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- CAP Releases Evidence-Based Guidance for Processing Products of Conception Specimens
The CAP has released a “Products of Conception Guidance Document” as a resource for pathologists on the evidence-based best practices for processing and reporting of pregnancy tissues/products of conception (POC) specimens. This guidance addresses evidence-based best practices related to which POC specimens are exempted from pathologic evaluation, which specimens can be evaluated by a pathologist with a gross-only examination, as well as other POC-related issues. In addition, the guidance addresses important reporting considerations related to POC and fetal tissue specimens.
“It's important to note that this guidance addresses issues that pathologists may face but does not convey legal advice,” said CAP President Emily E. Volk, MD, FCAP. “The law surrounding abortion is changing rapidly and the law varies from state to state. “As such, it is critical that pathologists consult with legal counsel whenever they are uncertain as to the law on an abortion-related issue,” she added.