Anatomic pathology is the branch of veterinary pathology focused on the diagnosis of disease through the examination of organs, tissues, and lesions. This includes both gross (macroscopic) and histologic (microscopic) evaluations, often supported by ancillary testing such as immunohistochemistry, special stains, molecular diagnostics, and biochemical assays. Anatomic pathology services are essential for confirming clinical diagnoses, investigating causes of morbidity and mortality, and supporting herd health and case management decisions.
Anatomic Pathology Services
Our board-certified pathologists offer comprehensive diagnostic services, including:
Gross Pathology
Gross pathology involves the visual examination of tissues and organs with the naked eye. This step is particularly important for identifying significant structural changes such as abnormal tissue location, intussusception, necrosis, or lesions suggestive of infectious disease. During gross examination, the pathologist also selects representative areas for further processing and microscopic evaluation.
Histopathology
Histopathology is the microscopic evaluation of tissue sections stained using standard histological techniques. The routine stain used is hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), which allows for detailed assessment of tissue architecture and cellular morphology. Additional special stains can be employed to highlight specific tissue components or to aid in the identification of fungi, bacteria, and other infectious organisms. Morphologic diagnosis using H&E-stained sections is considered the foundational skill of anatomic pathology.
Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
Immunohistochemistry uses targeted antibodies to detect specific proteins or viral antigens within tissue sections. IHC is particularly useful for distinguishing between morphologically similar conditions, identifying infectious agents, and characterizing neoplastic processes at the molecular level. This technique adds diagnostic precision in complex or ambiguous cases and supports a more accurate prognosis and treatment planning.
Biopsy and Necropsy Services
Biopsy Services
Our biopsy service provides detailed histopathologic evaluation of tissue samples to aid in the diagnosis of neoplastic, inflammatory, infectious, and degenerative conditions. Submissions are processed promptly, with routine H&E staining, along with up to two special stains or immunohistochemistry (IHC) at no additional charge, as deemed appropriate by the pathologist. Additional stains or IHC can be performed for additional fees. Clear, clinically relevant pathology reports are provided to support effective case management and client communication.
Biopsy Pricing
Pricing includes histopathologic evaluation with H&E staining, plus up to two special stains or immunohistochemistry (IHC) per case at no additional charge. Additional stains or IHC may be performed for an added fee.
Necropsy Services
We offer comprehensive necropsy services for a wide range of species to determine cause of death and support herd, flock, or individual patient health management. Examinations include gross and histopathologic evaluation, with additional testing available as needed. For full details, including submission guidelines and pricing, please view our Necropsy Ordering Guide.
For the Anatomic Pathology flyer, click here:
For after-hours necropsy assistance, please call
217-333-1620 and select option #1 to speak with the On-Call Pathologist.
