This course will use a case oriented approach to illustrate diagnostic problems in tumors in the liver. Six main areas will be discussed using 12 illustrative cases. The topics will include hepatocellular tumors in the cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic liver, the distinction between hepatocellular carcinoma and adenocarcinoma, bile duct lesions, spindle cell tumors, and tumors in the pediatric age group. The differential diagnosis will be presented for each case and other examples from the differential will be compared and contrasted with key diagnostic features summarized. The hepatocellular lesions will include benign masses, borderline nodules, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The clinically important issue of distinguishing hepatocellular carcinoma from metastatic adenocarcinoma and clear cell carcinoma will be addressed. The discussion of spindle cell tumors will include primary and metastatic lesions and include vascular and stromal tumors. The usefulness of immunohistochemistry will be emphasized and updated to include recent developments. Bile duct lesions will be addressed and will include the problems in distinguishing adenomas from hamartomas and from adenocarcinomas. Intraductal and cystic masses will be covered. Finally problems in neoplasms in the pediatric age group will be addressed.

The course will be directed at general surgical pathologists and residents in pathology. A limited number of loan sets of glass slides will be available for advance mailing. All registrants will be mailed a set of transparencies after the meeting. A detailed syllabus with references will be distributed at the course.