Transcription

• Nancy Johnson

  When cancer is hard to diagnose, this testing can make the difference. And not everybody should get tested for the flu. These stories and more coming up. This is Path News Network Daily Edition from the College of American Pathologists. I'm Nancy Johnson. It's Friday, January 23rd. Molecular testing is playing a significant role in diagnosing complex and hard to classify cancers. In a new article by members of the CAP's Personalized Healthcare Committee, experts explain how genomic, transcriptomic, and epigenetic profiling are helping pathologists navigate some of the most challenging diagnoses in oncology. While traditional pathology methods remain essential, molecular testing can provide critical insight when standard approaches fall short and may reveal better treatment options. The authors note that advancing technologies, including artificial intelligence, are enhancing diagnostic accuracy while underscoring the continued need for expert interpretation. A severe new flu variant is spreading across the U.S. I spoke with the CAP's Dr. Christy Wojowoda, a clinical microbiology expert at the University of Vermont Medical Center.

• Christy Wojowda

  A flu strain called H3N2 is circulating more than the traditional H1N1. And so people just don't have a lot of immunity to it. And so it's easier for that strain to spread.

• Nancy Johnson

  But Dr. Wojowoda says not everyone with a cough or fever should get a flu test. That testing should be reserved for patients who need it most, both to control costs and to avoid overwhelming labs.

• Christy Wojowda

  the people who really need to get tested are the patients who are going to be admitted to the hospital. Those patients are sick enough that they need treatment.

• Nancy Johnson

  Testing is also recommended for people at higher risk for complications, including those who are immunocompromised, people with diabetes, and patients with underlying lung disease. Pathology trainees from across the country are invited to the 2026 Spring Residence Forum meeting. It's happening March 21st in San Antonio, Texas. The national event is designed for pathology residents, fellows, and medical students exploring careers in the field. Participants will have opportunities to define their career paths, build professional networks, and connect within the larger CAP community. And finally, get media savvy. The CAP is hosting virtual media training sessions on March 18th and August 21st to help members communicate their expertise with confidence. The training focuses on delivering clear, memorable messages, staying composed under pressure, and responding effectively to tough questions. designed for members who speak with reporters or present publicly. The sessions include real-world examples and interview techniques for print, broadcast and online media. That's all for today. Be sure to check the show notes for more information on today's stories. Watch your email inbox for more news like this in the CAP's advocacy newsletter every Tuesday and our weekly edition newsletter on Thursdays. We're back Monday at 5 a.m. Eastern for another episode of The Daily Edition. I'm Nancy Johnson. Have a great day.