Molecular and Cytogenetic Education in Hematopathology Fellowship

Abstract

Objectives: Given the increased complexity of molecular and cytogenetic testing (MOL-CG), the Society for Hematopathology Education Committee (SH-EC) was interested in determining what the current expectations are for MOL-CG education in hematopathology (HP) fellowship training.

Methods: The SH-EC sent a questionnaire to HP fellowship program directors (HP-PDs) covering MOL-CG training curricula, test menus, faculty background, teaching, and sign-out roles. These findings were explored via a panel-based discussion at the 2018 SH-EC meeting for HP-PDs.

Results: HP fellows are expected to understand basic principles, nomenclature, and indications for and limitations of testing. Interpretation of common assays is within that scope, but not necessarily proficiency in technical troubleshooting of testing or analysis of complex raw data.

Conclusions: The consensus was that HP fellows should understand the components of MOL-CG testing necessary to incorporate those results into an accurate, clinically relevant, and integrated HP report.

Keywords: Cytogenetic education; Hematopathology fellowship; Molecular education; Society for Hematopathology Education Committee.