Pathologist denies mistaken mastectomy was her fault
July 27 2010
A Windsor pathologist has filed a statement of defence denying that she was responsible for a misdiagnosis of cancer that led to a woman having her breast unnecessarily removed. Globe and Mail report.
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July 27 2010
A Windsor pathologist has filed a statement of defence denying that she was responsible for a misdiagnosis of cancer that led to a woman having her breast unnecessarily removed. Globe and Mail report.
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Windsor hospital blames diagnostic slip-ups on pathologist’s cataracts
July 26 2010
A pathologist made a series of diagnostic errors at a hospital in Windsor, Ontario, due in part to cataracts that blurred her vision, says an internal report released through a Freedom of Information request. Globe and Mail report.
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July 26 2010
A pathologist made a series of diagnostic errors at a hospital in Windsor, Ontario, due in part to cataracts that blurred her vision, says an internal report released through a Freedom of Information request. Globe and Mail report.
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Windsor pathologist sued over diagnostic errors
July 26 2010
The estate of a Windsor, Ontario, woman is suing a local pathologist, alleging she made diagnostic errors and seeking damages of $30 million on behalf of herself and other people hurt by the doctor's mistakes. CNC News coverage.
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July 26 2010
The estate of a Windsor, Ontario, woman is suing a local pathologist, alleging she made diagnostic errors and seeking damages of $30 million on behalf of herself and other people hurt by the doctor's mistakes. CNC News coverage.
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Windsor pathologist's vision partly to blame for diagnostic errors, unnecessary operations
July 26 2010
A pathologist at Hotel-Dieu Grace Hospital in Windsor, ON made a series of errors that resulted in at least two patients undergoing unnecessary operations, including a colostomy and lumpectomy, The Globe and Mail is reporting. The newspaper, citing an internal report released through a Freedom of Information request, stated that Dr. Olive Williams’ diagnostic errors were partly due to cataracts that blurred her vision. Windsor Star report.
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July 26 2010
A pathologist at Hotel-Dieu Grace Hospital in Windsor, ON made a series of errors that resulted in at least two patients undergoing unnecessary operations, including a colostomy and lumpectomy, The Globe and Mail is reporting. The newspaper, citing an internal report released through a Freedom of Information request, stated that Dr. Olive Williams’ diagnostic errors were partly due to cataracts that blurred her vision. Windsor Star report.
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Queen’s professor calls for review of pathologist’s work
July 25 2010
A Queen’s University law professor, whose skin cancer was misdiagnosed three years ago by a Toronto pathologist, wants the retired doctor’s work reviewed by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. Ottawa Citizen story.
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July 25 2010
A Queen’s University law professor, whose skin cancer was misdiagnosed three years ago by a Toronto pathologist, wants the retired doctor’s work reviewed by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. Ottawa Citizen story.
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Pathologist facing a "fitness to practise" hearing
July 22 2010
The pathologist at the heart of a decision not to prosecute over the death of a man at the 2009 G20 protests in the City of London is under investigation by the General Medical Council. BBC report.
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July 22 2010
The pathologist at the heart of a decision not to prosecute over the death of a man at the 2009 G20 protests in the City of London is under investigation by the General Medical Council. BBC report.
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Manitoba probes mix-up of breast biopsies
July 20 2010
One woman had an unnecessary lumpectomy while another woman's breast cancer treatment was delayed for 10 weeks after their biopsies from the Winnipeg's Breast Health Centre were accidentally switched. Officials from the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority and Diagnostic Services Manitoba announced Monday the mix-up has been declared a critical incident, and review teams are investigating. CanWest News story.
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July 20 2010
One woman had an unnecessary lumpectomy while another woman's breast cancer treatment was delayed for 10 weeks after their biopsies from the Winnipeg's Breast Health Centre were accidentally switched. Officials from the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority and Diagnostic Services Manitoba announced Monday the mix-up has been declared a critical incident, and review teams are investigating. CanWest News story.
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Doubt About Pathology Opinions for Early Breast Cancer
July 20 2010
Due to outright error and case-by-case disagreement between pathologists, breast biopsies can lead to unnecessary surgery. New York Times story.
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July 20 2010
Due to outright error and case-by-case disagreement between pathologists, breast biopsies can lead to unnecessary surgery. New York Times story.
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Breast cancer specimen mix-up admitted
July 20 2010
One woman had an unnecessary lumpectomy while another woman's breast cancer treatment was delayed for 10 weeks after their biopsies from the Breast Health Centre in Winnipeg, MB were accidentally switched. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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July 20 2010
One woman had an unnecessary lumpectomy while another woman's breast cancer treatment was delayed for 10 weeks after their biopsies from the Breast Health Centre in Winnipeg, MB were accidentally switched. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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Testing for Lung Cancer Genes
July 19 2010
Pathology labs play a key role in testing biopsy specimens for the presence of genes and mutations known to be involved in prediction and prognosis of lung cancer. New York Times story.
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July 19 2010
Pathology labs play a key role in testing biopsy specimens for the presence of genes and mutations known to be involved in prediction and prognosis of lung cancer. New York Times story.
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Forensic scientists give dead their names
July 17 2010
The forensic investigators in the laboratories of the pathology department at the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg, MB have a near-perfect record rate at identifying victims. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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July 17 2010
The forensic investigators in the laboratories of the pathology department at the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg, MB have a near-perfect record rate at identifying victims. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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Autopsy: insecticide killed top Romanian singer
July 15 2010
A pathologist says the popular Romanian singer Madalina Manole caused her own death by drinking nearly a pint (nearly half a liter) of insecticide. Associated Press story.
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July 15 2010
A pathologist says the popular Romanian singer Madalina Manole caused her own death by drinking nearly a pint (nearly half a liter) of insecticide. Associated Press story.
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Autopsies in Gulf Reveal Only a Mystery
July 14 2010
The vast majority of the dead animals that have been found in the Gulf of Mexico’s ongoing “unusual mortality event” — 1,387 birds, 444 turtles, 53 dolphins and one sperm whale — show no visible signs of oil contamination. New York Times article.
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July 14 2010
The vast majority of the dead animals that have been found in the Gulf of Mexico’s ongoing “unusual mortality event” — 1,387 birds, 444 turtles, 53 dolphins and one sperm whale — show no visible signs of oil contamination. New York Times article.
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Windsor waits for McLellan report on pathology errors
June 30 2010
The review team appointed by the Ontario Ministry of Health to investigate surgical and pathology errors in Windsor has been granted a one-month extension to prepare a highly anticipated report. Windor Star report.
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June 30 2010
The review team appointed by the Ontario Ministry of Health to investigate surgical and pathology errors in Windsor has been granted a one-month extension to prepare a highly anticipated report. Windor Star report.
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Researchers say Bengals' Henry died with brain injury
June 28 2010
Doctors’ analysis of tissue showed NFL receiver suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy despite never being diagnosed with a concussion during his playing career. Globe and Mail story.
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June 28 2010
Doctors’ analysis of tissue showed NFL receiver suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy despite never being diagnosed with a concussion during his playing career. Globe and Mail story.
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Disgraced pathologist loses top N.B. court ruling
June 24 2010
A New Brunswick Court of Appeal judge has rejected a legal challenge by disgraced pathologist Dr. Rajgopal Menon to block a class-action suit brought against him by former patients. CBC News story.
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June 24 2010
A New Brunswick Court of Appeal judge has rejected a legal challenge by disgraced pathologist Dr. Rajgopal Menon to block a class-action suit brought against him by former patients. CBC News story.
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Hospice Patients Aid in Research
June 23 2010
Description of neuropathology involvment in an Alzheimer disease study. New York Times story.
