Pathology Services

The pathologists at Stamford Hospital work closely with our colorectal surgeons, oncologic surgeon, gastroenterologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and the geneticist at the Stamford Hospital Colorectal Cancer Registry Program.

Expert Gastrointestinal Pathology Service

Stamford Hospital was the first institution in Connecticut to implement an advanced tissue staining system (the Symphony from Ventana Medical Systems), which assures that each gastrointestinal biopsy is processed in the best possible way to enable the pathologist to make the most accurate diagnosis. We routinely employ immunohistochemistry and special stains using the most advanced technology to evaluate gastrointestinal tract biopsy samples. These advanced laboratory technology platforms enable us to make the most accurate and timely diagnosis.

Molecular Pathology

Because our colorectal surgeons, oncologic surgeons, medical oncologists and medical geneticists all participate in the Colorectal Cancer Registry Program, we are sensitive to the genetic conditions and pathologic features which predispose a patient to developing colorectal cancer. Our molecular pathologist, Bo Xu, MD, Ph.D, FCAP (one of only a handful of molecular pathologists in this state) evaluates adenomatous polyps and colorectal cancers for the genetic abnormalities which underline many forms of hereditary and non-hereditary colon cancers. Microsatelite instability testing and evaluation of mismatch repair proteins are routinely performed by Dr. Xu.

Tumor Classification

The Stamford Hospital Department of Pathology has an extensive antibody library and advanced immunostaining platform used in the classification of intestinal malignancies. Immunohistochemistry is used not only to classify the various types of intestinal tumors, but is now used to identify targets for chemotherapy. For instance, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are classified on the basis of the expression of C-kit. In addition, expression of C-kit indicates that the patient will likely benefit from a specific chemotherapy drug (Gleevec). Intestinal lymphomas are evaluated by our hematopathogist, Raymond Baer, MD, FCAP, to assure accurate lymphoma classification and attainment of prognostic tumor information. We work very closely with our medical oncologists and routinely perform Kras testing on colorectal cancers to determine the best chemotherapy options for the patients. Kras mutational analysis is performed by our molecular pathologist, Bo Xu, MD, Ph.D.

Consultation Service

All diagnoses of malignancy made outside the Stamford Hospital System are reviewed by the Department of Pathology at Stamford Hospital. This review assures diagnosis accuracy, fosters patient safety, and allows for best diagnostic and therapeutic decision making.

GI Tumor Board

Our pathologists routinely present pathology in the multidisciplinary GI Tumor Conference held monthly at Stamford Hospital. During this conference, patients are reviewed so that best decisions for their care can be made. This conference is attended by all members of our team and includes colorectal surgeons, oncologic surgeon, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and gastroenterologists.

For more information or to make an appointment please call
1-877-233-WELL (9355).