Which waste category consists of recognizable human or animal tissues removed during surgery, autopsy, or research?

• A. Pathological waste
• B. Pharmaceutical waste
• C. General medical waste
• D. Cytotoxic waste

Answer: (A)

Recognizable human or animal tissue removed during surgery, autopsy, or research is categorized as pathological waste. This group is defined by tissue, organs, or body parts that may carry infectious agents, so they require special handling, containment in biohazard systems, and disposal through controlled processes—often incineration or a validated sterilization method before final disposal. The other waste types cover different materials: pharmaceutical waste relates to medications and drug products; general medical waste includes nonhazardous items like paper, gloves, and other routine disposable items; cytotoxic waste involves materials contaminated with chemotherapy agents and other substances that pose cancer-causing risks. Properly classifying tissue as pathological waste helps protect healthcare workers and the environment by ensuring appropriate, safe disposal.