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June 23 2010
Description of neuropathology involvment in an Alzheimer disease study. New York Times story.
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Manitoba laboratories do poorly in inspection
June 03 2010
The College of Physician and Surgeons of Manitoba's latest lab inspection report reveals that 85% of Manitoba labs inspected between 2008 and 2009 fell below provincial standards, raising concerns they aren't able to meet expectations amid increased workloads and staff shortages. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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June 03 2010
The College of Physician and Surgeons of Manitoba's latest lab inspection report reveals that 85% of Manitoba labs inspected between 2008 and 2009 fell below provincial standards, raising concerns they aren't able to meet expectations amid increased workloads and staff shortages. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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Toronto pathologist and computer-science professor killed in Alaska avalanche
June 01 2010
Dr. Andrew Herzenberg, 39, a nephropathologist with the University Health Network, and Prof. Avner Magen, 42, a University of Toronto computer-science professor, were killed in an avalanche that swept through Denali National Park north of Anchorage, AK on May 29, 2010, park officials said. Globa and Mail article.
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June 01 2010
Dr. Andrew Herzenberg, 39, a nephropathologist with the University Health Network, and Prof. Avner Magen, 42, a University of Toronto computer-science professor, were killed in an avalanche that swept through Denali National Park north of Anchorage, AK on May 29, 2010, park officials said. Globa and Mail article.
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Death of 'brilliant' doctor mourned
June 01 2010
The shocking death of Dr. Andrew Herzenberg, a Windsor-raised kidney pathologist in an avalanche last weekend has left family and colleagues devastated — mourning the loss of a brilliant mind, an exceptional contributor to society and a beloved individual. Windsor Star article.
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June 01 2010
The shocking death of Dr. Andrew Herzenberg, a Windsor-raised kidney pathologist in an avalanche last weekend has left family and colleagues devastated — mourning the loss of a brilliant mind, an exceptional contributor to society and a beloved individual. Windsor Star article.
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Mastectomy error didn't upset patient: surgeon
May 31 2010
A Windsor, Ont., surgeon who misread a pathology report and mistakenly removed a woman's breast believing it was cancerous, alleges her patient was not upset to discover the error — and even wanted her other breast removed just in case. CBC News report.
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May 31 2010
A Windsor, Ont., surgeon who misread a pathology report and mistakenly removed a woman's breast believing it was cancerous, alleges her patient was not upset to discover the error — and even wanted her other breast removed just in case. CBC News report.
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Virtopsy: A radical new approach to forensic pathology
May 31 2010
Virtual cadavers, needle-wielding robots – and not a scalpel in sight. Meet the research team behind the 'virtopsy', a radical new approach to forensic pathology. Independent report.
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May 31 2010
Virtual cadavers, needle-wielding robots – and not a scalpel in sight. Meet the research team behind the 'virtopsy', a radical new approach to forensic pathology. Independent report.
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Students undaunted by virtual autopsy
May 27 2010
Videoconference technology allows high school students to experience a post-mortem examination performed half a continent away.
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May 27 2010
Videoconference technology allows high school students to experience a post-mortem examination performed half a continent away.
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Mom's suit over dead son's heart is tossed
May 26 2010
A court rules that the mother of a man who died of heart failure has no right to sue the San Mateo County medical examiner for keeping his heart for several weeks to study the cause of death.
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May 26 2010
A court rules that the mother of a man who died of heart failure has no right to sue the San Mateo County medical examiner for keeping his heart for several weeks to study the cause of death.
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Frederick Jaffe (1920 - 2009)
May 19 2010
Obituary for Canadian hospital and forensic pathologist.
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May 19 2010
Obituary for Canadian hospital and forensic pathologist.
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Patient samples wrongly labeled
May 10 2010
More than 100 patient specimens in the pathology laboratory at the Royal Preston Hospital have been incorrectly labelled within the past 12 months. BBC report.
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May 10 2010
More than 100 patient specimens in the pathology laboratory at the Royal Preston Hospital have been incorrectly labelled within the past 12 months. BBC report.
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Quebec woman sues hospital over cancer test
May 07 2010
A Quebec woman is suing a hospital for $760,000 for failing to tell her she tested positive for cervical cancer a year and a half ago. CBC News story.
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May 07 2010
A Quebec woman is suing a hospital for $760,000 for failing to tell her she tested positive for cervical cancer a year and a half ago. CBC News story.
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Coventry cancer jab girl died of 'natural causes'
April 30 2010
A girl who died hours after receiving a cervical cancer vaccination had an undiagnosed tumour in her heart. BBC News report.
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April 30 2010
A girl who died hours after receiving a cervical cancer vaccination had an undiagnosed tumour in her heart. BBC News report.
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Test tackles deadly disease
April 03 2010
The HPV FOCAL Study, overseen by the B.C. Cancer Agency, tests for high-risk strains of the sexually transmitted human papilloma virus that are responsible for 97 to 99 per cent of cancers of the cervix. CanWest News story.
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April 03 2010
The HPV FOCAL Study, overseen by the B.C. Cancer Agency, tests for high-risk strains of the sexually transmitted human papilloma virus that are responsible for 97 to 99 per cent of cancers of the cervix. CanWest News story.
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Most cancer testing inquiry changes made: N.L.
March 24 2010
The Newfoundland and Labrador government says many of the recommendations from a searing inquiry into breast cancer testing have been implemented. CBC News story.
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March 24 2010
The Newfoundland and Labrador government says many of the recommendations from a searing inquiry into breast cancer testing have been implemented. CBC News story.
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Kelowna breast cancer test review published
March 22 2010
An internal review by Interior Health officials and the B.C. Cancer Agency found no problems with Kelowna breast cancer testing, almost a year after the resignation of a chief pathologist over ‘jaw-dropping practices' and possible errors. Globe and Mail story.
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March 22 2010
An internal review by Interior Health officials and the B.C. Cancer Agency found no problems with Kelowna breast cancer testing, almost a year after the resignation of a chief pathologist over ‘jaw-dropping practices' and possible errors. Globe and Mail story.
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NB pathology reforms lacking
March 20 2010
New Brunswick government is criticized for not implementing enough of the recommendations from a 2008 public inquiry into pathology services at a Miramichi hospital. CBC News story.
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March 20 2010
New Brunswick government is criticized for not implementing enough of the recommendations from a 2008 public inquiry into pathology services at a Miramichi hospital. CBC News story.
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Pathology dispute affecting patient care
March 20 2010
A widening dispute between Newfoundland and Labrador's largest health authority and its doctors is having an impact on patients, an official says. CBC News story.
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March 20 2010
A widening dispute between Newfoundland and Labrador's largest health authority and its doctors is having an impact on patients, an official says. CBC News story.
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Premier Williams lashes out at N.L. pathologists
March 17 2010
Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Danny Williams has waded into a war of words between the province's doctors and his health minister. CBC News story.
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March 17 2010
Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Danny Williams has waded into a war of words between the province's doctors and his health minister. CBC News story.
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N.L. doctors want rhetoric toned down
March 16 2010
Newfoundland and Labrador's doctors say the health minister used inflammatory language when he said the province's pathologists were acting like children. CBC News story.
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March 16 2010
Newfoundland and Labrador's doctors say the health minister used inflammatory language when he said the province's pathologists were acting like children. CBC News story.
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'Betrayed' by Eastern Health, pathologists say
March 16 2010
Pathologists who reported dire problems at Newfoundland and Labrador's largest health authority say that Eastern Health is now using their own complaints against them. CBC News story.
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March 16 2010
Pathologists who reported dire problems at Newfoundland and Labrador's largest health authority say that Eastern Health is now using their own complaints against them. CBC News story.
