Molecular genetic pathology is the laboratory study of genetic samples of cells, tissues, body fluids, and organs, associated with heredity. A genetic pathologist identifies the causes, processes, and risks of inherited diseases through microscopic study. Laboratory test results of genetic material help to diagnose, confirm, and monitor inherited diseases. The genetic pathologist can provide counseling to patients and their families, with information about their condition and the risk of a genetic disorder in the family.

Laboratory study of tissue and fluid samples can help to 1) diagnose inherited genetic abnormalities and tumor malignancies, 2) monitor genetic changes of patients who have undergone bone marrow transplants, 3) diagnose and monitor viral, fungal, and bacterial infections.

Doctor density varies by specialty and location. Indiana has 2 practicing molecular genetic pathologists. Broken out by city, molecular genetic pathology doctor density in Elkhart is 1, in Indianapolis is 1, and in South Bend is 1.

Indiana’s population is 6,271,973, and most of the state’s population is located in the north, near the Lake Michigan shoreline, and is part of the greater metro Chicago area. Indiana became a state in 1816, and boasts many historical sites and covered bridges, numerous state parks and forests, hunting and fishing, and a variety of golf courses. Centrally located Indianapolis is home to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, hosting the world-famous 500-mile auto race every year. This capital and largest city of Indiana also hosts a Civil War museum, a planetarium, and the Indiana Historical Society, among many other attractions.

According to 2005 Census estimates, Indiana has a population of 6,271,973. Of this population, 1,566,280 are under the age of 18 and 774,303 are at or above the age of 65.