Dr. Alice Lytwyn – Pathologist | Hamilton, ON

Dr. Alice Lytwyn is a highly skilled Anatomical Pathologist, specializing in the laboratory diagnosis of disease. Working within the laboratory at a major hospital or diagnostic laboratory in Hamilton, ON, she collaborates closely with clinicians across various specialties. Her practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). She specializes in Anatomical Pathology, focusing on the macroscopic and microscopic examination of tissue biopsies and surgical specimens to diagnose a wide range of diseases, including cancer and inflammatory conditions. Her expertise is critical for accurate tumor grading, staging, and identifying prognostic markers. The laboratory where Dr. Lytwyn works is equipped with advanced diagnostic technology to ensure accurate and timely results, supporting clinical decision-making across various medical specialties.

Dr. Lytwyn graduated with a Medical Degree from McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (Canada). With over 36 years of experience as an Anatomical Pathologist since 1988, she has developed a profound expertise in diagnostic laboratory medicine. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring her adherence to the highest standards of professional practice and ongoing medical education.

Her professional philosophy emphasizes a commitment to diagnostic accuracy and precision, utilizing advanced laboratory techniques and technologies. Dr. Lytwyn values effective collaboration and communication with clinical colleagues to ensure optimal patient management. She upholds the highest standards of laboratory quality assurance and patient safety, contributing to medical knowledge through ongoing research and education where applicable. Her dedication to diagnostic excellence supports patient care in Hamilton, providing comprehensive and reliable pathology reports in English to facilitate clinical decision-making.

Dr. Lytwyn provides a comprehensive range of diagnostic pathology services. For specific inquiries about test availability or consultative services, referring physicians should contact the laboratory directly.

Note: This list outlines key diagnostic areas. Pathology services support a wide spectrum of medical investigations. Detailed reports are provided to referring physicians for clinical correlation.

All pathology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant Canadian Association of Pathologists (CAP-ACP) and relevant subspecialty guidelines. Reports and consultations are directed to referring physicians.

The diagnostic laboratory or hospital pathology department where Dr. Lytwyn practices is situated in Hamilton's Hamilton Mountain Central (Inch Park, Eastmount) neighborhood. The facility is conveniently accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) routes and is located near prominent landmarks such as the FirstOntario Concert Hall (formerly Hamilton Place). The laboratory meets accessibility standards and is typically part of a larger hospital or medical center complex. For specimen drop-off or specific inquiries, referring physicians are advised to contact the laboratory's main office or the hospital's administrative contacts. The environment is a state-of-the-art diagnostic setting, equipped with advanced technology to provide accurate and timely pathology results supporting clinical decision-making.

Will I meet Dr. Lytwyn directly as a patient?

Typically, patients do not have direct appointments with Pathologists like Dr. Lytwyn. Their expertise is utilized through the analysis of specimens sent to the lab by your treating doctor (e.g., surgeon, family physician, oncologist). Dr. Lytwyn then provides a diagnostic report back to your doctor, who will share the results and discuss the implications with you. The pathologist's work is essential for your diagnosis and treatment plan, even if you don't meet them in person.

How is accuracy ensured in pathology diagnoses made by Dr. Lytwyn?

Pathology laboratories, where Dr. Lytwyn works, operate under strict quality management systems. This involves numerous checks and balances, from specimen receipt to final report generation. Diagnoses are often based on established criteria, and for challenging cases, pathologists frequently consult with peers or seek second opinions. Continuous education and adherence to best practices are essential for ensuring the high level of accuracy expected in pathology reports provided by Dr. Lytwyn.

What is the role of a Pathologist like Dr. Lytwyn in healthcare?

Dr. Lytwyn is an Anatomical Pathologist involved in the medical specialty concerned with the diagnosis of disease based on the laboratory analysis of bodily fluids such as blood and urine, as well as tissues. She is a physician expert in laboratory medicine and the study of disease. Pathologists are often called 'the doctor's doctor' because they provide essential diagnostic information to clinicians by analyzing patient specimens. This includes interpreting biopsies, surgical resections, cytological samples, and blood tests, ultimately helping to determine the correct diagnosis, prognosis, and appropriate course of treatment for a wide range of medical conditions.

What kinds of samples does a Pathologist like Dr. Lytwyn examine?

Pathologists like Dr. Lytwyn examine a wide variety of biological samples. These include small tissue samples from biopsies (e.g., skin, colon, breast), larger surgical resections of organs or tumors, cytological preparations (like Pap smears or fluid samples from body cavities), blood smears, bone marrow aspirates and biopsies, and, in some cases, entire bodies during an autopsy. Each type of specimen provides unique information for diagnosing different diseases. As an Anatomical Pathologist involved in the medical specialty concerned with the diagnosis of disease based on the laboratory analysis of bodily fluids such as blood and urine, as well as tissues, Dr. Lytwyn is skilled in interpreting these diverse samples.

How are the findings from a Pathologist like Dr. Lytwyn used by other doctors?

Pathology reports from specialists like Dr. Lytwyn are critical tools for treating physicians. They contain detailed descriptions of microscopic findings and a definitive diagnosis. This information allows other doctors to understand the exact nature of a patient's illness, plan surgeries, choose medications, monitor disease progression, and assess the effectiveness of treatments. The accuracy of Dr. Lytwyn's diagnostic work is therefore paramount for optimal patient outcomes.

How long does it usually take to get pathology results from Dr. Lytwyn's lab?

The turnaround time for pathology results can vary depending on several factors, including the type and complexity of the specimen, the number of specialized tests required (e.g., immunohistochemistry, molecular studies), and the overall lab workload. Simple biopsies might have results in a few days, while more complex cases or those needing extensive ancillary testing might take a week or longer. Your treating physician, who ordered the tests and receives the report from Dr. Lytwyn, is the best person to provide an estimated timeframe for your specific results.

Unit 29, 711 Concession Street
Hamilton, ON L8V 1C3

Laboratory Phone: (905) 527-4322 | Laboratory Fax: (905) 389-1698

The laboratory facility meets accessibility standards and is typically part of a larger hospital or medical center complex.

Dr. Lytwyn is a licensed Anatomical Pathologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. Pathology services by Dr. Lytwyn are accessed via referrals for specimen analysis from primary care physicians or other specialists. Results and reports are communicated back to the referring doctor.

Verify Dr. Lytwyn's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Lytwyn-Alice/0039664-53640