[Lymph node identification in colorectal cancer specimens cases].
Colorectal carcinoma is one of the most prevalent malignancies in Western countries. Lymph node status is a significant prognosticator. The chance of identifying node-positivity is positively correlated with the number of lymph nodes (LN) identified. The present paper discusses various variables that may influence the detection of LNs, including patient- as well as surgeon- and pathologist-related issues. The pathologist-related variable most probably shapes the yield the most. Introduction of guidelines focusing on the most appropriate technique may secure better and more consistent results, and the pathologist's commitment is crucial in this respect.
Schmidt
Mads Bo
MB
Patologiafdelingen, Hvidovre Hospital, DK-2650 Hvidovre.
Engel
Ulla Højholt
UH
Mogensen
Anne Mellon
AM
Bülow
Steffen
S
Petersen
Lone Nørgård
LN
Holck
Susanne
S
D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008197:Lymph Node Excision; D008198:Lymph Nodes / Q000473:pathology*; D008207:Lymphatic Metastasis / Q000473:pathology; D015588:Observer Variation; D010340:Pathology, Surgical; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians'; D011379:Prognosis; D016707:Tissue Fixation / Q000379:methods