What is the purpose of a gross examination in histopathology?

The purpose of a gross examination in histopathology is primarily to evaluate the macroscale features of the tissue before any microscopic analysis is performed. During this phase, pathologists systematically assess the size, shape, color, texture, and morphology of tissues and organs. This initial inspection provides critical insights that guide subsequent sampling and detailed microscopic examination.

Identifying any gross abnormalities, such as tumors, cysts, or other structural changes, is essential in forming an initial diagnosis and shaping the histological evaluation strategy. The findings from the gross examination often inform the pathologist about areas of interest when they prepare tissue sections for microscopic assessment. Thus, the gross examination plays a crucial role in the overall diagnostic process in histopathology.