USCAP Practical Neoplastic and Non-Neoplastic Bone Pathology for the Surgical Pathologist 2026

Original release date: March 5, 2026
The diagnosis of both neoplastic and non-neoplastic diseases of bone is challenging for many pathologists. The terminology and diagnostic criteria for primary bone neoplasms are evolving quickly and the salient features of many non-neoplastic bone diseases are not adequately addressed in detail in training programs. This unique, comprehensive course will address the clinical, radiographic, histopathologic, and molecular diagnostic features of many primary skeletal neoplasms.
Target Audience
Practicing academic and community pathologists, and pathologists-in-training
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this educational activity, learners will be able to:

Utilize the most recent (2020) WHO terminology for primary bone tumors and apply the most updated criteria to diagnose these entities.
Apply the most recent immunohistochemical and molecular diagnostic tests used for diagnosis and differential diagnoses.
Understand the diagnostic criteria for a broad range of non-neoplastic bone disorders and the potential pitfalls in diagnosis.
Understand the clinical implications of the information included in, or unknowingly omitted from, surgical pathology reports for both primary bone neoplasms and non-neoplastic bone disorders.

The USCAP Practical Neoplastic and Non‑Neoplastic Bone Pathology for the Surgical Pathologist 2026 course is best for practicing surgical pathologists, pathology fellows, and academic faculty who want advanced, case‑based training in bone pathology. It emphasizes both neoplastic (tumors) and non‑neoplastic (developmental, metabolic, inflammatory) conditions, with a focus on practical diagnostic strategies and avoiding common pitfalls.
Who Should Attend

Surgical pathologists who routinely encounter bone biopsies and resections.
Pathology fellows & residents specializing in musculoskeletal or orthopedic pathology.
Academic pathologists & researchers studying bone tumor biology and non‑neoplastic bone disease.
Orthopedic oncologists & multidisciplinary cancer teams collaborating with pathology.
Laboratory professionals supporting musculoskeletal pathology workflows.

What You’ll Learn

Neoplastic bone pathology: recognition of primary bone tumors (osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, etc.) and metastatic disease.
Non‑neoplastic bone pathology: developmental disorders, metabolic bone disease, inflammatory conditions, and trauma‑related changes.
Histopathologic features: key differentiators and diagnostic pearls.
Ancillary studies: immunohistochemistry, molecular testing, and radiologic correlation.
Diagnostic pitfalls: strategies to avoid misinterpretation in challenging cases.
Case‑based learning: real examples with expert faculty guidance.

+ Topics:

Neoplastic and Non-Neoplastic Disorders – John D. Reith, MD
Cartilaginous Tumors and Their Differentials – Darcy A. Kerr, MD
Fibro-Osseous Lesions of the Craniofacial Skeleton and Their Differentials – Daniel Baumhoer, MD
Neoplastic and Non-Neoplastic Disorders – G. Petur Nielsen, MD