The objective of the course will be to review through the presentation of case studies significant diagnostic problems in neoplastic thoracic pathology. A series of illustrative cases will be presented that will serve as the basis for discussing common diagnostic problems in this area, with emphasis on histopathologic criteria and the role of ancillary techniques such as immunohistochemistry, electron microscopy and molecular pathology for diagnosis. The following are the groups of lesions that would be included in the presentation: Localized tumors of the pleura; Diffuse pleural masses; Masses involving the chest wall; Small blue cell tumors of the mediastinum; Spindle cell tumors of the mediastinum; Epithelioid malignancies of the mediastinum; Spindle cell tumors of the lung; and Biphasic lung tumors.

The course will follow the usual format of case presentation using projection slides. The emphasis of the course will be on the aspects of immediate practical value for practicing pathologists, with emphasis on morphologic differential diagnosis and the role of special stains and other techniques. A limited number of sets of glass slides will be available for advance mailing. All registrants will be mailed a set of transparencies after the meeting. A complete syllabus will be distributed at the time of the course.