The branch of pathology that deals with the body as a whole, without focusing on any specific organ or system, is known as General pathology. General pathology encompasses the fundamental mechanisms of disease, including the biological and physical responses to various types of injuries, infections, and other pathological conditions that can affect the entire organism.
This field serves as the foundation for understanding how diseases develop and progress, which is essential for diagnosing and developing treatment strategies. It looks at the processes underlying various diseases, making it crucial for a comprehensive understanding of health and disease states throughout the body.
In contrast, Special pathology focuses on specific organs or diseases, Clinical pathology relates to the laboratory analysis of bodily fluids and tissues, and Surgical pathology involves the examination of tissues removed during surgery. Each of these branches targets more localized or specific aspects of pathology rather than a holistic view of the entire body.