International Neuroblastoma Pathology Classification
Also written as: INPC — International Neuroblastoma Pathology Classification
A histopathological prognostic classification system for neuroblastic tumours stratifying them into favourable and unfavourable histology groups based on tumour type, grade of neuroblastic differentiation, and mitosis–karyorrhexis index.
Full Definition
The International Neuroblastoma Pathology Classification (INPC), also referred to as the Shimada classification (revised), is the standard system used to categorise peripheral neuroblastic tumours into prognostic groups. It incorporates three parameters: histological category (neuroblastoma, ganglioneuroblastoma nodular, ganglioneuroblastoma intermixed, or ganglioneuroma), degree of Schwannian stromal development, and patient age at diagnosis. Tumours are designated either 'favourable histology' (FH) or 'unfavourable histology' (UH), terms that must be used precisely in pathology synoptic reports. Editors should note that INPC supersedes the original Shimada system, which used different terminology, and that INPC and INRG (International Neuroblastoma Risk Group) are complementary but distinct classification frameworks. Both acronyms frequently appear in the same report and must not be conflated.
Usage
Usage note: INPC and INRG are distinct systems; INPC is histopathological, INRG is clinical/biological. Both must be expanded on first use. 'Favourable histology' and 'unfavourable histology' are formal INPC designations and should not be paraphrased.
In Context
- "Per the International Neuroblastoma Pathology Classification, the tumour was classified as neuroblastoma, differentiating subtype, with favourable histology." — Paediatric pathology synoptic report
- "Authors must not use INPC and INRG interchangeably; the former is a histopathological classification and the latter a clinical risk-grouping schema." — Journal submission guidelines