Course Outline
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- Foundations and Orientation
- Histology as a Diagnostic Discipline
- Histology as a Diagnostic Tool
- Diagnostic Focus
- The Foundation of Diagnosis
- Key Characteristics of Histology
- Which statement best describes the primary purpose of routine histology tissue processing?
- Mohs Surgery Principles and Laboratory Focus
- Mohs Laboratories: A Treatment-Driven Workflow
- Key Characteristics of a Mohs Laboratory
- True or False: A Mohs lab is for diagnostic purposes.
- Histology versus Mohs
- Why the Distinction Matters?
- Routine Histology Workflow
- Why is proper orientation during embedding critical?
- Mohs Laboratory Workflow
- What type of tissue and technique is Mohs done on?
- Quality and Accuracy
- Table 1: Quick Reference
- What is the primary purpose of the tissue map in Mohs micrographic surgery?
- Why is there no equivalent to tissue mapping in routine histology?
- Professional Practice and Context
- Cross-Training and the Importance of Context
- Essential Reminders for Dual Roles
- Advocating for Correct Practice
- Key Takeaways
- Which of the following best describes the primary purpose of Mohs micrographic surgery in relation to a histology laboratory's function?
- References
Additional Information
Level of Instruction: Basic
Intended Audience: Histotechnologists, histotechnicians, pathologists' assistants, laboratory supervisors, and laboratory managers. This course is also appropriate for HTL and HT students, cytologists, and pathology residents.
Author Information: Camille Pellone-McKay, M.Ed., BSHCA, HTL, CLT, has been the regional pathology manager at Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSKCC) for 10 years, overseeing the Mohs laboratories and the breast pathology laboratory. Camille has worked within the pathology/Mohs field for more than 40 years. Camille is currently the President of the American Mohs Society of Histotechnology (ASMH 2025–2026). Camille, along with colleagues Dr. Nehal and the MSK Mohs team, has authored a textbook titled
The Laboratory Manual for Mohs Micrographic Surgery: Frozen Tissue Processing. Camille has a consulting business where she prepares laboratories to be compliant. Camille is also a Fulbright Specialist with the United States Government and an Adjunct Professor at SUNY Broome, teaching histology.
The author has no conflict of interest to disclose.
Reviewer Information: Brandon Possum, HT(ASCP), is a histotechnologist with over a decade of specialized experience in Mohs histology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. He is board-certified by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and holds a New York State Histotechnician (HT) license.
Brandon began his career with a strong foundation in traditional histology through his formal college education before advancing into the specialized field of Mohs frozen sectioning. In addition to his clinical work, Brandon is actively engaged in professional education. He regularly participates in speaking engagements and educational sessions focused on Mohs histology.
Course Description: This course introduces the fundamental differences between routine histology and Mohs micrographic surgery. It will explore how each laboratory functions, compare workflows, and understand the distinct roles of diagnosis versus treatment in patient care.
