[The significance of preventing pre-analytical errors in the pathology laboratory to obtain accurate pathological and cytological reports].

: Pathological and cytological reports are unique, because the results are not numerical, and they may become the final diagnosis, having a direct bearing on further therapeutic decisions. Recently, the numbers of medical incidents/accidents, in which pathology technologists and/or pathologists have been involved, have been increasing. It is of concern that a lack of proper procedures in pathology practice may give rise to serious accidents affecting patients' lives. For accurate pathology diagnoses, highly skilled pathological technicians and well-knowledgeable pathologists are necessary but, in addition, precise quality assurance is essential. Efforts to prevent pre analytical errors are presented and discussed.