Current Pathology Residents
Fourth-Year Residents
Taryn Cazzolli, MD
cazzolli@uthscsa.edu
Medical School: Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University
Hometown: Tully, NY
1. Why Pathology?: I was initially drawn to histology from a course I took as an undergraduate. From that interest, I applied to medical school with the intent to pursue a career in Pathology. I love the process of combining medical knowledge with visualization of the disease morphology on a cellular level.
2. Why did you choose UT Health San Antonio?: I chose the UT Health San Antonio program because of the excellent faculty, the positive endorsements from the current residents, the balanced AP and CP curriculum, and the case variety.
3. What do you like about living in San Antonio?: San Antonio is an affordable city with a wide variety of things to do. I enjoy the outdoor activities available in the surrounding parks and downtown on the River Walk. The food is great with many restaurants to choose from. The AT&T stadium often hosts cultural and sporting events, concerts, and the annual rodeo. Also, no winter weather to contend with!
Thelma Dangana, MD
dangana@uthscsa.edu
Medical School: China Medical University, China
Hometown: Port Harcourt, Nigeria
1. Why Pathology?: Exploring the gross picture of a disease and piecing this puzzle with the histological and molecular features to come to a final diagnosis is very satisfying. It also allows the opportunity to collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams in probing complicated cases and my duty in advocating quality patient care in the area of diagnostics.
2. Why did you choose UT Health San Antonio?: UTHSCSA provides a balanced AP/CP curriculum and case load in a fitting training environment. It offers a wide range of resources and opportunities to support my future endeavors.
3. What do you like about living in San Antonio?: The look of a large metropolitan city, but the feel of a friendly mid-sized town, and of course shorter winters!
Ricardo de la Cruz, MD
delacruzr4@uthscsa.edu
Medical School: Facultad de Cientas Medicas de Gramma, Cuba
Hometown: Bayamo, Cuba
1. Why Pathology?: Throughout my clinical rotations in school, I found myself more and more attracted by the pathophysiology of diseases and the important role pathology plays in the diagnosis, management, and follow-up of the patients. It is absolutely unique in that it is in conjunction with many other specialties in medicine. Being able to solve diagnostic mysteries in the service of patients and their families makes this career truly my passion.
2. Why did you choose UT Health San Antonio? At UT Health San Antonio, we have not only an impressive case volume with a mix of the ordinary and extraordinary, but also faculty members with open doors. Our faculty enjoy sharing their knowledge and taking the time to teach, as do our senior residents. I was also drawn in by how happy the residents seemed, and how they all seemed to get along well.
3. What do you like about living in San Antonio? San Antonio is a city rich in history, something I always enjoyed reading. It offers big-city amenities and multiple attractions coupled with a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. It is very affordable and the perfect place for my family to live!
Regina Tirbeni, MD
tirbeni@uthscsa.edu
Medical School: UTMB Galveston
Hometown: Grand Prairie, TX
1. Why Pathology?: I was drawn to pathology because it is a broad field of medicine that requires knowledge of all organ systems down to a microscopic level. I like that there are many areas that you can choose from to subspecialize in. It leaves a lot of possibilities in terms of a career and even a lot of flexibility.
2. Why did you choose UT Health San Antonio?: I chose UT Health San Antonio’s pathology program because of its warm and welcoming environment. I could tell that they really encourage and believe in their residents. I also like how well-structured the residency program is.
3. What do you like about living in San Antonio?: I like the history and culture of San Antonio. There is so much to do. It’s a very exciting and fun place to be.
Third -Year Residents
Brooke Anliker, MD
anliker@uthscsa.edu
Medical School: American University of the Caribbean (AUC)
Hometown: Carol Stream, Illinois
1. Why Pathology?: I chose pathology because of my love for diagnostics, the laboratory, and finding a definitive answer. The lab is the backbone for providing clinicians with the necessary information to make an accurate diagnosis. Too often, I have encountered providers content treating symptoms without knowing the source of the issue. In pathology, we consistently go back to the root and identify the origin of disease. Not only is it fulfilling to find the correct diagnosis, but this field allows us to inform clinicians of the pertinent information needed to guide them to the most effective treatment.
