Imaging of female pelvic malignancies regarding MRI, CT, and PET/CT: Part 1

The Added Role of Diffusion-Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Staging Uterine Cervical Cancer

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer is considered one of the most common gynecological malignancies with an increased incidence in developing countries. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays a valuable role in staging cervical cancer and providing valuable information necessary for selecting the appropriate treatment plan, while closely correlating with the prognosis of the patient.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to assess the diagnostic value of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in the preoperative loco-regional staging of cervical carcinoma. Our purpose is to establish apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of cervical carcinoma compared with normal cervical tissue and their variability based on different pathological characteristics of the lesions.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

It is a retrospective analysis of 57 patients diagnosed with cervical cancer, who underwent MRI examinations. The study evaluated the aspect of the lesions on T2-weighted imaging, DWI, ADC maps, and pre- and post-contrast T1-weighted imaging with fat saturation.

RESULTS

The ADC mean values ranged between 0.63 × 10-3 mm2/second and 0.99 × 10-3 mm2/second (mean 0.79) for tumoral tissue and 1.33 × 10-3 mm2/second and 1.74 × 10-3 mm2/second (mean 1.59) for surrounding non-affected cervical tissue. The ADC mapping showed a decreasing trend with the increased sizes of the tumors (p<0.001). The ADC mean showed lower values with increased International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage of the tumors. The ADC mean value for cases that had spread to other organs (IVA+IVB) was significantly lower than that of the early stages (IB1 + IB2 + IIA2), stage IIB, and stages IIIA+IIIC1+IIIC2 (p<0.001). The ADC mean value of stage III disease was significantly lower than that of stage IIB, respectively early stages (p<0.001). The ADC mean value of the stage IIB tumor was significantly lower than that of the early stages (p<0.001). The differences in ADC mean values based on the histopathological type and differentiation grade were not statistically significant. The ADC mean value of the cases with positive pelvic lymph nodes was significantly lower than in those with negative lymph nodes (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

ADC mean values of cervical carcinoma are significantly lower than those from unaffected uterine tissue and they also correlate with the severity of the disease. The advancements and additional capabilities DWI can bring are the elements of interest in this article. Using DWI means a more accurate capability in diagnosing cervical cancer, providing a compelling argument for its integration into standard clinical practice. This study discusses the quantitative imaging parameters of DWI such as ADC values, which can provide objective measurements for tumor evaluation. These parameters can be standardized and used across different institutions, enhancing the reproducibility and reliability of imaging findings.

Strategic multidisciplinary management of pelvic carcinosarcoma: Emphasizing advanced diagnostic imaging and staged surgical interventions

Pelvic carcinosarcoma is an aggressive malignancy with significant diagnostic and management hurdles due to its complex vascularity and potential for extensive local invasion. A 59-year-old female presented with severe abdominal pain and significant weight loss, leading to the discovery of a large, complex pelvic mass through CT scans, MRI, and PET CT, suggesting aggressive malignancy. Initial management included a robotic laparoscopic proximal sigmoid loop colostomy to alleviate obstruction. Significant vascularity led to consultations with Vascular Surgery and subsequent preoperative embolization. Definitive surgery involved a supralevator posterior exenteration for en bloc resection of the vagina, mass, and sigmoid colon, combined with a low anterior resection and an omental J flap in anticipation of potential postoperative radiation therapy. This case underscores the importance of integrated imaging and staged surgical interventions in managing pelvic carcinosarcoma, emphasizing a multidisciplinary approach to optimize outcomes and minimize complications.

Real-time ultrasound virtual navigation in 3D PET/CT volumes for superficial lymph-node evaluation: innovative fusion examination

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility and clinical application of fusion imaging with virtual navigation, combining ¹⁸ F-fluorodeoxyglucose (¹⁸ F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) with real-time ultrasound imaging, in assessing superficial lymph nodes in breast-cancer and gynecological-cancer patients.

METHODS

This was a pilot study of breast- and gynecological-cancer patients with abnormal uptake of ¹⁸ F-FDG by axillary or groin lymph nodes on PET/CT scan, examined at our institution between January 2017 and May 2019. Fusion imaging was performed, uploading preacquired PET/CT DICOM images onto the ultrasound machine and synchronizing them with real-time ultrasound scanning performed at the lymph-node site. In the first phase, we assessed the feasibility and reliability of fusion imaging in a series of 10 patients with suspicious lymph nodes on both PET/CT and ultrasound, and with full correspondence between both techniques in terms of size, shape and morphology of the lymph nodes (Group A). In the second phase, we included 20 patients with non-corresponding findings between PET/CT and ultrasound: 10 patients with lymph nodes that were suspicious or pathological on PET/CT scan but not suspicious on ultrasound assessment (Group B), and 10 patients with suspicious or pathological lymph nodes on both PET/CT and ultrasound but with no correspondence between the two techniques in terms of number of affected lymph nodes (Group C).