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Forensic science simulator opened by Bernard Knight
March 16 2010
A forensic science simulator where crime scenes can be 'mocked up' is to be opened by Wales' best known forensic pathologist, Professor Bernard Knight. The University of Glamorgan simulator, which resembles an ordinary house, lets students recreate CSI-style complex forensic scenarios. BBC report.
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March 16 2010
A forensic science simulator where crime scenes can be 'mocked up' is to be opened by Wales' best known forensic pathologist, Professor Bernard Knight. The University of Glamorgan simulator, which resembles an ordinary house, lets students recreate CSI-style complex forensic scenarios. BBC report.
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Toxic conditions cited in Eastern Health lab review
March 15 2010
The lab at Newfoundland and Labrador's largest health authority is plagued by intimidated staff, a toxic working environment and distrust between colleagues, an external review has found. CBC News report.
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March 15 2010
The lab at Newfoundland and Labrador's largest health authority is plagued by intimidated staff, a toxic working environment and distrust between colleagues, an external review has found. CBC News report.
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Newfoundland Association of Pathologists supports Dr. Denic
March 15 2010
Newfoundland Association of Pathologists president Dr. Barry Gallagher's letter supporting Dr. Nash Denic.
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March 15 2010
Newfoundland Association of Pathologists president Dr. Barry Gallagher's letter supporting Dr. Nash Denic.
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Lab chief had to go: Eastern Health
March 12 2010
The head of the largest health authority in Newfoundland and Labrador insisted Friday that a resigning manager was told to quit or be moved out. CBC News story.
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March 12 2010
The head of the largest health authority in Newfoundland and Labrador insisted Friday that a resigning manager was told to quit or be moved out. CBC News story.
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N.L. lab chief quit over workload, sources say
March 11 2010
The St. John's pathologist who resigned amid a controversy over lab testing at Newfoundland and Labrador's largest health authority wanted to quit three months ago because of an excessive workload. CBC News story.
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March 11 2010
The St. John's pathologist who resigned amid a controversy over lab testing at Newfoundland and Labrador's largest health authority wanted to quit three months ago because of an excessive workload. CBC News story.
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NL health minister puts managers on notice
March 11 2010
Newfoundland and Labrador's health minister has warned health-care managers they could be fired if they fail to live up to new accountability standards. CBC News story.
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March 11 2010
Newfoundland and Labrador's health minister has warned health-care managers they could be fired if they fail to live up to new accountability standards. CBC News story.
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Eastern Health may discipline lab staff
March 10 2010
The head of a St. John's-based health authority plagued by a new set of laboratory mistakes says staff may be disciplined for failing to document problems and alert managers. CBC News story.
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March 10 2010
The head of a St. John's-based health authority plagued by a new set of laboratory mistakes says staff may be disciplined for failing to document problems and alert managers. CBC News story.
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N.L. lab head quits after drug error fiasco
March 10 2010
The head of Laboratory Services at Newfoundland and Labrador's largest health authority, has resigned following a drug-testing fiasco that top health officials say lab officials reacted to too slowly. CBC News story.
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March 10 2010
The head of Laboratory Services at Newfoundland and Labrador's largest health authority, has resigned following a drug-testing fiasco that top health officials say lab officials reacted to too slowly. CBC News story.
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N.L. health authority raises alarm over testing errors
March 09 2010
Newfoundland’s largest health authority says an internal review into testing errors for cyclosporine at its biochemistry lab in St. John’s shows they were not reported to executives in a timely manner. Globe and Mail story.
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March 09 2010
Newfoundland’s largest health authority says an internal review into testing errors for cyclosporine at its biochemistry lab in St. John’s shows they were not reported to executives in a timely manner. Globe and Mail story.
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Doctors damaged by medical errors, experts say
March 08 2010
Medical errors can be traumatic and life-changing for the patients affected -- as in the case of a mistaken mastectomy performed in Windsor, Ont., that recently made headlines -- but they can also leave emotional scars on the doctors who make them. National Post story.
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March 08 2010
Medical errors can be traumatic and life-changing for the patients affected -- as in the case of a mistaken mastectomy performed in Windsor, Ont., that recently made headlines -- but they can also leave emotional scars on the doctors who make them. National Post story.
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N.B. woman wins N.L. pathology negligence suit
March 08 2010
A New Brunswick woman has won a negligence lawsuit against a Newfoundland hospital and 2 pathologists after being told a mole she had removed was benign, only to find out six years later she had life-threatening skin cancer. CBC News story.
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March 08 2010
A New Brunswick woman has won a negligence lawsuit against a Newfoundland hospital and 2 pathologists after being told a mole she had removed was benign, only to find out six years later she had life-threatening skin cancer. CBC News story.
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Told too late about drug error: Eastern Health CEO
March 05 2010
The head of Newfoundland and Labrador's largest health authority said Friday she should have been told sooner about a problem with cyclosporine testing that affected the way the Health Sciences Centre in St. John's was administering the drug. CBC News story.
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March 05 2010
The head of Newfoundland and Labrador's largest health authority said Friday she should have been told sooner about a problem with cyclosporine testing that affected the way the Health Sciences Centre in St. John's was administering the drug. CBC News story.
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Mastectomy victim sues over error
March 04 2010
Patient who had a wrongful mastectomy is now suing her surgeon, pathologist, and the Hôtel-Dieu Grace Hospital and Leamington District Memorial Hospital for $2.2 million. The Statement of Claim specifies part of the pathology report alleged to be "confusing".
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March 04 2010
Patient who had a wrongful mastectomy is now suing her surgeon, pathologist, and the Hôtel-Dieu Grace Hospital and Leamington District Memorial Hospital for $2.2 million. The Statement of Claim specifies part of the pathology report alleged to be "confusing".
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Pathologist in lawsuit worked in Toronto hospital
March 04 2010
A pathologist named in a $2.2-million lawsuit over an unnecessary mastectomy at Windsor's Hotel-Dieu Grace Hospital once worked at Toronto East General Hospital, which now plans to review her cases. CanWest News story.
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March 04 2010
A pathologist named in a $2.2-million lawsuit over an unnecessary mastectomy at Windsor's Hotel-Dieu Grace Hospital once worked at Toronto East General Hospital, which now plans to review her cases. CanWest News story.
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Mistaken mastectomies 'horrific': McGuinty
March 03 2010
Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty weighs in on Windsor area wrongful mastectomy story. CBC News story.
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March 03 2010
Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty weighs in on Windsor area wrongful mastectomy story. CBC News story.
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Ontario woman to sue surgeon, pathologist, hospitals over having breast mistakenly removed
March 03 2010
A Leamington, Ontario, woman, who had an unnecessary mastectomy last fall, has launched a $2.2 million lawsuit against the surgeon who removed her breast, the pathologist who analyzed her biopsy and two Windsor-Essex hospitals. National Post story.
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March 03 2010
A Leamington, Ontario, woman, who had an unnecessary mastectomy last fall, has launched a $2.2 million lawsuit against the surgeon who removed her breast, the pathologist who analyzed her biopsy and two Windsor-Essex hospitals. National Post story.
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N.L. officials deny they downplayed drug errors
March 03 2010
Newfoundland and Labrador's largest health authority is denying accusations that it is hasn't revealed the gravity of recent cyclosporine testing errors at its biochemistry laboratory in St. John's. CBC New story.
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March 03 2010
Newfoundland and Labrador's largest health authority is denying accusations that it is hasn't revealed the gravity of recent cyclosporine testing errors at its biochemistry laboratory in St. John's. CBC New story.
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Wrongful mastectomy victim to sue
March 02 2010
A Leamington, Ontario, woman whose case helped spark an investigation into wrongful mastectomies in Windsor is taking legal action. CBC News story.
