Dermatopathology

The Dermatopathology course is divided into a single, comprehensive unit, which provides detailed instruction on the pathology processes involved in skin specimen analysis, with a focus on skin cancer medicine. The course, presented by Dr. Simon Clark, an expert in dermatopathology, covers the following key areas:

Pathology Workflow and Specimen Processing This section explains what happens to skin specimens after they are sent to a laboratory, including the careful clerical matching of request forms with specimens. Dr. Clark walks participants through the detailed steps of tissue sampling, inking, processing, slicing, and staining. Participants will learn how biopsies (punch, shave, excision) are prepared for microscopic examination and the importance of accuracy in labelling and handling to avoid errors during the pathology process​.

Report Interpretation and Interobserver Agreement A crucial part of the course focuses on how to interpret pathology reports. Dr. Clark explains key terminology such as ""consistent with"" or ""suggestive of,"" which indicate pathologist uncertainty. He also discusses interobserver agreement in diagnosing various skin conditions, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma. Participants will gain insights into discrepancies between clinical and pathological findings and learn how to approach cases of unexpected results​.

Biopsy Techniques and Margin Assessment This section provides practical guidance on choosing appropriate biopsy techniques for different lesions. The course emphasises the importance of ensuring complete excision, particularly for suspected melanoma cases, where partial biopsies may lead to misdiagnosis. Dr. Clark demonstrates how margins are assessed and discusses the limitations of margin measurement due to specimen shrinkage and other factors​.

Error Prevention and Case Studies Participants are introduced to common errors that can occur in dermatopathology, such as specimen mislabeling or inadequate sampling. Dr. Clark also provides real-world case studies to highlight potential challenges in reconciling clinical observations with pathology findings. The course concludes with practical advice on how to communicate with pathologists to ensure accurate diagnoses​.

By completing this course, participants will be well-equipped to interpret dermatopathology reports, perform appropriate biopsies, and collaborate effectively with pathologists to improve patient care outcomes in skin cancer medicine.