RESULTS

In the 30 selected patients, fusion imaging was assessed at 30 lymph-node sites (22 inguinal and eight axillary nodes). In the first phase (Group A), the fusion technique was shown to be feasible in all 10 lymph-node sites evaluated. In the second phase, fusion imaging was completed successfully in nine of 10 cases in Group B and in all 10 cases in Group C. In all groups, fusion imaging was able to identify the target lymph node, guiding the examiner to perform a core-needle aspiration biopsy or to inject radiotracer for selective surgical nodal excision, according to the radio-guided occult lesion localization technique.

CONCLUSION

Fusion imaging with virtual navigation, combining PET/CT and real-time ultrasound imaging, is technically feasible and able to detect target lymph nodes even when PET/CT and ultrasound findings are inconsistent. Fusion imaging can also be used to guide the performance of core-needle aspiration biopsy, avoiding further surgical diagnostic procedures, or the injection of radiotracer for selective surgical nodal excision, enabling more sparing, selective surgery. This innovative technique could open up multiple diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities in breast and gynecological oncology. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

PET Imaging for Gynecologic Malignancies

This review article summarizes the clinical applications of established and emerging PET tracers in the evaluation of the 5 most common gynecologic malignancies: endometrial, ovarian, cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. Emphasis is given to 2-deoxy-2-[¹⁸F]fluoro-d-glucose as the most widely used and studied tracer, with additional clinical tracers also explored. The common imaging protocols are discussed, including standard dose ranges and uptake times, established roles, as well as the challenges and future directions of these imaging techniques. The key points are emphasized with images from selected cases.

The adjunctive value of diffusion weighted imaging in diagnosis and follow up of uterovaginal diffuse B-cell lymphoma: A case report and literature review

BACKGROUND

Lymphoma of the female gynecologic tract is extremely rare. Typically, lymphoma is managed non surgically unlike other non-lymphomatous malignant tumors raising the importance to differentiate between both entities.

CASE REPORT

We describe the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of a case of uterovaginal diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in a 50-year-old postmenopausal woman emphasizing Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (DWI) as a diagnostic and follow up tool. We reviewed the literature regarding the diagnostic methods for female genital lymphoma. Forty-five cases including our patient were reviewed with age range from 22 to 85 years. Vaginal bleeding was the most common presentation. The diagnosis was established by Papanicolaou smear, cervical biopsy (25/45), endometrial biopsy (6/45), vaginal biopsy (2/45), pelvic mass biopsy (2/45), iliac LN biopsy (1/45) and surgical diagnosis (8/45). Diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (DLBCL) constitute the vast majority of the cases (82%). The uterine cervix was involved at diagnosis in the majority of these cases (68%) while uterine body (42%) and vagina (28%) were less involved. Pelvic lymphadenopathy was found in 15 cases while extra genital lymphomatous infiltration in 13 cases. Sonographic findings were nonspecific while CT provided excellent data about extra-genital involvement. Thirteen cases underwent pelvic MRI that displayed superior detection of disease extension and parametric involvement. Diffusion restriction was reported only in one case without quantitative analysis of ADC map.

CONCLUSION

MRI shows unique features that help to differentiate uterovaginal lymphoma from the much more common carcinomas and discriminate post-operative changes from tumor recurrence. It exhibits a marked restricted diffusion pattern with lower ADC values than carcinomas and post-operative changes.

Italian consensus conference on management of uterine sarcomas on behalf of S.I.G.O. (Societa' italiana di Ginecologia E Ostetricia)

BACKGROUND

Uterine sarcomas are very rare tumours with different histotypes, molecular features and clinical outcomes; therefore, it is difficult to carry out prospective clinical trials, and this often results in heterogeneous management of patients in the clinical practice.

AIM

We planned to set up an Italian consensus conference on these diseases in order to provide recommendations on treatments and quality of care in our country.

