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Riccio IR, LaForteza AC, Hussein MH, Linhuber JP, Issa PP, Staav J, Fawzy MS, Toraih EA, Kandil E. Diagnostic utility of RAS mutation testing for refining cytologically indeterminate thyroid nodules. EXCLI JOURNAL 2024; 23:283-299. [PMID: 38487090 PMCID: PMC10938255 DOI: 10.17179/excli2024-6975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
RAS mutations are prevalent in indeterminate thyroid nodules, but their association with malignancy risk and utility for diagnosis remains unclear. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to establish the clinical value of RAS mutation testing for cytologically indeterminate thyroid nodules. PubMed and Embase were systematically searched for relevant studies. Thirty studies comprising 13,328 nodules met the inclusion criteria. Random effects meta-analysis synthesized pooled estimates of RAS mutation rates, risk of malignancy with RAS positivity, and histologic subtype outcomes. The pooled mutation rate was 31 % (95 % CI 19-44 %) among 5,307 indeterminate nodules. NRAS mutations predominated at 67 % compared to HRAS (24 %) and KRAS (12 %). The malignancy rate with RAS mutations was 58 % (95 %CI=48-68 %). RAS positivity increased malignancy risk 1.7-fold (RR 1.68, 95 %CI=1.21-2.34, p=0.002), with significant between-study heterogeneity (I2=89 %). Excluding one outlier study increased the relative risk to 1.75 (95 %CI=1.54-1.98) and I2 to 14 %. Funnel plot asymmetry and Egger's test (p=0.03) indicated potential publication bias. Among RAS-positive malignant nodules, 38.6 % were follicular variant papillary carcinoma, 34.1 % classical variant, and 23.2 % follicular carcinoma. No statistically significant difference in the odds of harboring RAS mutation was found between subtypes. In conclusion, RAS mutation testing demonstrates clinical utility for refining the diagnosis of cytologically indeterminate thyroid nodules. Positivity confers a 1.7-fold increased malignancy risk, supporting use for personalized decision-making regarding surgery vs. monitoring. Follicular variant papillary carcinoma constitutes the most common RAS-positive malignant histological subtype. See also the graphical abstract(Fig. 1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel R. Riccio
- School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Alexandra C. LaForteza
- Division of Endocrine and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Mohammad H. Hussein
- Division of Endocrine and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | | | - Peter P. Issa
- School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Jonathan Staav
- School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Manal S. Fawzy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Northern Border University, Arar, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eman A. Toraih
- Division of Endocrine and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
- Genetics Unit, Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
| | - Emad Kandil
- Division of Endocrine and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
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Fumagalli C, Serio G. Molecular testing in indeterminate thyroid nodules: an additional tool for clinical decision-making. Pathologica 2023; 115:205-216. [PMID: 37711036 PMCID: PMC10688247 DOI: 10.32074/1591-951x-887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Thyroid nodules are commonly encountered in clinical practice, affecting up to 50% of the population. The large majority of thyroid lumps are benign incidental findings detected by imaging, while approximately 5-15% harbor malignancy. For a target patient's care, it is of paramount importance to identify and treat thyroid malignancy, while preventing unnecessary invasive surgery in patients with benign lesions. Although fine needle aspiration (FNA) associated with cytological examination provides malignant risk information, 20-30% of diagnoses fall into the "indeterminate thyroid nodule" (ITN) category. ITN clinical management remains a challenging issue for physicians since the ITN risk of malignancy varies from 5% to 40% and most thyroid nodules undergo overtreatment with surgery procedures. ITN molecular testing may better define malignant risk in the single nodule and is able to discriminate with accuracy benign from malignant nodules. Nowadays there are different technologies and different molecular panels, each with its own specificity, sensitivity and predictive values. In view of widespread introduction of molecular testing , some outstanding questions remain and are addressed in the present review such as the presence of molecular panels acting as "rule in" or "rule out" tools, the effective impact of testing results in the clinical decision-making process, and the prohibitive cost of commercial assays associated with the lack of test reimbursement in national health systems.