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March 02 2010
A Leamington, Ontario, woman whose case helped spark an investigation into wrongful mastectomies in Windsor is taking legal action. CBC News story.
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As hospital probe widens, are pathologists overworked?
March 02 2010
Health advocates and pathologists say a patchwork of protocols and widely varying workloads create a climate where mistakes are more likely to happen. Toronto Star story.
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March 02 2010
Health advocates and pathologists say a patchwork of protocols and widely varying workloads create a climate where mistakes are more likely to happen. Toronto Star story.
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Pathology 101
March 02 2010
Pathologist Dr. David Grynspan talks about his profession. CBC "Connect" video.
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March 02 2010
Pathologist Dr. David Grynspan talks about his profession. CBC "Connect" video.
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Cancer patients face barriers to 2nd opinions
March 01 2010
Cancer patients are often told to get another doctor's diagnosis, but getting a second opinion is not always easy. CBC News story.
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March 01 2010
Cancer patients are often told to get another doctor's diagnosis, but getting a second opinion is not always easy. CBC News story.
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Pathology, mastectomy review team includes 3 top MDs
March 01 2010
The Ontario government has appointed three doctors to investigate pathology reporting procedures at three Essex County hospitals, including the facility where a surgeon performed unnecessary mastectomies on at least two women. CBC News story.
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March 01 2010
The Ontario government has appointed three doctors to investigate pathology reporting procedures at three Essex County hospitals, including the facility where a surgeon performed unnecessary mastectomies on at least two women. CBC News story.
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Hospitals urge Ontario-wide pathology review
March 01 2010
The association representing Ontario's public hospitals wants the province to extend an investigation into the pathology procedures at a Windsor hospital to the rest of Ontario's hospitals. Peer review system for pathologists called "inadequate." CBC News story.
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March 01 2010
The association representing Ontario's public hospitals wants the province to extend an investigation into the pathology procedures at a Windsor hospital to the rest of Ontario's hospitals. Peer review system for pathologists called "inadequate." CBC News story.
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Fears grip Windsor in wake of medical mistakes
March 01 2010
One pathology report led a man to believe he was living with a death sentence. Later, a second opinion gave him a clean bill of health. Toronto Star report.
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March 01 2010
One pathology report led a man to believe he was living with a death sentence. Later, a second opinion gave him a clean bill of health. Toronto Star report.
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Manitoba provincial lab safe for patients: review
February 27 2010
An external probe into Manitoba's pathology program concluded there's no evidence to support a whistleblower's claim that heavy workloads and a toxic work environment in provincial labs are putting patients at risk. The report examining allegations made by former Health Sciences Centre pediatric pathologist Dr. David Grynspan was released Friday and immediately slammed by critics who called it "an absolute whitewash." Winnipeg Free Press story.
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February 27 2010
An external probe into Manitoba's pathology program concluded there's no evidence to support a whistleblower's claim that heavy workloads and a toxic work environment in provincial labs are putting patients at risk. The report examining allegations made by former Health Sciences Centre pediatric pathologist Dr. David Grynspan was released Friday and immediately slammed by critics who called it "an absolute whitewash." Winnipeg Free Press story.
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Ontario launches review of pathology reports
February 26 2010
At Windsor's Hôtel-Dieu Grace hospital, the privileges of a pathologist have been suspended and another doctor has stopped surgeries. Globe and Mail story.
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February 26 2010
At Windsor's Hôtel-Dieu Grace hospital, the privileges of a pathologist have been suspended and another doctor has stopped surgeries. Globe and Mail story.
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Health ministry to investigate errors that lead to unnecessary mastectomies
February 26 2010
Troubling errors made by a top Windsor surgeon and a local pathologist are now being investigated by the Ontario Ministry of Health and the province’s medical regulatory body. CanWest News story.
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February 26 2010
Troubling errors made by a top Windsor surgeon and a local pathologist are now being investigated by the Ontario Ministry of Health and the province’s medical regulatory body. CanWest News story.
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Windsor patient narrowly avoids surgery
February 26 2010
Transcription error in pathology reports leads to confusion about a woman's need for breast surgery. CBC News report.
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February 26 2010
Transcription error in pathology reports leads to confusion about a woman's need for breast surgery. CBC News report.
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Probe into pathology reports could expand
February 25 2010
The Ontario government may consider issuing a directive to hospitals to check their pathology reports in light of revelations that a surgeon at a Windsor hospital performed unnecessary mastectomies on at least two women. CBC News story.
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February 25 2010
The Ontario government may consider issuing a directive to hospitals to check their pathology reports in light of revelations that a surgeon at a Windsor hospital performed unnecessary mastectomies on at least two women. CBC News story.
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Province probes mistaken surgeries and examines pathology results
February 25 2010
The Ontario government has launched an external review into a number of botched medical procedures at a Windsor hospital. Thousands of pathology results are also being examined. Toronto Star report.
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February 25 2010
The Ontario government has launched an external review into a number of botched medical procedures at a Windsor hospital. Thousands of pathology results are also being examined. Toronto Star report.
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Surgeon withdraws from OR as hospital probes mastectomies
February 24 2010
Windsor hospital officials found out through the media about a 2001 case in which a surgeon performed a mastectomy on a patient who was cancer-free. CanWest News story.
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February 24 2010
Windsor hospital officials found out through the media about a 2001 case in which a surgeon performed a mastectomy on a patient who was cancer-free. CanWest News story.
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Doctor stops surgery after mastectomy errors
February 24 2010
A Windsor, ON hospital says that a surgeon performed a mastectomy in 2001 on a woman that did not need the surgery. This is the second to come to light in less than a week. CBC News report.
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February 24 2010
A Windsor, ON hospital says that a surgeon performed a mastectomy in 2001 on a woman that did not need the surgery. This is the second to come to light in less than a week. CBC News report.
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Mistaken-mastectomy probe doesn't stop at second case: hospital
February 24 2010
Windsor's Hotel-Dieu Hospital reviewing as many as 7 'cases of concern' relating to incorrect pathology reports. Pathologist suspended and reported to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. Globe and Mail report.
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February 24 2010
Windsor's Hotel-Dieu Hospital reviewing as many as 7 'cases of concern' relating to incorrect pathology reports. Pathologist suspended and reported to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. Globe and Mail report.
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Windsor hospital cites 7 cases of concern with suspended pathologist
February 24 2010
Hotel-Dieu Grace Hospital is investigating serious errors in reports prepared by a pathologist who was suspended in January. The pathology review, which began last November, overlaps with recent revelations that Hotel-Dieu surgeon Dr. Barbara Heartwell performed at least two mastectomies on women who did not have breast cancer. CanWest News report.
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February 24 2010
Hotel-Dieu Grace Hospital is investigating serious errors in reports prepared by a pathologist who was suspended in January. The pathology review, which began last November, overlaps with recent revelations that Hotel-Dieu surgeon Dr. Barbara Heartwell performed at least two mastectomies on women who did not have breast cancer. CanWest News report.
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Pathology lab probed as more mastectomy errors found
February 24 2010
Seven more cases of mastectomies performed on patients who did not have breast cancer have come to light at a Windsor hospital and other hospitals are now checking their records because a pathology lab may have been making errors as well. The revelations open up the possibility many more women may have had mastectomies that were not needed – and this may have happened at more Ontario hospitals.
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February 24 2010
Seven more cases of mastectomies performed on patients who did not have breast cancer have come to light at a Windsor hospital and other hospitals are now checking their records because a pathology lab may have been making errors as well. The revelations open up the possibility many more women may have had mastectomies that were not needed – and this may have happened at more Ontario hospitals.
