Navigating molecular neuropathology of CNS neoplasms for the practicing surgical pathologist.

Abstract

The practice of surgical neuropathology incorporates molecular results into diagnoses that already integrate histologic, radiologic, and clinical findings. Many surgical pathologists evaluate central nervous system (CNS) tumors without neuropathology board certification. This review describes key preanalytical, analytical, and postanalytical considerations for molecular testing and provides context for these considerations using frequently encountered CNS tumors. An overview of common molecular modalities, including limitations, is given, and pitfalls in interpretation are addressed. In summary, this review offers a practical reference for the diagnosis of CNS specimens in a general surgical pathology practice.