Histopathology of Infectious Diseases: a Practical Approach to Slide Examination and Interpretation: Part I of II

Abstract

The definitive diagnosis of infections requires a multidisciplinary approach that integrates clinical assessment, imaging studies, and microbiologic studies. Histopathology and cytopathology are well-recognized diagnostic modalities that allow visualization, not only of infectious agents, but of the host response to an infection. These preparations allow rapid and direct examination of patient specimens and can help establish a diagnosis of infection and guide patient management. Anatomic pathologists and microbiologists play an important role in the interpretation of findings in histopathology and cytopathology, and their collaborations can enhance the utility of these diagnostic tools. Identification of unique morphologic features of infectious agents in tissue and other patient specimens and understanding the pathophysiology of infections and the tissue reaction they elicit are important skills. Familiarity with available ancillary stains and tests that can be employed for tissue and specimen examination is also important for a complete diagnostic evaluation. Part I of this two-part article provides and overview of the approach to examination of histopathologic and cytopathologic sections, and bacterial infections.