The objective of the course will be to discuss through the presentation of case studies several problem areas in the diagnosis of tumors of the pleura and mediastinum. 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 on the role of ancillary techniques such as immunohistochemistry, electron microscopy and molecular pathology for diagnosis. The following types of tumors will be included in the presentation: epithelioid lesions involving the pleura, spindle cell lesions of the pleura, biphasic tumors of the pleura, small blue cell tumors involving the pleura and mediastinum, thymic epithelial neoplasms, spindle cell tumors of the mediastinum, and the differential diagnosis of sclerosing lesions of the mediastinum.

The course will follow the usual format of PowerPoint case presentation, with special emphasis on issues of immediate practical value for general surgical pathologists. Practical tips based on the morphology of these tumors will be emphasized, along with a discussion of the pitfalls and limitations of some of the special techniques commonly employed for diagnosis. A limited number of glass slide sets will be available to the participants for review, and all registrants will be mailed a CD after the meeting. A comprehensive syllabus will be distributed at the time of the course.