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Mistaken mastectomy probe widens in Windsor
February 24 2010
What began as a case of a doctor performing a mastectomy on a woman in error has now widened to several more "cases of concern" and a review of more than 10,000 pathology results in Windsor, Ontario. CTV News report.
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February 24 2010
What began as a case of a doctor performing a mastectomy on a woman in error has now widened to several more "cases of concern" and a review of more than 10,000 pathology results in Windsor, Ontario. CTV News report.
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St. John's lab review to take up to 6 months
February 24 2010
It could take four to six months to review what happened to cause more testing errors at a lab operated by Eastern Health. The Newfoundland health authority ordered the external review after discovering a problem involving one of the testing machines at its biochemistry lab at the Health Sciences Centre. CBC News story.
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February 24 2010
It could take four to six months to review what happened to cause more testing errors at a lab operated by Eastern Health. The Newfoundland health authority ordered the external review after discovering a problem involving one of the testing machines at its biochemistry lab at the Health Sciences Centre. CBC News story.
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Eastern Health uncovers lab testing problem
February 23 2010
A problem with some test results involving people taking an immunosuppressive drug has been uncovered at a lab operated by Eastern Health, Newfoundland and Labrador's largest health authority. CBC News story.
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February 23 2010
A problem with some test results involving people taking an immunosuppressive drug has been uncovered at a lab operated by Eastern Health, Newfoundland and Labrador's largest health authority. CBC News story.
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Some Alberta pathologists oppose lab consolidation
February 18 2010
More than 30 pathologists express concerns about plans to centralize cytology and other laboratory services so that some tissue, blood or cell samples would no longer be tested at in-hospital labs but sent out to DynaLIFEDx Diagnostics in Edmonton or Calgary Lab Services.
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February 18 2010
More than 30 pathologists express concerns about plans to centralize cytology and other laboratory services so that some tissue, blood or cell samples would no longer be tested at in-hospital labs but sent out to DynaLIFEDx Diagnostics in Edmonton or Calgary Lab Services.
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Hospital 'sorry' for mistaken mastectomy
February 18 2010
A Windsor, ON surgeon removed a woman's breast after misreading a pathology report that said the woman did not have cancer. CBC News coverage. 'It was a serious error. It is heartbreaking.'— Warren Chant, hospital CEO Dr. Barbara Heartwell, a surgeon with 28 years of experience, performed the mastectomy on Laurie Johnston of Leamington, Ont. Another doctor had given the initial diagnosis of cancer, but a pre-surgery pathology report found that Johnston did not, in fact, have cancer.
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February 18 2010
A Windsor, ON surgeon removed a woman's breast after misreading a pathology report that said the woman did not have cancer. CBC News coverage. 'It was a serious error. It is heartbreaking.'— Warren Chant, hospital CEO Dr. Barbara Heartwell, a surgeon with 28 years of experience, performed the mastectomy on Laurie Johnston of Leamington, Ont. Another doctor had given the initial diagnosis of cancer, but a pre-surgery pathology report found that Johnston did not, in fact, have cancer.
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Gene test can identify bits of cancer in blood
February 18 2010
A personalized blood test can tell whether a patient's cancer has spread or come back, offering a better way to see if treatments are working, U.S. researchers say.
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February 18 2010
A personalized blood test can tell whether a patient's cancer has spread or come back, offering a better way to see if treatments are working, U.S. researchers say.
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First, the Bad News
February 03 2010
CBC Toronto radio series that puts a human face on the journey of cancer - from the perspective of patients, their surgeons, their families and cancer researchers. Part 3 features CAP Member Dr. Patricia Shaw.
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February 03 2010
CBC Toronto radio series that puts a human face on the journey of cancer - from the perspective of patients, their surgeons, their families and cancer researchers. Part 3 features CAP Member Dr. Patricia Shaw.
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Ontario forensic pathologist headed to Haiti
January 17 2010
Dr. Michael Pollanen, Ontario's chief forensic pathologist, is heading to Haiti to assist in the effort to identify earthquake victims.
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January 17 2010
Dr. Michael Pollanen, Ontario's chief forensic pathologist, is heading to Haiti to assist in the effort to identify earthquake victims.
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New software streamlines pathology lab work
January 13 2010
A digital telepathology project at Université Laval's health centre heralds "a new era of collaborative pathology."
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January 13 2010
A digital telepathology project at Université Laval's health centre heralds "a new era of collaborative pathology."
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Test logjam feared in Manitoba pathologist squeeze
December 28 2009
A wave of resignations and retirements has left Manitoba's pathology program struggling with a severe staff shortage that critics worry could create a backlog of diagnostic tests. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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December 28 2009
A wave of resignations and retirements has left Manitoba's pathology program struggling with a severe staff shortage that critics worry could create a backlog of diagnostic tests. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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Cancer diagnoses were accurate
December 18 2009
Open letter to the Montreal Gazette regarding the pathology test review, from members of the Expert Advisory Committee and Advisory Committee of Pathology.
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December 18 2009
Open letter to the Montreal Gazette regarding the pathology test review, from members of the Expert Advisory Committee and Advisory Committee of Pathology.
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Former NHLer had condition linked to concussions at time of death
December 18 2009
For the first time, a former NHL player has been diagnosed with a condition that adds to the concern about the long-term effect of concussions. Globe and Mail coverage.
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December 18 2009
For the first time, a former NHL player has been diagnosed with a condition that adds to the concern about the long-term effect of concussions. Globe and Mail coverage.
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Brain Damage Found in Hockey Player
December 17 2009
As concerns over risks in football grow, a deceased hockey player was found to have a disease linked to head trauma. New York Times story.
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December 17 2009
As concerns over risks in football grow, a deceased hockey player was found to have a disease linked to head trauma. New York Times story.
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Quebec cancer tests called 'world class'
December 17 2009
Seven months after a report cast doubt on the accuracy of breast cancer testing in Quebec, Health Minister Yves Bolduc yesterday unveiled the results of an $800,000 review of pathology tests done in Quebec laboratories and described such testing in the province as "world class."
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December 17 2009
Seven months after a report cast doubt on the accuracy of breast cancer testing in Quebec, Health Minister Yves Bolduc yesterday unveiled the results of an $800,000 review of pathology tests done in Quebec laboratories and described such testing in the province as "world class."
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Heavy pathologist workloads didn't jeopardize patients, says health minister
December 12 2009
Manitoba's Health Minister Theresa Oswald reports that an initial review over problems within Manitoba's pathology program, following a whistleblower complaint last month, found no threat to patient safety. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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December 12 2009
Manitoba's Health Minister Theresa Oswald reports that an initial review over problems within Manitoba's pathology program, following a whistleblower complaint last month, found no threat to patient safety. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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Manitoba's pathology crisis will be difficult to remedy
December 12 2009
Any restaurant owner will tell you that no matter how pretty you make the decor, and no matter how well-dressed and well-mannered the servers are, you cannot survive without good people in the kitchen. It's the perfect metaphor for the health care system. Just as we might not consider the contribution the sous chef made to our house salad, we typically haven't given a lot of thought to medical disciplines such as pathology. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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December 12 2009
Any restaurant owner will tell you that no matter how pretty you make the decor, and no matter how well-dressed and well-mannered the servers are, you cannot survive without good people in the kitchen. It's the perfect metaphor for the health care system. Just as we might not consider the contribution the sous chef made to our house salad, we typically haven't given a lot of thought to medical disciplines such as pathology. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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Manitoba's pathology program under review again
December 11 2009
Manitoba's pathology program is under review for the second straight year after a pathologist alleged the unsafe workloads and "toxic environment" in provincial labs are putting patients in danger. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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December 11 2009
Manitoba's pathology program is under review for the second straight year after a pathologist alleged the unsafe workloads and "toxic environment" in provincial labs are putting patients in danger. Winnipeg Free Press story.
