Which provider determines if biopsied tissue is cancer?

• A. Radiologist
• B. Oncologist
• C. Pathologist
• D. Genetic counselor

Answer: (C)

Pathologists determine whether the biopsied tissue is cancer. They are physicians who specialize in diagnosing disease by examining tissue, cells, and fluids under the microscope and with lab tests. After a biopsy, the specimen is sent to pathology, where the pathologist assesses cell and tissue architecture, cytology, and uses special stains or molecular tests as needed. This analysis confirms the presence or absence of malignancy, identifies cancer type, and provides information on grade and margins to guide treatment. Radiologists interpret imaging and may guide where to biopsies, but they do not establish cancer from the tissue. Oncologists treat cancer based on pathology results, and genetic counselors assess hereditary risk.