The diagnosis section states the tumor type (carcinoma or sarcoma) and cell of origin (adenocarcinoma for glandular tissue, lymphocytic lympohoma, etc.). The histologic grade is based on how closely the tumor resembles normal, non-neoplastic tissue. This is described as "well," "moderate," or "poorly differentiated." If a numerical grading system is used, the higher the numerical grade, the more poorly differentiated the tumor is.

Tumor stage refers to how advanced the tumor is in the entire body. The most widely used staging system is the America Joint Commission on Cancer (AJCC), which is designated "p" in the pathology report since it is based solely on the pathology findings. (In contrast, the clinical "C" stage may include laboratory tests results, x-ray findings or other data.) "T" refers to tumor size and the degree of invasion, "N" to the extent of lymph node spread outside the original tumor site. Features which are not known at the time of the pathology report are recorded as "X". The pTMN together form the "stage", with p Stage I representing the most minimal spread and p Stage IV the most advanced.

Most diagnostic sections contain statement about tumor margins. If a tumor is present in the edges of the tissue surgically removed, the margins are said to be "positive" or "involved", and additional treatment may be necessary. Otherwise, the margins are "negative," "not involved," "clear" or "free from tumor." There may be hormone receptors, special markers, tests or comments which further clarify the diagnosis or contain recommendations.

Finally, every report will be signed by the pathologist responsible for its content. The pathologist, a medical doctor with extensive, rigorous training, is an expert in the diagnosis of disease. If you need more information, he or she will be delighted to answer your questions.