When an ancillary test is run on one block of a multifocal or heterogeneous tumour, record which block and which tumour area was used. A reader of the report cannot tell otherwise whether a negative result applies to the whole tumour or to one focus.
- Name the block and the tumour grade or component tested.
- Choose the most representative or highest-grade area for predictive markers.
- Note when other blocks were not tested.
- Comment on heterogeneity when you see it.
Why it matters
A negative result without a block reference can be mistaken for a statement about the whole tumour.
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