How to read a pathology report of a bone tumor.
The interpretation of a biopsy specimen involving bone is one of the most challenging feats for a pathologist, as it is often difficult to distinguish between benign or reactive lesions and malignant tumors on microscopic analysis. Therefore, correlation with the clinical data and imaging is essential and sometimes it is only the evolution of certain characteristics over time or information garnered from molecular analysis that can provide an accurate diagnosis. The pathology report is critical in that it will define subsequent patient management; its wording must precisely reflect those elements that are known with certainty and those that are diagnostic hypotheses. It must be systematic, thorough, and complete and should not be limited to a simple conclusion. The pathologist must first ensure the completeness and correct transcription of the information provided with the specimen, then describe and analyze the histology as well as the quality and representative nature of the sample (as they relate to the radiographic findings and preliminary/final diagnoses), and finally, compare what is seen under the microscope with the assessment made by the radiologist and/or surgeon. This analysis helps to identify difficult cases requiring further consultation between the radiologist and pathologist. There are multiple reasons for misinterpretation of a pathology report. An important and largely underestimated reason is varied interpretations of terms used by the pathologist. Standardized pathology reports with concise phrases as well as multidisciplinary meetings may limit errors and should be encouraged for optimal diagnostic accuracy.
Department of Pathology, Hôpital René-Huguenin, Institut Curie, 35 rue Dailly, 92210 Saint Cloud, France. Electronic address: jean-marc.guinebretiere@curie.net.
Jean-Marc
JM
Guinebretière
Jennifer
J
Kreshak
Voichita
V
Suciu
Charles De
CD
Maulmont
Eric
E
Mascard
Gilles
G
Missenard
Frederique
F
Larousserie
Daniel
D
Vanel
D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor / Q000378:metabolism*; D001706:Biopsy / Q000379:methods*; D001859:Bone Neoplasms / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000473:pathology*; D004282:Documentation / Q000379:methods*; D005602:France; D055991:Health Records, Personal; D006801:Humans
D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor