Navigating the horizon: The world health organization reporting system for liver cytopathology

Abstract

The upcoming World Health Organization (WHO) Reporting System in Liver Cytopathology marks the first internationally applicable system for diverse medical infrastructure settings. This system categorizes cases into five groups: Insufficient/Inadequate/Nondiagnostic, Benign, Atypical, Suspicious for Malignancy, and Malignant. Each category is associated with a risk of malignancy (ROM), guiding recommendations for further diagnostic testing to achieve specific diagnoses or refine differential diagnoses and follow-up management. The primary goal is to enhance and standardize cytopathology reporting, improve communication between cytopathologists and clinicians, and ultimately elevate patient care. The online WHO System provides direct access to the WHO Classification for Tumours 5th Edition. This review delves into the latest classification guidelines, addresses terminology standardization, navigates diagnostic complexities, and aligns patient management options with cytopathological interpretations, contributing to an overall enhancement of patient care.

Keywords

• Liver, Cytology
• Fine needle aspiration biopsy
• Rapid on-site evaluation
• Reporting system
• WHO