Host response in tumor diagnosis and prognosis: Importance of immunologists and pathologists alliance

Pathologists and immunologists have collaborated over many years in their efforts to understand and properly diagnose cancer. The ability of pathologists to correctly diagnose this disease was facilitated by the development of immunohistology that utilized specificity of antibodies to distinguish between normal cells and cancer cells. Further boost was provided through the advent of monoclonal antibodies. The two disciplines are now together on the brink of a paradigm shift resulting from a better understanding of the importance for cancer diagnosis and prognosis to consider not only the characteristics of the cancer cells, but also the cancer microenvironment reflecting the host response to the disease. This new immunology and pathology alliance named “Immunoscore” will advance research in both disciplines as well as benefit patients.

► Immunology contributes important reagents to pathology facilitating cancer diagnosis. ► Immunohistology is an important technique ensuring precision in cancer diagnosis. ► Advent of monoclonal antibodies improved specificity of cancer diagnosis. ► Host response is very important when making cancer diagnosis and prognosis. ► “Immunoscore” evaluates contribution of the tumor microenvironment to prognosis.