A pathologist is a physician who specializes in examining tissue samples in order to make a diagnosis. Usually, this means studying the sample through a microscope, although special tests are sometimes performed as well. Your doctor will use our diagnostic report to help determine proper treatment.

Proper handling of a tissue sample (such as a biopsy) begins by placing the sample in a preservative solution called formalin. Once the tissue is preserved adequately, it is processed for several hours and then embedded in a block of paraffin wax. Very thin slices are made from the wax-embedded tissue and placed on glass slides. These are then stained in order to make the microscopic structures visible.

In rare cases, samples will require a different kind of preservative or need to remain fresh for special testing. If this is necessary, we will make arrangements with your doctor in advance to ensure that the specimen is handled properly.

Cytology samples such as Pap tests and fine needle aspirations (FNAs) consist of detached cells (as opposed to intact tissue), and therefore are processed and stained different manner. Cells are either directly transferred to glass slides or concentrated in a liquid before placement on slides, and then stained. See FNA FAQs.

At CoCoPath, our goal is to provide next-day results for the majority of our samples. Occasionally, we will perform special tests on samples, which may require extra time. Completed reports will be delivered to your doctor’s office; please contact them to discuss your results.

You may call our office at 925-270-3575 and arrange a time to pick up your slides and report. You will be asked to present valid identification and sign a release form. If you are seeking a second opinion, we can also arrange to have the slides and report sent directly from our laboratory to your consultant.

Your doctor has selected Contra Costa Pathology Associates (CoCoPath) to process and evaluate the samples which were obtained at your recent appointment or procedure. The fee for pathology services is not included in the invoice you received from your doctor’s office, and is billed separately by us.

We are open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. See Contact Us for more details. Our office staff are always happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.