Carcinosarcoma of the ovary

Compartment-specific multiomic profiling identifies SRC and GNAS as candidate drivers of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in ovarian carcinosarcoma

BACKGROUND

Ovarian carcinosarcoma (OCS) is an exceptionally aggressive and understudied ovarian cancer type harbouring distinct carcinomatous and sarcomatous compartments. Here, we seek to identify shared and compartment-specific events that may represent potential therapeutic targets and candidate drivers of sarcomatous compartment formation through epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT).

METHODS

We performed multiomic profiling (exome sequencing, RNA-sequencing, microRNA profiling) of paired carcinomatous and sarcomatous components in 12 OCS cases.

RESULTS

While paired sarcomatous and carcinomatous compartments demonstrate substantial genomic similarities, multiple loci are recurrently copy number-altered between components; regions containing GNAS and SRC are recurrently gained within the sarcomatous compartment. CCNE1 gain is a common event in OCS, occurring more frequently than in high grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC). Transcriptomic analysis suggests increased MAPK activity and subtype switching toward poor prognosis HGSOC-derived transcriptomic subtypes within the sarcomatous component. The two compartments show global differences in microRNA profiles, with differentially expressed microRNAs targeting EMT-related genes (SIRT1, ZEB2) and regulators of pro-tumourigenic pathways (TGFβ, NOTCH); chrX is a highly enriched target of these microRNAs and is also frequently deleted across samples. The sarcomatous component harbours significantly fewer CD8-positive cells, suggesting poorer immune engagement.

CONCLUSION

CCNE1 gain and chrX loss are frequent in OCS. SRC gain, increased GNAS expression and microRNA dysregulation represent potential mechanisms driving sarcomatous compartment formation.

Incidence and treatment outcomes of ovarian carcinosarcoma from the national cancer registry of Korea

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the incidence and survival outcomes of ovarian carcinosarcoma in Korea between 1999 and 2018.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with ovarian carcinosarcoma between 1999 and 2018 were identified from the Korea Central Cancer Registry (KCCR) and their information was collected. Age-standardized incidence rates (ASRs), annual percent changes (APC), and relative survival rates of ovarian carcinosarcoma were calculated and compared to those of epithelial ovarian cancer.

RESULTS

According to the KCCR, 458 cases of ovarian carcinosarcoma were detected, and accounted for 1.5% (458/30,679) of all epithelial ovarian cancers in Korea between 1999 and 2018. The ASR of ovarian carcinosarcoma between 1999 and 2018 was 0.064 per 100,000 women. The incidence rate of ovarian carcinosarcoma increased during the study period, with an ASR of 0.029 per 100,000 in 1999 and 0.073 per 100,000 in 2018. The APC of ovarian carcinosarcoma during 1999-2018 was 5.86 (p<0.001). The median overall survival (OS) of patients with ovarian carcinosarcoma was 39 months, and the 5-year OS rate was 42.5%. Among ovarian carcinosarcomas, patients with localized stages showed better clinical outcomes than those with regional or distant stages (5-year OS, 60.8%, 57.9%, and 32.8%, respectively; p<0.001). In addition, younger (<50 years) patients showed better OS than older (≥50 years) patients (5-year OS, 52.6% vs. 40.2%; p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our nationwide registry-based study demonstrated that the incidence of ovarian carcinosarcoma increased from 1999 to 2018 in Korea. Patients with advanced-stage disease and older age (≥50 years) had poorer survival outcomes.

Magnetic resonance imaging for the diagnosis of malignant mixed Mullerian tumor of ovary: Two case reports

RATIONALE

Malignant mixed Mullerian tumor (MMMT) is also known as carcinosarcoma, mostly occurring in the uterus, and occurred in ovary is very rare. The disease is highly aggressive. Two cases of MMMT of ovary and their imaging characteristics were collected in our study.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 77-year-old and an 80-year-old woman were admitted to the obstetrics and gynecology department of our hospital on June 22, 2019, and December 10, 2019, respectively. The first patient presented with abdominal distension with poor appetite without obvious triggers. Another patient had been menopausal for 18 years and presented with vaginal bleeding with dull pain in the left lower abdomen without obvious cause.

DIAGNOSES

Both patients underwent pelvic magnetic resonance imaging plain and enhanced scan after admission, which indicated pelvic mass. Postoperative pathology confirmed MMMT in the adnexal region.

INTERVENTIONS

Both patients underwent total hysterectomy and bilateral adnexectomy.

OUTCOMES

Postoperatively, the first patient developed complications such as renal failure and gastrointestinal bleeding and was sometimes unconscious. Symptomatic treatment was not effective, and the patient died about 1 month after discharge. The other patient recovered well after surgery, and imaging examinations confirmed no evidence of regrowth of the tumor during an average 36-month follow-up.

LESSONS

The disease is highly malignant and progresses rapidly. The elevation of CA125 should be taken seriously. The imaging findings of MMMT has certain characteristics. Multi-sequence magnetic resonance imaging may help to distinguish this disease from other pelvic tumors. Once found, surgical treatment is needed as soon as possible, followed by postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Frontiers of Ovarian Carcinosarcoma

OPINION STATEMENT

Ovarian carcinosarcoma (OCS), also known as a malignant mixed Müllerian tumour (MMMT), is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that accounts for less than 5% of ovarian cancers. It is characterized by high morbidity and mortality rates, with a median overall survival (OS) of less than 2 years. Several factors, including advancing age, nulliparity, reduced lactation rates, decreased use of oral contraceptive pills, genetic mutations in BRCA (breast cancer) genes, and the use of assisted reproductive technology, may increase the risk of OCS. Poor prognostic factors include an advanced stage at diagnosis, older age, lymph node metastasis, suboptimal surgical cytoreduction, the presence of heterologous features on histopathology, and increased expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), tumour protein p53, and p53 alongside Wilms tumour 1 (WT1). The main treatment approach for OCS is cytoreductive surgery followed by platinum-based chemotherapy, although immunotherapy is showing promise. Homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) testing may enhance outcomes by enabling personalized immunotherapy and targeted therapies for specific patient groups, thereby reducing unnecessary side effects and healthcare costs. However, there is currently a lack of standardised treatment regimens for OCS patients, with most studies consisting of case reports and a shortage of suitable comparator groups. This article aims to provide clinicians with information on the epidemiology, risk factors, prognostic factors, and latest therapeutic advancements in OCS.

Genomic and Molecular Characteristics of Ovarian Carcinosarcoma

Ovarian carcinosarcoma (OCS) is a rare malignancy with a poor prognosis. It is a biphasic tumor with malignant epithelial and mesenchymal components. A few mutations commonly seen in cancer have been identified in OCS, including TP53, PIK3CA, c-myc, ZNF217, ARID1A, and CTNNB1. Some OCS tumors have shown vascular endothelial growth factor positivity and limited HER2 expression. There is evidence of homologous recombination deficiency in OCS. This malignancy can be categorized as copy number high but has not been shown to have a high tumor mutational burden. There are mixed findings regarding the presence of biomarkers targeted by immune checkpoint inhibitors in OCS. For treatments other than systemic chemotherapy, the data available are largely based on in vitro and in vivo studies. In addition, there are case reports citing the use of poly-ADP ribose polymerase inhibitors, vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors, and immunotherapy with varying degrees of success. This review paper will discuss the molecular and genomic characteristics of OCS, which can guide future treatment strategies.

Gynecological carcinosarcomas: Overview and future perspectives

Gynecologic carcinosarcoma (CS) are rare and aggressive tumors composed of high-grade carcinoma and sarcoma. Carcinosarcoma account for less than 5% of uterine and ovarian carcinoma and patients have poor outcome with a 5-year overall survival of less than 30%. In early-stage setting, the treatment mainstay is surgery and adjuvant chemoradiotherapy or adjuvant chemotherapy in uterine (UCS) and ovarian CS (OCS), respectively. In metastatic or advanced stage disease, chemotherapy is the rule with a lower response rate and poorer prognosis compared to other high-grade carcinomas. Although very few treatment options are available, CS are often excluded from the clinical trials precluding therapeutic improvement. However, recent molecular advances are paving the way for new therapeutic strategies. In the current proposal, we extensively review the uterine and ovarian carcinosarcomas including epidemiology, pathology, genomic landscape, as well as current therapies and future perspectives.

