Anatomical Pathology

ABOUT THE DISCIPLINE

The Anatomical Pathology Department at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is the leading centre for diagnostic, educational, and research pathology services in KwaZulu-Natal. Operating under the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) and UKZN, it serves as the only provincial anatomical pathology laboratory supporting the public health sector through the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health (KZN DOH).

Each year, the department processes approximately 33,000 surgical specimens across all medical specialties. The Cytopathology Unit handles around 76,000 gynaecological and 12,000 non-gynaecological cases annually, reflecting the department’s extensive service capacity and expertise.

Comprehensive Laboratory Services

The department provides a full spectrum of diagnostic and investigative services, including:

  • Routine Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining

  • Histochemistry

  • Immunohistochemistry

  • Immunofluorescence

  • Electron Microscopy

  • Frozen Section Analysis

  • Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

  • Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH)

  • Autopsy Pathology (natural causes)

  • Cytopathology – both gynaecological and non-gynaecological

Academic and Research Excellence

The department plays a central role in research and postgraduate training, providing vital resources and mentorship to Master’s and PhD students. It supports:

  • Ethics certification and scientific review

  • Higher degree approvals

  • Access to academic libraries and electronic databases

These resources nurture a dynamic and innovative research culture within the department.

Vision and Academic Culture

Our vision is to create an inclusive, knowledge-driven learning environment that encourages active engagement, collaboration, and continuous learning. Pathologists, technicians, technologists, and scientists work closely together, fostering a shared sense of purpose and accountability in both academic and clinical excellence.

Commitment to Excellence

The department prides itself on its professionalism, productivity, and positivity. Despite challenges such as the national skills shortage, the team remains dedicated to innovation and quality, ensuring that the Anatomical Pathology Department at UKZN continues to lead in diagnostic pathology, research, and education in South Africa.

WHERE TO FIND US

Physical Address:

Discipline of Anatomical Pathology,
Level 3 Laboratory Building
Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital
800 Bellair Road
Mayville 4058,
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Postal Address:

Discipline of Anatomical Pathology,
Private Bag X03
Mayville 4058,
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Master of Medical Science (Anatomical Pathology)

CHS-ANAPM 1 Eligibility for the Master of Medical Science in Anatomical Pathology

Candidates are eligible to apply for selection to register for the qualification of Master of Medical Science in Anatomical Pathology provided they have a;

  • Bachelor of Medical Science Honours, or
  • Bachelor of Science Honours, or
  • Professional Bachelors degree deemed appropriate by the School for postgraduate training in Anatomical Pathology

 

Curriculum for Master of Medical Science – Anatomical Pathology (MMDSC)

  • ANAP8F1: Masters research in Anatomical Pathology
  • ANAP8CY: Masters research in Anatomical Pathology continuing
  • ANAP8YS: Masters research in Anatomical Pathology subsequent year
  • ANAP8P1: Masters research in Anatomical Pathology Part-time Y1
  • ANAP8P2: Masters research in Anatomical Pathology Part-time Y2

Undergraduate Teaching in Anatomical Pathology at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

The undergraduate teaching in Anatomical Pathology at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) commences in the second semester of the first year, and continues through to the third year of medical school training. The department offers a comprehensive and dynamic learning experience, integrating both online and on-site components to support a flexible and engaging educational environment.

Course Delivery:

  1. Online Recorded Lectures:
    The department utilizes a blend of online recorded lectures, allowing students to access learning materials at their own pace. This mode of delivery helps students review content as often as needed and promotes self-directed learning.

 

  1. On-Site Lectures :
    In addition to online lectures, on-site lectures are held regularly, providing students with direct interaction with academic staff. This ensures that students are well-equipped with both theoretical knowledge and skills in Anatomical Pathology.

 

  1. Assessments:
    Regular assessments, both formative and summative, are integrated into the teaching framework to evaluate students’ understanding of the material. These assessments help ensure that students are progressing in their academic development and are ready for clinical practice.

The teaching program is designed to foster active learning and critical thinking, enabling students to engage with the subject matter and develop a deep understanding of the principles of Anatomical Pathology. The combination of online and on-site learning, alongside regular assessments, ensures that students are thoroughly prepared for their future careers in medical sciences.

Academic Meetings

All Academic meetings are held subject to the availability of the participating Departments.

Please contact the Department of Anatomical Pathology for confirmation of a scheduled meeting.

Faculties Tour

department floor plan

List of Publications and Presentations

Discipline Research Areas

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  • HIV Lymphomas
  • Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumours
  • Molecular Profiling of Renal Cell Carcinomas
  • Cutaneous Tumours
  • Infectious Diseases Pathology
  • Breast Carcinoma
  • Penile Carcinoma

Areas of Interest

 Doctor  Area/s of Interest  Contact Details
 Prof PK Ramdial HIV infection/AIDS pathology, Infections, Dermatopathology ramdial@ukzn.ac.za
 Dr Y Sing Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumours; Cryptococcal Inflammatory  Pseudotumours; Testicular Pathology yetishsing@ialch.co.za
 Dr S  Subrayan Renal cell carcinoma; Central Nervous System sumeshinisub@ialch.co.za 
 Dr N  Chotey Rhabdomyosarcoma; Central Nervous System Pathology niveshcho@ialch.co.za 
 Dr S  Naicker Dermatopathology shaunnai@ialch.co.za 
 Dr MS  Mahlakwane Female Genital Tract; Lymphoproliferative Disorders mabitselamah@ialch.co.za 
 Dr J Deonarain Renal Pathology; Colorectal Carcinoma juliandeo@ialch.co.za 
 Dr B Mqadi Pulmonary Pathology, MDR-Tuberculosis buhlemqa@ialch.co.za 
 Dr JI Vaubell Plasmablastic lymphomas jonathanvau@ialch.co.za 
 Dr P Govender Breast Pathology prashnigov@ialch.co.za 
 Dr A Madaree Gastric Pathology ashminimad@ialch.co.za 
 Dr MN  Mdumo Perianal Pathology mamellondu@ialch.co.za 
 Dr SM Langa Gallbladder Pathology sithembisolan@ialch.co.za 
 Dr L Naidoo Synovial Pathology luxminai@ialch.co.za 

 

Academic Staff

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Dr.

Mpumelelo Msimang

Head of Department
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Dr.

Absalom Mwazha

Consultant
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Dr.

Nimallen Naicker

Consultant

Profesional services Staff

Contact Details

Name Position Contact
Dr Mpumelelo Msimang Acting Head of Department +27 (0)31 240 2693
Ms Mali Moodley Administrator +27 (0)31 260 2693/5