What does pathology primarily involve?

Pathology primarily involves tests for diagnosing medical conditions. This medical specialty focuses on understanding diseases through the examination of tissues, organs, bodily fluids, and autopsies. Pathologists often conduct laboratory tests such as biopsies, blood tests, or imaging studies to identify disease processes and understand their impact on the body. Through these diagnostic tests, they provide essential information that guides treatment decisions and helps assess prognosis.

The other choices pertain to different aspects of healthcare. Physical therapy primarily focuses on rehabilitation and improving movement, surgery deals with operating on patients to treat conditions, and psychological assessments involve evaluating mental health and psychological well-being. None of these fields specifically center on the diagnostic tests that are the core of pathology. This distinctive focus on diagnosis through various forms of testing makes pathology crucial in the overall healthcare system.