Supporting system for pathological diagnosis of rare cancer: Model for bone and soft tissue tumors

Abstract

Accurate and immediate pathological diagnosis often cannot be made for rare cancers including bone and soft tissue tumors and pediatric cancers. If general pathologists encounter a rare cancer, they have no choice but to consult with experts. In Europe, a centralized system for the pathological diagnosis of soft tissue sarcoma has been established. In Japan, such a system is impractical. As an alternative, it has been proposed that general pathologists consult with experts on unusual cases or cases with challenging diagnosis. In addition, a project to train general pathologists in the diagnosis of rare cancers is underway, and a system for succession planning should be developed.