Scientific article
Review
OA Policy
English

Expert pathology for GTD : towards an international multidisciplinary team meeting (MDT)

Publication date2024-01-08
First online date2024-01-08
Abstract

Background: Gestational trophoblastic disease, comprising hydatidiform moles and gestational trophoblastic tumours, is extremely rare. Exact diagnosis is crucial to indicate the appropriate treatment and to prevent complications. The scarcity and variability in the number of cases available for reporting, lack of specialized training in GTD and non-existence of refresher courses available implies that the pathologist dealing with these rare and at times extremely challenging cases are not completely confident in their diagnosis.

Objectives: To explores the benefits of implementation of an international multidisciplinary conference (virtual) to aid diagnosis of difficult cases and support clinical management of GTD.

Methods: A short survey was circulated to all 46 members of the EOTTD pathology and genetics working party, and further spread to other colleagues who practice GTD. This showed that the pathologists and geneticists working with GTD patients do not feel adequately supported and equipped with dealing with these rare diseases.

Outcome: Virtual cross-border MDTs were initiated in April 2022, bringing together participants from 11 European countries on a bi-yearly basis. Mean numbers of 3 patients are discussed during the MDTs followed by 3-4 QA cases. A participant survey was conducted at the end of virtual meeting with an average satisfaction rate of 9.5. The pathologists felt supported and benefited from networking and clinical collaboration.

Conclusions and outlook: This international multidisciplinary team meeting (MDT) continues to provide support in managing the uncertainty with difficult and rare cases and enhances the pathologists training and experience. The frequency of meetings and the number of cases discussed per meeting will be increased in 2023 given the positive response. This will empower individuals and organisations to work together and improve diagnosis and the prognosis for these young patients.

Citation (ISO format)
KAUR, Baljeet et al. Expert pathology for GTD : towards an international multidisciplinary team meeting (MDT). In: Gynecologic and obstetric investigation, 2024. doi: 10.1159/000536028
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Article (Accepted version)
Identifiers
Journal ISSN0378-7346
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34downloads

Technical informations

Creation12/02/2024 11:02:41
First validation12/02/2024 13:48:24
Update time12/02/2024 13:48:24
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