Background
The extent of variability in treatment suggestions for melanocytic lesions made by pathologists is unknown.
Objective
We investigated how often pathologists rendered suggestions, reasons for providing suggestions, and concordance with national guidelines.
Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional survey of pathologists. Data included physician characteristics, experience, treatment recommendation practices.
Results
Of 301 pathologists, 207 (69%) from 10 states (CA, CT, HI, IA, KY, LA, NJ, NM, UT, WA), enrolled. Fifteen percent and 7% reported never and always including suggestions, respectively. Reasons for offering suggestions included improved care (79%), clarification (68%), and legal liability (39%). Reasons for not offering suggestions included referring physician preference (48%), lack of clinical information (44%), and expertise (29%). Training and caseload were associated with offering suggestions (p<0.05). Physician suggestions were most consistent for mild/moderate dysplastic nevi and melanoma. For melanoma in-situ, 18 (9%) and 32 (15%) pathologists made suggestions that under- or over-treated lesions based on NCCN guidelines, respectively. For invasive melanoma, 14 (7%) of pathologists made treatment suggestions that under-treated lesions based on NCCN guidelines.
Limitations
Treatment suggestions were self-reported.
Conclusions
Pathologists made recommendations ranging in consistency. These findings may inform efforts to reduce treatment variability and optimize patterns of care delivery for patients.