Lester D. R. Thompson, MD, is an internationally renowned pathologist whose expertise, extensive research, and global teaching efforts have contributed to our understanding of Head & Neck and Endocrine organ tumors. 

Dr. Thompson completed medical school and an orthopedic surgery internship at Loma Linda University, followed by an anatomic and clinical pathology residency at UCLA Medical Center. He is triple board certified in anatomic, clinical, and cytopathology.

Following his advanced pathology training, Dr. Thompson joined the United States Navy (CAPT, MC, USNR, Retired) and worked for a decade at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP) in Washington, D.C. During his time at the AFIP, he developed a specific interest and expertise in pathology of the head and neck and endocrine organs and served as Chief of the Division of Otorhinolaryngic-Head & Neck Pathology and Chief of the Division of Immunopathology. He was the recipient of the John Hill Brinton Award for excellence in research in 2001 and was awarded multiple medals and commendations for his outstanding service and achievements in the United States Navy Medical Corps, including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal.

Dr. Thompson joined the Southern California Permanente Medical Group in 2003, working as a general pathologist and performing consultations in his areas of interest. He recently opened Head & Neck Pathology Consultations. Throughout his career, Dr. Thompson has remained dedicated to research and education. He has published more than 340 papers, teaches at national and international conferences, and is the founder and co-editor-in-chief of the Head and Neck Pathology journal. He has published 12 medical textbooks along with contributing to the three most recent editions of the World Health Organization Classification of Tumours books in Head & Neck and Endocrine & Neuroendocrine Organ Tumours.

Link to Dr. Thompson’s Publications: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/myncbi/1rKqDv6Kvxukq/bibliography/public/