The course will provide a case-based presentation focusing on specific and common diagnostic dilemmas in bone and superficial and deep soft tissue surgical pathology. We will emphasize those lesions that are especially problematic, benign lesions mimicking malignant ones, malignant lesions mimicking benign processes, and adult sarcoma. Examples include the diagnosis of lipoma vs. atypical lipoma, enchondroma vs. low grade chondrosarcoma, hemangioma vs. angiosarcoma, non-gynecologic leiomyoma vs. leiomyosarcoma, and giant cell containing lesions of bone. Non-mesenchymal lesions mimicking sarcoma, such as desmoplastic melanoma, will also be presented in case-based format. Although emphasis will be predominantly placed on light microscopic features, the use of ancillary techniques, including immunohistochemistry and cytogenetics, will be mentioned when applicable to the particular case. Upon completion of the course, the participant should be able to 1) confidently approach the differential diagnosis of the more common problematic areas in bone and soft tissue pathology, 2) discuss and recognize diagnostic pitfalls in musculoskeletal pathology, 3) cost-effectively utilize ancillary techniques in the work-up of these lesions.

The course is designed for pathology residents and general surgical pathologists seeking a better understanding of the histologic features of some of the more common bone and soft tissue tumors. A limited number of glass slide sets will be available for review prior to the meeting. The entire presentation on CD-ROM will be made available to all attendees at the meeting. An extensive syllabus will be distributed at the course.