Carcinosarcoma of the ovary: a case report and literature review

Objective

Carcinosarcoma of the ovary is a rare pathological type of ovarian cancer that is highly aggressive and occurs most frequently in the female reproductive tract at the site of the uterus. Herein, we explore the clinicopathological features, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and treatment options for carcinosarcoma of the ovary.

Methods

We analyzed the clinical data of a case of carcinosarcoma, observed its histological morphology and immunohistochemical characteristics, detected the homologous recombination repair deficiency gene mutation, and reviewed the relevant literature.

Results

A 76-year-old menopausal woman visited our hospital because of abdominal distension, difficulty in urination, and constipation. Ultrasonography demonstrated abnormalities in the uterus and pelvic cavity, suggesting that the patient should undergo surgery. Immunohistochemical findings of carcinosarcoma of the right ovary were as follows: CK fraction (+), vimentin fraction (+), CK5/6 foci (+), p16 (+), p53 in approximately 70% (+), WT-1 foci (+), ER foci (+), PR part (+), Her-2 (1+), CK7 fraction (+), CK20 foci (+), CD99 fraction (+), CD10 fraction (+), CD56 foci (+), c-kit foci (+), SMA part (+), desmin foci (+), PD-L1 (-), SALL4 (-), OCT3/4 (-), p63 (-), p40 (-), D2-40 (-), inhibin (-), PLAP (-), CD30 (-), and Ki67 hotspot in approximately 80% (+). The patient underwent tumor cytoreduction and adjuvant chemotherapy. Currently, she is being followed up for 16 months and has a good general condition.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of carcinosarcoma relies on histopathological examination and differentiation of carcinosarcoma from immature teratoma. The current therapeutic regimen for carcinosarcoma is still based on tumor cytoreduction and platinum-containing chemotherapy; research on targeted therapy is still in progress.

Ovarian Carcinosarcoma and Response to Immunotherapy

Ovarian carcinosarcoma (OCS) is an uncommon and highly aggressive subtype of ovarian cancer. This form of cancer is characterized by limited treatment options and a poor prognosis. In this report, we present a case study of a 64-year-old female diagnosed with stage III OCS, who underwent debulking surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy, followed by immunotherapy, with encouraging outcomes. Despite the availability of diverse chemotherapy options, the prognosis for patients with OCS remains grim. However, the present case study of a 64-year-old female with OCS illustrates the promising outcomes achieved with immunotherapy. Additionally, this case highlights the significance of microsatellite instability testing in guiding treatment decisions for ovarian cancers of this nature.

Molecular characteristics and clinical behaviour of epithelial ovarian cancers

Ovarian carcinoma (OC) is an umbrella term for multiple distinct diseases (histotypes), each with their own developmental origins, clinical behaviour and molecular profile. Accordingly, OC management is progressing away from a one-size-fits all approach, toward more molecularly-driven, histotype-specific management strategies. Our knowledge of driver events in high grade serous OC, the most common histotype, has led to major advances in treatments, including PARP inhibitor use. However, these agents are not suitable for all patients, most notably for many of those with rare OC histotypes. Identification of additional targeted therapeutic strategies will require a detailed understanding of the molecular landscape in each OC histotype. Until recently, tumour profiling studies in rare histotypes were sparse; however, significant advances have been made over the last decade. In particular, reports of genomic characterisation in endometrioid, clear cell, mucinous and low grade serous OC have significantly expanded our understanding of mutational events in these tumour types. Nonetheless, substantial knowledge gaps remain. This review summarises our current understanding of each histotype, highlighting recent advances in these unique diseases and outlining immediate research priorities for accelerating progress toward improving patient outcomes.

The clinical characteristics and treatment of ovarian malignant mesoderm mixed tumor: a systematic review

Background

Ovarian malignant mesoderm mixed tumor (OMMMT) is a rare clinical entity. To provide reference for the treatment and prognosis of OMMMT, we analyzed the clinical features, pathology and molecular biology characteristic of published cases.

Methods

The English and Chinese reported cases of OMMMT were selected from PubMed, Clinical Trials.gov and CNKI database from 2000 to December 15th, 2021 following the PRISMA guidelines.

Results

A total of 63 literatures including 199 OMMMT cases were included. The average age of patients at diagnosis was 56.46 years, the highest incidence age was 60-65 years, and 82% of them were menopausal women. Most patients were diagnosed in FIGO III stage (59.64%). The most common symptom of OMMMT was abdominal pain (60.5%). 61.6% of patients were accompanied by ascites, while ascites was not associated with metastatic tumor and local recurrence. The CA125 of 88.68% patients increased. The most common reported carcinomatous component and sarcomatous component were serous adenocarcinoma (44.96%) and chondrosarcoma (24.81%), respectively. Initial treatment included surgery (94.97%) and taxanes-based (55.10%) or platinum-based (85.71%) chemotherapy regimens. The median survival time of patients was 20 months. Heterologous sarcoma component did not shorten life expectancy. The optimal ovarian tumor cell debulking surgery (OOTCDS), radiotherapy and chemotherapy could significantly prolong the median survival time of patients. Furthermore, platinum drugs could significantly prolong the survival time after comparing various chemotherapy schemes. Besides, the combination of platinum and taxanes was therapeutically superior to the combination of platinum and biological alkylating agents.

Conclusion

The OOTCDS and platinum-based chemotherapy regimen can improve the prognosis of OMMMT. Targeted therapy might become a new research direction in the future. Since the elderly patients are the majority, the toxicity of new drugs on the elderly patients is more noteworthy.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13048-022-01037-6.

Management of a rare ovarian carcinosarcoma: A case report and literature review

Ovarian carcinosarcoma (OCS) is a rare and lethal gynecological cancer. The present study reports on the case of a 61-year-old post-menopausal female with abdominal distension who was detected to have a large OCS. The patient underwent cytoreductive surgery, including sub-extensive hysterectomy, bilateral adnexectomy, sigmoid colon and partial rectal resection, and lymph node dissection. Postoperative pathology of the bilateral adnexal masses revealed carcinosarcoma. The main components of the carcinoma included serous carcinoma and a small amount of squamous cell carcinoma. The sarcoma components mainly contained fibrosarcoma, as well as a small amount of chondrosarcoma and rhabdomyosarcoma. Infiltrating cells in cancer tissues or metastasis were observed in the serosal surface, muscular and subserosal layers of the uterus, as well as the sigmoid colon and part of the rectum. The patient was diagnosed postoperatively with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage IIIC ovarian carcinosarcoma and T3cN1M0 based on the TNM system. The patient then received six cycles of combination chemotherapy using carboplatin, paclitaxel plus bevacizumab. As severe myelosuppression occurred during and after chemotherapy, and bevacizumab was expensive, bevacizumab therapy was not maintained after chemotherapy. However, following chemotherapy, the patient received niraparib oral maintenance therapy. At 6 months after the sixth chemotherapy, cancer antigen 125 levels dropped to 4.55 U/ml (within normal range). Short-term follow-up of 6 months after the end of chemotherapy indicated that the patient had a remission prognosis based on the ultrasonography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging examinations and serum tumor marker levels. The present study indicated that combined chemotherapy and targeted therapy after cytoreductive surgery may be a promising way for the treatment of OCS.