RESULTS

Early-stage uterine sarcomas are managed by hysterectomy + bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy according to menopausal status and histology; lymphadenectomy is not indicated in patients without bulky nodes, and morcellation must be avoided. The postoperative management is represented by observation, even though chemotherapy can be considered in some high-risk patients. In early-stage low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma and adenosarcomas without sarcomatous overgrowth, hormonal adjuvant treatment can be offered based on hormone receptor expression. In selected cases, external beam radiotherapy ± brachytherapy can be considered to increase local control only. Patients with advanced disease involving the abdomen can be offered primary chemotherapy (or hormonal therapy in the case of low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma and adenosarcoma without sarcomatous overgrowth), even if potentially resectable in the absence of residual disease in order to test the chemosensitivity (or hormonosensitivity); debulking surgery can be considered in patients with clinical and radiological response. Chemotherapy is based on anthracyclines ± ifosfamide or dacarbazine. Palliative radiotherapy can be offered for symptom control, and stereotactic radiotherapy can be used for up to five isolated metastatic lesions.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of uterine sarcoma should be centralised at referral centres and managed in a multidisciplinary setting.

Is Routine Curettage a Useful Tool to Evaluate Persistent Tumor in Patients Who Underwent Primary Chemoradiation for Locally Advanced and/or Lymph Node Positive Cervical Cancer?

OBJECTIVE

Response evaluation after primary chemoradiation (RCTX) in patients with cervical cancer remains difficult. Routine hysterectomy after primary RCTX is associated with considerable surgical morbidity without impact on survival. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate value of routine curettage after RCTX to detect persistent tumor.

METHODS

Between 2006 and 2012, patients (n = 217) with cervical cancer in International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stages IB1 N1 (14%), IB2 (9%), IIA (5%), IIB (46%), IIIA (4%), IIIB (15%), IVA (6%), and IVB (1%), respectively, underwent primary RCTX. After RCTX, curettage was recommended to all patients to evaluate response.

RESULTS

In 136 (63%) of patients with cervical cancer, 1 or 2 consecutive curettages were performed at least 6 weeks after primary RCTX without any complications. In 21 (15%) patients, at least 1 curettage was positive for cervical cancer. In 7 patients, secondary hysterectomy was performed after 1 positive finding and persistent tumor was found in all of them. In the remaining 14 patients, there were 2 positive curettages in 5, 1 undetermined result followed by 1 positive in 3, and 1 positive followed by 1 negative in 6 patients, respectively. In the latter group, no tumor was detected in the uterus, whereas in all other patients with 2 curettages except one, residual carcinoma was detected. Five (24%) of 21 patients with positive histology are free of disease during follow-up. Decision for or against secondary hysterectomy was correct due to histological finding of curettage in 99%.

CONCLUSIONS

Routine curettage is a useful tool to guide decision for secondary hysterectomy with high accuracy after primary RCTX and avoids overtreatment.

Evaluation of the indications for performing magnetic resonance imaging of the female pelvis at a referral center for cancer, according to the American College of Radiology criteria

Objective

To evaluate the indications for performing magnetic resonance imaging of the female pelvis at a referral center for cancer.

Materials and Methods

This was a retrospective, single-center study, conducted by reviewing medical records and imaging reports. We included 1060 female patients who underwent magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvis at a cancer center between January 2013 and June 2014. The indications for performing the examination were classified according to the American College of Radiology (ACR) criteria.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 52.6 ± 14.8 years, and 49.8% were perimenopausal or postmenopausal. The majority (63.9%) had a history of cancer, which was gynecologic in 29.5% and nongynecologic in 34.4%. Of the patients evaluated, 44.0% had clinical complaints, the most common being pelvic pain (in 11.5%) and bleeding (in 9.8%), and 34.7% of patients had previously had abnormal findings on ultrasound. Most (76.7%) of the patients met the criteria for undergoing magnetic resonance imaging, according to the ACR guidelines. The main indications were evaluation of tumor recurrence after surgical resection (in 25.9%); detection and staging of gynecologic neoplasms (in 23.3%); and evaluation of pelvic pain or of a mass (in 17.1%).

Conclusion

In the majority of the cases evaluated, magnetic resonance imaging was clearly indicated according to the ACR criteria. The main indication was local recurrence after surgical treatment of pelvic malignancies, which is consistent with the routine protocols at cancer centers.

MRI-Based Evaluation of the Vaginal Cuff in Brachytherapy Planning: Are We Missing the Target?

