Current Issues and Problems in Breast Pathology

Date: June 23-25, 2010
Location: New York, NY
Credits: 20.75 CME

Core Competencies: PC, MK, ICS, PBL, PR, SBP
Intended Audience: Pathologists, Pathology Residents, Pathologists’ Assistants

Stay on the cutting edge with new information about:

• Correlation of molecular/gene expression based and morphofunctional classification of breast carcinomas
• Lobular intraepithelial lesions that mimic ductal proliferations
• Diagnostic approach to spindle cell tumors of the breast
• Pathologic findings in sentinel node
• To excise or not to excise – listing of various lesions diagnosed on core biopsy
• Use of immunostains
• The new Hercep test
• Prognostic and predictive markers inclusive of Oncotype and Mammaprint assays

Special course features:

• Individual microscopes and glass slides for use throughout the course
• 5-headed microscope for consultation with faculty
• Case reviews with videomicroscopy
• Multi-disciplinary presentations on classic and novel prognostic and predictive factors, core biopsies, and sentinel node assessment
• Course syllabus include
• SAM credits (on-line pre and post-test required)

Ready to take a lead in coaching your clinical colleagues? This course will provide you with critical new knowledge about diagnostic criteria and special studies so you can become an even more informed participant in the management of breast cancer patients. It’s a unique opportunity to benefit from coaching by the faculty, using real-world cases. Bring your own challenging slides for discussion with the faculty and evaluate your knowledge with self-assessment options. You’ll hear about recent advances that have enhanced our knowledge in major areas, including basic morphology of the mammary duct system, major breast diseases, prognostic factors, and more. You’ll also have an opportunity to focus on many of the more uncommon lesions and to address troublesome issues such as early invasive carcinomas and interpretation of small samples of a radial scar on core biopsies.

Following this course, you will be able to:

• Classify intraepithelial proliferations using the DIN classification and translate hyperplasia, atypical hyperplasia, and various grades of in-situ carcinoma into the DIN system.
• Differentiate radial scar and complex sclerosing lesions from invasive carcinoma.
• Diagnose various subtypes of papillary lesions.
• Interpret prognostic and predictive factors most relevant to patient management.
• Assess the value of molecular diagnostics in breast pathology.
• Communicate the implications of flat DIN1 (flat epithelial atypia).
• Discriminate various patterns of adenosis and carcinoma.
• Recognize the values and pitfalls of core and sentinel node biopsies.

The ASCP designates these educational activities for a maximum of 20.75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activities.

This activity meets MOC Part II Lifelong Learning requirements. A self-assessment option is available for pathologists attending this program to earn SAM credits for Maintenance of Certification, Part II Self-Assessment Modules (MOC-SAM) for part of the course.