Genetic Analysis and Combined Therapy of Surgery and Chemotherapy for the Progression-Free Survival of a Patient with Ovarian Carcinosarcoma: A Case Report and Literature Review

Carcinosarcoma, also known as malignant Mullerian mixed tumour, is a rare and aggressive ovarian malignant tumour. The prognosis of ovarian carcinosarcoma is very poor, accounting for the vast majority of ovarian cancer deaths. Due to the rarity of ovarian carcinosarcoma, no unified treatment plan exists at present. Here, we report the case of a 69-year-old patient with stage IC ovarian carcinosarcoma. She underwent right salpingo-oophorectomy and R0 resection, inclouding extrafascial hysterectomy, left salpingo-oophorectomy, omentectomy, appendectomy, right pelvic lymph node dissection and multipoint biopsy. Full-exome sequencing was performed with normal ovarian tissue, cancer tissue, sarcoma tissue and carcinosarcoma tissue, and the results showed that the sarcoma and carcinosarcoma tissue shared more mutated genes. A TP53 mutation occurred in the cancer tissue and carcinosarcoma tissue. By analysing the lychee tree, we found that the sarcoma tissue and carcinosarcoma tissue shared more subclones and determined that they were more closely related; the cancer tissue carried fewer subclones and was the main clone. The sarcoma may have evolved from the cancer tissues. Six rounds of postoperative chemotherapy (carboplatin + paclitaxel + ifosfamide (IFO) (paclitaxel 200 mg, D1 + carboplatin 600 mg, D1 + IFO 2G, D1-D3)) were administered. The patient has been followed up for six years and is currently in good health. In conclusion, the disease was diagnosed in the early stage, and the use of a R0 resection + a three-drug combination chemotherapy may have contributed to the patient’s long-term disease-free survival. The results of the gene study suggested that the sarcoma component may be differentiated from the cancer component. We thus speculated that the origin of this case may have been the fallopian tube.

Imaging in gynecological disease (23): clinical and ultrasound characteristics of ovarian carcinosarcoma

OBJECTIVE

To describe the clinical and ultrasound characteristics of ovarian carcinosarcoma.

METHODS

This was a retrospective multicenter study. Patients with a histological diagnosis of ovarian carcinosarcoma, who had undergone preoperative ultrasound examination between 2010 and 2019, were identified from the International Ovarian Tumor Analysis (IOTA) database. Additional patients who were examined outside of the IOTA study were identified from the databases of the participating centers. The masses were described using the terms and definitions of the IOTA group. Additionally, two experienced ultrasound examiners reviewed all available images to identify typical ultrasound features using pattern recognition.

RESULTS

Ninety-one patients with ovarian carcinosarcoma who had undergone ultrasound examination were identified, of whom 24 were examined within the IOTA studies and 67 were examined outside of the IOTA studies. Median age at diagnosis was 66 (range, 33-91) years and 84/91 (92.3%) patients were postmenopausal. Most patients (67/91, 73.6%) were symptomatic, with the most common complaint being pain (51/91, 56.0%). Most tumors (67/91, 73.6%) were International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) Stage III or IV. Bilateral lesions were observed on ultrasound in 46/91 (50.5%) patients. Ascites was present in 38/91 (41.8%) patients. The median largest tumor diameter was 100 (range, 18-260) mm. All ovarian carcinosarcomas contained solid components, and most were described as solid (66/91, 72.5%) or multilocular-solid (22/91, 24.2%). The median diameter of the largest solid component was 77.5 (range, 11-238) mm. Moderate or rich vascularization was found in 78/91 (85.7%) cases. Retrospective analysis of ultrasound images and videoclips using pattern recognition in 73 cases revealed that all tumors had irregular margins and inhomogeneous echogenicity of the solid components. Forty-seven of 73 (64.4%) masses appeared as a solid tumor with cystic areas. Cooked appearance of the solid tissue was identified in 28/73 (38.4%) tumors. No pathognomonic ultrasound sign of ovarian carcinosarcoma was found.

CONCLUSIONS

Ovarian carcinosarcomas are usually diagnosed in postmenopausal women and at an advanced stage. The most common ultrasound appearance is a large solid tumor with irregular margins, inhomogeneous echogenicity of the solid tissue and cystic areas. The second most common pattern is a large multilocular-solid mass with inhomogeneous echogenicity of the solid tissue. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

USG guided fine needle aspiration cytology along with immunocytochemistry to diagnose primary malignant mixed mullerian tumors: A three-year study from a tertiary care center

Aims and Objectives:

To study the diagnostic utility of fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and immunocytochemistry in diagnosing primary malignant mixed Mullerian tumors (MMMT).

Materials and Methods:

A 3-year retrospective study carried out in a tertiary care hospital, which included all the gynecological patients who underwent USG-guided FNAC of their abdominopelvic masses.

Observations and Results:

Out of the 324 total cases, 05 (1.5%) were reported as primary malignant mixed Mullerian tumors. Out of these 05 cases, 03 were ovarian, 01 was uterine, and 01 involved both uterus and one-sided adnexa. The FNA smears from the masses revealed cytomorphological features of a biphasic neoplasm with elongated pleomorphic spindle cells and dispersed, focal attempted acinar pattern, thus indicating the possibility of MMMT. Immunocytochemistry was further carried out which showed both vimentin and cytokeratin positivity. The diagnosis was confirmed on subsequent biopsy and immunohistochemistry (without any histopathological-cytological discrepancy).

Conclusion:

Though the literature is replete in establishing a histo-pathological diagnosis of MMMT, the diagnosis on USG-guided FNAC has been rarely described. Emphasis should be made on the careful examination of small sarcomatous elements in smears. Utilization of cell block and immunocytochemistry with histopathological correlation should be done to avoid misdiagnosis.

Primary ovarian malignant mixed Müllerian tumor: a rare case report

Primary malignant mixed Müllerian tumor (MMMT) of the ovary is an extremely uncommon neoplasm. These tumors show very aggressive clinical course and high mortality as compared to epithelial ovarian neoplasms. The objective of present study is to present a rare case of primary MMMT homologous type of ovary for its aggressive clinical course and immunohistochemistry findings. A 48-year-old woman presented with complaints of lower abdominal pain, dullness of 3 months duration. USG abdomen pelvis revealed bilateral ovarian solid and cystic mass lesion suggestive of malignant potential. Peritoneal fluid cytology reported as positive for malignant cells. Patient underwent exploratory laparotomy which showed large bilateral ovarian masses with extensive nodular deposits all over pelvic-abdominal organs. Optimal debulking surgery was performed and specimen examined for histopathology. On histopathology, it was reported as bilateral ovarian MMMT homologous type. Immunohistochemistry was done which showed the tumor cell expression positive for CK, EMA, CK7, CA-125, and WT1. Also a distinct population tumor cells express Cyclin D1 and focal and patchy expression of CD-10. Tumor was negative for Desmin, PLAP, Calretin, and inhibin. The patient received operative, chemotherapy and adjuvant therapy along with extensive electrolyte, nutritive, and supplementary support. The patient, however, rapidly deteriorated and died within 9 months of postoperative day. Primary ovarian MMMT is an extremely uncommon neoplasm, and it showed extensive aggressive clinical course and even with operative, chemotherapy, and adjuvant therapy, the patient yields poor prognosis.

A rare and distinct bilateral ovarian tumor: Carcinosarcoma

Carcinosarcomas are aggressive biphasic neoplasms composed of high-grade, malignant, epithelial, and mesenchymal elements. They usually occur in the uterus and rarely involve the ovaries. Only 10% of them are bilateral. Their diagnosis relies on histological examination coupled with immunohistochemistry.

Clinical Nomograms for Predicting the Overall Survival and Cancer-specific Survival of patients with Ovarian Carcinosarcoma patients after Primary Surgery

Background: At present, there is no clinical prediction model for ovarian carcinosarcoma (OCS) that is based on a large sample of real data. This study aimed to construct nomograms using data extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database that can be used to predict the overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) of patients with OCS and further guide the choice of clinical treatment.

Methods: We selected 2753 cases of OCS from the SEER database from 1998 to 2016. Patients were randomly divided in a 7:3 ratio into a training cohort (n = 1929) and a validation cohort (n = 824). Cox analysis was used to select prognostic factors for OS and CSS, and nomograms were then established. The performance of nomogram models was assessed using the concordance index, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, calibration curves, and by decision curve analysis. Data from 21 OCS patients at Shengjing Hospital from 2001 to 2021 were collected for external verification. Kaplan-Meier curves were plotted to compare survival outcomes between subgroups.