PURPOSE

Although recurrences and toxicity occur after vaginal cuff (VC) brachytherapy, little is known about dosimetry due to the inability to clearly visualize the VC on computed tomography (CT). T2-weighted (T2W) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is superior to CT in this setting, and we hypothesized that it could provide previously unascertainable dosimetric information.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

In a cohort of 32 patients who underwent cylinder-based brachytherapy for endometrial cancer with available MR simulation images, the VC was retrospectively contoured on T2W images, and cases were replanned to treat the upper VC to a dose of 7 Gy/fraction prescribed to 5 mm. Relevant dose-volume parameters for the VC were calculated.

RESULTS

T2W MRI identified significant underdosing not observed on CT or T1-weighted imaging. Over two-thirds (69%) of patients had at least 1 cm(3) of VC that received less than 75% of the prescription dose and half (50%) of patients had a least 1 cm(3) of VC that received less than 50% of the prescription dose. The mean minimum point dose to the VC was 2.4 Gy, or 34% of the intended prescription dose (range: 0.53-6.4 Gy).

CONCLUSIONS

We identified previously unreported VC underdosing in over two-thirds of our patients, with most of these patients having volumes of undistended VC that received less than half of the prescription dose. The maximum dimension was along the craniocaudal axis in some patients or left-right/anterior-posterior axis in others, suggesting that suture material may be restricting access to the vaginal apex and that alternative applicators may be needed when the diameter of the apex is larger than the introitus. Additional follow-up will be needed to determine whether underdosing is associated with isolated VC failure or whether low failure rates across the cohort suggest that some patients are being exposed to excessive dose and unnecessary risk of toxicity.

Local experience in cervical cancer imaging: Comparison in tumour assessment between TRUS and MRI

OBJECTIVE

The aim of study was to analyze the accuracy of TRUS (transrectal ultrasound) vs. MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and clinical gynecological examination estimation in the evaluation of tumor dimensions.

METHODS

The patients inclusion criterion included primarily pathologically squamous cell carcinoma, but excluded were patients who had not undergone BT (brachytherapy) and treated with palliative intent. We offer two types of treatment for locally advanced cervical cancer: (a) radiochemotherapy followed by surgery and (b) exclusive radiochemotherapy. Imaging tests follow the presence of tumor and tumor size (width and thickness). Each examination was performed by a different physician who had no knowledge of the others' findings. All patients underwent MRI prior to EBRT (external beam radiation therapy) while 18 of them also at the time of the first brachytherapy application. For the analysis we used the r-Pearson correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

In 2013, 26 patients with cervical cancer were included. A total of 44 gynecological examinations were performed, 44 MRIs and 18 TRUSs. For the comparisons prior to EBRT the correlation coefficient between TRUS vs. MRI was r = 0.79 for AP and r = 0.83 for LL, for GYN vs. MRI was r = 0.6 for AP and r = 0.75 for LL. Prior to BT for GYN vs. MRI, r values were 0.60 and 0.63 for AP and LL, respectively; for GYN vs. TRUS, r values were 0.56 and 0.78 for AP and LL, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

A high correlation between the three examinations was obtained. As such, TRUS can be considered a suitable method in the evaluation of tumor dimensions.

Magnetic resonance imaging of cervical carcinoma using an endorectal surface coil

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this trial is to investigate the diagnostic value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with an endorectal surface coil for precise local staging of patients with histologically proven cervical cancer by comparing the radiological, clinical, and histological results.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Women with cervical cancer were recruited for this trial between February 2007, and September 2010. All the patients were clinically staged according to the FIGO classification and underwent radiological staging by MRI that employed an endorectal surface coil. The staging results after surgery were compared to histopathology in all the operable patients.

RESULTS

A total of 74 consecutive patients were included in the trial. Forty-four (59.5%) patients underwent primary surgery, whereas 30 (40.5%) patients were inoperable according to FIGO and underwent primary radiochemotherapy. The mean age of the patients was 50.6 years. In 11 out of the 44 patients concordant staging results were obtained by all three staging modalities. Thirty-two of the 44 patients were concordantly staged by FIGO and histopathological examination, while only 16 were concordantly staged by eMRI and histopathological examination. eMRI overstaged tumors in 14 cases and understaged them in 7 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

eMRI is applicable in patients with cervical cancer, yet of no benefit than staging with FIGO or standard pelvic MRI. The most precise preoperative staging procedure still appears to be the clinical examination.

