Macroscopic Examination of Biopsy Tissue

ABSTRACT

Gross tissue evaluation of a pathology specimen forms an indispensable but often neglected component for complete pathologic evaluation along with microscopic examination. Macroscopic features are helpful in the differential diagnosis of various cases, which are of challenge. The gross features of the surgical specimen have to be properly examined and documented at the initial setup because once the specimen is dissected and taken for processing it is unsuitable for gross examination. Therefore, the gross or the macroscopic description remains the only document later which can provide an important clue for diagnosis. The purpose of this present article is to provide adequate insight into the gross examination and description of the surgical specimen and to review the macroscopic features of various pathologies.