Gross pathology refers to

macroscopic The macroscopic scale is the length scale on which objects or phenomena are large enough to be visible with the naked eye, without magnifying optical instruments. It is the opposite of microscopic. Overview When applied to physical phenome ...

manifestations of

disease A disease is a particular abnormal condition that adversely affects the structure or function (biology), function of all or part of an organism and is not immediately due to any external injury. Diseases are often known to be medical condi ...

in organs, tissues, and

body cavities A body cavity is any space or compartment, or potential space, in an animal body. Cavities accommodate organs and other structures; cavities as potential spaces contain fluid. The two largest human body cavities are the ventral body cavity, a ...

. The term is commonly used by anatomical pathologists to refer to diagnostically useful findings made during the

gross examination Gross processing, "grossing" or "gross pathology" is the process by which pathology specimens undergo examination with the bare eye to obtain diagnosis, diagnostic information, as well as cutting and tissue sampling in order to prepare material fo ...

portion of surgical specimen processing or an

autopsy An autopsy (also referred to as post-mortem examination, obduction, necropsy, or autopsia cadaverum) is a surgical procedure that consists of a thorough examination of a corpse by dissection to determine the cause, mode, and manner of deat ...

. In the intricate process of anatomical pathology, the grossing stage plays a pivotal role. It is vital to systematically explain the gross appearance of a pathological state, for example, a malignant tumor, noting the site, size, shape, consistency, presence of a capsule and appearance on cut section whether well circumscribed or diffusely infiltrating, homogeneous or variegated, cystic, necrotic, hemorrhagic areas, as well as papillary projections. Therefore, upon receipt of a specimen, pathologists meticulously document its characteristics. They note the specimen's dimensions, hue, texture, and any distinctive features that stand out. This careful observation lays the groundwork for the subsequent steps. Following this, the tissue is delicately sectioned and securely placed into cassettes, each identified by a unique barcode. This systematic approach ensures precision and

traceability Traceability is the capability to trace something. In some cases, it is interpreted as the ability to verify the history, location, or application of an item by means of documented recorded identification. Other common definitions include the capa ...

, hallmarks of the highest standards in

pathology Pathology is the study of disease. The word ''pathology'' also refers to the study of disease in general, incorporating a wide range of biology research fields and medical practices. However, when used in the context of modern medical treatme ...

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