The head and neck region gives rise to a vast array of tumors which challenge the diagnostic acumen of even the most experienced pathologists. The various mucosal sites present varied neoplasms that are not only difficult to diagnose, but are hard to treat. Additionally, the rarity of some salivary gland tumors does not make the surgical pathologist very comfortable to render a definite diagnosis. Finally, the craniofacial skeleton can be affected by various benign and malignant tumors. The diagnosis of them seriously impacts on the subsequent treatment and prognosis.

Tumors affecting these sites will be illustrated and discussed from the viewpoint of the practicing surgical pathologist and for those in advanced stages of training whose major interest lies in both biopsy and surgical materials. This short course aims to integrate the necessary clinicopathologic information needed to arrive at the proper diagnosis with the clinical importance of the differential diagnosis. The necessity of close communication between the pathologist and the head and neck management team is stressed. Twelve difficult tumors are presented which have solid teaching value. The role of modern diagnostic techniques including immunohistochemistry, molecular diagnostics and cytogenetics will be evaluated whenever appropriate.

Case histories and 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 complete syllabus containing the discussion of each case and representative bibliography will be distributed at the course.