Gross (macroscopic) examination or "grossing" is the process by which pathology specimens are inspected with the bare eye to obtain diagnostic information while being processed for further microscopic examination.
The pathology report is the final written result of the anatomical pathology laboratory. It documents pathologic findings in tissues removed from patients. Pathology reports are medical consultation reports that contain data that are often the most critical for patient care and prognosis, especially in the oncologic setting.
All surgical pathology reports include gross descriptions organized in a structured, standardized order. Gross descriptions contain components required in applicable CAP protocols along with the contents of American Joint Commission on Cancer (AJCC) pathological TNM staging system. Gross descriptions contain the written descriptions of all tissues, removed foreign materials, and/or medical devices received by the anatomic pathology laboratory. They also include vital documentation of the specimens' handling within the laboratory and disposal of the tissues.
