Conference focuses on improving pathology standards in Sri Lanka

The international conference on Dermatopathology and Uropathology 2011 was held from August 18 to 20, 2011. This three day conference was held in collaboration with the British Division of the International Academy of Pathology (The BDIAP). The main purpose of this conference was to exchange knowledge and expertise, to open new discussion and pave the way to improve the standards of pathology in Sri Lanka.

Around 130 consultant pathologists, dermatologists and postgraduate trainees participated in the conference with a number of foreign delegates from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Singapore.

The foreign delegates comprised of a panel of eminent experts. Dr. Eduardo Calonje, a renowned senior dermatopathologist from St. Thomas Hospital, London, the author of many books and peer reviewed papers headed the team of dermatopathologists.

Other consultant dematopathologists included Dr. Bostjan Luzar from the University of Ljubliajana, Slovenia and Dr Thomas Brenn, Head of Department of Dermatopathology of NHS Lothian University Trust of Edinburgh, Scotland.

The uropathology component of the conference was led by expert consultant uropathologists, Dr Murali Varma of the University Hospital of Cardiff, Wales and Dr Daniel Berney of St Bartholomews hospital in London who conducted lectures and slide seminars.

In addition to hosting this international conference, the local faculty contributed by conducting various symposia and poster presentations.

One of the highlights of this conference was the induction ceremony of the new President of the College of Pathologists on August 18, at Hotel Taj Samudra, Colombo.

Dr Mala Tudawe, Consultant Haematologist, formerly of the National Hospital of Sri Lanka, was inducted as the President of the College of Pathologists 2011.

Approximately 180 guests attended this ceremony, Colombo University Vice Chancellor Professor Kshanika Hirimburegama graced the occasion as the chief guest and Dr Eduardo Calonje as the guest of honour.

A senior member of the College, Dr Doris Cristobelle Peiris, was felicitated by the College for her achievements and significant contribution to the field of pathology.