markers, helping oncologists tailor treatment plans using the most targeted and effective anti-tumor therapies available.
Cytopathology
Cytopathology services include interpretation of fine needle aspiration (FNA) and body fluid specimens from various sites, including the lungs, liver, pancreas, lymph nodes, and serous cavities. These minimally invasive samples play a key role in early diagnosis, cancer staging, and monitoring of disease progression.
Dermatopathology (Skin)
We diagnose a wide range of skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, skin infections, and cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and melanoma. For rare or complex cases, our team consults with national reference centers such as Mayo Clinic Laboratories and the University of California, San Francisco to ensure the highest level of diagnostic confidence.
Gastrointestinal and Liver Pathology
From colon biopsies to liver resections, our pathologists diagnose inflammatory conditions, infectious diseases, and cancers involving the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, and liver. Their findings are vital to both disease management and early cancer detection.
Genitourinary Pathology
We provide expert interpretation of prostate biopsies, bladder resections, kidney masses, and testicular specimens. These evaluations assist urologists and oncologists in diagnosing cancer, assessing tumor grade, and determining individualized treatment plans.
Gynecologic Pathology
Our pathologists interpret a wide range of gynecologic specimens, including cervical biopsies, endometrial samples, and ovarian and uterine tissue. Their diagnostic insights help guide clinical decisions in both routine screenings and complex gynecologic oncology cases.
Head & Neck Pathology
Our pathologists diagnose both inflammatory and neoplastic conditions affecting the head and neck, including oral and nasal lesions, as well as cancers of the thyroid and salivary glands. They work closely with Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialists and regularly participate in thyroid and head and neck tumor boards to support collaborative treatment planning.
Hematopathology
We provide diagnostic interpretation of bone marrow biopsies and blood-related tissue in the evaluation of hematologic disorders, including leukemia and lymphoma. Diagnostic workups may include flow cytometry, cytogenetics, and molecular studies to help guide treatment and assess prognosis. Our pathologists work hand in hand with hematology-oncology providers to support comprehensive cancer care for each patient.
Renal Pathology
Our team evaluates both native and transplant kidney biopsies using histology, immunofluorescence, and electron microscopy. These specialized evaluations help identify a wide range of glomerular and tubular diseases. We work closely with nephrologists, locally and regionally, to ensure patients receive accurate diagnoses and appropriate treatment guidance.
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