About this service
Histology is the microscopic examination of tissue removed during a biopsy or minor-surgery procedure. It can help confirm what a lesion is and whether any further management is required.
Minor Surgery
Histology & Pathology
Laboratory examination of removed tissue when clinically advised.
What the pathway covers
- Secure preparation and submission of the specimen to a laboratory
- A pathology report describing the examined tissue
- Communication of the result and any recommended next step
Before your appointment
- Confirm whether histology is included or charged separately from the procedure
- Ask when and how the result will be provided
- Keep contact details current in case follow-up is needed
What is histology?
Histology is the microscopic examination of tissue removed during a biopsy or skin procedure. It can help confirm what a lesion is, distinguish between conditions that look similar and determine whether further assessment or treatment is required. Sending tissue to a laboratory is separate from the procedure used to obtain it.
The pathology request includes relevant clinical information and the site of the sample. A specialist examines prepared sections of tissue and issues a report to the requesting clinician. Occasionally, additional laboratory work or clinical correlation is needed before a final interpretation can be made.
Results and possible next steps
Turnaround time varies with the specimen and laboratory. Before your procedure, ask whether histology is included in the quoted price and how the result will be delivered. A report may confirm that no further action is required, recommend monitoring, or lead to another appointment, wider removal or specialist referral.
- Keep your contact details current with the clinic
- Attend any result or wound-review appointment arranged
- Contact the clinic if the stated result timeframe passes without an update
Important to know
Turnaround time is controlled by the laboratory and can vary. Some results require specialist referral or further treatment.
Next step
Ask about Histology & Pathology.
Tell the team you are enquiring about Histology & Pathology so they can direct you to the correct appointment.