Background and ObjectivesCurrent national or regional guidelines for the pathology
reporting on invasive breast cancer differ in certain aspects, resulting in divergent
reporting practice and a lack of comparability of data. Here we report on a new international
dataset for the pathology reporting of resection specimens with invasive cancer of
the breast. The dataset was produced under the auspices of the International Collaboration
on Cancer Reporting (ICCR), a global alliance of major (inter-)national pathology
and cancer organizations.Methods and ResultsThe established ICCR process for dataset
development was followed. An international expert panel consisting of breast pathologists,
a surgeon, and an oncologist prepared a draft set of core and noncore data items based
on a critical review and discussion of current evidence. Commentary was provided for
each data item to explain the rationale for selecting it as a core or noncore element,
its clinical relevance, and to highlight potential areas of disagreement or lack of
evidence, in which case a consensus position was formulated. Following international
public consultation, the document was finalized and ratified, and the dataset, which
includes a synoptic reporting guide, was published on the ICCR website.ConclusionsThis
first international dataset for invasive cancer of the breast is intended to promote
high-quality, standardized pathology reporting. Its widespread adoption will improve
consistency of reporting, facilitate multidisciplinary communication, and enhance
comparability of data, all of which will help to improve the management of invasive
breast cancer patients. The first International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting
(ICCR) dataset for the pathology reporting of resection specimens with invasive cancer
of the breast is intended to promote high-quality, standardized pathology reporting.
Its widespread adoption will improve consistency of reporting, facilitate multidisciplinary
communication, and enhance comparability of data, all of which will help to improve
the management of invasive breast cancer patients. image
