Interactive Pathology Tutorial in Neoplastic Hematology Disorders for Medical Hematology-Oncology Fellows

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Hematology-Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Hematology-oncology (HO) fellows have limited formal instruction in diagnosing hematologic neoplasms.
• Neoplastic hematology is often learned through infrequent clinical encounters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a web-based interactive pathology tutorial for HO fellows.
• To improve the diagnostic skills of fellows in hematologic disorders through simulated cases.

Main Methods:

• A web-based system, "Pathology Playground," was used to present 12 simulated cases of leukemia and lymphoma.
• Trainees reviewed clinical history and images, requested ancillary studies, and made diagnostic impressions.
• Tutorials were integrated into fellowship curriculum with bimonthly sessions led by hematopathologists.

Main Results:

• All six HO fellows attended the sessions; surveys indicated high ease of use and educational value.
• A pre-test and post-test showed an improvement in average scores from 62% to 73% for one session.
• The system facilitated interactive learning and discussion of diagnostic work-up and management implications.

Conclusions:

• The online interactive tutorial is a valuable educational tool for HO fellows.
• Expanding the tutorial with more cases can further enhance its utility as a learning resource.
• This approach addresses the need for structured training in diagnosing hematologic neoplasms.