Henry D. Tazelaar, M.D.

The work of Henry D. Tazelaar, M.D., focuses on refining criteria used to diagnose the rejection of transplanted hearts and lungs. He is also active in identifying new pulmonary diseases and better ways to evaluate tissue samples for the diagnosis of lung and pleural disease.

Focus areas

• Pathology of heart transplantation and lung transplantation (with Mayo Clinic Transplant Center)
• Pathology of interstitial and fibrotic lung disease, including diseases caused by smoking, environmental exposures and mesothelioma

Significance to patient care

Dr. Tazelaar's observations have led to the identification of several new or unusual pulmonary diseases and standardized the way pathologists report findings to clinicians. Patients can only be treated accurately when there is accurate diagnosis and communication of these findings to direct caregivers. Dr. Tazelaar's research is aimed at helping pathologists understand how to better diagnose disease so that appropriate treatments can be initiated.

Professional highlights

• President, Pulmonary Pathology Society, 2005-2005
• Member of groups that standardize reporting of heart and lung rejection, International Society for Heart & Lung Transplantation, 1990-2008