Dr. Zuzana Kos – Pathologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Zuzana Kos 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 Vancouver, BC, she collaborates closely with clinicians across various specialties. Her practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring the highest quality and safety in diagnostic processes. 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. Kos works is equipped with advanced diagnostic technology to ensure accurate and timely results, supporting clinical decision-making across various medical specialties.

She completed her medical education with an MD from the University of Ottawa in 2007 and holds specialty certification as an Anatomical Pathologist. Additionally, she maintains certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. These credentials reflect her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical practice and staying current with advancements in diagnostic pathology.

Dr. Kos’s professional philosophy emphasizes a commitment to diagnostic accuracy and precision, utilizing advanced laboratory techniques and technologies. She values effective collaboration and communication with clinical colleagues to ensure optimal patient management. Upholding the highest standards of laboratory quality assurance and patient safety, she also contributes to medical knowledge through research and education where applicable. Her dedication to diagnostic excellence supports comprehensive patient care in Vancouver. She provides diagnostic expertise and reporting in English, ensuring clarity and precision in her communications.

Dr. Kos 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 British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Association of Pathologists (CAP-ACP) and relevant subspecialty guidelines. Reports and consultations are directed to referring physicians.

Dr. Kos practices in a diagnostic laboratory located in Vancouver’s Fairview neighborhood, within a state-of-the-art hospital or medical center complex. The facility is easily accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), bus services, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront station). Visitors can access the laboratory through designated entry points that meet accessibility standards. The laboratory is equipped with advanced diagnostic technology to facilitate accurate and timely processing of specimens. For specimen drop-off or specific inquiries, referring physicians are advised to contact the laboratory’s main office or their designated liaison.

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

Accuracy is paramount in pathology. Dr. Kos and their laboratory adhere to stringent quality control and quality assurance protocols. This includes standardized specimen handling and processing, use of calibrated equipment, participation in proficiency testing programs, internal case reviews, and consultations with colleagues on complex cases. Pathologists like Dr. Kos undergo extensive training and continuous medical education to maintain their diagnostic expertise and stay updated on the latest medical knowledge and diagnostic criteria.

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

Pathology reports from specialists like Dr. Kos 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. Kos's diagnostic work is therefore paramount for optimal patient outcomes.

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

Dr. Kos 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.

Will I meet Dr. Kos directly as a patient?

Typically, patients do not have direct appointments with Pathologists like Dr. Kos. Their expertise is utilized through the analysis of specimens sent to the lab by your treating doctor (e.g., surgeon, family physician, oncologist). Dr. Kos 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.

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

Pathologists like Dr. Kos 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. Kos is skilled in interpreting these diverse samples.

600 10TH Ave W Room 3225, Department of Pathology / BC Cancer Agency Vancouver
Vancouver, BC V5Z 4E6

Laboratory Phone: (604) 877-6000 | Laboratory Fax: (604) 877-6178

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

Dr. Kos is a licensed Anatomical Pathologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Pathology services by Dr. Kos 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. Kos's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/342941/Kos%2CZuzana