Results: Nomograms based on independent prognostic factors showed good predictive power and clinical practicality. Internal and external validation indicated that the nomograms performed better than staging and grading systems. Significant differences were observed in the survival curves of different risk subgroups.

Conclusions: The developed nomograms will enable individualized evaluation of the OS and CSS, thus guiding the treatment of patients with OCS.

A Holistic Appraisal of Stromal Differentiation in Colorectal Cancer: Biology, Histopathology, Computation, and Genomics

Cancer comprises epithelial tumor cells and associated stroma, often times referred to as the "tumoral microenvironment". Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the most notable components of the tumor mesenchyme. CAFs promote the initiation of cancer through angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis. Histologically, the differentiation of stroma has been reported to correlate with prognostic outcomes in patients with colorectal cancer. This review summarizes our current understanding of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in colorectal carcinoma (CRC), showcasing the functions of CAFs and its role in stromal differentiation (SD). We also review current state-of-the-art biology, histopathology, computation, and genomics in the setting of the stroma. SD is distinctive morphologically, and is easily recognized by a surgical pathologist; we offer a lexicon and guide for discovering the essence of stroma, as well as an incipient vision of the future for computation and molecular genomics. We propose that the mesenchymal phenotype, which encompasses a cancer migratory/metastatic capacity, could occur through the process of SD. Looking forward, pathologists will need to invest time and energy into SD, embracing the concept and propagating its use. For patients with colorectal cancer, stroma is a brave new frontier, one not only rich in biologic diversity, but also potentially critical for therapeutic decision making.

Ovarian Carcinosarcoma with Retroperitoneal Para-Aortic Lymph Node Dissemination Followed by an Unusual Postoperative Complication: A Case Report with a Brief Literature Review

Introduction. Ovarian carcinosarcoma (OCS), also known as malignant mixed Müllerian tumour (MMMT), is one of the rarest histological subtypes of ovarian cancer. It is an aggressive tumour with a dismal prognosis-the median survival of patients is less than two years. The rarity of the disease generates many controversies about histogenesis, prognostic factors and treatment of OCS. Histologically, OCS is composed of an epithelial and sarcomatous component. Case report. In the present case, a patient with bilateral ovarian cysts and bulky paraaortic lymph nodes is reported. Retroperitoneal paraaortic lymph node metastases were the only extrapelvic dissemination of OCS. The patient underwent comprehensive surgical staging procedures, including total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, supracolic omentectomy and selective para-aortic lymphadenectomy. Histologically the ovarian carcinosarcoma was composed of an epithelial component (high-grade serous adenocarcinoma) and three sarcomatous components (homologous-endometrial stromal cell sarcoma, and heterologous-chondrosarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma). Immunohistochemistry staining was performed. A postoperative complication (adhesion between the abdominal aorta and terminal ileum causing obstructive ileus) that has never been reported in the medical literature occurred. Conclusion. Carcinosarcomas are carcinomas with epithelial-mesenchymal transition and heterologous differentiation. Retroperitoneal pelvic and paraaortic lymph nodes should be carefully inspected in patients with ovarian tumours. Adhesions between the small bowels and abdominal aorta are possible complications after lymph node dissection in the paraaortic region.

Carcinosarcoma of the ovary: MR and clinical findings compared with high-grade serous carcinoma

PURPOSE

To clarify imaging and clinical characteristics of ovarian carcinosarcoma (CS) compared with high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed MR imagings of 12 patients with CS and 30 patients with HGSC and evaluated tumor size, shape, appearance, nature of cystic and solid components, hemorrhage, and necrosis. Age, premenopausal or postmenopausal, histologic subtype, presence of endometriosis, tumor markers, and stage were also evaluated. These parameters were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test and the chi-square test/Fisher's exact test.

RESULTS

The mean size of CSs was 13.6 cm, and significantly larger than that of HGSCs (mean 9.0 cm, p = 0.022). The stained-glass appearance (67% vs. 23%, p = 0.013), hemorrhage (100% vs. 50%, p = 0.003), necrosis (75.0% vs. 13%, p = 0.000), and endometriosis (33% vs. 7%, p = 0.012) were significantly more common in CSs. The postmenopausal ratio of CSs was 100% and significantly higher than that of HGSCs (70.0%, p = 0.041). Among the tumor makers, only CA-125 was significantly lower in CSs than in HGSCs (mean 715.1 U/ml vs. 1677.1 U/ml, p = 0.009). The stage distribution was similar and was not significantly different.

CONCLUSION

CSs formed larger masses, and the stained-glass appearance, hemorrhage, and necrosis were more frequently observed in CSs.

Primitive ovarian carcinosarcoma: a clinical and radiological analysis of five cases

BACKGROUND

Ovarian carcinosarcomas (OCS) are very rare tumors composed of a mixture of carcinomatous and sarcomatous elements. There have been only scattered case studies that have described the imaging findings. In order to improve the awareness of this rare tumor, this study aimed to analyze the clinical and imaging features of five cases of OCS confirmed by surgical pathologic evaluation.

METHODS

This retrospective study includes five OCS patients diagnosed and treated at our institute. The clinical course and imaging findings of all patients were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were 31 to 59 years of age. All five patients underwent CT scans, two underwent MRI scans.

RESULTS

The five patients have no specific symptoms. Four patients had elevated CA 125 levels and three patients had elevated CA 153 levels. All patients had unilateral tumors, four in the left ovary, one in the right ovary. The largest transverse diameter of the tumors ranged from 11 cm to 14 cm. Two tumors showed solid masses with unequally sized cystic areas or necrosis, one showed a multilocular cystic mass with a large solid protrusion, two tumors showed a larger cystic mass with multiple mural nodules. The solid components of the tumors demonstrated restricted diffusion (the average ADC value being 998 mm²/s and 1102 mm²/s, respectively), and showed moderate or obvious enhancement. All five patients were treated by surgical resection and adjuvant chemotherapy. One patient is currently undergoing post-operative chemotherapy 1 month after operation and clinical stable. Three patients survived and showed no obvious recurrence and / or metastasis in follow-up from 9 to 59 months. One patient died from recurrence and metastasis.

CONCLUSIONS

OCS are rare and demonstrate variable CT and MRI morphological appearances. Due to the heterogeneous nature and very low morbidity of OCS, combination of careful analysis of imaging findings and clinical features might be useful for a more accurate diagnosis of OCS.

Ovarian malignant mixed Müllerian tumor: a rare case report from Tanzania

Malignant mixed Müllerian tumor of the ovary is rare aggressive tumor that is histologically defined by the presence of malignant epithelial and stromal components. We report a 37-year-old woman who consulted our facility complaining of abdominal distention and a painful palpable mass over her lower abdomen. Physical examination including computerized tomography revealed a complex cystic mass lesion on the left ovary with extensive omental involvement. Ovarian cancer was suspected and the patient underwent debulking surgery. The histopathology of the specimen revealed a high-grade tumor composed of both malignant epithelial and sarcomatous elements. Both epithelial and stromal components stained positive for p53 immunostaining. Before the initiation of chemotherapy, on 5th day postoperation, the patient was found unresponsive. The stage of the disease seems to be the most important prognostic factor, thus emphasis should be made to identify it in earlier stages.

