A Review of Current Challenges in Colorectal Cancer Reporting

Abstract

Context.— Pathologic assessment of colorectal cancer resection specimens plays an important role in postsurgical management and prognostication in patients with colorectal cancer. Challenges exist in the evaluation and reporting of these specimens, either because of difficulties in applying existing guidelines or related to newer concepts. Objective.— To address challenging areas in colorectal cancer pathology and to provide an overview of the literature, current guidelines, and expert recommendations for the handling of colorectal cancer resection specimens in everyday practice. Data Sources.— PubMed (US National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland) literature review; reporting protocols of the College of American Pathologists, the Royal College of Pathologists of the United Kingdom, and the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum; and classification manuals of the American Joint Committee on Cancer and the Union for International Cancer Control. Conclusions.— This review has addressed issues and challenges affecting quality of colorectal cancer pathology reporting. High-quality pathology reporting is essential for prognostication and management of patients with colorectal cancer.