Neuropathology Rotation

The main goals of this rotation are:

• To recognize neoplastic, non-tumorous and low-grade neuropathologic lesions and potential misdiagnosis
• To learn to practice a defensive approach to tissue handling and frozen section interpretation.

In addition, this rotation provides an overview of muscle, nerve and neurodegenerative conditions with a focus on proper case management, correct tissue collection/preservation, and an approach to tissue diagnosis.

The material includes neoplastic and non-neoplastic entities from adults and children with specimens coming from the Johnnie L. Cochran, Jr. Brain Tumor Center, the Maxine Dunitz Neurosurgical Institute, the Pituitary Center and autopsy brains.

This one-month rotation includes an initial introduction to normal anatomy of the neuromuscular system, with subsequent weeks focused on CNS neoplasms, diseases of the muscles and nerves, and vascular, demyelinating, infectious and neurodegenerative disorders. Review of neuroimaging and correlation with the pathology is an integral aspect of the rotation. There is a comprehensive study set for review of all important neuropathologic lesions in addition to daily case review.

The neuropathology resident is a back-up for the autopsy resident, and occasionally may need to assist in performing autopsies.

• Morning case sign-out with afternoon follow-up of special stains
• Participation in all neuropathology frozen sections
• Participation in the weekly brain cutting session and review of autopsy brains
• Study set review
  

• Brain cutting (autopsy), every Monday
• Brain tumor board, every Wednesday (In the last week of the rotation, the resident is expected to present at this tumor board.)
  

Many studies are available in neuropathology, either within the pathology department or in collaboration with the various institutional centers in neuropathology, including opportunities to collaborate with molecular pathology.