The course will provide a didactic, predominantly case-based presentation involving a multidisciplinary approach to soft tissue neoplasms and neoplastic simulators. The introduction will address such topics as histologic grading and subtyping and provide practical guidelines for the reporting of soft tissue sarcomas. This course will approach the diagnosis of soft tissue lesions using a cytomorphologic perspective (and classification) along with the traditional histogenetic perspective, integrating cytologic (Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB)) specimens with open biopsy and/or resection specimens. The usefulness and limitations of FNAB for the histologic subtyping and grading of soft tissue sarcomas will also be addressed. Although emphasis will be predominantly placed on light microscopic features, the use of ancillary techniques, including immunohistochemistry and cytogenetics, especially in small biopsy specimens, will be discussed when applicable to the particular case. The course will tend to emphasize those soft tissue lesions that are especially problematic, benign lesions mimicking malignant ones, malignant lesions mimicking benign processes, and adult sarcoma. Upon completion of the course, the participant should be able to 1) approach the diagnosis of soft tissue tumors using an integrated, multidisciplinary and cytomorphologic perspective coupled with the traditional histogenetic classification, 2) discuss and recognize diagnostic pitfalls in soft tissue pathology, 3) understand the role and limitations of fine needle aspiration biopsy, 4) cost-effectively utilize ancillary techniques in the work-up of difficult soft tissue tumors.

The course is designed for pathology residents and general surgical pathologists seeking a better understanding of the cytologic and histologic features of some of the more common soft tissue tumors. All registrants will be mailed a representative set of 35 mm transparencies of the study cases, including cytology (when applicable) and the corresponding histology, prior to the meeting. A syllabus will be distributed at the course.