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Manitoba pathology program put under review
December 11 2009
Manitoba's pathology program is under review for the second consecutive year after a pathologist's report warned unsafe workloads in provincial labs could be putting patients at risk. CBC News coverge.
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December 11 2009
Manitoba's pathology program is under review for the second consecutive year after a pathologist's report warned unsafe workloads in provincial labs could be putting patients at risk. CBC News coverge.
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Bodybuilders See Kidney Damage With Steroids
December 09 2009
A kidney pathologist has published a study asserting a link between long-term steroid use and kidney disease. New York Times story.
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December 09 2009
A kidney pathologist has published a study asserting a link between long-term steroid use and kidney disease. New York Times story.
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Mother cleared of killing infant son
December 07 2009
Ontario's highest court has acquitted a woman who was convicted in 1999 of killing her infant son based in part on evidence of now disgraced pathologist Dr. Charles Smith, calling the case a miscarriage of justice. CBC News coverage.
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December 07 2009
Ontario's highest court has acquitted a woman who was convicted in 1999 of killing her infant son based in part on evidence of now disgraced pathologist Dr. Charles Smith, calling the case a miscarriage of justice. CBC News coverage.
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Dr. Charles Smith: The man behind the public inquiry
December 07 2009
The doctor once considered a top-notch expert in the field of forensic child pathology no longer practises pathology. CBC News coverage.
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December 07 2009
The doctor once considered a top-notch expert in the field of forensic child pathology no longer practises pathology. CBC News coverage.
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True blood: What the forensic pathologist saw
November 23 2009
It's splattered over vampire movies, TV shows and crime novels. But the bloody reality of guts and gore is even more fascinating than the fiction. Independent story.
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November 23 2009
It's splattered over vampire movies, TV shows and crime novels. But the bloody reality of guts and gore is even more fascinating than the fiction. Independent story.
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Far From a Lab? Turn a Cellphone Into a Microscope
November 07 2009
An engineer at U.C.L.A. has adapted cellphones to do the work of microscopes in screening for diseases.
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November 07 2009
An engineer at U.C.L.A. has adapted cellphones to do the work of microscopes in screening for diseases.
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NL breast cancer lawsuit ends in $17.5m settlement
October 30 2009
Breast-cancer patients in Newfoundland and Labrador who were treated inadequately due to botched tests by a provincial lab have settled their class-action lawsuit for $17.5-million. Globe and Mail report.
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October 30 2009
Breast-cancer patients in Newfoundland and Labrador who were treated inadequately due to botched tests by a provincial lab have settled their class-action lawsuit for $17.5-million. Globe and Mail report.
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Cancers Can Vanish Without Treatment, But How?
October 26 2009
Data from screening has led doctors to reconsider that the disease is bound only to grow worse.
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October 26 2009
Data from screening has led doctors to reconsider that the disease is bound only to grow worse.
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Man Pursued Woman After Wife's Scuba Diving Death
October 22 2009
Autopsy report criticized for not being more detailed.
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October 22 2009
Autopsy report criticized for not being more detailed.
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Game Brain
October 14 2009
One young pathologist and a growing chorus of neuroscientists say concussions are making football players crazy enough to kill themselves. GQ article.
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October 14 2009
One young pathologist and a growing chorus of neuroscientists say concussions are making football players crazy enough to kill themselves. GQ article.
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In 1918 Pandemic, Another Possible Killer: Aspirin
October 12 2009
At least one contemporary pathologist working for the Public Health Service thought that the amount of lung damage seen during autopsies in early deaths was too little to attribute to viral pneumonia, and that the large amounts of bloody, watery liquid in the lungs must have had some other cause. New York Times article.
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October 12 2009
At least one contemporary pathologist working for the Public Health Service thought that the amount of lung damage seen during autopsies in early deaths was too little to attribute to viral pneumonia, and that the large amounts of bloody, watery liquid in the lungs must have had some other cause. New York Times article.
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Breast cancer 'lab on a chip' developed
October 07 2009
A handheld device developed in Toronto measures estrogen in blood and breast tissue, a finding that may someday lead to a faster way to determine a woman's risk of breast cancer.
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October 07 2009
A handheld device developed in Toronto measures estrogen in blood and breast tissue, a finding that may someday lead to a faster way to determine a woman's risk of breast cancer.
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B.C. research alters view of breast cancers
October 07 2009
BC Cancer Agency team finds that not all cells in a breast cancer tumour contain the same mutations, and that genetic changes occur in tumours over time.
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October 07 2009
BC Cancer Agency team finds that not all cells in a breast cancer tumour contain the same mutations, and that genetic changes occur in tumours over time.
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Alberta lab workers ratify pact with DynaLIFE
October 02 2009
Laboratory workers represented by the Health Sciences Association of Alberta have overwhelmingly ratified a collective agreement with DynaLIFE, a private company that provides medical laboratory testing services.
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October 02 2009
Laboratory workers represented by the Health Sciences Association of Alberta have overwhelmingly ratified a collective agreement with DynaLIFE, a private company that provides medical laboratory testing services.
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Jackson was in fair health: autopsy
October 02 2009
A Los Angeles County coroner's report concludes the 50-year-old King of Pop was in fairly good health when he died of an overdose.
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October 02 2009
A Los Angeles County coroner's report concludes the 50-year-old King of Pop was in fairly good health when he died of an overdose.
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Swine, bird flu cause similar lung damage
September 03 2009
CBC interview with Dr. Sherif Zaki, the chief of infectious diseases pathology at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.
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September 03 2009
CBC interview with Dr. Sherif Zaki, the chief of infectious diseases pathology at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.
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Toxicology Tests and an Untimely Death
August 27 2009
Autopsy toxicology tests explained.
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August 27 2009
Autopsy toxicology tests explained.
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Kelowna, B.C., breast cancer test results under review
August 13 2009
Dozens of breast cancer hormone receptor tests conducted by a local lab for Kelowna General Hospital have been sent to the B.C. Cancer Agency to be retested.
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August 13 2009
Dozens of breast cancer hormone receptor tests conducted by a local lab for Kelowna General Hospital have been sent to the B.C. Cancer Agency to be retested.
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A ‘Perfect Mother,’ a Vodka Bottle and 8 Lives Lost
August 07 2009
Toxicology test results show wrong-way driver in July 2009 Taconic State Parkway crash had a blood-alcohol level of more than twice the legal limit.
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August 07 2009
Toxicology test results show wrong-way driver in July 2009 Taconic State Parkway crash had a blood-alcohol level of more than twice the legal limit.
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Questions loom about mom in NY crash that killed 8
August 02 2009
Woman drove the wrong way on a suburban New York parkway for nearly two miles before the crash. About a half-hour before the fatal wreck, she indicated she was not feeling well. Washington Post report.
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August 02 2009
Woman drove the wrong way on a suburban New York parkway for nearly two miles before the crash. About a half-hour before the fatal wreck, she indicated she was not feeling well. Washington Post report.
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Second Gatti autopsy inconclusive on cause of death
August 02 2009
A second autopsy performed at the request of former boxer Arturo Gatti's family has not ruled out homicide in his death. National Post report.
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August 02 2009
A second autopsy performed at the request of former boxer Arturo Gatti's family has not ruled out homicide in his death. National Post report.
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Injuries missed in Gatti's 1st autopsy: pathologist
August 01 2009
Brazilian authorities who conducted the initial autopsy of Arturo Gatti overlooked certain injuries, a celebrity pathologist hired by the ex-boxing champ's family said Saturday after a second forensic examination. CTV News report.
