Our Division specializes in Pulmonary Pathology, which involves examination of biopsy specimens of the lung and pleura, large surgical specimens, and autopsy specimens.
We specialize in the diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma of the pleura, peritoneum, or pericardium and its distinction from other malignancies involving these sites. In addition, we specialize in pneumoconiosis or all types and their distinction from other interstitial diseases that involve the lung parenchyma.
The division is internationally recognized for its research and expertise in asbestos-related diseases. We perform lung fiber burden analyses for types and amounts of asbestos fibers, which provide useful information regarding causation of disease. The methodology used for this analysis is a JEOL JSM scanning electron microscope equipped with a 4pi energy dispersive spectrometer and analyzer and a Robinson backscattered electron detector. This technology is also useful for identifying other particulate material within lung samples, including silica, various silicates (including talc), beryllium and other metals, calcium salts, silicone, and microcrystalline cellulose.
