Abstract

The 6th edition of the World Health Organization (WHO) Classification of Digestive System Tumours marks marks a significant shift from purely morphological diagnosis toward integrated molecular diagnostics compared to the 5th edition, aiming to support clinical management, epidemiological reporting, and research. Core updates include the restructuring of chapters, the introduction of numerous new pathological entities, and the refinement of histological grading systems to enhance diagnostic and therapeutic accuracy. Notably, the WHO maintains a pragmatic and human-centered philosophy: advanced molecular testing is considered mandatory only when it is decisive for the classification of pathological entities. This approach ensures feasibility in resource-limited settings while paving the way for the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and future multicenter studies. This article synthesizes groundbreaking updates across each digestive organ and provides an in-depth analysis of the opportunities and challenges in applying these international standards to the practice of pathology in Vietnam.