The Arthur Purdy Stout Society of Surgical Pathologists and USCAP continue their collaborative commitment to provide superb education for practicing pathologists. The Third Edition is designed to eliminate a variety of practice gaps in diagnostic surgical pathology. The faculty’s review of the literature and collective clinical experience as consultant surgical pathologists have revealed areas that remain problematic for pathologists. Examples include the categorization of proliferative breast lesions, biopsies of genitourinary tract, classification of inflammatory conditions of the upper gastrointestinal tract, distinction between usual interstitial pneumonia and its mimics, and the differential diagnoses of salivary gland tumors.

This interactive microscopy course attempts to eliminate diagnostic errors by highlighting pitfalls and approaches to resolve them using routine microscopic examination and immunohistochemistry. The roles of adjunctive molecular tests will be discussed as appropriate.

Thus, this course will address both medical knowledge and competence with the goal of improving clinical practice.

Registrants will have the opportunity to experience USCAP’s new international headquarters and learning center at the heart of vibrant Palm Springs, California, a unique and fascinating resort destination.

Course Location: Palm Springs, CA
Course Director: Marisa Nucci, MD

Head and neck pathology represents a significant portion of surgical pathology practice. Studies have shown this area to be particularly treacherous to community pathologists with up to 53% of diagnoses changed (including 7% with major changes) upon second review at tertiary care hospitals (Kronz and Westra, Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surgery 2005; 13:81-4).

In recent years there have been numerous developments in head and neck pathology, further complicating this inherent difficulty. Novel entities have been described, pathognomonic molecular alterations have been uncovered, and major shifts in diagnostic classification schemes have been proposed. Many of these concepts were incorporated into the newest editions of the WHO Classifications for Head and Neck and Endocrine Tumors, both of which were published recently.

Taken together, it is difficult for pathologists to stay current and maintain proficiency in head and neck pathology without supplemental training and education. This course is a terrific opportunity to refine your diagnostic skills in a uniquely personal mentoring environment with energetic pathologists whose keen eyes, diagnostic acumen, and a modern approach will create an indelible impression.

This course is designed for general pathologists, practicing surgical pathologists, senior residents and pathologists with special interest in head and neck pathology.

Course Location: Palm Springs, CA
Course Director: Justin Bishop, MD