Ultrasonography-guided core-needle biopsy of lymphadenopathies suspected of lymphoma: Analysis on diagnostic efficacy and safety of 1000 front-line biopsies in a multicenter Italian study

Lymphoma: factors associated with unplanned diagnostic pathways and survival -a nationwide Danish register-based cohort study

The objective was to investigate how patient characteristics, clinical characteristics and prognosis were associated with lymphoma diagnoses in unplanned pathways. We included 7,157 consecutive patients diagnosed with lymphoma in a nationwide register-based study in Denmark. An unplanned pathway was defined as an acute admission within 30 days before diagnosis and compared to all other pathways combined. A total of 21% of patients were diagnosed in unplanned pathways, varying from 13% in indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma to 32% in aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The probability of being diagnosed in an unplanned pathway was higher for patients with comorbidity, B-symptoms, abnormal blood test results, advanced disease stage and poor performance score (PS) at diagnosis. Diagnosis in an unplanned pathway was associated with higher mortality, for example, HR 2.03 (95% CI:1.74-2.38 for PS 0). Increased disease severity at diagnosis was associated with unplanned diagnostic pathways. Diagnosis in an unplanned pathway was associated with higher mortality.

Yield of ultrasound-guided biopsies of focal lesions in an Internal Medicine Department

BACKGROUND

Ultrasound-guided biopsy (UGB) is a diagnostic procedure that is usually performed by radiologists; however, its use by internists has been poorly studied. This study evaluated the diagnostic yield, accuracy, and safety of UGB for focal lesions with a high suspicion of malignancy in an Internal Medicine Department.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 255 UGB in 248 patients between 2021 and 2024. Solid organ biopsies were performed to evaluate diagnostic yield, complications, and factors associated with success.

RESULTS

The overall diagnostic yield was 84% with an accuracy of 83% for malignancy and 89% for benignity. The biopsies predominantly comprised of hepatic, pulmonary, and lymph node specimens. Major complications occurred infrequently (3%). Factors such as sample size and accumulated experience improved the results.

CONCLUSIONS

UGBs performed by internists for focal lesions suspected of malignancy are safe and effective. Its implementation can reduce diagnostic time and improve patient care.

Elastography Enhances the Diagnostic Performance of Conventional Ultrasonography in Differentiating Benign from Malignant Superficial Lymphadenopathies

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Lymph node (LN) evaluation is critical in diagnosing, staging, and managing various diseases, particularly lymphoma and metastatic cancer. Although conventional ultrasound (US) is widely used for this purpose, its limitations in reliably differentiating between benign and malignant LNs persist. Ultrasound elastography (US-E), which evaluates tissue stiffness, has emerged as a promising adjunct to improve diagnostic accuracy. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic performance of conventional US, power Doppler US, and strain elastography (SE) in distinguishing malignant from benign superficial lymph nodes.

METHODS

In this prospective study, 214 consecutive patients referred for US of enlarged LNs were enrolled. Conventional B-mode US, power Doppler, and SE were performed, and the strain ratio (SR) was calculated as a measure of LN stiffness. Histopathological examination was used as the reference standard. Diagnostic accuracy was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, and multivariable logistic regression models were applied to determine the independent predictive role of SR.

RESULTS

Among the 214 LNs (one for each patient), 74 (34.6%) were benign and 140 (65.4%) were malignant. The SR showed a significant association with malignancy (p < 0.001). For hematological malignancies, SR demonstrated high sensitivity (79-85%) and specificity (81-96%), with an overall area under the curve (AUC) of 0.91. Multivariable analysis confirmed that SR was an independent predictor of malignancy (continuous and dichotomous), with a 14% gain in predictive accuracy when treated as a continuous variable (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

US-E, particularly SR, is a valuable tool in the differentiation of benign and malignant superficial LNs. SR provides significant diagnostic value, especially in hematological neoplasms like Hodgkin lymphoma, and can serve as an independent predictor of malignancy. This technique, when used in combination with conventional US features, offers enhanced diagnostic performance for LN evaluation.

US-Guided percutaneous core needle biopsy via the complete transhepatic approach: a reliable option for deep abdominal lesions

PURPOSE

To assess the feasibility, reliability, and diagnostic performance of ultrasound (US)-guided percutaneous core needle biopsy (PCNB) performed via the complete transhepatic approach (CTHa) for abdominal lesions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study included 71 patients (31 males, 40 females) with a mean age of 64.8 ± 13.9 years (range: 19-93) who underwent US-guided PCNB via the CTHa for abdominal lesions between January 2014 and December 2024. All biopsies were performed by interventional radiologists with at least five years of experience using a coaxial system and an 18-gauge automatic biopsy device. Patients were assessed for technical success, diagnostic yield, and complications, which were classified as major or minor based on the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) guidelines.