HER2 testing of gynecologic carcinosarcomas: tumor stratification for potential targeted therapy

A recent phase II clinical trial showed increased progression-free survival in patients with HER2-positive endometrial serous carcinoma receiving trastuzumab in addition to carboplatin-paclitaxel chemotherapy. Similar to endometrial serous carcinomas, carcinosarcomas of the female genital tract have a dismal prognosis and could potentially benefit from new targeted therapeutic approaches. We aimed to systematically evaluate the characteristics of HER2 expression/amplification in gynecologic carcinosarcomas using standardized staining methods and scoring criteria. Tumors from 80 patients (65 uterine, 15 tubo-ovarian) were included, containing a serous (60%), endometrioid (10%), clear cell (3%), undifferentiated (3%), neuroendocrine (1%), or mixed (24%) carcinoma, and either a homologous (46%), or a heterologous (54%) sarcoma component. HER2 scores were assigned to both components per the 2007 and 2013 ASCO/CAP breast scoring criteria. A total of 13 cases (12 uterine, 1 ovarian, 16%) were HER2 positive (either by immunohistochemistry or FISH) using the 2013 criteria, while only 10 cases (9 uterine, 1 ovarian, 13%) were HER2 positive per the 2007 criteria. Nine cases showed a change in their HER2 immunohistochemical score between the two scoring systems, including two cases with a change in the overall HER2 status from negative (2007) to positive (2013). Heterogeneity of HER2 protein expression was observed in 38% of HER2-positive tumors, and a lateral/basolateral membranous staining pattern was common. The sarcoma component showed 2+, equivocal HER2 expression in five cases, one of which also demonstrated HER2 amplification by FISH. All HER2-positive carcinosarcomas had either a serous or a mixed carcinoma component, and all but one HER2-positive tumors were of uterine primaries. Our study demonstrates that gynecologic carcinosarcomas share similarities in their HER2 expression/amplification profiles to endometrial serous carcinomas, which should be taken into account when assessing their HER2 status to ensure appropriate patient selection for potential targeted HER2-based therapies in the future.

Overall Survival and Adjuvant Therapy in Women with Ovarian Carcinosarcoma: A Single-Institution Experience

BACKGROUND

Carcinosarcoma of the ovary (CSO) is a rare and aggressive variant of ovarian cancer. Due to the rare nature of the disease there is insufficient evidence to make recommendations regarding standard management and overall prognosis.

METHODS

An Institutional Review Board-approved study identified all our patients with CSO between January 2011 and May 2018. Demographic and outcome measures were abstracted from the medical records and tumor board files. Cox proportional hazard models, log rank tests, and comparisons of means were used to calculate significance (p < 0.05).

RESULTS

27 women with CSO were identified. The median age at diagnosis was 65 years (range 48-91). Five women (18%) presented with early stage disease (Stage I or II) and 22 patients (82%) presented with late stage III or IV disease. Twenty patients (74%) received intravenous platinum-based combination chemotherapy. Seven patients did not receive chemotherapy during their treatment course. The median overall survival was 23 months (range 2-68 months). Overall survival was not significantly worsened by the stage of disease at diagnosis. There was no difference in survival based on the age at diagnosis, tobacco status or ethnicity (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This is one of the largest single institution experiences with CSO. The majority of our patients presented with advanced stage disease and received adjuvant platinum-based chemotherapy after cytoreductive surgery. The median overall survival of 23 months was not affected by the stage of the disease. The optimal management of this rare disease needs further study with collaborative, prospective multi-institutional trials.

Mutational and Immunophenotypic Profiling of a Series of 8 Tubo-ovarian Carcinosarcomas Revealed a Monoclonal Origin of the Disease

Carcinosarcomas are rare, highly aggressive neoplasms composed of a combination of carcinomatous and sarcomatous elements. These tumors represent a paradigmatic field for the study of intratumor heterogeneity. A series of 8 tubo-ovarian carcinosarcomas was characterized for the following: (i) immunohistochemical expression of MNF116, epithelial membrane antigen, vimentin, S100, chromogranin, synaptophysin, desmin, myogenin (MYF4), and p53; (ii) mutational profiling of KRAS, BRAF, PIK3CA, NRAS, TP53, and DICER1 genes. Heterologous differentiation was present in 6 of 8 tumors. Cytokeratin MNF116 and epithelial membrane antigen were positive in all the carcinomatous components and in 87.5% and 50.0% of the sarcomatous components, respectively. The sarcomatous components showed positive staining for vimentin in all cases. Two cases demonstrated positivity for neuroendocrine markers in their carcinomatous components. All rhabdomyosarcomas were positive for desmin and MYF-4. Chondrosarcomas were positive for S100. All but one tumor showed similar p53 immunoreactivity in both the carcinomatous and sarcomatous components, and one case showed cytoplasmic p53 expression. Three of 8 cases (37.5%) showed TP53 mutations, and, in 2 cases, the TP53 mutation was shared by both epithelial and mesenchymal components. DICER1 mutation was found in all components of one case. Mutations in KRAS, NRAS, BRAF, and PIK3CA genes were not found in the study cohort. Our results highlight the heterogeneity of ovarian carcinosarcomas at the phenotypic level. A common mutational signature was observed in both components in 3 of 4 informative tumors. More studies are required to dissect different levels of ovarian carcinosarcomas' heterogeneity in order to define the best therapeutic approaches to these aggressive neoplasms.

Anti-proliferative effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from multiple sources on ovarian cancer cell lines: an in-vitro experimental study

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have surfaced as ideal candidates for treatment of different therapeutically challenging diseases however their effect on cancer cells is not well determined. In this study, we investigated the effect of MSCs derived from human bone marrow (BM), adipose tissue (AT), and umbilical cord derived MSCs (UC-MSCs) on ovarian cancer.Measurements of ovarian tumor marker proteins were computed by ELISA. Proliferative, apoptosis and anti-inflammatory effects of the MSCs were measured by Flow cytometry (FCM). MMPs expression was measured by RT-PCR.The co-culture of cancer cell lines OVCAR3, CAOV3, IGROV3 and SKOV3 with the conditioned media of MSCs (CM-MSC) and MSCs showed an increase in cellular apoptosis, along with a reduction in the level of CA-125 and a decline of LDH and beta-hCG. A decrease in CD24 of the cancer cell lines in co-culture with the CM-MSCs showed a reduction of the cancer tumorigenicity. In addition, the invasion and aggressiveness of cancer cell lines was significantly decreased by CM-MSC; this was translated by a decrease in MMP-2, MMP-9, and CA-125 mRNA expression, and an increase in TIMP 1, 2, and 3 mRNA expression. An increase in IL-4 and IL-10 cytokines, and a decrease in GM-CSF, IL-6, and IL-9, were also noted.In conclusion, mesenchymal stem cells derived from different sources and their conditioned media appear to have a major role in inhibition of cancer aggressiveness and might be considered as a potential therapeutic tool in ovarian cancer.

Ovarian carcinosarcoma: Current developments and future perspectives

Ovarian carcinosarcoma (OCS) constitute uncommon malignancies accounting for only 1-4% of ovarian cancers. Patients more often present with advanced stage disease and symptoms similar to those of epithelial ovarian cancers (EOC). Optimal tumor cytoreduction appears to be an important determinant of survival. Platinum-based chemotherapy remains the most commonly employed adjuvant treatment. The uncertain origin and poor prognosis of OCS motivate determination of the molecular basis of carcinosarcomas aggressive behavior in the hope of developing novel and effective treatment modalities. The present review summarizes the current knowledge on the epidemiology, pathology, prognostic factors, clinical presentation, and therapeutic interventions including future potential therapeutic targets.

Response to pembrolizumab in a heavily treated patient with metastatic ovarian carcinosarcoma

Background

Ovarian carcinosarcoma is a rare malignancy associated with a high rate of cancer-related mortality even at early stages. Guidelines for systemic treatment have been difficult to establish because the disease is commonly excluded from prospective clinical trials. Ovarian carcinosarcoma is usually managed as high-grade epithelial ovarian cancer despite major histologic differences. Owing to the rarity and poor prognosis of ovarian carcinosarcoma, salvage treatments and their efficacy have been poorly described.

Case presentation

A patient heavily treated for ovarian carcinosarcoma showed an objective response to an immune checkpoint inhibitor, pembrolizumab. Pembrolizumab in this patient appeared to provide tumor control in multifocal metastatic sites.

Conclusions

Pembrolizumab should be evaluated in prospective trials for the treatment of ovarian carcinosarcoma and further work is needed to identify patients most likely to respond to this type of intervention.

Prognostic significance of lymph node metastasis and lymphadenectomy in early-stage ovarian carcinosarcoma

Background

The role that lymph node dissection (LND) plays in the management of ovarian carcinosarcoma (OCS) is unclear due to its rarity. This study investigated lymph node metastasis (LNM) prevalence in women with early OCS and effects of LND and LNM on survival.

