Current pathology practices in and barriers to MDS diagnosis.
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a heterogeneous group of hematopoietic stem cell malignancies that represent a diagnostic challenge for pathologists. Accurate classification and prognostic scoring are essential to treating MDS. To understand factors that affect MDS management, a case-based survey was distributed to hematopathologists (n=53) and general pathologists (n=72) to identify perceived barriers, attitudes, and practices in MDS diagnosis. Results demonstrated confidence and practice gaps. Only 33% of general pathologists are confident in diagnosing MDS. Neither general pathologists nor hematopathologists are comfortable using the International Prognostic Scoring System to characterize risk. Thirty percent of general pathologists and 22% of hematopathologists would not include bone marrow aspirate and cytogenetics in initial testing of a neutropenic patient. Most practitioners tested appropriately for disease classification and prognosis; discrepancies were identified in testing to differentiate MDS from acute myeloid leukemia and testing in post treatment specimens. These results have implications in the management of MDS.
CE Outcomes, LLC, Birmingham, AL, United States. Electronic address: Terry.Glauser@ceoutcomes.com.
Terry Ann
TA
Glauser
Elizabeth M
EM
Sagatys
J Chad
JC
Williamson
B Stephen
BS
Burton
Christine
C
Berger
Patti
P
Merwin
Mary
M
Sugrue
John M
JM
Bennett
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D003625:Data Collection; D019983:Guideline Adherence / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D009190:Myelodysplastic Syndromes / Q000145:classification* / Q000473:pathology*; D010338:Pathology, Clinical; D010465:Perception; D011364:Professional Practice / Q000592:standards*; D011379:Prognosis; D012196:Review Literature as Topic; D000078329:Workforce
Acute myeloid leukemia; Hematopathology; Myelodysplastic syndromes; Pathology; Physician practice patterns; Practice gaps