RESULTS

Tissue samples were successfully obtained in all cases, achieving a 100% technical success rate. Adequate material for pathological diagnosis was available in 63 of 71 patients (88.7%), while a definitive diagnosis could not be established in 11.3% of cases. Diagnostic yield was significantly influenced by lesion type (solid or mixed with cystic components) and anatomical location (p = 0.001 and p = 0.032, respectively). Complications occurred in 12.7% of patients, including 11.3% minor and 1.4% major complications. Univariate logistic regression analysis identified a history of malignancy, lesion size along the biopsy path, and the length of liver parenchyma traversed as significant predictors of complications (p = 0.012, 0.027 and 0.003 respectively). In the multivariate model, liver parenchyma length remained the only independent risk factor (p = 0.023).

CONCLUSION

US-guided PCNB via the CTHa is a safe and effective option for abdominal lesions when extrahepatic access is not feasible. While longer liver tissue traversal increases the risk of minor complications, no major adverse events were observed. Careful procedural planning and consideration of lesion location and cystic content are essential to optimize diagnostic yield.

ISUOG/ESGO Consensus Statement on ultrasound-guided biopsy in gynecological oncology

The International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology (ISUOG) with the European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO) jointly developed clinically relevant and evidence-based statements on performing ultrasound-guided biopsies in gynecological oncology. The objective of this Consensus Statement is to assist clinicians, including gynecological sonographers, gynecological oncologists and radiologists, to achieve the best standards of practice in ultrasound-guided biopsy procedures. ISUOG/ESGO nominated a multidisciplinary international group of 16 experts who have demonstrated leadership in the use of ultrasound-guided biopsy in the clinical management of patients with gynecological cancer. In addition, two early-career gynecological fellows were nominated to participate from the European Network of Young Gynae Oncologists (ENYGO) within ESGO and from ISUOG. The group also included a patient representative from the European Network of Gynaecological Cancer Advocacy Groups. The document is divided into six sections: (1) general recommendations; (2) image-guided biopsy (imaging guidance, sampling methods); (3) indications and contraindications; (4) technique; (5) reporting; and (6) training and quality assurance. To ensure that the statements are evidence-based, the current literature was reviewed and critically appraised. Preliminary statements were drafted based on this review of the literature. During a conference call, the whole group discussed each preliminary statement, and a first round of voting was carried out. The group achieved consensus on all 46 preliminary statements without the need for revision. These ISUOG/ESGO statements on ultrasound-guided biopsy in gynecological oncology, together with a summary of the evidence supporting each statement, are presented herein. This Consensus Statement is supplemented by detailed narrated videoclips presenting different approaches and indications for ultrasound-guided biopsy, a patient leaflet, and an extended version which includes a detailed review of the evidence.

ISUOG/ESGO Consensus Statement on ultrasound-guided biopsy in gynecological oncology

The International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology (ISUOG) with the European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO) jointly developed clinically relevant and evidence-based statements on performing ultrasound-guided biopsies in gynecological oncology. The objective of this Consensus Statement is to assist clinicians, including gynecological sonographers, gynecological oncologists and radiologists, to achieve the best standards of practice in ultrasound-guided biopsy procedures. ISUOG/ESGO nominated a multidisciplinary international group of 16 experts who have demonstrated leadership in the use of ultrasound-guided biopsy in the clinical management of patients with gynecological cancer. In addition, two early-career gynecological fellows were nominated to participate from the European Network of Young Gynae Oncologists (ENYGO) within ESGO and from ISUOG. The group also included a patient representative from the European Network of Gynaecological Cancer Advocacy Groups. The document is divided into six sections: (1) general recommendations; (2) image-guided biopsy (imaging guidance, sampling methods); (3) indications and contraindications; (4) technique; (5) reporting; and (6) training and quality assurance. To ensure that the statements are evidence-based, the current literature was reviewed and critically appraised. Preliminary statements were drafted based on this review of the literature. During a conference call, the whole group discussed each preliminary statement, and a first round of voting was carried out. The group achieved consensus on all 46 preliminary statements without the need for revision. These ISUOG/ESGO statements on ultrasound-guided biopsy in gynecological oncology, together with a summary of the evidence supporting each statement, are presented herein. This Consensus Statement is supplemented by detailed narrated videoclips presenting different approaches and indications for ultrasound-guided biopsy, a patient leaflet, and an extended version which includes a detailed review of the evidence. © 2025 The Authors. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology (ISUOG) and by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of the European Society of Gynaecological Oncology and the International Gynecologic Cancer Society.

A predictive diagnostic model for refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: a single-center retrospective cohort study

To develop a baseline predictive model for refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) utilizing imaging data including ultrasound findings and PET-CT in conjunction with clinical parameters. We retrospectively analyzed data from 140 patients with newly diagnosed DLBCL treated at Peking University Third Hospital between January 2018 and January 2023. All patients underwent ultrasound, histopathological examinations and PET-CT examinations. After completing 6-8 cycles of standardized chemotherapy, patients were categorized into refractory and non-refractory groups according to the Lugano International Response Assessment Criteria. Univariate analyses were performed using T-tests and Chi-Squared Tests, and independent risk factors for refractory DLBCL were identified through logistic regression. A nomogram predictive model was constructed using the R package "rms," and its predictive performance was subsequently validated. Univariate analysis and logistic regression identified that blurred margins of the affected lymph nodes in ultrasound images (P < 0.001, OR = 18.238) and IPI score(P = 0.051, OR = 3.131) were significant risk factors for disease progression. The predictive nomogram established for refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma demonstrated an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.835, with a sensitivity of 85.5% and specificity of 79.5%. Following internal validation, the predictive model exhibited a high degree of alignment between the estimated risk of refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and the actual observed progression events. The prediction model of the R-DLBCL prediction model, amalgamating ultrasonic characterizations and clinical indicators, proves instrumental in identifying high-risk DLBCL groups.

