Pathology labs throw open doors to public

PATHOLOGY labs at Leicester Royal Infirmary are going public to show people just what goes on amid the microscopes and test tubes.

The hospital is running the open event on Saturday September 9 from 1pm to 4pm.

The aim is to offer an insight into the science behind diagnosing and monitoring diseases from routine blood tests right through to DNA testing as well as potentially inspiring pathology as a career choice.

Pathology tests play a vital role in about 80% of medical diagnoses and help to inform many of the decisions made by doctors and other healthcare staff in deciding on patient care and treatment options.

More than 800 people work in the pathology laboratories at the LRI and the sister department at Queens Medical Centre in Nottingham.

Dr Angus McGregor, clinical director for empath, the NHS pathology service for the two hospitals, said: “We want to give patients and the public an insight into what happens to their blood and tissue samples behind the scenes in pathology.

“Our scientific, technical and clinical staff play a vital role in helping to diagnose and monitor diseases but this work isn’t something that people can see every day.”

During the day people will get to see a mini crime scene analysis demonstration, learn why post mortems are needed and what happens during the process and take part in interactive sessions on the diagnosis of malaria and anaemia.

Places for the open day need to be booked in advance online at https://inside-pathology-leicester.eventbrite.co.uk. Visitors must be 16 or over.