2. Why did you choose UT Health San Antonio?: Before medical school, I worked as an MLS (medical lab scientist), so much of my familiarity with this field is in clinical pathology. Therefore, when looking for a program, I desired one with a robust clinical pathology education equivalent to anatomic pathology. Throughout the interview, I realized UTHSCA offers just that. Not only is Dr. Greebon (Program Director) a blood banker, but the current residents attested to the strength and balance of their AP and CP education.
3. What do you like about living in San Antonio?: Before starting residency, I had never been to San Antonio. Since being here, I have realized this community is robust with diversity and culture. San Antonio has an easily accessible downtown area with a beautiful river walk (with great food). San Antonio is spread out enough to where it doesn’t feel like an overcrowded large city. I am originally from the midwest, so I look forward to the warmer winters here. Also, living costs are cheaper than in many other major cities. One of my favorite parts of living here is the people; everyone is extremely kind and hospitable.
Andrea Barraza Aguilar, MD
barrazaaguil@uthscsa.edu
Medical School: Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina
Hometown: Monterrey, Mexico
1. Why Pathology?: Pathology is a specialty that can brings something different daily and is exciting to learn. Also, pathologists have one of the most critical roles in patient care, so I love the idea of helping physicians from a wide variety of specialties take care of their patients.
2. Why did you choose UT Health San Antonio?: You have many opportunities to learn because of the vast volume of cases and their variety. Also, the faculty is outstanding and committed to teaching.
3. What do you like about living in San Antonio?: San Antonio is a diverse and friendly city. You can find everything you need without the difficulties of a crowded city, and it has many things to do in your free time.
Second -Year Residents
Carlos Bouchot, MD
bouchotc@uthscsa.edu
Medical School: Texas Tech University Health Science Center, El Paso
Hometown: Laredo, Texas
1. Why Pathology?: I was attracted to the diversity of the field, the working environments, and the lifestyle.
2. Why did you choose UT Health San Antonio?: I really liked the residents that I interacted with, as well as the campus itself, the growing medical center, and how varied the learning opportunities are.
3. What do you like about living in San Antonio?: What I like about living in San Antonio is, of course, the culture and food, the big-city-small-town feel, as well as all the benefits of living in the state of Texas.
Elvin Fermin, MD
Fermine1@uthscsa.edu
Medical School: Howard University College of Medicine
Hometown: Alexandria, VA
1. Why Pathology?: I really admire pathology because I feel that it’s a good balance between basic and clinical medicine. In addition, I consider myself a very visual person, which led me to this unique specialty.
2. Why did you choose UT Health San Antonio?: I chose UT Health San Antonio because of its large caseload, which allows for ample learning opportunities.
3. What do you like about living in San Antonio?: I like living in San Antonio because of numerous activities within the city (like going to Spurs games) and outside the city!
Melissa Garcia Patino, MD
garciapatino@uthscsa.edu
Medical School: Universidad CES Escuela de Medicina-Colombia
Hometown: Medellin, Colombia
1. Why Pathology?: Because is an area where things are always different and exciting.
I have always been curious about what is happening at a deeper level, beyond just the symptoms and treatment of a disease, and I am drawn to subjects where we explored the “why?” and “how?” rather than just the “what?”
Being a pathologist allows us to explore beyond what is seen with the naked eye, It involves solving a puzzle to help patients and form a complete picture of what is happening.
2. Why did you choose UT Health, San Antonio?: I chose UT Health San Antonio because I could see the human quality that everyone in the program has, from my rotations to the interview they made me feel very welcome. Also, because it is a big program, very academic, with a lot of variety of cases and possibilities to learn.
