Advancing the Classification of Hematolymphoid Neoplasms Together: For Patients, Medicine, and Science Free

A single, universally utilized tumor classification system is critical to ensure precision in patient care, clinical trial enrollment, and advancing therapy. Since the publication of the 3rd edition of the World Health Organization (WHO) classification in 2001, the hematology and hematopathology community had benefited from a single, widely accepted classification system. However, in 2022 two separate classifications of hematologic and lymphoid neoplasms emerged: the 5th edition of the WHO Classification of Hematolymphoid Tumours and the International Consensus Classification. This has created confusion and has resulted in a global call to action to return to a single classification system. In 2024, leaders of the Society of Hematopathology (SH) and European Association for Haematopathology (EA4HP) together with the leadership of WHO Classification of Tumours developed a plan to bridge the division and unite around the next edition of the WHO classification of hematologic and lymphoid tumours (WHO6). This plan entails convening a Classification Advancement Meeting (CAM), planned by SH and EA4HP with broad participation by pathologists, clinicians, and geneticists, to discuss and debate updates and changes to the existing classifications. Published conclusions of the CAM meeting will be available for independent consideration by the editorial board of WHO6. We are convinced that engagement of the broad community and leveraging global expertise to unite around WHO6 will critically benefit patients, medicine, and science.