Pathology
Call center
210 618 4000
The IASO Pathology Laboratory is equipped with all the latest technology needed for the proper preparation and performance of routine histological and highly specialized tissue tests. All specimens received, including slides and paraffin blocks, are digitally recorded. The Laboratory is equipped with two workbenches for macroscopic examination of slides with full ventilation system, two closed tissue processors, automatic device for routine and histochemical staining of slides, and an automatic in situ hybridization immunohistochemical device. It also boasts laminar flow cabinets for environmental protection.

The Laboratory employs 8 anatomic pathologists with long experience in specimens that covers the entire range of General Anatomic Pathology, continuous participation in Greek and international conferences, numerous publications in distinguished international journals, and weekly presence at the IASO Oncology Councils.

The Laboratory is also staffed with 7 lab technicians and 2 biologists, who are responsible for performing histochemical and immunohistochemical staining, and in situ hybridization (ISH). The results arising from these techniques, which are performed using positive controls, are decisive for diagnosis, but they also provide information about the prognosis of the disease and assist in determining the best therapeutic approach for the patient. Specifically for breast cancer, it studies the estrogen, progesterone and, at times, androgen receptors, the Ki-67 tumor cell proliferation index, and the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), while the HER2 expression is also examined in stomach cancers and endometrial serous carcinomas. The results from the expression of the markets above contribute decisively in the selection of therapeutic regimens.

Through the immunohistochemical method it also examines the presence of microsatellite instability (MSI) in endometrial and bowel carcinomas, which may also produce indications of a possible abnormal genetic profile. Microsatellite instability may also be studied in all malignant neoplasms and assist in cases of metastatic disease, with the selection of targeted treatment.

The Laboratory also examines the expression of PD-L1 in carcinomas already approved for immunotherapy, using the Dako platform and internationally specified guidelines to assess the positivity of the specimen.

Note that the validity of the Pathology Laboratory results, both in terms of diagnosis and of the quality of the molecular techniques (histochemistry, immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization) is certified every year through an external quality assessment scheme for histopathology diagnosis and histochemistry/immunohistochemistry tests by Labquality Finland.  

A permanent register of slides and paraffin blocks is available for all cases, so that patients may have access to their specimens if the need arises, such as requested review or need for molecular testing to apply newer targeted treatments.