Pathology as a course focuses on the study of diseases, their causes, mechanisms, development, and effects on the body. It is a fundamental discipline in medical and health sciences, providing essential knowledge for diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. The course integrates basic sciences like anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry with clinical medicine, helping students understand how normal bodily functions are disrupted by disease processes.  

Students learn about various disease categories, including infectious, genetic, autoimmune, and neoplastic disorders. The course covers structural and functional changes at the molecular, cellular, and organ levels, emphasizing the role of inflammation, injury, and repair in disease progression. It also explores laboratory techniques and diagnostic tools, such as histopathology, cytology, and molecular pathology, which are critical for identifying diseases and guiding treatment decisions.  

Pathology is divided into general and systemic pathology. General pathology deals with fundamental disease mechanisms applicable to all body systems, while systemic pathology examines specific diseases affecting particular organs. The course often includes practical sessions involving microscopic examination of tissue samples, autopsies, and case studies to develop diagnostic skills.  

Understanding pathology is crucial for healthcare professionals, as it forms the basis for clinical decision-making and patient management. It bridges the gap between basic medical sciences and clinical practice, allowing students to recognize symptoms, interpret laboratory findings, and correlate pathological findings with clinical conditions. The course is dynamic and continuously evolving with advancements in medical research and technology, making it a vital field in modern medicine.