[Further training to become a specialist in pathology in the GDR]

Pathology in the GDR was firmly rooted in the tradition of German pathology. Further training imparted sound morphological knowledge. Until the late 1970s, it was primarily autopsy pathology. Scientific relations with the West-with centers where the discipline was developing dynamically-were severely hampered for political reasons; normal conference attendance was reserved for a few selected cadres. The inefficiency of the planned economy led to increasing material bottlenecks. GDR pathology had become a relic by the end of the GDR regime.