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August 01 2009
Brazilian authorities who conducted the initial autopsy of Arturo Gatti overlooked certain injuries, a celebrity pathologist hired by the ex-boxing champ's family said Saturday after a second forensic examination. CTV News report.
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Margaret BILLINGHAM (1930 - 2009)
July 30 2009
Stanford heart pathologist developed a standardized scale for interpreting heart transplant biopsy results. Los Angeles Times obituary.
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July 30 2009
Stanford heart pathologist developed a standardized scale for interpreting heart transplant biopsy results. Los Angeles Times obituary.
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NL lab to resume breast cancer tests
July 22 2009
The medical test at the centre of the biggest health-care scandal in Newfoundland and Labrador's history will be performed again this fall at Eastern Health labs. National Post report.
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July 22 2009
The medical test at the centre of the biggest health-care scandal in Newfoundland and Labrador's history will be performed again this fall at Eastern Health labs. National Post report.
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New cancer test guidelines unveiled
July 16 2009
The Canadian Association of Pathologists unveiled new national guidelines yesterday in hopes of standardizing the quality of cancer-testing in laboratories across the country. National Post report.
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July 16 2009
The Canadian Association of Pathologists unveiled new national guidelines yesterday in hopes of standardizing the quality of cancer-testing in laboratories across the country. National Post report.
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More NL patients had breast cancer tests botched
July 16 2009
Newfoundland and Labrador health officials have conceded they may never find everyone who was given an incorrect result on their breast cancer test, even as they concluded a rigorous review that identified another 39 cases. CTV News report.
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July 16 2009
Newfoundland and Labrador health officials have conceded they may never find everyone who was given an incorrect result on their breast cancer test, even as they concluded a rigorous review that identified another 39 cases. CTV News report.
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Pathologists call for cancer testing standard
July 15 2009
Pathologists in Canada are calling for the standardization of the kind of tissue testing that was at the centre of Newfoundland's breast cancer testing scandal. CTV News report.
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July 15 2009
Pathologists in Canada are calling for the standardization of the kind of tissue testing that was at the centre of Newfoundland's breast cancer testing scandal. CTV News report.
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Pathologists push for better cancer tests
July 15 2009
Two of three recommendations made by the Canadian Association of Pathologists on Wednesday are aimed at improving cancer tests, including one which flowed directly from a breast-cancer testing scandal in Newfoundland and Labrador. CBC News report.
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July 15 2009
Two of three recommendations made by the Canadian Association of Pathologists on Wednesday are aimed at improving cancer tests, including one which flowed directly from a breast-cancer testing scandal in Newfoundland and Labrador. CBC News report.
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Autopsies on fallen Canadian soldiers yield life-saving information
July 10 2009
Post-mortems on fallen soldiers is one of the most unusual, and surprisingly important, aspects of the Canadian war effort. National Post report.
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July 10 2009
Post-mortems on fallen soldiers is one of the most unusual, and surprisingly important, aspects of the Canadian war effort. National Post report.
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Child buried without brain in Windsor, ON
July 07 2009
Ten months after 10-year-old's death, father learns her brain was kept by a pathologist without the family's knowledge. Globe and Mail report.
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July 07 2009
Ten months after 10-year-old's death, father learns her brain was kept by a pathologist without the family's knowledge. Globe and Mail report.
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Top coroner investigates after girl’s brain taken without consent
July 06 2009
The Office of the Chief Coroner of Ontario is trying to find out why the decision to retain a brain of a 10-year-old girl was not revealed to her parents until almost a year after the autopsy. National Post report.
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July 06 2009
The Office of the Chief Coroner of Ontario is trying to find out why the decision to retain a brain of a 10-year-old girl was not revealed to her parents until almost a year after the autopsy. National Post report.
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Suicide ruled out in death of David Carradine
July 02 2009
David Carradine died of asphyxiation, according to the doctor who oversaw a private autopsy on the "Kung Fu" star. CBC News report.
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July 02 2009
David Carradine died of asphyxiation, according to the doctor who oversaw a private autopsy on the "Kung Fu" star. CBC News report.
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Verdict on 'arrogant' pathologist
June 17 2009
A former Home Office pathologist who admitted he was "incredibly arrogant" in wrongly asserting two women were murdered can continue to practise. BBC News report.
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June 17 2009
A former Home Office pathologist who admitted he was "incredibly arrogant" in wrongly asserting two women were murdered can continue to practise. BBC News report.
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Class-action suit filed in Quebec over cancer tests
June 15 2009
A Montreal woman is seeking permission to file a class-action suit against the provincial government for its alleged mishandling of breast-cancer tests for thousands of patients. CTV News report.
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June 15 2009
A Montreal woman is seeking permission to file a class-action suit against the provincial government for its alleged mishandling of breast-cancer tests for thousands of patients. CTV News report.
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Will revisit rapid-diagnosis technology, NL pathologist says
June 10 2009
Eastern Health may revisit using rapid tissue processing technology that has attracted national headlines for a Toronto hospital, but which is sitting in storage in St. John's. CBC News report.
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June 10 2009
Eastern Health may revisit using rapid tissue processing technology that has attracted national headlines for a Toronto hospital, but which is sitting in storage in St. John's. CBC News report.
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Pathology under the microscope
June 03 2009
If Canada has such rigorous health care standards, why the reports of problems with pathology tests? Pathologist Dr. Sylvia Asa responds.
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June 03 2009
If Canada has such rigorous health care standards, why the reports of problems with pathology tests? Pathologist Dr. Sylvia Asa responds.
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Five police shots hit Dustyhorn, pathologist tells coroner's inquest
June 02 2009
A Saskatoon man who was shot by police likely died in seconds, a forensic pathologist testified Tuesday at the coroner's inquest into the 2007 death of Dwayne Dustyhorn. CBC News report.
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June 02 2009
A Saskatoon man who was shot by police likely died in seconds, a forensic pathologist testified Tuesday at the coroner's inquest into the 2007 death of Dwayne Dustyhorn. CBC News report.
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Who Will Perform My Autopsy?
May 25 2009
The decline of autopsy utilization reflects lack of incentive and lack of recognition of autopsy importance. A pathologist wonders who will be assigned to perform his autopsy and whether he or she will know how to do it.
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May 25 2009
The decline of autopsy utilization reflects lack of incentive and lack of recognition of autopsy importance. A pathologist wonders who will be assigned to perform his autopsy and whether he or she will know how to do it.
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A faint heartbeat
May 25 2009
Review of "The Heart Specialist" by Claire Holden Rothman, a historical novel inspired by the career of McGill pathologist Dr. Maude Abbott.
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May 25 2009
Review of "The Heart Specialist" by Claire Holden Rothman, a historical novel inspired by the career of McGill pathologist Dr. Maude Abbott.
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Murder case pathologist suspended
April 17 2009
A Home Office pathologist has been suspended from police work for failing to spot a pensioner had been murdered. BBC News report.
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April 17 2009
A Home Office pathologist has been suspended from police work for failing to spot a pensioner had been murdered. BBC News report.
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The Anxiety of the Biopsy
February 25 2009
Waiting days for the results of a breast biopsy appears to affect stress hormone levels just as much as finding out you have cancer does, a new study shows.
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February 25 2009
Waiting days for the results of a breast biopsy appears to affect stress hormone levels just as much as finding out you have cancer does, a new study shows.
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Winnipeg tries apologetic approach to deal with medical mistakes
January 16 2009
The tendency to defend and deny is slowly beginning to change to a policy of full disclosure, apology, and compensation where appropriate.
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January 16 2009
The tendency to defend and deny is slowly beginning to change to a policy of full disclosure, apology, and compensation where appropriate.