3. What do you like about living in San Antonio?: Since I first visited San Antonio and had the opportunity to live there for a while, I realized that it is an incredible city. It is big but at the same time it feels cozy and small, the living costs are not so high, and the people are very friendly. There are all kinds of activities you can do in your free time. Also, there are people from all over the world living here and that gives you the possibility to meet and learn a lot from all of them.
Rebecca Thompson, DO, MPH
thompsonr3@uthscsa.edu
Medical School: University of Incarnate Word Osteopathic School of Medicine
Hometown: Austin, TX
1. Why Pathology?: I enjoy piecing together a patient’s diagnostic picture by combining the visualization of disease processes at the cellular level with insights gained from the clinical history.
2. Why did you choose UT Health San Antonio?: This program gives residents great exposure to interesting cases with the support of a welcoming and knowledgeable faculty. I appreciate that there is a good balance between AP and CP in all years of the program.
3. What do you like about living in San Antonio?: I love the variety of experiences available in San Antonio and the surrounding area. I also love having a strong local support network of family and friends.
Vy Vu, MD
vuv3@uthscsa.edu
Medical School: UT Health San Antonio – Long SOM, Texas
Hometown: Grand Prairie, TX
1. Why Pathology?: Pathophysiology has always been my motivating factor for entering medicine, it’s interesting how these principles can accumulate into what we see and experience as disease and what’s even more amazing is that we can detect it at such precise levels. I love how pathology plays an important role in diagnostics and how involved it is to the discovery of new information and technologies. Ultimately, the pathology rotations sold me. The opportunity to look at the slides at the scope and come up with my own diagnoses, and the prospect of learning something new daily is exciting. It’s a bonus how awesome the people are, and I’m inspired every day to see the dedication to their craft.
2. Why did you choose UT Health San Antonio?: I had the opportunity to do the pathology rotations here and interact with the faculty, staff, and residents. From this experience, the relaxed, friendly, and collaborative culture of the program really drew me in, and I enjoyed the variety of cases and the balanced curriculum.
3. What do you like about living in San Antonio?: San Antonio is an affordable city, and it doesn’t feel too crowded. The weather is nice and perfect for gardening. There is also an abundant amount of outdoor activities available, such as the many parks that comprise the Greenway encircling the city, the Pearl, the River Walk, and many others.
First -Year Residents
Kelechi Emmanuel Anasonye, MD
anasonye@uthscsa.edu
Medical School: Texila American University College of Medicine – Guyana
Hometown: Anambra State, Nigeria
1.Why Pathology?: As Someone who have a background in Clinical laboratory science, working with different pathologist exposed me to this fascinating field that plays an essential role in understanding disease mechanisms and improving patient outcomes through precise diagnostics. The field’s rigorous scientific inquiry and impact on clinical decisions provide a rewarding blend of intellectual stimulation and tangible results.
2. Why did you choose UT Health San Antonio?: I love the UT Health San Antonio Pathology residency program for its exceptional mentorship, diverse clinical exposure, and strong focus on diagnostic precision and research opportunities. Additionally, the program’s commitment to a well-rounded education and supportive community enhances both professional growth and personal satisfaction.
3. What do you like about living in San Antonio?: I love the exceptional immigrant-friendly environment, rich cultural heritage, and warm and welcoming community. Additionally, the city’s affordable cost of living and the diverse culinary scene makes it a dynamic and enjoyable place to call home.
Idahlia Bland, DO
blandi@uthscsa.edu
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown: San Antonio, TX
1. Why Pathology?: I chose pathology because I am fascinated by physiology and I love being able to see what’s occurring within a patient under the microscope. I also love the intersection between clinical medicine and the cutting-edge technology of laboratory medicine and the collaborative relationship between pathologists and other clinicians.
2. Why did you choose UT Health San Antonio?: The UT Health training location is a major hub for patient care, academics, and research, and is located in a major medical center serving dozens of surrounding counties. The variety in patient population and countless opportunities made selecting UT Health San Antonio for training an easy choice! 3. What do you like about living in San Antonio?: San Antonio is a city rich in culture and history with countless things to do. From outdoor activities to museums and multiple shopping districts, and of course the food!
