USCAP Hematopathology: Current Classifications and Diagnostic Dilemmas 2024

Modern Hematopathology: Challenges in the Era of New Classifications

Original Release Date: December 19, 2024

Includes: Videos + PDFs

Course Description

The practice of hematopathology diagnostics in the modern era is a dynamic and challenging field, especially for general pathologists, junior faculty, and trainees. In addition to the ever-expanding landscape of ancillary studies — particularly molecular and cytogenetic — two new classification schemes were introduced in 2022: the International Consensus Classification and the updated WHO 5th Edition. These frameworks are similar, but not identical, and navigating their differences is crucial for clinical diagnostic hematopathology.

Distinguishing reactive from neoplastic entities continues to be a major challenge in both bone marrow and lymphoid tissue. Additionally, clinical hematology — which influences patient treatment — is an ever-evolving discipline. It’s essential for pathologists to provide diagnoses that are accurate, up-to-date, and accessible to clinical colleagues.

This course highlights diagnostic challenges brought about by these developments using a case-based, interactive format. Cases will illustrate how to:

• Interpret and apply morphologic criteria for diagnosing hematologic neoplasms
• Navigate ambiguous or disputed areas within the new classifications
• Avoid misdiagnosis of benign mimics as malignant
• Use ancillary tests effectively when results are discordant or unexpected

Digital Slide Access

This course offers digital slides for each case. You can preview slides as unknowns via the “Pre-session Slide Preview” or refer to them during video sessions.

Items Included in the Course

• Challenges in the Diagnosis of Small/Low Grade B-Cell Lymphomas – Rebecca King, MD
• Aggressive B-Cell Lymphomas: Classification Updates and Diagnostic Dilemmas – Rebecca King, MD
• Myeloma and Other Immunosecretory Disease – Megan Nakashima, MD
• Approach to the Fibrotic Bone Marrow Disease – Megan Nakashima, MD
• Clonal Cytopenias, Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), and Related Entities – Katherine Calvo, MD, PhD
• Germline Predisposition in Myeloid Neoplasia, Bone Marrow Failure, and Pediatric Myelodysplasia – Katherine Calvo, MD, PhD
• Extranodal Lymphoproliferations – James Cook, MD, PhD
• T-Cell Lymphoproliferations and the Utility of NGS – James Cook, MD, PhD