Methods

Data of women diagnosed with OCS, whose primary tumor was confined to ovaries (American Joint Committee on Cancer [AJCC] T1) or pelvic cavity (AJCC T2), between 1988 and 2010 were collected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Patients were classified into lymphadenectomy (LND [+]) and no lymphadenectomy (LND [−]) groups.

Results

A total of 363 women were included. The prevalence of LNM was 9.6% in AJCC T1 and 16.3% in AJCC T2. Multivariate analysis showed that LND and AJCC T categories were independent prognostic variables, irrespective of cancer-specific survival (CSS) or overall survival (OS). Subgroup analysis by AJCC T categories revealed that LND (+) group in AJCC T2 had a better survival outcome compared to LND (−) group (CSS, HR [95% CI] = 0.61 [0.43–0.87]; OS, HR [95% CI] = 0.59 [0.42–0.83]). There was no survival difference between groups in AJCC T1 (CSS, HR [95% CI] = 0.96 [0.56–1.65]; OS, HR [95% CI] = 0.88 [0.56–1.38]). Multivariate analysis was further carried out in LND (+) group and demonstrated that LNM and AJCC T2 had poor CSS and OS. Subgroup analysis by AJCC T categories showed that worse survival was observed in LNM (+) group compared to LNM (−) group in AJCC T2 (CSS, HR [95% CI] = 3.62 [1.50–8.73]; OS, HR [95% CI] = 3.71 [1.59–8.68]) but not in AJCC T1 (CSS, HR [95% CI] = 1.78 [0.50–6.37]; OS, HR [95% CI] = 1.97 [0.61–6.39]).

Conclusion

Regional lymphadenectomy should be performed in patients with AJCC T2 OCS. LND and LNM were not significantly associated with prognosis in AJCC T1 while LNM had a trend toward worse survival.

Comparison of first-line chemotherapy regimens for ovarian carcinosarcoma: a single institution case series and review of the literature

Background

The optimal first-line chemotherapy for ovarian carcinosarcoma has not yet been determined. We therefore sought to determine the progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) for patients with ovarian carcinosarcoma treated at our institution with different first-line chemotherapy regimens.

Methods

This single-institution, retrospective analysis included all patients with ovarian or primary peritoneal carcinosarcoma diagnosed from September 1996 to July 2017. Kaplan Meier analysis with a log-rank Mantel-Cox test was used to compare PFS and OS between treatment groups, and a p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Thirty-one patients met inclusion criteria: two patients were stage IC, 5 were stage II, 21 were stage III, and 3 were stage IV. The median PFS and OS for all stages was 9.3 and 19.7 months respectively. Fifteen patients (48%) received carboplatin/paclitaxel as first therapy, 7 (23%) received ifosfamide/paclitaxel, 6 (19%) received a different regimen, and 3 (10%) did not receive chemotherapy. Patients treated with carboplatin/paclitaxel had a statistically significant longer PFS when compared to those receiving ifosfamide/paclitaxel (17.8 vs. 8.0 months, p = 0.025). OS was similar between all comparisons.

Conclusions

In summary, in our cohort of ovarian carcinosarcoma patients, median PFS is longer in patients treated with carboplatin/paclitaxel compared to ifosfamide/paclitaxel. Overall survival was similar for all treatment groups, potentially due to subsequent treatment crossover. Given the rarity and aggressive nature of this tumor, further study into optimal first-line chemotherapy is warranted.

Carcinosarcoma of the ovary compared to ovarian high-grade serous carcinoma: impact of optimal cytoreduction and standard adjuvant treatment

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this retrospective study was to compare the prognoses of women with ovarian carcinosarcoma (OCS) who had optimal cytoreductive surgery followed by platinum plus taxane combination chemotherapy to those of women with ovarian high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) treated in the same manner.

METHODS

A multicenter, retrospective department database review was performed to identify patients with OCS at eight gynecologic oncology centers in Turkey. A total of 54 women with OCS who had undergone optimal cytoreductive surgery followed by platinum plus taxane combination chemotherapy between 1999 and 2017 were included in this case-control study. Each case was matched to two women with ovarian HGSC who had undergone optimal cytoreductive surgery followed by platinum plus taxane combination chemotherapy. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to generate survival data. Factors predictive of outcome were analysed using Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

Median disease-free survival (DFS) was 29 months [95% confidence interval (CI) 0-59, standard error (SE) 15.35] versus 27 months (95% CI 22.6-31.3, SE 2.22; p = 0.765) and median overall survival (OS) was 62 versus 82 months (p = 0.53) for cases and controls, respectively. For the entire cohort, the presence of ascites [hazard ratio (HR) 2.32; 95% CI 1.02-5.25, p = 0.04] and platinum resistance [HR 5.05; 95% CI 2.32-11, p < 0.001] were found to be independent risk factors for decreased OS.

CONCLUSION

DFS and OS rates of patients with OCS and HGSC seem to be similar whenever optimal cytoreduction is achieved and followed by platinum plus taxane combination chemotherapy.

Prognostic assessment of sarcomatous histologic subtypes of ovarian carcinosarcoma

Objective

Ovarian carcinosarcoma is a rare subtype of this disease that has not been thoroughly investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic factors and out comes in patients with ovarian carcinosarcoma.

Methods

All patients with histologically confirmed ovarian carcinosarcoma who were treated at Cheil General Hospital and Women's Healthcare Center between January 2000 and December 2015 were identified and analyzed. Data were extracted from medical records, and statistical analyses were performed to determine correlations between clinicopathological parameters and survival outcomes.

Results

Of the 822 patients diagnosed with ovarian cancer over 16 years, 11 (1.3%) had ovarian carcinosarcoma histology. Every patient underwent surgery as the initial treatment followed by intravenous adjuvant chemotherapy. Only 18.1% of cases were early stage (I or II) while 81.8% were advanced stage (III or IV) according to the FIGO (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) classification. Six cases were of the homologous subtype (54.5%) and five were of the heterologous subtype (45.5%). There was no significant difference in survival according to stage (P=0.24). The heterologous subtype and residual disease were associated with poor disease-free survival (P=0.02 and P=0.04) and overall survival (P=0.02 and P=0.04), On multivariate analysis, the histological subtype was an independent prognostic factor (P=0.02).

Conclusion

Optimal cytoreduction without gross residual disease and a homologous subtype are favorable prognostic factors in terms of disease relapse and survival.

Extremely Locally Advanced Ovarian Malignant Mixed Mullerian Tumor in 37-Years-Old Female

Ovarian carcinosarcomas, rare variant of ovarian carcinoma, composed of both carcinomatous and mesenchymal components, solid and/or cystic, fleshy and hemorrhagic, frequently spreading beyond the ovary, are treated with surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy according to the treatment principles of ovarian carcinomas due to the small number of reported cases and lack of randomized studies. We report a case of a 37-year-old woman with clinical signs of extremely locally advanced tumor of ovarian origin, infiltrating the lower left quadrant of the abdominal wall with necrosis of the covering skin. Prior biopsy of the left ovary and omentum confirmed poorly differentiated serous adenocarcinoma. Bulky tumor the size of a child's head, originating from the left ovary and infiltrating into the lower left quadrant abdominal wall was debulked with wide excision of the abdominal wall and creation of wide defect of the lower left part of abdominal wall covered with Dexon mesh. After the recovery, the medial part of the defect with exposed mesh was closed with pedicled tensor fasciae latae fasciomyocutaneous flap, while the lateral part of the defect was covered with split thickness skin graft. Optimal surgical cytoreduction and adjuvant chemotherapy in case of extremely locally advanced ovarian malignant Müllerian tumor provide satisfactory recurrence-free survival period.

"Carcinosarcoma of the ovary, fallopian tube, and peritoneum: Prognostic factors and treatment modalities"

OBJECTIVE

Ovarian carcinosarcoma (OCS) is a rare malignancy accounting for only 1-4% of all ovarian cancers. The treatment of OCS is largely based on data from small case series and management of other histologic subtypes of epithelial ovarian cancer. We reviewed the literature pertinent to the pathology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of women with OCS.

