Histopathology is microscopic study of tissues which have been removed from the body. This helps in diagnosis, prognosis as well as guiding the clinician in further treatment of the disease. This is a highly specialised process which can be used for both malignant as well as non-malignant conditions.

Cytopathology is microscopic study of tissues at cellular level. It is used in conditions where a basic diagnosis is required to determine whether surgery is to be performed or patient can be managed medically. It is used mainly in investigating ‘lumps’ in thyroid, breast, lymph nodes and soft tissue.