The Pancreatic Multidisciplinary Team

Abstract

In recent years, the role of the pathologist has changed dramatically from a pure provider of histological diagnoses to an active participant in the decision-making of pre- and postoperative patient management. To date, close collaboration between clinicians and pathologists is seen as the basis for optimal patient management. In pancreatic cancer centers worldwide, regular multidisciplinary team meetings are held during which diagnostic investigations, treatment, and follow-up are discussed and planned for every individual patient. The unique and complex morphology and prognostic features of pancreatic neoplastic and nonneoplastic lesions require the participation of one or more pathologists with a special interest in pancreatic pathology. The pathologist’s contribution to the discussion of both pre- and postoperative cases is outlined. Also discussed are the pathologist’s further roles and responsibilities regarding, for example, provision and organization of second opinion, internal quality monitoring, external quality assurance, and submission of data to cancer registries.