Liposomal Doxorubicin, Vinblastine and Dacarbazine Plus Consolidation Radiotherapy of Residual Nodal Masses for Frontline Treatment in Older Adults With Advanced Stage Classic Hodgkin Lymphoma: Improved Outcome in a Multi-Center Real-Life Study

In elderly patients with high-risk classic Hodgkin lymphoma (c-HL), we evaluated the impact of a new modality treatment without bleomycin, that is, liposomal doxorubicin (NPLD)-based regimen plus consolidation radiotherapy of residual nodal masses (RNMs), on overall survival (OS) and progression free survival (PFS). In this retrospective study (2013-2023) conducted in tertiary hospitals in the bay of Naples (Italy), 50 older adults (median age, 69 years; range, 60-89) with advanced stage c-HL received frontline treatment with MVD ± irradiation. MVD consisted of 25 mg/m2 of NPLD along with standard Vinblastine and Dacarbazine for a total of 6 cycles (twelve iv administrations, every 2 weeks) followed by radiation of RNMs with size ≥ 2.5 cm at computed tomography. Patients underwent MVD with a median dose intensity of 92%. At 2-deoxy-2[F-18] fluoro-D-glucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET), 90% of patients (45/50 patients; one failed to perform final FDG-PET due to early death) reached complete responses. Altogether, 17 patients (34%) received consolidation radiotherapy of RNMs with Deauville score ≥ 3. At 5-year median follow-up, the OS and PFS of the entire population were 87.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 78.7-97.4) and 81.6% (95% CI, 71.4-93.2), respectively. Eleven patients (22%) experienced grade ≥ 3 adverse events, and 4 of them required hospitalization. Our data suggest that in older adults with high-risk c-HL NPLD-driven strategy (without bleomycin) plus consolidation radiotherapy (if needed) may be a promising up-front option, to test in phase II clinical trials for improving survival incidence.

Uses and limitations of small-volume biopsies for the diagnosis of lymphoma

Although surgical biopsy remains the gold standard for the diagnosis of lymphoma, small-volume biopsies including fine-needle aspiration and core needle biopsy are increasingly being used as a first line diagnostic tool. Small-volume biopsies are safe, rapid and cost effective; however, diagnostic utility varies by lymphoma subtype. It is important for pathologists and clinicians to recognize both the strengths and limitations of such biopsies.

Combined fine needle aspiration cytology and core needle biopsy in the same setting: A two-years' experience

INTRODUCTION

Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) combined with rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) and ancillary techniques is an accurate diagnostic tool for many pathologies. However, in some cases, it may not be sufficient for actionable diagnoses or molecular testing, especially for cases that require large immunohistochemical panels or cases in which histological features are mandatory for the diagnosis. Core needle biopsy (CNB), on the contrary, provides samples that are suitable for histological features and sufficient for all ancillary studies. However, CNB is often performed by radiologists or clinicians without the direct participation of cytopathologists, which can lead to missed or delayed diagnoses. This study reports on the experience of combining FNAC and CNB performed in one setting by cytopathologists. The aim was to evaluate the impact of CNB on FNAC and the diagnostic efficiency of the combined procedures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred forty-two FNAC and CNB procedures performed in the same setting over a period of 2 years were analysed. The FNAC diagnoses were compared and integrated with the subsequent CNB diagnoses. The impact of CNB was categorized as follows: non-contributory, in cases of inadequate samples; confirmed, when the CNB and FNAC diagnoses were the same; improved, when the CNB diagnosis was consistent with the FNAC diagnosis and further specified the corresponding entity; allowed, when CNB produced a diagnosis that could not be reached by FNAC; changed, when the CNB changed the previous FNAC diagnosis.

RESULTS

CNB confirmed the FNAC diagnosis in 40.1% of cases (n = 57/142). CNB improved the FNAC diagnosis in 47.2% of cases (n = 67/142). CNB allowed a diagnosis that could not be performed on FNAC in 2.1% of cases (n = 3/142). CNB changed a previous FNAC diagnosis in 2.1% of cases (n = 3/142). CNB was non-contributory in 8.4% of cases (n = 12/142). CNB produced a positive impact on the whole diagnostic procedure in 51.4% of total cases (n = 73/142). The combined FNAC and CNB resulted in actionable diagnoses in 91.5% of all cases (n = 130/142). A complete molecular assessment was successfully performed in 14.7% of cases (n = 21/142) utilizing either FNAC or CNB material.

CONCLUSIONS

The combined use of FNAC and CNB in one setting improves the diagnostic accuracy of both procedures. This approach exploits the advantages of each procedure, enhancing the accuracy of the final diagnosis.