Is it a good idea to get a second opinion on the pathology results?

Yes, a second opinion from a pathologist can be extremely valuable. A pathologist is a doctor who specializes in reading and interpreting lab results; the oncologist is the doctor who treats the diagnosed breast cancer. It's important to feel confident that the original diagnosis was made correctly, particularly if there's any question about the interpretation of the biopsy or lab results, or if there's more than one possible plan of action. Pathologists aren't infallible in interpreting lab results, and a second opinion is the most effective way for patients to uncover and correct errors that might result in an incorrect diagnosis. Because the treatment plan depends on the particular type of breast cancer and how far it has spread, the interpretation of the pathology can dramatically affect treatment and prognosis.