Diagnostic correlations with whole mounts of radical prostatectomy specimens

While probably not necessary in routine diagnosis, whole-mount sections of radical prostatectomy specimens can provide valuable information that is difficult to obtain by other means. Contrary to popular belief, the technique can be carried out in the routine histology laboratory with only minor modifications of existing methods. The use of this technique has provided valuable insight into the tumor biology of early stage prostatic cancer pointing to a multifocal origin for this disease. Likewise, the study of tumor volume, histological grade, and capsular penetration has provided a basis for the use of such prognostic markers in clinical management. The continuing development of new screening tools such as TRUS and MRI requires careful correlation with histopathology to assure a fundamental understanding of their abilities and limitations to detect and stage early-stage tumors. Only with such continued effort will diagnosis and clinical intervention allow us to make a meaningful impact on the natural history of this common malignancy.