Getting the Most out of Oral and Maxillofacial Biopsy

The oral cavity is a common site for pathologic lesions ranging from diseases of the teeth, gingiva, and periodontal ligament to benign and malignant neoplasms. Histopathology can aid diagnosis, and best results are achieved when the clinician and pathologist actively collaborate. This process begins with understanding how to collect an adequate sample that is devoid of artifact and includes providing a concise but appropriate clinical history as well as submitting clinical photographs and diagnostic imaging that help the pathologist make clinicopathological correlations. As the pathology report may contain unfamiliar specialized terminology and can represent an area of confusion, an open line of communication between the clinician and pathologist is essential.