Consultant Pathology: Tumorigenic Melanocytic Proliferations

Series Description: The Consultant Pathology series, edited by David E. Elder is designed to disseminate the knowledge of expert surgical pathology consultants in the analysis and diagnosis of difficult cases to the full community of pathology practitioners. The volumes are based on actual consultations and presented in a format that illustrates the expert s process of evaluating the case, including indications for consultation, the consultant s findings and comment, and discussion of the entity that amplifies the case description. Each volume in the Consultant Pathology series is authored by international experts with extensive case experience in the areas covered.

The key role of histopathology in analysis of a melanocytic tumor is the recognition or exclusion of a malignant melanoma. The analysis of typical features leads to a correct diagnosis in the majority of cases. However, there are cases that are problematic, because of conflicting or insufficient criteria, in which a confident diagnosis is difficult. These difficult lesions account for a large proportion of the diagnostic errors and lawsuits in cutaneous pathology. There is another group of cases in which the diagnosis of malignancy remains uncertain these cases are especially problematic for both the pathologist and the treating clinician in that the diagnostic uncertainty may affect the recommended treatment and the need to advise the patient of the circumstances.

The goal of this unique book is to provide detailed insight into a wealth of expert experience in such cases, with in-depth review of the expert s analysis and diagnostic process supported by high-quality color photomicrographs and discussion of the diagnostic principles involved in evaluating these lesions.

Tumorigenic Melanocytic Proliferations is essential reading for surgical pathologists, dermatopathologists and dermatologists. In addition it will of interest to pathology residents and fellows, dermatology residents and dermatopathology fellows.