South West London Pathology > What we do > Departments and Services > Departments > Histopathology

Histopathology

The histopathology laboratory deals with biopsies, excisions and resection specimens, as well as frozen sections.

We provide routine histopathological diagnoses using both standard techniques and advanced diagnostics including immunocyto-chemistry and polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Skin cases form our largest histopathology specialty – the melanoma unit based at St George’s Hospital is a regional referral centre and is one of the busiest melanoma units in the UK.

The hub laboratory is a tertiary referral centre for urology and thoracic surgery and a regional centre for the NHS breast screening programme and the NHS bowel cancer screening programme.

We are part of the London Deanery Histopathology Training Scheme for trainee histocytopathologists.

Our specialist services include:

perinatal pathology
neuropathology
uropathology
respiratory pathology
histochemistry
immunocytochemistry
immunofluorescence
immunosuspension
One Step Nucleic Acid amplification (OSNA) for intraoperative analysis of sentinel lymph node in Breast
frozen sections – rapid diagnosis of surgically
removed specimens
MOHS service
molecular pathology tests:
- EGFR
- NRAS
- BRAF
- ALK
- PDL1
- DDISH.

Latest news

September 12, 2024

Meera Mylvaganam: pioneering Advanced Biomedical Scientist reaches new heights with rare diagnostic cytology qualification

Meera Mylvaganam, an Advanced Biomedical Scientist specialising in Cellular Pathology, has recently achieved a significant milestone in her career by earning a rare qualification in diagnostic cytology which allows her to report on malignant exfoliative cytology cases. She is one of only 12 BMSs in the country to hold the qualification. Her journey, which began nearly two decades ago, has been marked by perseverance, dedication, and an unwavering passion for clinical work.

September 9, 2024

Haval Ozgun takes the helm of rapid diagnostics at South West London Pathology

Haval Ozgun has been appointed General Manager for Rapid Diagnostics and POCT at South West London Pathology (SWLP). In this expanded role, he plans to lead SWLP into a new era of innovation and growth by integrating business development with diagnostic services. His vision includes expanding SWLP’s footprint into private hospitals, GP practices, and home-sampling services, all while maintaining high standards of patient care. Haval emphasises leadership through collaboration and aims to guide his team through significant transitions, including the integration of Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals’ POCT services. By fostering strategic partnerships and enhancing rapid diagnostics, Haval is dedicated to improving healthcare accessibility and clinical standards across the region.

September 6, 2024

Morohunkeji Sofuyi-Basi: 26 years of service

In August, Morohunkeji “Keji” Sofuyi-Basi was celebrated at the Gesh25 Hall of Fame awards for her 26 years of dedicated service at St George’s Hospital. Since 1998, Keji has been a key figure in the Microbiology Department at South West London Pathology, demonstrating a deep commitment and passion for her work. Her career, including achievements like a Master’s degree and a role as a Recruitment Inclusion Specialist, showcases her professional growth and resilience, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.

August 22, 2024

Incorrect comment displayed with IgE to mixed fowl feathers allergy test

Since the introduction of the new laboratory IT system on 23 January 2023, the comment being appended to results for IgE to mixed fowl feathers (test code EX71) has been incorrect.