Three-Dimensional Presentation of Tumor Histopathology: A Model Using Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Digital Pathology
• Oncology

Background:

• Medical imaging commonly uses 3D visualization for clarity, while histopathology traditionally relies on 2D representations.
• Accurate assessment of tumor margins and spatial relationships is crucial for effective cancer treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present a novel method for creating a 3D digital model of a tongue squamous cell carcinoma.
• To demonstrate the tumor's dimensions, location, and the orientation of histological slices within the resection specimen.

Main Methods:

• A novel 3D modeling technique was developed using standard instruments and software.
• The method involved scanning the resection specimen before grossing and creating a 3D model of the carcinoma.
• Challenges in slicing direction and specimen modeling were identified and addressed.

Main Results:

• A 3D digital and printed model of a soft tissue resection specimen, including the tumor and its histopathological grossing sites, was successfully created.
• This method presents histopathological margins of a tongue tumor in 3D for the first time, overcoming the limitations of 2D representations.
• The 3D model offers improved visualization of tumor margins, topography, and orientation.

Conclusions:

• The developed 3D modeling method provides a tool for better understanding tumor characteristics and aiding oncological management.
• This approach enhances postoperative assessment, facilitating discussions on further treatment strategies like surgery or adjuvant therapy.
• The method does not require predetermined slicing directions for pathologists, offering flexibility in the grossing process.