Ethics and etiquette of pathology publishing

Academic publications are an important mechanism to disseminate knowledge, advance science and improve patient care. Peer-reviewed publications also provide an opportunity to replicate important findings and enable open academic discourse to occur. Importantly, publications demonstrate research achievements of the authors and are required for academic advancement. It is essential that authors and editors of pathology publications adhere to the highest ethical standards in order to ensure publications achieve their goal of advancing science. Ethical principles including honesty, objectivity, integrity, diligence, transparency, accountability, respect and responsibility all help to ensure reliable science that can improve patient care.