The evolution of anatomic pathology: new strategies and emerging trends

Science advances both by conceptual leaps and by improved observational and analytic tools. Mechanism and function in biological systems can best be understood in the context of the complex microenvironments in which they occur, and for this purpose morphologic analysis can be critical. The technological advances in cell and tissue imaging described in this book are currently finding application in a wide variety of basic, translational, and clinical biomedical studies. We have chosen some specific approaches that illustrate the various categories of imaging methodologies available. Many other ways of applying modern morphology-based interrogation of cells and tissues have already been described and are continuously evolving. This chapter provides examples of some of these. On the clinical front, radiologists have embraced new imaging technique to a greater extent than have pathologists. This chapter discusses some of the factors responsible for this, and suggests that pathology and radiology are converging towards a more holistic approach to diagnostic imaging.