History

The Story Behind SBPC

Dr. Thomas J. Lawton founded Seattle Breast Pathology Consultants in 2008 because he wanted patients to have a better understanding of what breast pathology is, and how their breast biopsy diagnosis impacts all of their future treatment decisions.

After spending over a decade in academia and being part of a multi-disciplinary medical team caring for patients with breast cancer, Dr. Lawton realized most patients never know who their pathologist is or understand that this one person is so vital to their diagnosis and ultimate treatment options. Many patients will seek a second opinion with a particular breast surgeon or breast oncologist not realizing that, unless specifically requested, a breast pathologist may not be reviewing their biopsy materials. Dr. Lawton believes strongly that every patient who is confronted with the possibility of a breast biopsy—and the fear of breast cancer—has a right to know who is making their diagnosis and how that diagnosis is being made.

Seattle Breast Pathology Consultants was thus founded as a resource for patients who want to get a second opinion from a pathologist with years of experience specializing in breast pathology. We also want to provide patients with a place to go to learn and talk about issues related to all aspects of breast pathology, from diagnosis to treatment.