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. Massachusetts has 8 practicing molecular genetic pathologists. Broken out by city, molecular genetic pathology doctor density in Boston is 7 and in Charlestown is 1.

Massachusetts became the sixth state in the union in 1788, and is steeped in history. Boston, the capital city, is home to Harvard University, the John F. Kennedy Museum and Library, the Paul Revere House, and many other historical sites. Massachusetts is home to the New England Pirate Museum in Salem, the Minute Man National Historical Park, and the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, both in Concord. Four past presidents were born in Massachusetts; John Adams, John Quincy Adams, John F. Kennedy and George H. W. Bush. Other famous Massachusetts people include actors Leonard Nimoy and Bette Davis, composer and conductor Leonard Bernstein, and historical figures Susan B. Anthony, Edgar Allan Poe, Paul Revere, and Benjamin Franklin.

According to 2005 Census estimates, Massachusetts has a population of 6,398,743. Of this population, 1,419,389 are under the age of 18 and 848,924 are at or above the age of 65.