Gross pathology

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Gross pathology, also simply gross, refers to the macroscopic pathology, and the macroscopic assessment of pathology specimens. It may include preparation of tissue for a microscopic examination. It is an essential part of pathologic assessments.

A kidney tumour (renal oncocytoma) at the time of grossing.

The process of cutting up specimens is known as grossing (North American term), cut-up or macroscopic cut-up (Australian term).

Specimen opening

Usually referred to simply as opening.
May go by the term freshing.
  • The first part of a gross pathologic assessment.

Components

  1. Orient the specimen.
  2. Paint with ink - if applicable.
    • A good general rule is: ink before you think.
  3. Cut open for fixation - if not immediately blocked.
  4. +/-Weigh.
  5. +/-Insert paper towels in the cuts (book marking) for fixation.

Gross only

Which specimens are "gross only" typically depends on institutional policy.[1]

Common gross only specimens

Gross pathology spot diagnoses

See also

References

  1. Zarbo, RJ.; Nakhleh, RE. (Feb 1999). "Surgical pathology specimens for gross examination only and exempt from submission: a College of American Pathologists Q-Probes study of current policies in 413 institutions.". Arch Pathol Lab Med 123 (2): 133-9. doi:10.1043/0003-9985(1999)1230133:SPSFGE2.0.CO;2. PMID 10050786.

External links