Structured reporting in anatomic pathology for coclinical trials: the caELMIR model.

Abstract

Electronic media, with their tremendous potential for storing, retrieving, and integrating data, are an essential part of modern collaborative multidisciplinary science. Structured reporting is a fundamental aspect of keeping accurate, searchable electronic records. This discussion on structured reporting in anatomic pathology for pre- and coclinical trials in animal models provides background information for scientists who are not familiar with structured reporting. Practical examples are provided using a working database system for preclinical research-caELMIR (Cancer Electronic Laboratory Management Information and Retrieval)-developed by the U.S. National Cancer Institute's (NCI's) Mouse Models of Human Cancers Consortium (MMHCC).