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Introduction

Through a collaboration between the European Association for Cancer Research (EACR) and the organisation for European Cancer Institutes (OECI), we are organising a course on molecular pathology to be held in Amsterdam from 7th – 9th May 2012. The course will start on 7th May at noon, and end on the 9th May after lunch at 12.30 p.m.

The course focuses on the practical application of molecular tests in pathology and is aimed at practicing pathologists, residents in pathology, molecular biologists with interest in diagnostic pathology and young medical oncologists.

Genomic analyses of human cancers are leading to the identification of the genetic determinants of targeted therapies. Treatment decisions selecting therapies for cancer patients are no longer solely based on histopathological analyses of tumours. In fact, molecular tests are rapidly being incorporated into routine clinical practice. The role of pathologists in the implementation of molecular tests in diagnostic practice and the ability of pathology laboratories to perform these tests in an optimal manner are crucial for the successful translation of scientific advancements into useful biomarkers.

This course will provide an up-to-date review of current molecular biomarkers and the challenges for their assessment and interpretation in the context of different cancer types. Conceptual and practical advancements in the development of novel biomarkers for cancer patients will also be discussed.

The topics that will be covered in the course include:

• Current methods for assessment of molecular biomarkers
• Next generation sequencing
• BRAF and KIT as biomarkers in melanoma
• KIT and novel targets in gastrointestinal stromal tumours
• Gene signatures in breast cancer
• Genetic testing in colorectal and lung cancers
• Translocations in sarcomas and haematological malignancies
• How to deliver molecular tests for clinical decision-making
• Novel findings in ovarian, endometrial and kidney cancers

The 'Molecular Pathology approach to cancer' training course has received CME accreditation from the Accreditation Council of Oncology in Europe recognising the high quality and value of the scientific and educational programme. 12 European CME credits (ECMEC) have been awarded.

We hope that you will be able to join us and contribute to this innovative course.

Richard Marais	Jorge Reis-Filho	Marc van de Vijver	Angelo Paradiso
Scientific organising committee