ABSTRACT
In the UK, the nature of the histopathologist’s work has changed since the 1960s. There has been a steady increase in biopsy numbers, partly as a result of flexible endoscopy. Many resection specimens are assessed with management and prognosis in mind, the diagnosis having been made preoperatively. Screening programmes have had a major impact. New techniques have improved the quality and value of histopathological assessment, while autopsies have steadily decreased in number.