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Trimboli P, Ferrarazzo G, Piccardo A, Lucchini B, Durante C. Operation rate and cancer prevalence among thyroid nodules with FNAC report of suspicious for malignancy (TIR4) or malignant (TIR5) according to Italian classification system: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Endocrine 2022; 78:24-31. [PMID: 35986840 PMCID: PMC9474526 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-022-03165-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the Italian system for reporting thyroid cytology (ICCRTC), nodules suspicious for (TIR4) and consistent with (TIR5) malignancy are thought being 5% and 4-8% of all biopsies and having risk of malignancy of 60-80% and >95%, respectively. However, no evidence-based data exist about these figures. The present systematic review aimed at achieving solid estimates about TIR4 and TIR5 also considering potential influencing factors. METHODS The review was conducted according to MOOSE. Databases of Google Scholar and Cochrane were searched. No language restriction was used. The last search was performed on February 26th 2022. Quality assessment was performed. Proportion meta-analyses were performed using random-effect model. Statistical analyses were performed using OpenMeta [Analyst]. RESULTS The online search retrieved 271 articles and 16 were finally included for quantitative analysis. The risk of bias was generally low. The pooled cancer prevalence in TIR4 was 92.5% (95%CI 89.4-95.6%) with unexplained moderate heterogeneity. The pooled cancer rate among TIR5 was 99.7% (95%CI 99.3-100%) without heterogeneity. The resection rate in TIR4 and TIR5 showed heterogeneity, being the latter explained when using their prevalence among biopsies: the higher the prevalence, the higher the operation rate. The pooled risk difference between TIR5 and TIR4 was significant (OR 11.153). CONCLUSIONS These figures can form the basis for the next updated version of ICCRTC. Any institution using ICCRTC should revise its series of TIR4/TIR5 to calculate the cancer rate, and, importantly, consider the modifiers of the risk of malignancy. A cross check among institutions is advised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierpaolo Trimboli
- Servizio di Endocrinologia e Diabetologia, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Bellinzona, Switzerland.
- Facoltà di Scienze Biomediche, Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI), Lugano, Switzerland.
| | | | - Arnoldo Piccardo
- Struttura Complessa di Medicina Nucleare, E.O. Ospedali Galliera, Genoa, Italy
| | - Barbara Lucchini
- Servizio di Endocrinologia e Diabetologia, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Bellinzona, Switzerland
- Facoltà di Scienze Biomediche, Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI), Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Cosimo Durante
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Brigante G, Craparo A, Pignatti E, Marino M, Monzani ML, De Vincentis S, Casarini L, Sperduti S, Boselli G, Margiotta G, Ippolito M, Rochira V, Simoni M. Real-life use of BRAF-V600E mutation analysis in thyroid nodule fine needle aspiration: consequences on clinical decision-making. Endocrine 2021; 73:625-632. [PMID: 33759074 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-021-02693-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to evaluate the real-life use of BRAF-V600E mutation analysis in washout liquid from thyroid nodule fine needle aspiration (FNA), and the consequences of genetic result on clinical decision-making. METHODS We retrospectively considered subjects tested for BRAF-V600E among those attending the Endocrinology Unit of Modena for FNA between 2014 and 2018. Washing fluid was collected together with cytological sample and stored at -20 °C. If the clinician deemed it necessary, the sample was thawed, DNA extracted, and genetic test performed by high-resolution melting technique. We collected data on cytology according to the Italian Consensus for the cytological classification of thyroid nodules, type of surgery (when performed), histology, and adverse events. RESULTS Out of 7112 subjects submitted to FNA, BRAF analysis was requested for 683 (9.6%). Overall, 896 nodules were analyzed: 74% were indeterminate at cytology, mainly TIR3A (low risk). Twenty-two nodules were mutant (BRAF+). Only 2% of indeterminate, mainly TIR3B, were BRAF+. Based on final histological diagnosis, BRAF test had high specificity (100%) but poor sensitivity (21%), also in indeterminate nodules. Mutant subjects underwent more extensive surgery compared to wild type (p = 0.000), with frequent prophylactic central lymph node dissection. One third had local metastases. Higher prevalence of hypoparathyroidism was found in BRAF+ compared to wild type (p = 0.018). CONCLUSIONS The analysis of BRAF-V600E outside of gene panels has low sensitivity, especially in indeterminate nodules, and a positive result could lead to more extensive surgery with greater risk of hypoparathyroidism and questionable clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Brigante
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy.
