Evaluation of Histopathology Request Forms from Major Institutions in Nigeria and Proposal of a Prostate Disease Specific Histopathology Request Form.

Abstract

Introduction: There have been dissatisfactions among urologist with reports of prostate histopathology while pathologists have also complained about inadequate clinical information and unsatisfactory tissue procurement by surgeons. An improved prostate disease specific histopathology request card is likely to improve the clinical information provided and improved reportage. Aim: To evaluate the histopathology request forms from many institutions in Nigeria with urological services and to propose an improved prostate disease specific histopathology request form to improve histopathological reportage of prostate diseases. Methods: Request for histopathological request forms from major institutions were for sent out and received forms were analyzed for adequacy of requested based on standardized histological reportage and a prostate disease specific histopathological form was developed and to be proposed for adaptation. Results: Requests forms were received from only 15 institutions. Al the request forms have requests for biodata. None of the forms were organ or disease specific. Most of the forms were lacking in adequate clinical information and details about contacts of surgeons and the patients.A prostate disease specific histological request form is being proposed. Conclusion: Adequate clinical information is needed for early and complete reportage of histopathological report of prostate diseases