Training on PD-L1 scoring in non-small cell lung cancer with high intra- and inter-reader agreement: results of a worldwide microscopic/digital image-based training of 751 pathologists - Report - MDSpire

Training on PD-L1 scoring in non-small cell lung cancer with high intra- and inter-reader agreement: results of a worldwide microscopic/digital image-based training of 751 pathologists

  • By

  • Gudrun Bänfer

  • Rolf Diezko

  • Rabea Oberthür

  • George L. Kumar

  • Josef Rüschoff

  • Hans-Ulrich Schildhaus

  • Bharat Jasani

  • June 8, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Global Training Initiative on PD-L1 Scoring in NSCLC

Overview

A global training initiative for pathologists on PD-L1 scoring in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) demonstrated high inter- and intra-reader agreement. The study involved 751 participants from 63 countries and highlighted the effectiveness of standardized training protocols.

Background

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounting for approximately 85% of cases. Accurate assessment of PD-L1 expression is critical for determining eligibility for immune checkpoint inhibitors, which have significantly improved treatment outcomes. Variability in PD-L1 scoring necessitates expert training to ensure consistent and reliable results across different pathologists.

Data Highlights

Agreement TypeTPS ≥1%TPS ≥50%
Overall Inter-Reader Agreement95.6%87.3%
Intra-Reader Agreement95.9%91.4%
Negative Percent Agreement85.6%91.9%
Positive Percent Agreement97.6%81.0%

Key Findings

  • The training program involved 751 pathologists from 63 countries.
  • High inter-reader agreement was observed at 95.6% for TPS ≥1% and 87.3% for TPS ≥50%.
  • Intra-reader agreement was 95.9% for TPS ≥1% and 91.4% for TPS ≥50%.
  • Positive percent agreement was 97.6% for TPS ≥1% and 81.0% for TPS ≥50%.
  • The training utilized a digital image-led approach, enhancing remote learning capabilities.

Clinical Implications

The findings underscore the importance of standardized training for pathologists to improve the consistency of PD-L1 scoring in NSCLC. Enhanced agreement among pathologists can lead to more accurate patient selection for immunotherapy, ultimately improving treatment outcomes.

Conclusion

The global training initiative successfully improved the consistency of PD-L1 scoring among pathologists, highlighting the need for ongoing education in this critical area of cancer diagnostics.

Related Resources & Content

  1. The ASCO Post, 2017 -- Unraveling PD-L1 Assays in NSCLC: Are They Interchangeable?
  2. the pathologist, 2026 -- Pathologist Perspectives on PD-L1 CPS Scoring in Challenging Cases.
  3. Gastric Cancer, 2021 -- Enhanced Scoring of PD-L1 in Gastric Carcinoma.
  4. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 2026 -- Therapy for Stage IV Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Without Driver Alterations: ASCO Living Guideline.
  5. Gastric Cancer — Impact of PD-L1 Immunohistochemistry Testing on Clinical Suitability for Immunotherapy in Gastric Cancer
  6. Therapy for Stage IV Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Without Driver Alterations: ASCO Living Guideline, 2026.3.0 | Journal of Clinical Oncology
  7. Five-Year Outcomes With Pembrolizumab Versus Chemotherapy for Metastatic Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer With PD-L1 Tumor Proportion Score ≥ 50% | Journal of Clinical Oncology
  8. PD-L1 Immunohistochemistry Assays for Lung Cancer: Results from Phase 1 of the Blueprint PD-L1 IHC Assay Comparison Project - ScienceDirect

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