Christening the Anatomic Pathology Service in Nigeria: A Follow Up

Abstract

Background: The names that have been used for asystem offering histopathology, cytopathology, andautopsy services vary and include anatomicpathology, histopathology, morbid anatomy, andpathology. In 2016, we recommended the label'Anatomic Pathology' as the most appropriate name.This study aims to review the impact of ouradvocacy on the nomenclature of the discipline ofanatomic pathology government tertiaryinstitutions across Nigeria from 2016 to 2024. Methodology: In June 2024, we collated the namesgiven to the pathology departments that undertakethe services of histology, cytology, and autopsy aswas done in 2016. The data was analysed using theIBM SPSS (International Business MachinesCorporation, Statistical Product and ServiceSolutions) version 2022. The data obtained in 2024was compared with that of 2016 using chi squaretest. Results: Histopathology was the terminology usedby the highest number of institutions in both 2016(13; 40.6%) and 2024 (31; 50.0%). The mostimproved nomenclature was Anatomic Pathology,growing from 5(15.6%) to 19(30.6%) institutionsrespectively in 2016 and 2024. Anatomic Pathologywas the least favoured nomenclature in 2016 and thesecond most favoured in 2024. There was howeverno statistical significance of this change in the use ofthis terminology across geopolitical regions(anatomic pathology p = 0.734, histopathology p =0.503, morbid anatomy p = 0.545, and pathology p =0.686) or the years under study (p = 0.078). Conclusion: The advocacy for the use of 'AnatomicPathology' as the proper term for the laboratoriesoffering cytopathology, histopathology, and autopsyis a step in the right direction. This designation inaddition to being representative offers an expansionroom for accommodating the ever-dynamic field ofsurgical pathology in tandem with advancements inthe modern era.