Imaging techniques for the evaluation of cervical cancer

Improvements in the treatment of cervical carcinoma have made it possible to offer optimal and personalised treatment. Cervical cancer staging is based on clinical examination and histological findings. Many diagnostic methods are used in clinical practice. Magnetic resonance imaging is considered the optimal method for staging cervical carcinoma because of its high accuracy in assessing local extension of disease and distant metastases. Ultrasound has gained increased attention in recent years; it is faster, cheaper, and more widely available than other imaging techniques, and is highly accurate in detecting tumour presence and evaluating local extension of disease. Magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound are often used together with computed tomography or positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography to assess the whole body, a more accurate detection of pathological lymph nodes and metabolic information of the disease.

A rare presentation of lymphoma of the cervix with cross-sectional imaging correlation

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the cervix is an extremely uncommon entity, with no standard established treatment protocol. A 43-year-old asymptomatic female with a history of dual hit blastic B-cell lymphoma/leukemia in complete remission presented with an incidental cervical mass, which was initially felt to represent a cervical fibroid on computed tomography (CT). It was further evaluated with ultrasound, biopsy, and positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT), which demonstrated a growing biopsy-proven lymphomatous mass and new humeral head lesion. The patient was started on chemotherapy to control the newly diagnosed humeral head lesion, which then regressed. She then underwent radiation to the cervix with significant improvement in the cervical lymphoma. A review of cross-sectional imaging findings of lymphoma of the cervix is provided, including how to differentiate it from other more common diseases of the cervix. Clinical awareness of rare cervical masses such as lymphoma is very important in order to achieve timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Interobserver variability of clinical target volume delineation in soft-tissue sarcomas

PURPOSE

The present observational study reports the results of a multi-institutional dummy-run designed to estimate the consistency of interobserver variability in clinical target volume delineation in two different cases of soft-tissue sarcomas in which postoperative and preoperative radiotherapy were prescribed, respectively. The purpose of this work was to quantify interobserver variability in routine clinical practice.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Two different cases of soft-tissues sarcomas were chosen: a case of postoperative and a case of preoperative radiation therapy. Participating centres were requested to delineate clinical target volumes according to their experience in both cases. Descriptive statistic was calculated for each variable (volume, diameters) separately for two cases. Box-whiskers plots were used for presentation of clinical target volume. A Shapiro-Wilk's test was performed to evaluate the departures from normality distribution for each variable. The comparison between relative variations of diameters was evaluated using the Student's t test.

RESULTS

Several variations affecting both volumes and diameters were observed. Main variations were observed in the craniocaudal and laterolateral diameters. Each case showed similar dispersion, indicating a lack of reproducibility in volumes definition.

CONCLUSIONS

This observational study highlighted that, in the absence of specific instructions or guidelines, the interobserver variability can be significant both in postoperative and preoperative radiotherapy of soft-tissue sarcomas.

Tumor feeding artery reconstruction with multislice spiral CT in the diagnosis of pelvic tumors of unknown origin

PURPOSE

We aimed to compare multislice spiral computed tomography (MSCT) angiography diagnosis with both surgical findings and postoperative pathological results in patients with pelvic tumors of unknown origin. In addition, the diagnostic accuracy of MSCT angiography was compared with that of routine computed tomography for tumor feeding artery volume reconstruction to determine the origin and nature of pelvic tumors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The records of 43 patients with pelvic tumors of unknown origin who underwent MSCT angiography were retrospectively reviewed. Volume reconstructions using add vessel and merge views methods were performed for abdominal and pelvic blood vessels. The tumor origin was identified based on observations of the origin, number, morphology, starting/ending locations, route, and distribution of the tumor feeding arteries.

RESULTS

Overall, the mean tumor diameter was 9.8±3.5 cm (range, 4.2-23.5 cm); 11 tumors (25.6%) were cystic in nature; and 32 tumors (74.4%) were either solid/cystic or solid in nature. When considering all MSCT angiography examinations used to predict the nature of the tumor (e.g., malignant or benign), the sensitivity and specificity were 77.3% and 95.2%, respectively. The positive and negative predictive values were 94.4% and 80%, respectively. The overall diagnostic accuracy was 86.05% with an area under the curve of 0.961 (95% confidence interval, 0.913-1.000).