METHODS

MEDLINE was searched in English for literature on OCS, focusing on the past 30years. Given the rarity of this tumor, studies were not limited by design or number of reported patients.

RESULTS

Molecular, epidemiologic, genetic, and histologic data indicate that most OCS are monoclonal. Patients with OCS generally present with advanced stage disease. Most of the available retrospective studies support the role of cytoreductive surgery in the management of OCS, with optimal debulking associated with improved survival. Platinum-based chemotherapy is the current accepted adjuvant treatment. Given the limited data regarding the management of recurrent OCS, patients are usually treated similarly to women diagnosed with other subtypes of epithelial ovarian cancer.

CONCLUSION

OCS represent a rare and aggressive histologic subtype of epithelial ovarian cancer. The goal of surgery is comprehensive staging in patients with early-stage disease and optimal cytoreduction patients with advanced-stage tumors. Platinum-based chemotherapy is the mainstay of adjuvant systemic treatment. Future studies are needed in order to elucidate the molecular basis for OCS and to evaluate the role of targeted therapy in its management.

Identical TP53 mutations in pelvic carcinosarcomas and associated serous tubal intraepithelial carcinomas provide evidence of their clonal relationship

Pelvic carcinosarcomas (PCSs) are rare aggressive biphasic tumors that localize in the ovary, fallopian tube, or peritoneum and present frequently as bilateral disease. We undertook a morphological, p53 immunohistochemical and TP53 gene mutational analysis study in a single institution cohort of 16 PCSs in order to investigate the nature of bilateral tumors and to shed light on their origin and pathogenesis. Of the 16 patients, 10 presented with bilateral disease, 6 with a carcinosarcoma in both adnexa, and the remaining cases with a carcinosarcoma in one adnexum and a carcinoma in the opposite. The carcinoma component showed high-grade serous features in 13/16 of cases (81 %). In 10 patients (63 %), a serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma (STIC) was found, in one case bilateral, making a total of 11 STICs. STIC was found only in cases with a carcinoma component with high-grade serous features. All 10 bilateral tumors and all 11 PCS-associated STICs showed a similar p53 immunostaining pattern. At mutation analysis of the TP53 gene, all five bilateral PCS contained an identical mutation in both localizations. Furthermore, a TP53 mutation was found in 8 of 10 STICs, with an identical mutation in the associated PCS. The finding of similar p53 immunostaining in all bilateral cases and identical TP53 mutations in most PCS-associated STIC provides evidence for a clonal relation between these neoplastic lesions, supporting a metastatic nature of bilateral PCS and suggesting that they have an extraovarian origin in a STIC.

Primary Ovarian Malignant Mixed Mullerian Tumour: A Case Report and Brief Review of Literature

Malignant Mixed Mullerian Tumour of the Ovary (OMMMT), also referred to as carcinosarcoma is a very rare tumour accounting for less than 1% of all ovarian cancers. Due to the rarity of OMMMT, little is known about the disease course and outcome of women with these tumours. It is important to evaluate because of its aggressive behaviour with extremely unfavourable prognosis. These tumours are composed of both malignant epithelial and mesenchymal elements. Current data in the literature is still limited to small case series and case reports, therefore, its optimal treatment is somewhat controversial. In the current report, we introduce a case of OMMMT which was successfully treated with Platinum-based combination chemotherapy after optimal cytoreductive surgery. The clinical manifestations, pathologic characteristics, diagnosis and management of these tumours are reviewed here. Although the most effective treatment is currently unknown, optimal cytoreductive surgery and platinum-based chemotherapy appears to improve the outcomes. Despite the aggressive nature of this tumour and its poor response to the treatment, management works best when cancer is found early. The stage of the disease is the most important prognostic factor. Therefore, the crucial question is how to diagnose the cancer at earlier stages rather than seeking the optimal treatment.

Uterine and ovary carcinosarcomas: outcome, prognosis factors, and adjuvant therapy

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess the outcome and the prognosis factors of uterine and ovarian carcinosarcomas.

METHODS

From January 1993 to January 2010, data from 68 consecutively treated patients with uterine (n=59) and ovarian (n=9) carcinosarcomas were retrospectively analyzed in a single French comprehensive cancer center.

RESULTS

The median follow-up was 24.2 months (interquartile range [IQR]: 13.5 to 54.6). The median age was 69 years (IQR: 63 to 77). Patients were classified as FIGO stage I (n=28; 41%) and FIGO stage II to IV (n=40; 59%), respectively. There were 33 (49%) and 29 (43%) homologous and heterologous type, respectively. The median disease-free survival and overall survival were 21.9 months (IQR: 7.9 to 22.3) and 27.1 months (IQR: 14.5 to 72), respectively. No statistical differences of survival were reported concerning the initial location of the carcinosarcoma (uterine vs. ovarian). Radiation therapy (hazards ratio [HR]=0.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.16-0.67) and FIGO stage I (HR=0.4; 95% CI, 0.17-0.9) were associated with an increased disease-free survival. Homologous type (HR=3; 95% CI, 1.4-6.3) and FIGO stage II to IV (HR=2.64; 95% CI, 1.3-5.4) were associated with a decreased overall survival. There was no survival improvement for the 12% of patients receiving a multimodal adjuvant therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Uterine and ovary carcinosarcomas present a worse prognosis. On the basis of the present study data, although it should be prospectively confirmed, a sequential or multimodal adjuvant therapy should be proposed to patients with early-stage uterine and ovary carcinosarcomas.

Non-islet cell tumor hypoglycemia associated with recurrent carcinosarcoma of the ovary

OBJECTIVE

To describe the first reported case of non-islet cell tumor hypoglycemia (NICTH) associated with carcinosarcoma of the ovary.

METHODS

We report the clinical course, imaging, and pathologic findings of our patient and review relevant literature.

RESULTS

A 48-year-old woman had a surgery to remove ovarian masses, which turned out to be carcinosarcoma of the ovary, stage IIIc; however, she declined postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy. Six months later, she became unconscious with severe hypoglycemia. A large pelvic mass was found and thought to represent a recurrence. Serum insulin and C-peptide were undetectable. Morning cortisol was mildly elevated. Thyroid stimulating hormone, amylase, lipase, and renal and hepatic functions were normal. While insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I was low, IGF-II was inappropriately elevated. Increased IGF-II/IGF-I ratio was suggestive of NICTH in light of the large pelvic tumor. She required frequent meals, dextrose boluses, and continuous infusions, oral prednisone, and glucagon continuous infusion to prevent recurrent hypoglycemic attacks. Chemotherapy with carboplatin and paclitaxel was initiated, and glucose control started to improve. After 4 cycles of the chemotherapy, the tumor regressed substantially and was surgically removed. She had 3 more cycles of postoperative chemotherapy. Although the reported median survival of this aggressive neoplasm is less than 2 years, this patient has been free of recurrent disease and hypoglycemia for 6 years.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to report NICTH in a patient with carcinosarcoma of the ovary. Clinicians should be aware of NICTH as a cause of hypoglycemia especially in a patient with a tumor or history of tumor.

Radical surgical cytoreduction in the treatment of ovarian carcinosarcoma

OBJECTIVE

Carcinosarcomas are rare and aggressive ovarian malignancies. Treatment recommendations, which include surgical cytoreduction followed by platinum based chemotherapy, have been based on small amounts of retrospective data or extrapolated from experience with high-grade epithelial ovarian adenocarcinoma. Our objective was to determine the effects of radical primary cytoreduction on progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

METHODS

Following IRB approval, records of women with ovarian carcinosarcomas diagnosed between 2000 and 2012 at our institution were reviewed. Demographics, tumor characteristics, treatments, PFS, and OS were collected. Patients were divided into three groups based on the amount of residual disease: >1cm of disease, ≤ 1 cm of disease, or no visible disease. Chi-square and student's t-test were used to compare variables among groups. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were generated and compared with the log-rank test.

