Chances are, the treatment plan for your cancer was determined by the results presented on a pathology report.

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This process probably started before your diagnosis, when you had a biopsy or surgery where a doctor removed cells or tissue for study under a microscope. Specialists called pathologists studied these samples to understand how they look compared with normal cells and prepared a report summarizing their findings for your oncologist or surgeon. Patients may not see reports like these, nor understand the technical medical language used.

To help patients understand the information in each report and how your oncologist uses it to decide the best course of treatment for your cancer, University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center pathologist Celina Kleer, M.D., director of the breast pathology program, explains more.

What does a pathology report include?

Kleer: Each report has patient identifiers, including the name, birthdate, date of procedure and an assigned pathology accession number. The report contains a macroscopic (also called gross) description of the tissue sample. This consists of the features of the tissue or organ seen with the naked eye, before study under the microscope. Under the diagnosis heading is a statement of whether the lesion excised is benign or malignant, and the specific medical term used to categorize the abnormal findings. The pathology report also has a section labeled "comments," where the pathologist may note special features or unusual aspects of the sample.

Here is an example of a breast biopsy diagnosis:

• Gross description: A 3x2x2 cm oval fragment of fibrous and adipose tissue is received fresh and labeled "left breast biopsy." Upon sectioning, there is a 1 cm tan firm nodule with a glistening surface. The nodule is sectioned and submitted entirely for review. In addition, there are multiple gritty yellow areas surrounding the nodule, measuring approximately 0.5 cm.

• Diagnosis: Left breast, excisional biopsy: High nuclear grade ductal carcinoma in situ with microcalcifications surrounding a fibroadenoma. Ductal carcinoma in situ extends to margins. See Comment.

• Comment: The foci of ductal carcinoma in situ have focal necrosis and marked nuclear pleomorphism. Hormonal receptors will be performed.

All of this information will be explained to you by your oncologist. Be sure to ask questions if there are medical terms or details you don't understand.

What information might a health care provider learn about a patient's cancer from such a report?

Kleer: The pathology report states as precisely as possible the disease present in the tissue sample. The aim of the report is to provide the clinicians and surgeons with the necessary information so they can make a treatment recommendation. The pathologist can also perform additional tests on the tissues that can inform on the rate of growth and how the disease may evolve. For example, finding cellular atypia and multiple division figures (or mitosis) may indicate that the tumor is growing rapidly, and guides oncologists and surgeons on the most appropriate treatment course.

How does a patient interpret and understand the results of a pathology report?

Kleer: Once the pathologist writes a report, the physician caring for the patient will communicate the results and explain the meaning of the diagnosis rendered, which will lead to a treatment plan. Pathology reports contain medical and scientific terms that may be difficult for nonmedical people to understand. Thus, it is important to discuss all diagnoses with your primary doctor.  

What genetic information might be included on a pathology report?

Kleer: If genetic testing is indicated, based on the particular disease, this information is included in a special genetic report. The Cancer Center and the Department of Pathology has uniquely qualified specialists to perform genetic testing. Some patients have their tumors sequenced to find specific mutations that can be targeted with available medicines. This personalized medicine approach requires a team of physicians of different specialties including clinicians and pathologists.

Should patients get a second opinion on their pathology results?

Kleer: I think second opinions are always worthwhile. Here at the U-M Rogel Cancer Center, each breast biopsy is reviewed several times. First, a pathology resident reviews the slides. Then, the resident reviews the case with a pathology fellow and an attending pathologist. That's already three sets of eyes. If there are any doubts about a diagnosis, the case will be reviewed with another pathologist.

SEE ALSO: Getting a Second Opinion on Adrenal Cancer

It is important to note that a multidisciplinary team (including radiologists, oncologists, pathologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, nurses, geneticists, psychiatrists and social workers) is closely involved in the decision-making and care of cancer patients. Their close communication is essential in providing optimal treatment.

For example, in breast cancer, here at the Rogel Cancer Center, we present each patient's case to our breast multidisciplinary tumor board. We show slides on a projector and discuss the diagnosis and treatment plan of each individual patient. Everyone is able to offer his or her expertise.

The previously mentioned reviews all take place before this meeting.

Often, smaller hospitals and clinics send cases out for consultation to larger institutions like the University of Michigan. In our pathology department, we evaluate multiple cases from regional hospitals.

If you're interested in a second opinion from the University of Michigan, the Cancer AnswerLine is a great way to connect with an experienced oncology nurse who can help patients and their families with questions. Call 1-800-865-1125 from anywhere in the country.