CONCLUSIONS

MSCT angiography volume reconstruction for pelvic tumor feeding arteries of unknown origin is highly valuable for localization, qualitative diagnosis, and quantitative diagnosis of pelvic tumors.

Correlation between clinical findings and magnetic resonance imaging for the assessment of local response after standard treatment in cervical cancer

BACKGROUND

The aim of our study is to evaluate the correlation between gynecological examination and magnetic resonance (MRI) findings for the assessment of local response in cervical cancer patients treated with radiotherapy/chemotherapy (RT/ChT).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study is a retrospective review of 75 consecutive cervical cancer patients from April 2004 to November 2009 treated with RT/ChT. Clinical and radiological data were subsequently analyzed. Patient's median age was 51 with a FIGO stage from Ib to IVb. Individualized RT/ChT was administered with a median dose of 45 Gy. Sixty-three patients received a complementary brachytherapy. Seventy-one patients received chemotherapy on a weekly basis. Gynecological exam was performed 3 months and 6 months after treatment and these findings were compared to MRI results at the same time.

STATISTIC ANALYSIS

We used the Spearman's Rho test to determine the correlation level between the clinical and radiological methods.

RESULTS

A correlation of 0.68 (60%) was observed between the clinical and MRI findings at 3 months with a further increase of up to 0.86 (82.6%) at 6 months. In the few cases with a poor correlation, the subsequent assessment and the natural history of the disease showed a greater value of the clinical exam as compared with the MRI findings.

CONCLUSIONS

Physical exam remains an essential tool to evaluate the local response to RT/ChT for cervical cancer. The optimal clinical radiological correlation found at 6 months after treatment suggests that the combination of gynecological examination and MRI are probably adequate in patient monitoring.

Chronic adverse events and quality of life after radiochemotherapy in anal cancer patients. A single institution experience and review of the literature

PURPOSE

To report on chronic adverse events (CAE) and quality of life (QOL) after radiochemotherapy (RCT) in patients with anal cancer (AC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Of 83 patients who had received RCT at our department between 1988 and 2011, 51 accepted the invitation to participate in this QOL study. CAE were evaluated using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) v. 4.0 and QOL was assessed with the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Colorectal (FACT-C) questionnaire.

RESULTS

CAE could be evaluated in 49 patients. There was a tendency toward a higher rate of grade 3 CAE in female patients, i.e. 18 out of 37 (49 %) vs. 2 out of 12 (17 %) male patients (p = 0.089). The most common grade 3 CAE were dyspareunia and vaginal symptoms (itching, burning and dryness) in 35 and 22 % of female patients, respectively, followed by stool incontinence in 13 % of all patients (6 out of 49). Both FACT-C and CAE information were available for 42 patients, allowing evaluation of the impact of CAE on QOL. The median total FACT-C score was 110 (40-132) out of a possible maximum of 136. The absence of grade 3 CAE (115 vs. 94, p = 0.001); an interval of ≥ 67 months after the end of the treatment (111 vs. 107, p = 0.010), no stool incontinence vs. grade 3 stool incontinence (111 vs. 74, p = 0.009), higher education (114 vs. 107, p = 0.013) and no dyspareunia vs. grade 3 dyspareunia (116 vs. 93, p = 0.012) were significantly associated with a higher median FACT-C score.

CONCLUSION

The majority of AC patients treated with RCT have acceptable overall QOL scores, which are comparable to those of the normal population. Patients with grade 3 CAE-particularly dyspareunia and fecal incontinence-have a poorer QOL compared to patients without CAE. In order to improve long-term QOL, future strategies might aim at a reduction in dose to the genitalia and more intensive patient support measures.

[Dose reduction in abdominal computed tomography]

CLINICAL/METHODICAL ISSUE

The broad availability and use of multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) in recent years has increased the radiation dose for patients.

STANDARD RADIOLOGICAL METHODS

Multiphase MDCT protocols are used in abdominal imaging for various indications.

METHODICAL INNOVATIONS

Dose reduction though novel technologies, such as dual energy CT or adapted contrast injection protocols (split bolus etc.) for reduction of scans.

PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS

An optimized dose reduction can be achieved by using strict protocols which are adapted to the clinical situation of the patient.

