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The procedure at the Clínic

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The Pathological Anatomy Department is part of the Biomedical Diagnostic Centre (CDB) at the Clínic Barcelona hospital. It consists of a head of service and more than 100 professionals, including specialists in pathological anatomy and haematology, biologists, biochemists, pathological anatomy and laboratory technicians, cytotechnicians and administrative staff. In addition, it has doctors in MIR training and specialists with an “Emili Letang-Josep Font” or “Clínic-La Pedrera” contract to develop a clinical research project.

The department is structured into four sections:

Digestive, Thoracic and Metabolic Pathology
Medical-Surgical Pathology, Dermatopathology, Nephropathology and Neuropathology
Genitourinary Pathology
Perinatal and Haematopathology

In addition, it is supported by six interdisciplinary technological platforms and two specific support areas, including a highly automated pre-analysis section and technological support for the CORE Molecular Biology laboratory.

The Service also has strategic collaborations with other units and professionals; thus ensuring a high level of quality and integration in diagnosis, using the latest technological advances to provide personalised, accurate diagnoses.

Biopsy at the Clínic

Biopsies are essential for accurate diagnoses in patients with various suspected diseases, such as cancer, infections and inflammatory disorders.

A specific diagnostic circuit is followed at the Clínic Barcelona hospital to guarantee personalised treatment appropriate for each patient.

The most appropriate biopsy type is decided after an initial medical consultation: e.g., fine needle, core needle or a surgical biopsy, depending on the area affected. These tissue or cell samples are analysed with the most advanced techniques to obtain an accurate diagnosis.

The techniques used in the diagnostic process are:

Histochemical:
- Using special stains to analyse cells and tissues.
- Certain types of cells and changes in tissues can be seen with this technique.
Immunohistochemical:
- Using antibodies that bind to specific proteins in cells.
- They help to identify cells with specific features.
Electron microscopy:
- A very powerful microscope is used to observe structures at a molecular level.
- Ideal for observing very small details within cells.
Molecular techniques:
- For DNA and RNA analysis of cells.
- They can identify genetic mutations or other molecular features of the disease.

Each of these techniques provides additional information for more precise and personalised diagnosis and treatment.

The Clínic also offers specialised monitoring for complex patients or those with difficult diagnoses; thus ensuring stricter management and a better quality of life for patients.

To find out what happens to your sample after the biopsy has been performed, click on the link.