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Canada's 50 Best Employers 2008: #9 - BC Biomedical Laboratories Ltd.
December 19 2008
Communication by leaders — in good times or bad — is critically important to maintaining high engagement.
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December 19 2008
Communication by leaders — in good times or bad — is critically important to maintaining high engagement.
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N.B. pathologist inquiry results fuel class-action lawsuit
December 12 2008
CBC News story on fallout from the Miramichi, NB pathology inquiry.
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December 12 2008
CBC News story on fallout from the Miramichi, NB pathology inquiry.
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Review finds more than 5,200 errors in N.B. pathologist's work
December 11 2008
CBC News story about Ottawa-based Gamma-Dynacare's review of New Brunswick pathology cases.
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December 11 2008
CBC News story about Ottawa-based Gamma-Dynacare's review of New Brunswick pathology cases.
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Pathologist should have lost licence in 2005: judge
December 10 2008
Globe and Mail article on the decision of the Creaghan inquiry in New Brunswick.
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December 10 2008
Globe and Mail article on the decision of the Creaghan inquiry in New Brunswick.
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N.B. pathologist should have been fired in 2005: Inquiry
December 10 2008
Canwest News Service coverage of the decision of the Creaghan inquiry in New Brunswick.
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December 10 2008
Canwest News Service coverage of the decision of the Creaghan inquiry in New Brunswick.
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Disgraced pathologist should have been fired in 2005: N.B. inquiry
December 10 2008
CBC coverage of the findings of the Creaghan inquiry in New Brunswick.
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December 10 2008
CBC coverage of the findings of the Creaghan inquiry in New Brunswick.
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Can I trust that my test results are accurate?
November 28 2008
Pathology carries with it an "acceptable error rate" of 1%. This is how science works; we can never achieve perfection in the laboratory and, even less so, in the so-called "real world." But that statement of fact has lives associated with it. Much like the cost-benefit analyses that are done on airplanes to gauge which safety measures to employ in comparison to the cost of a human life (knowing the plane can never be 100% safe), so, too, does an acceptance of this error rate. Kingston Whig-Standard column.
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November 28 2008
Pathology carries with it an "acceptable error rate" of 1%. This is how science works; we can never achieve perfection in the laboratory and, even less so, in the so-called "real world." But that statement of fact has lives associated with it. Much like the cost-benefit analyses that are done on airplanes to gauge which safety measures to employ in comparison to the cost of a human life (knowing the plane can never be 100% safe), so, too, does an acceptance of this error rate. Kingston Whig-Standard column.
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Queen's scientists take aim at skin cancer
August 22 2008
A group of Queen's university researchers led by pathologist Dr. Victor Tron say they are having success using RNA interference to treat melanoma in the laboratory. Kingston Whig-Standard story.
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August 22 2008
A group of Queen's university researchers led by pathologist Dr. Victor Tron say they are having success using RNA interference to treat melanoma in the laboratory. Kingston Whig-Standard story.
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In New Brunswick, spotlight on pathologist's errors
July 11 2008
Background on the origins of the Creaghan inquiry into the work of a New Brunswick pathologist. Globe and Mail story.
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July 11 2008
Background on the origins of the Creaghan inquiry into the work of a New Brunswick pathologist. Globe and Mail story.
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Review finds Winnipeg pathologist's rate of errors within average
June 26 2008
A review of hundreds of cases of a Winnipeg pathologist is complete, and errors were found in 42 cases — two requiring further treatment, but that number is considered within the average rate of errors, health officials said Wednesday.
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June 26 2008
A review of hundreds of cases of a Winnipeg pathologist is complete, and errors were found in 42 cases — two requiring further treatment, but that number is considered within the average rate of errors, health officials said Wednesday.
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The doctor patients never see
May 20 2008
Pathologists work behind the scenes yet play a critical role in deciding treatment. Kingston Whig-Standard article.
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May 20 2008
Pathologists work behind the scenes yet play a critical role in deciding treatment. Kingston Whig-Standard article.
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Lee stabbed wife 'like a sewing machine'
May 03 2008
Coverage of forensic autopsy testimony by pathologist Dr. Kerry Pringle in a Victoria murder-suicide case.
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May 03 2008
Coverage of forensic autopsy testimony by pathologist Dr. Kerry Pringle in a Victoria murder-suicide case.
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Hospital labs need major fix, medical groups say
March 16 2008
Major Canadian medical organizations and pathologists from the country's largest hospitals are calling for an immediate overhaul of the way laboratories handle medical tests to prevent more patients from dying unnecessarily.
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March 16 2008
Major Canadian medical organizations and pathologists from the country's largest hospitals are calling for an immediate overhaul of the way laboratories handle medical tests to prevent more patients from dying unnecessarily.
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Pathologist shortage a national problem
February 15 2008
CAP President Jagdish Butany is quoted in this CBC News article about the Mirimichi pathology inquiry.
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February 15 2008
CAP President Jagdish Butany is quoted in this CBC News article about the Mirimichi pathology inquiry.
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Disgraced pathologist gives tearful testimony
February 01 2008
The quiet, measured tones of Dr. Charles Smith gave way to tearful displays of emotion yesterday at a public inquiry as the disgraced pathologist apologized for helping send an innocent man to prison and vehemently denied ever enjoying "sticking the knife in" when testifying as an expert witness. Kingston Whig-Standard story.
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February 01 2008
The quiet, measured tones of Dr. Charles Smith gave way to tearful displays of emotion yesterday at a public inquiry as the disgraced pathologist apologized for helping send an innocent man to prison and vehemently denied ever enjoying "sticking the knife in" when testifying as an expert witness. Kingston Whig-Standard story.
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Smith continues to apologize; Disgraced doctor retracts claim that KGH pathologist 'botched' autopsy
January 30 2008
The doctor whose errors in child-death investigations sparked a provincial inquiry apologized for critical remarks he made 14 years ago about a Kingston General Hospital pathologist. Kingston Whig-Standard story.
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January 30 2008
The doctor whose errors in child-death investigations sparked a provincial inquiry apologized for critical remarks he made 14 years ago about a Kingston General Hospital pathologist. Kingston Whig-Standard story.
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Pathologist given good reference: inquiry
December 22 2007
When Dr. Charles Smith resigned in disgrace from the Hospital for Sick Children in 2005, a favourable reference from a senior pathologist at the institution helped him land a job in another province, an inquiry has learned. Kingston Whig-Standard story.
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December 22 2007
When Dr. Charles Smith resigned in disgrace from the Hospital for Sick Children in 2005, a favourable reference from a senior pathologist at the institution helped him land a job in another province, an inquiry has learned. Kingston Whig-Standard story.
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Fellow pathologist had concerns about Smith; Doctor often jumped to conclusions, inquiry hears
December 19 2007
Discredited pathologist Dr. Charles Smith jumped to "ridiculous" conclusions in a number of child death cases he oversaw as director of the province's forensic pediatric pathology unit, a pathologist who frequently clashed with Smith told a public inquiry. Kingston Whig-Standard story.
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December 19 2007
Discredited pathologist Dr. Charles Smith jumped to "ridiculous" conclusions in a number of child death cases he oversaw as director of the province's forensic pediatric pathology unit, a pathologist who frequently clashed with Smith told a public inquiry. Kingston Whig-Standard story.
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Pathologists working overtime; Ottawa staffing woes force Kingston, Toronto pathologists to perform more autopsies
August 24 2007
Problems with forensic pathology services in Ottawa have put pressure on Kingston's two forensic pathologists. Kingston Whig-Standard story.
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August 24 2007
Problems with forensic pathology services in Ottawa have put pressure on Kingston's two forensic pathologists. Kingston Whig-Standard story.
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