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This course will provide a basic overview of the histopathologic diagnosis of infectious diseases. This area is an increasing challenge in surgical pathology due to emerging infections, growing numbers of immunocompromised patients and more world travel. Surgical pathologists are frequently being called upon not only to distinguish infectious processes from neoplastic conditions, but also to identify pathogens in cases in which there is no material available for culture.

This course is appropriate for general pathologists, residents, and subspecialists. It is intended to serve as a basic guide to the histopathologic diagnosis of common and emerging infectious diseases. The course will be organized into four segments, each beginning with a case presentation and followed by broad exploration of the diagnosis of a group of microorganisms. Both traditional microscopy and new methods will be emphasized. Morphologic characteristics, surrounding tissue reaction, differential diagnosis, and common pitfalls will be discussed. Special techniques available to aid the pathologist in reaching a rapid and accurate diagnosis, including immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization will also be explored.

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to recognize the important diagnostic histopathologic features of a representative sample of the various categories of infectious pathogens. They will also learn about ancillary diagnostic techniques available in surgical pathology. Prior to the course, each participant will receive a website address where they can view case histories and photomicrographic images of the four cases to be presented. A syllabus will be provided at the meeting, and a CD ROM of the PowerPoint presentations will be sent after the meeting.

(New Course) This course may be used for CME credits or SAMs credits.