Approaches to routine handling of basal cell carcinoma re-excision specimens: a survey of Australian histopathologists

• Published in: Pathology Vol. 44; no. 4; pp. 331 - 336
• Main Authors: Warren, Leigh R., Karoo, Richard, Caplash, Yugesh, Otto, Sophia
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Elsevier B.V 01.06.2012
• Subjects: Basal cell carcinoma; Carcinoma, Basal Cell - pathology; Carcinoma, Basal Cell - surgery; dermatopathology; histopathology; Humans; Pathology, Surgical - methods; Pathology, Surgical - standards; re-excision; Reoperation; Skin Neoplasms - pathology; Skin Neoplasms - surgery; specimen handling; Specimen Handling - methods; Surveys and Questionnaires; Workload; re-excision; specimen handling; histopathology; dermatopathology; Basal cell carcinoma
• ISSN: 0031-3025; 1465-3931
• DOI: 10.1097/PAT.0b013e32835325ae

To investigate and assess variation in routine approaches to the handling of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) re-excision specimens by Australian histopathologists. A questionnaire was sent to 440 Australian histopathologists requesting details of their routine approach to the handling of BCC re-excision specimens. Responses were collated and compared to demonstrate any variation in approach. Responses received from 208 pathologists indicated that variation was present in most aspects of specimen handling, including cut-up, examination of the specimen and reporting. Variation demonstrated in the routine handling of BCC re-excision specimens may have important academic and clinical implications. It is important for pathologists to communicate their specimen handling approach to the surgeon. Further study should be conducted to specifically compare the various specimen handling approaches that were identified in this study. The development of evidence-based guidelines for the routine handling of BCC re-excision specimens may be appropriate.