Residual tumour volumes and grey zones after external beam radiotherapy (with or without chemotherapy) in cervical cancer patients. A low-field MRI study

BACKGROUND

Grey zones, which are defined as tissue with intermediate signal intensity in the area of primary hyperintense tumour extension, can be seen during radiation with or without chemotherapy on the T2-weighted MRI in patients with cervical cancer. The purpose of this study was to systematically measure the tumour volume at the time of diagnosis and the residual tumour volume at the time of brachytherapy without and with consideration of the grey zones and to estimate tumour regression during external beam radiotherapy (EBRT).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

T2-weighted MRI datasets of 175 patients with locally advanced cervical cancer (FIGO stage IB-IVA), who underwent combined external beam radiotherapy and brachytherapy with or without concomitant chemotherapy were available for this study. The gross tumour volume at the time of diagnosis (GTV(init)) and at the time of first brachytherapy without (GTV(res)) and with (GTV(res)+ GZ) consideration of grey zones were measured for each patient. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed and tumour regression rates without (R) and with consideration of grey zones (R(GZ)) were calculated. Further, the role of prognostic factors on GTV(init), GTV(res), GTV(res)+ GZ and tumour regression rates was investigated.

RESULTS

The median GTV(init), GTV(res), GTV(res)+ GZ in all patients were 44.4 cm(3), 8.2 cm(3), 20.3 cm(3), respectively. The median R was 78.5% and the median R(GZ) was 50.1%. The histology and FIGO staging showed a significant impact on GTV(init), GTV(res) and GTV(res)+ GZ.

CONCLUSION

Grey zones represent a substantial proportion of the residual tumour volume at the time of brachytherapy. Differentiation of high signal intensity mass and surrounding intermediate signal intensity grey zones may be reasonable.

Modification of staging and treatment of head and neck cancer by FDG-PET/CT prior to radiotherapy

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Reliable tumor staging is a fundamental pre-requisite for efficient tumor therapy and further prognosis. The aim of this study was to compare head and neck cancer (HNC) staging before and after FDG-PET/CT, evaluating the stage modifications for radiotherapy (RT) planning.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 102 patients with untreated primary HNC, who underwent conventional staging and staging including FDG-PET/CT before RT, were enrolled in this retrospective study. Blinded pre-FDG-PET/CT and post-FDG-PET/CT staging data were compared. The impact on patient management was tested by comparing the intention before and after FDG-PET/CT.

RESULTS

Significant modifications of T, N, and M stage as well as clinical stage were detected after inclusion of FDG-PET/CT data (p = 0.002, 0.0006, 0.001, 0.03, respectively). Overall, the implementation of FDG-PET/CT led to modification of RT intention decision in 14 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

FDG-PET/CT demonstrates essential influence on tumor staging in HNC patients scheduled for irradiation. Implementation of FDG-PET/CT in imaging protocol improves selection of candidates for curative and palliative RT and allows further optimization of treatment management and therapy intention.

Feasibility of transrectal ultrasonography for assessment of cervical cancer

PURPOSE

To retrospectively compare the maximum target width and target thickness in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer between magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) in the course of primary radiochemotherapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

T2-weighted MRI and TRUS were performed on patients with locally advanced cervical cancer at the same timepoint-either at the time of diagnosis, or at the time of brachytherapy before or after insertion of the applicator. Patients treated from 2009 to 2011 were selected for this study based on the availability of MRI and TRUS at the defined time points. The target was defined as the complete macroscopic tumor mass and the remaining cervix and was measured on transversal planes. Descriptive statistics and a linear regression analysis were performed for the groups.

RESULTS

Images from 17 patients were available for analysis. Mean maximum target width was 4.2 ± 0.83 cm and 4.2 ± 0.79 cm for MRI and TRUS, respectively. Mean maximum target thickness was 3.3 ± 1.03 cm and 3.1 ± 1.15 cm for MRI and TRUS, respectively. Linear regression analysis for target width and thickness between TRUS and MRI demonstrated a correlation with R(2) = 0.842 and R(2) = 0.943, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The feasibility of TRUS for the assessment of local target extension could be demonstrated. Comparison of the target width and thickness showed a high correlation between TRUS and MRI, indicating the potential of TRUS for target definition in image-guided adaptive brachytherapy.

Diagnosis and treatment of sarcoma of the uterus. A review

BACKGROUND

The histopathological classification and staging system for uterine sarcoma (US) were revised in 2003 and 2009, respectively. However, there is currently no consensus on the significance of various prognostic factors. Therefore the available clinicopathological data on US are summarized in this review.

METHODS

Articles on uterine sarcoma published in English from 1970 to 2011 were identified systematically by computer-based searches in Medline and the Cochrane Library.

