Genetics, Pregnancy, and Aortic Degeneration.

We present a case of familial thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (FTAAD) in a pregnant female. FTAAD is an inherited, nonsyndromic aortopathy resulting from several genetic mutations critical to aortic wall integrity have been identified. One such mutation is the myosin heavy chain gene (MYH11) which is responsible for 1-2% of all FTAAD cases.

Confidence, knowledge, and skills at the beginning of residency. A survey of pathology residents.

Objectives: To document the pathology learning experiences of pathology residents prior to residency and to determine how confident they were in their knowledge and technical skills.

Methods: An online survey was distributed to all pathology residency program directors in the United States, who were requested to forward the survey link to their residents. Data were obtained on pathology electives, grossing experience, and frozen section experience.