Medical Assistant Certification (MAC) AMCA Practice Exam

What professional is trained to examine tissue samples and perform biopsies?

1. Radiologist

2. Histologist

3. Cytotechnologist

4. Pathologist

The correct answer is: Histologist

The professional trained to examine tissue samples and perform biopsies is a pathologist. Pathologists play a critical role in diagnosing diseases by studying the cellular and tissue structures of biopsies, surgical specimens, and autopsies. They utilize microscopic techniques to evaluate the morphology and characteristics of cells, enabling them to identify any abnormalities or diseases, such as cancer. Histologists, while involved in the preparation and processing of tissue samples for examination, do not typically perform biopsies nor diagnose diseases based on their analysis. Their primary focus is on the microscopic structure of tissues and assisting pathologists by preparing slides from the tissue samples. Cytotechnologists specialize in examining cellular samples, such as those obtained from pap smears, to identify cancer and other diseases. However, their work centers around cellular, not tissue, examination. Radiologists focus on interpreting imaging studies like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs rather than examining tissue directly. Their expertise lies in diagnosing medical conditions based on imaging rather than tissue samples. Understanding the specific roles of these professionals helps clarify why the pathologist is the correct answer, as they possess the necessary training to both perform biopsies and examine tissue samples critically.