Understanding pathologists (an exercise in communication): 1. Understanding pathology.

Pathology is a discipline that is often approached with some reserve by nonpathologists. In this four-part series the author aims to 'demystify' the subject. The objective of this first article is to improve understanding of the purposes, limitations and methodology of pathology. In essence the role of the diagnostic histopathologist is to help the clinician help the patient. If, in the request for help, the clinician states clearly why a histological examination is required and gives a relevant history, the pathologist finds it much easier to return a useful report. The subsequent three articles in this series will look in some detail at biopsy techniques, the pathologist's report and special laboratory investigations.