Intraoperative consultations in neuropathology

This is a practical review of intraoperative consultations in neuropathology. The idea of intraoperative consultation, its philosophy, use, and expectations of the surgeon and the pathologist alike, are discussed, as well as the techniques used to perform this function. Later, the practical cytologic and histologic/frozen section features of major neuropathological entities, which are commonly encountered by the practicing neuropathologist, are reviewed. A reference is made to the specific diagnostic pitfalls and the differential diagnosis of the lesions that can potentially mimic each other.