Molecular Histopathogenesis of EBV-associated Lymphoproliferative Disorders
As a Clinical Staff Physician, Dr.Pittaluga's primary role is to provide
diagnostic hematopathology services through the Laboratory of Pathology, to
direct the in situ hybridization service for the clinical pathology
service, and to provide collaborative in situ hybridization support.
Her service responsibilities include diagnostic hematopathology,
which includes reviewing all hematopathology cases with either
residents and/or fellows, and supervising the clinical molecular
genetics in situ hybridization (ISH) service. The ISH service also
serves as a teaching laboratory for college graduates with plans to
enter medical school following a 1- to 2-year laboratory experience.

With regard to research, our laboratory and section is involved in the
investigation of the role of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and its relationship
to the molecular pathogenesis of lymphoproliferative disorders
(LPD's). The evolution of EBV-associated LPD's is complex and
appears to involve the sequential acquisition of molecular
alterations in a clonally expanded B cell
population. Both host and viral mechanisms participate in the complex
process of histopathologic progression. The in situ hybridization unit also
provides collaborative research support for clinical and basic
science studies.