This guidance sets out how ophthalmologists should use ophthalmic pathology services in routine and specialist practice. It explains who reports specimens, where services are provided, and why appropriate tissue submission is critical to avoid missed diagnoses such as malignancy.
Clear recommendations are provided on which surgical specimens should be sent for histological or cytological examination, with practical tables covering eyelid, conjunctival, corneal, vitreoretinal and orbital tissues. The guidance emphasises a low threshold for submission where there is clinical uncertainty, alongside the value of confirming benign findings.
It also outlines how services are structured across the UK, including the role of the National Specialist Ophthalmic Pathology Service (NSOPS), and highlights the importance of specialist reporting, quality assurance, and multidisciplinary working.
Practical advice is included on specimen handling, request forms, fixation, transport, and communication with laboratories. These steps are essential to ensure diagnostic accuracy, reduce errors, and support timely reporting.