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

List of Publications and Presentations
Discipline Research Areas

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 |

Administrator

Laboratory Manager

Scientist (Molecular Laboratory)

Medical Officer

Medical Officer
| 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 |