Dr. Phillip J. DeChristopher, MD, PhD

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Get to know Pathologist Dr. Phillip J. DeChristopher, who serves patients in Illinois.

A seasoned pathologist, Dr. DeChristopher serves as a Professor of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at Loyola University Medical Center, and as the Medical Director for Transfusion Medicine/Blood Bank/Apheresis Service and Clinical Laboratory at Gottlieb Memorial Hospital.

When asked about his motivation to become a pathologist, he mentioned his interest in science, which began in high school and led to all of his degrees, as well as his work as a research chemist. He also expressed a strong desire to use laboratory medicine and pathology to make a real difference in patient care. 

What he loves most about Loyola Pathology is the collegiality among disciplines, which allows for the best multi-disciplinary approach to problem-solving and patient care.

With an impressive academic background, Dr. DeChristopher received his Master of Science and PhD degrees in Physical Organic Chemistry from the University of Illinois, and completed his medical training at Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine. He then went on to complete his residency and fellowship training at Michael Reese Hospital & Medical Center.

An expert in his field, the doctor is board-certified in anatomic & clinical pathology, and blood banking/transfusion medicine by the American Board of Pathology (ABPath). The mission of the ABPath is to promote the health of the public and advance the practice and science of pathology by establishing voluntary certification standards and assessing the qualifications of those seeking to practice the specialty of pathology.

Achieving fellowship status, Dr. DeChristopher is a Fellow of both the American Society for Clinical Pathology (FASCP) and the College of American Pathologists (FCAP).

Pathology is a branch of medical science that involves the study and diagnosis of disease through the examination of surgically removed organs, tissues, bodily fluids, and in some cases, the whole body. Pathologists are physicians who specialize in the diagnosis and management of diseases by laboratory methods. 

On a more personal note, Dr. DeChristopher enjoys driving fast cars, and if he had the time and resources, he would love to obtain a private pilot’s license.

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