Pathology Report

Much of the foregoing information is contained in the pathology report. Reports will vary according upon one's cancer, but generally contain demographic information, tissue removed and date. The description of the tissue removed for analysis will be either a "gross or macroscopic description" of the tissue or specimen visible to the naked eye and pertains to color, weight and size of tissue. The "microscopic description" which describes features seen under a microscope and includes features of the tumor such as a carcinoma and the cell of origin within that typology, as well as the grade and stage. Often information about tumor margins will be given. This refers to the presence of the tumor in the edges of the tumor that was surgically removed. If so, the margins are said to be "positive "or "involved. " If not, they are said to be "negative" or free of tumor. The presence of markers such as PSA or hormone receptors, e.g. estrogen positive may also be referred to. Based upon the foregoing, a final diagnosis will also be present.

A site I would recommend for understanding your specific pathology report is www.mybiopsy.org. This, in turn, will allow you to ask the right questions and choose correct treatment options.