Why Histopathology Matters in Veterinary Dermatology: Term Queen, Dr. Joya Griffin, Explains All

Dermatology cases are some of the most common and frustrating cases seen in veterinary medicine. When cytology, history, and treatment trials don’t give clear answers, histopathology often becomes the key to solving the puzzle. In this new Vet Candy CE session, Dr. Joya Griffin walks through how dermatology and histopathology work hand in hand to elevate diagnostic confidence.

Skin disease can look similar on the surface but stem from very different underlying causes. That’s where biopsy and pathology step in. Understanding what the pathologist is seeing and how to interpret those findings clinically can help veterinarians move from guesswork to targeted treatment plans.

In this session, Dr. Griffin focuses on practical decision-making. She discusses when to biopsy, how histopathology supports dermatologic diagnoses, and how clinicians can use pathology reports more effectively in everyday practice. The goal is to help veterinary teams connect clinical signs with microscopic changes and ultimately improve case outcomes.

For students and newer clinicians, the lecture provides a clearer understanding of how dermatology and histopathology intersect. For experienced practitioners, it’s a refresher on how pathology can confirm suspicions, reveal surprises, and guide next steps when cases don’t respond as expected.

Dermatology can feel like a long road of trial and error. But with the right diagnostic tools — and a stronger understanding of histopathology — that road becomes much more direct. This CE gives veterinary professionals the insight to make more confident decisions and get closer to answers faster.