Maximizing the value of the endoscopist-pathologist partnership in the management of colorectal polyps and carcinoma.

Good communication between clinician and pathologist is essential for optimal patient care and management of colorectal polyps and carcinoma. General principles of communication include making sure that the pathologist and endoscopist have all the information needed to make an accurate diagnosis and that the pathologist communicates the diagnosis back to the endoscopist in a clear and timely fashion. The increasing complexity of classification of colorectal polyps and carcinomas has added to the need for clear communication pathways. The first part of this article is devoted to an outline of general communication issues; the second is a discussion of current concepts in colorectal polyps and carcinomas.