RESULTS

Prognosis of US is poor, with a five-year survival rate as low as 30%. The most common histological types are leiomyosarcoma (LMS, 63%), endometrial stromal sarcoma (ESS, 21%), adenosarcoma (6%), undifferentiated sarcoma (5%) and other types (5%). Carcinosarcoma is a mixed tumor, which is today regarded as a subset of endometrial carcinoma. Disease stage is the most important prognostic factor for all types of US. However, the prognosis of stage I LMS is also significantly related to tumor size and mitotic index (MI), and stage I ESS is related to MI and tumor cell necrosis (TCN). In adenosarcoma, TCN is the only significant histopathological prognostic factor. Information on the use of preoperative imaging for staging purposes is lacking. Total hysterectomy is the cornerstone of US treatment. The ovary can be preserved in premenopausal women with early-stage LMS and ESS, and routine lymphadenectomy is not necessary unless enlarged lymph nodes are present. As tumor-free resection margins at primary surgery are the most important prognostic factor for survival, sarcoma surgery should be centralized. Adjuvant treatment has changed from radiation therapy to chemotherapy over the last decades, without any change in survival.

CONCLUSION

There are differences in survival between histological types of US. LMS and ESS can be divided into different prognostic groups and should be treated separately.

Intensity-modulated arc therapy with cisplatin as neo-adjuvant treatment for primary irresectable cervical cancer. Toxicity, tumour response and outcome

PURPOSE

The goal of this work was to evaluate the feasibility and outcome of intensity-modulated arc therapy ± cisplatin (IMAT ± C) followed by hysterectomy for locally advanced cervical cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 30 patients were included in the study. The primary tumour and PET-positive lymph node(s) received a simultaneous integrated boost. Four weeks after IMAT ± C treatment, response was evaluated. Resection consisted of hysterectomy with or without lymphadenectomy. Tumour response, acute and late radiation toxicity, postoperative morbidity and outcome were evaluated.

RESULTS

All hysterectomy specimens were macroscopically tumour-free with negative resection margins; pathological complete response was 40%. In 2 patients, one resected lymph node was positive. There was no excess in postoperative morbidity. Apart from two grade 3 hematologic toxicities, no grade 3 or 4 acute radiation toxicity was observed. No grade 3, 1 grade 4 (4%) intestinal, and 4 grade 3 (14%) urinary late toxicities were observed. The 2-year local and regional control rates were 96% and 100%, respectively. The 2-year distant control rate was 92%. Actuarial 2-year progression free survival rate was 89%. Actuarial 1- and 2-year overall survival rates were 96% and 91%, while 3-year overall survival was 84%.

CONCLUSION

Surgery after IMAT ± C is feasible with low postoperative morbidity and radiation toxicity. Local, regional, distant control and survival rates are promising.

Current therapy of patients with endometrial carcinoma. A critical review

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), 18-FDG positron emission tomography ((18)FDG PET-CT), and computed tomography (CT) have demonstrated disappointing detectability of lymph node metastases in endometrial cancer. The treatment of choice in patients with endometrial cancer is hysterectomy and bilateral salpingoophorectomy. Above all, obese patients with comorbidity have benefited the most from laparoscopically assisted approaches. For inoperable patients in FIGO stage I/II, radiation remains an alternative to hysterectomy. The role of pelvic and paraaortic lymphadenectomy is the most controversial issue in endometrial carcinoma treatment. The current spectrum of treatment ranges from no lymphadenectomy, exclusive pelvic or additional inframesentric paraaortic sampling, or complete pelvic to infrarenal paraaortic lymphadenectomy. The sentinel concept in patients with endometrial carcinoma is far from being introduced into routine clinical practice. Without a lymphadenectomy, decision making for adjuvant therapy remains a challenge, because no information is available from lymph node status and the reliability of pathologic grading is poor. For patients after hysterectomy with a low risk of local relapse (stage I/II without additional risk factors), vaginal brachytherapy is sufficient to prevent vaginal relapses. Adjuvant external beam irradiation (EBRT) in stage I/II demonstrated improved local control which impacted overall survival only in patients with high-risk features (higher age, grading myometrial infiltration). Stage IIIC patients seem to benefit from EBRT with regard to overall survival. In patients at high risk of progression (grade 3, MI > 50%, FIGO IIIC, unfavorable histology), multimodal treatment should be considered. The optimal substances and sequences are under investigation.