RESULTS

51 patients with ovarian carcinosarcoma were identified and all underwent primary cytoreductive surgery. Following surgical cytoreduction, 18 patients (35%) had no visible disease, 20 (39%) had ≤ 1 cm of disease, and 13 (25%) had >1cm of residual disease. Median PFS varied significantly among groups: 29 vs. 21 vs. 2 months (p=0.036) as did median OS: 57 vs. 32 vs. 11 months (p=0.015). When patients with stage 3 disease were analyzed separately, median OS still varied significantly among groups: 57 versus 31 versus 3 months (p=0.009).

CONCLUSION

Degree of surgical cytoreduction appears to correlate with PFS and OS. Radical surgery resulting in no visible disease is recommended for the upfront surgical treatment of ovarian carcinosarcoma.

Primary Treatment and Prognostic Factors of Carcinosarcoma of the Ovary, Fallopian Tube, and Peritoneum: A Taiwanese Gynecologic Oncology Group Study

Objective

This study aimed to determine the clinical prognostic factors involved in carcinosarcoma of the ovary, fallopian tube, and peritoneum.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective study was undertaken by the Taiwanese Gynecologic Oncology Group. The retrieved clinical data included demographic characteristics, medical disease, tumor status, extent of surgery, and adjuvant chemotherapy.

Results

In total, 63 patients with carcinosarcoma of the ovary, fallopian tube, and peritoneum were identified. Sixty-one patients with complete data were enrolled for further data analysis. The mean follow-up period was 1.0 year, and the mean overall survival was 15.4 months. By log-rank tests, age, menopausal status, parity, hypertension, diabetes, primary tumor size, para-aortic lymph node metastasis, pretreatment CA-125, preceding diagnostic surgery, hysterectomy, lymphadenectomy, other surgeries, and paclitaxel use were not predictive of overall survival.

Omentectomy, no gross residual implants after surgery, platinum treatment, and no pelvic lymph node metastasis had a trend toward better survival. Early diagnosis at stage I and cisplatin/ifosfamide regimen were significant associated with a better overall survival in log-rank and simple Cox regression tests. Bilateral ovarian tumors and metastatic tumors larger than 2 cm were significantly associated with a poorer overall survival.

Conclusions

Early diagnosis at stage I, unilateral ovarian tumor, metastatic tumors less than 2 cm, and cisplatin/ifosfamide regimen were predictive of a better survival.

Omentectomy and complete debulking surgery also showed a trend toward better survival. Thus, these treatment strategies should be applied in patients with carcinosarcoma of the ovary, fallopian tube, and peritoneum.

Carcinosarcoma of the ovary: natural history, patterns of treatment, and outcome

OBJECTIVE

Ovarian carcinosarcomas (OCS) are rare tumors composed of both malignant epithelial and mesenchymal elements. We compared the natural history and outcomes of OCS to serous carcinoma of the ovary.

METHODS

Patients with OCS and serous carcinomas registered in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database between 1988 and 2007 were analyzed. Demographic and clinical characteristics were compared using chi square tests while survival was analyzed using Cox proportional hazards models and the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

A total of 27,737 women, including 1763 (6.4%) with OCS and 25,974 (93.6%) with serous carcinomas, were identified. Patients with carcinosarcomas tended to be older and have unstaged tumors (P<0.0001). After adjusting for other prognostic factors, women with carcinosarcomas were 72% more likely to die from their tumors (HR=1.72; 95% CI, 1.52-1.96). Five-year survival for stage I carcinosarcomas was 65.2% (95% CI, 58.0-71.4%) vs. 80.6% (95% CI, 78.9-82.2%) for serous tumors. Similarly, five-year survival for stage IIIC patients was 18.2% (95% CI, 14.5-22.4%) for carcinosarcomas compared to 33.3% (95% 32.1-34.5%) for serous carcinomas.

CONCLUSIONS

Ovarian carcinosarcomas are aggressive tumors with a natural history that is distinct from serous cancers. The survival for both early and late stage carcinosarcoma is inferior to serous tumors.

Bilateral ovarian malignant mixed Mullerian tumour: a rare entity

A 52-year-old postmenopausal woman presented with abdominal distension for 2 months. She had no vaginal bleeding and no relevant medical history. A physical examination showed a large palpable pelvic mass. A CT scan showed an ill-defined, heterogeneously enhancing, soft tissue attenuation lesion in the lower abdomen and pelvis involving the right adnexal region with massive ascites, and the left ovary did not reveal any evidence of disease. The omentum was thickened and heterogeneous. The patient underwent a total hysterectomy with infracolic omentectomy. The diagnosis was bilateral ovarian malignant mixed Mullerian tumour (MMMT) with omental deposits. Aggressive treatment includes surgery and chemotherapy. Women with this tumour have a significant increased risk of death compared to women with epithelial ovarian cancer and very poor prognosis. We report a case of MMMT of the ovary with clinicopathological correlation and diagnostic difficulties as malignant epithelial tumour resemble ovarian stromal sarcoma in postmenopausal female.

Carcinosarcoma of the ovary compared to papillary serous ovarian carcinoma: a SEER analysis

OBJECTIVE

The aims of this study are to determine if outcomes of patients with ovarian carcinosarcoma (OCS) differ from women with high grade papillary serous ovarian carcinoma when compared by stage as well as to identify any associated clinico-pathologic factors.

METHODS

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program data for all 18 registries from 1998 to 2009 was reviewed to identify women with OCS and high grade papillary serous carcinoma of the ovary. Demographic and clinical data were compared, and the impact of tumor histology on survival was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Factors predictive of outcome were compared using the Cox proportional hazard model.

RESULTS

The final study group consisted of 14,753 women. 1334 (9.04%) had OCS and 13,419 (90.96%) had high grade papillary serous carcinoma of the ovary. Overall, women with OCS had a worse five-year, disease specific survival rate, 28.2% vs. 38.4% (P<0.001). This difference persisted for each FIGO disease stages I-IV, with five year survival consistently worse for women with OCS compared with papillary serous carcinoma. Over the entire study period, after adjusting for histology, age, period of diagnosis, SEER registry, marital status, stage, surgery, radiotherapy, lymph node dissection, and history of secondary malignancy after the diagnosis of ovarian cancer, carcinosarcoma histology was associated with decreased cancer-specific survival.

CONCLUSIONS

OCS is associated with a poor prognosis compared to high grade papillary serous carcinoma of the ovary. This difference was noted across all FIGO stages.

Synchronous occurrence of primary malignant mixed müllerian tumor in ovary and uterus

Malignant mixed müllerian tumor (MMMT) arising from female internal genitalia is rare with the uterine corpus being the most prevalently affected site. It is even more rare when it occurs on both uterus and ovary at the same time. We describe a case of synchronized occurrence of MMMT on ovary and uterine adenosarcoma with review of literature.

Ovarian carcinosarcoma: effects of cytoreductive status and platinum-based chemotherapy on survival

Objective. To define survival patterns of women with ovarian carcinosarcoma based on patient, tumor, and treatment characteristics. Methods/Materials. A single-institution, retrospective analysis of women diagnosed with ovarian carcinosarcoma from February 1993 to May 2009 was performed. Survival was analyzed with Cox proportional hazards ratios and Kaplan Meier tests. Results. Forty-seven cases of primary ovarian carcinosarcoma were identified. Age conveyed an HR 3.28 (95% CI 1.51–7.11, P = 0.003) for death. Compared to Stages I-II, Stage III carried an HR for death of 4.75 (95% CI 1.16–19.4, P = 0.03) and Stage IV disease an HR of 9.13 (95% CI 1.76–47.45, P = 0.009). Compared to those with microscopic residual, women with >1 cm diameter of residual disease after primary cytoreductive surgery had an HR for death of 4.71 (95% CI 1.84–12.09, P = 0.001). At analysis, 59.1% of those who received platinum-based chemotherapy were alive, compared to 23.1% of those who received nonplatinum-based chemotherapy (P = 0.08). Conclusions. Age, stage, and cytoreduction to no gross residual disease are associated with improved survival in women with ovarian carcinosarcoma. Complete surgical cytoreduction should be the goal of surgical management when possible, but the ideal adjuvant treatment regimen remains unclear.