Rui Liang, MD
liangr@uthscsa.edu
Medical School: Wuhan University School of Medicine, China
Hometown: Taiyuan, China
1. Why Pathology?: Pathology draws me in because it combines visual artistry with disease diagnosis. The intricate cellular structures and patterns fascinate me, allowing me to understand diseases at a deeper level. My research background solidifies my passion for pathology, and I love how pathology bridges biomedical research and clinical practice.
2. Why did you choose UT Health San Antonio?: I chose UT Health San Antonio because of its approachable faculty and friendly training environment. The balanced AP and CP curriculum ensures comprehensive learning and development. Additionally, the strong sense of community among co-residents and the supportive staff creates an encouraging atmosphere that enhances both personal and professional growth.
3. What do you like about living in San Antonio?: I appreciate living in San Antonio because of its affordable living costs, which make it easier to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Additionally, less traffic compared to other major cities makes commuting more manageable. San Antonio is also a perfect place for families, offering a welcoming environment and plenty of family-friendly activities.
Vasudha Rudraraju, MD
rudraraju@uthscsa.edu
Medical School: Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College
Hometown: Hyderabad, India
1. Why Pathology?: I chose pathology because I enjoy understanding diseases at the cellular level and working through the details to come to a diagnosis.
2. Why did you choose UT Health San Antonio?: The pathology program at UT Health San Antonio has amazing faculty who are truly dedicated to teach residents. The program also has a well-balanced AP/CP curriculum and offers exposure to a diverse range of cases, including many that are unique. Overall, the learning environment is excellent.
3. What do you like about living in San Antonio?: San Antonio has something for everyone. Whether it’s culture, outdoor activities, diverse food, or a friendly community, you’ll find it all here. Plus, there isn’t as much traffic like other cities, which I love.
Kayla Smith, MD
smithk17@uthscsa.edu
Medical School: UT Health San Antonio – Long SOM, Texas
Hometown: Miami, FL
1. Why Pathology?: Throughout medical school, I noticed that I was more interested in diagnosing diseases rather than treating them, and I was more interested in understanding the disease process in general. From there, I decided to shadow and do a few rotations in pathology, and I found the process of integrating information on slides with the patient’s clinical picture to come up with a diagnosis to be such a rewarding experience.
2. Why did you choose UT Health San Antonio?: I went to medical school here and was fortunate enough to rotate through here as well. Everyone was so kind and willing to teach, and I was able to learn so much during my short time here. I knew that, as a resident at this institution, I would gain so much knowledge and leave this program being a very competent pathologist. On top of that, both the residents and faculty are incredibly supportive, and everyone has an open door policy that makes you feel very comfortable asking questions.
3. What do you like about living in San Antonio?: I like that it’s a big city with a small town-feel. There’s plenty of things to do here, but it doesn’t feel as stressful and crowded as a big city. There’s also a wide variety of things to do. Whether you have kids or not, you’re sure something here that you’ll love to do.
Daniel Wheeler, DO
wheelerd@uthscsa.edu
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine – Louisiana Campus
Hometown: Shreveport, Louisiana
1. Why Pathology?: I was drawn to pathology by the wonders of the microscopic world. I find histology fascinating but also enjoy clinical chemistry. I enjoy being part of a team and how pathology allows me to help patients by doing something I love. 2. Why did you choose UT Health San Antonio?: I was drawn to the program’s very balanced AP/CP curriculum and the variety of fellowships available. When visiting on a cytology rotation, I was impressed by the quality of instruction and the warm and welcoming atmosphere. With the high case volume and excellent instruction, I knew I would be well-prepared as a physician in the future.
3. What do you like about living in San Antonio?: I enjoy the warm weather and variety of things to do in San Antonio. Living in the medical center means I’m only a short walk from the hospital. The people are friendly, the city is safe, and there is no shortage of fantastic restaurants and fun activities.