History of Anatomical Pathology Services in Russia

Abstract

Introduction. The article provides a detailed historical organization study of the development of the anatomical pathology services in Russia. It covers the period from 1706, when the first anatomical theater was established by the decree of Peter the Great, to the present day, when new regulations are adopted. The author specifically focuses on analyzing the evolving anatomical pathology practices and studying the legal acts governing the anatomical pathology services in different historical periods. Purpose. To conduct a historical organization study of the development of the anatomical pathology services in Russia in order to identify long-standing challenges and then improve the services relying on historical experience. Materials and methods. The author performed a historical and comparative analysis and logical analysis. A content analysis of official documents and archival sources was also carried out. Results. The author provided the periodization of the evolution of anatomical pathology services, dividing it into three main time periods: autopsy (16th to 19th century), microscopic studies (19th century to early to mid-20th century), and molecular diagnostics (mid-20th century to the present). Conclusion. Today’s anatomical pathology services in Russia face a number of systemic and persistent challenges, which have unsolved throughout history and are addressed less efficiently than the issues in other medical specialties, despite the long history of transforming clinical practices and regulatory frameworks.