How to do it: the clinicopathological conference

Abstract

The prime purpose of the clinicopathological conference (CPC) is education, delivered ideally in an entertaining and engaging manner. This article tackles both how to organise a CPC (more challenging than it might appear) and how to survive as a CPC discussant (always challenging). The patient at the heart of the CPC will have had a challenging and difficult illness. The reanalysis of the clinical presentation by the discussant, a re-exploration of their clinical journey, is the key to the educational value of the CPC rather than the ultimate diagnosis. A well-delivered CPC is the pinnacle of educational events in neurology, and this article highlights some useful tips on both sides of the divide.