| | - Andrea Craparo
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Elisa Pignatti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Marco Marino
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Maria Laura Monzani
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Sara De Vincentis
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Livio Casarini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Samantha Sperduti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Gisella Boselli
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Gianluca Margiotta
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Margherita Ippolito
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Rochira
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
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Marotta V, Bifulco M, Vitale M. Significance of RAS Mutations in Thyroid Benign Nodules and Non-Medullary Thyroid Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13153785. [PMID: 34359686 PMCID: PMC8345070 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Only about 4% of thyroid nodules are carcinomas and require surgery. Fine-needle aspiration cytology is the most accurate tool to distinguish benign from malignant thyroid nodules, however it yields an indeterminate result in about 30% of the cases, posing diagnostic and prognostic dilemmas. Testing for genetic mutations, including those of RAS, has been proposed for indeterminate cytology to solve these dilemmas and support the clinician decision making process. A passionate debate is ongoing on the biological and clinical significance of RAS mutations, calling into question the utility of RAS as tumor marker. Recently, the description of a new entity of non-invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm and the accurate review of more recent analyses demonstrate that RAS mutations have limited utility in both the diagnostic and prognostic setting of thyroid nodular disease. Abstract Thyroid nodules are detected in up to 60% of people by ultrasound examination. Most of them are benign nodules requiring only follow up, while about 4% are carcinomas and require surgery. Malignant nodules can be diagnosed by the fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC), which however yields an indeterminate result in about 30% of the cases. Testing for RAS mutations has been proposed to refine indeterminate cytology. However, the new entity of non-invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm, considered as having a benign evolution and frequently carrying RAS mutations, is expected to lower the specificity of this mutation. The aggressive behavior of thyroid cancer with RAS mutations, initially reported, has been overturned by the recent finding of the cooperative role of TERT mutations. Although some animal models support the carcinogenic role of RAS mutations in the thyroid, evidence that adenomas harboring these mutations evolve in carcinomas is lacking. Their poor specificity and sensitivity make the clinical impact of RAS mutations on the management of thyroid nodules with indeterminate cytology unsatisfactory. Evidence suggests that RAS mutation-positive benign nodules demand a conservative treatment. To have a clinical impact, RAS mutations in thyroid malignancies need not to be considered alone but rather together with other genetic abnormalities in a more general context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Marotta
- UOC Clinica Endocrinologica e Diabetologica, AOU S. Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D’Aragona, 84131 Salerno, Italy;
| | - Maurizio Bifulco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80100 Naples, Italy;
| | - Mario Vitale
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-089-672-753
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Campennì A, Ruggeri RM, Giuffrè G, Siracusa M, Alibrandi A, Cardile D, La Torre F, Lanzafame H, Giacoppo G, Ieni A, Trimarchi F, Tuccari G, Baldari S. BRAFV600E mutation is associated with increased prevalence of contralateral lymph-node metastases in low and low-to-intermediate risk papillary thyroid cancer. Nucl Med Commun 2021; 42:611-618. [PMID: 33625185 DOI: 10.1097/mnm.0000000000001386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is the most common endocrine malignancy. Despite good prognosis being generally associated with PTC, persistent/recurrent disease can be observed in a not negligible number of patients. Accurate postoperative management can lead to a significant improvement of risk stratification/staging of PTC patients identifying those at higher risk of a more aggressive clinical course. Molecular tests were introduced at the beginning of the 2000s to improve PTC risk stratification. METHODS We reviewed the records of 354/1185 patients affected by low or low-to-intermediate risk unilateral-PTC. In these patients, BRAFV600E mutation was looked for and 131-radioiodine therapy was performed 3 months after thyroid surgery. A radioiodine post-therapeutic imaging was obtained in all patients. RESULTS BRAFV600E mutation was found in 170/354 PTC patients (female = 126). Forty-two out of 170 BRAFV600E mutation +ve patients (female = 27) had ipsilateral (n = 24) or contralateral (n = 18) loco-regional metastases at post-therapeutic imaging. Significant differences in terms of 2015 American Thyroid Association risk stratification, Hashimoto thyroiditis prevalence, tumor size, multifocality, disease staging and aggressive variant were observed between BRAFV600E mutation +ve and BRAFV600E mutation -ve patients (P ≤ 0.001;P = 0.001; P ≤ 0.001; P = 0.026; P ≤ 0.001; P ≤ 0.001). Interestingly, the prevalence of contralateral lymph-node metastases was significantly higher in BRAFV600E mutation +ve than BRAFV600E mutation -ve patients (18/42 vs. 2/22, respectively; P = 0.013). CONCLUSION This study suggests that BRAFV600E mutation represents a significant risk factor for developing contralateral lymph-node metastases and confirms that BRAFV600E mutation is associated with more aggressive PTC features and a higher prevalence of metastatic disease also in low or low-to-intermediate-risk PTC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Campennì
- Unit of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina
| | - Rosaria M Ruggeri
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina
| | - Giuseppe Giuffrè
- Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age "Gaetano Barresi", Unit of Pathological Anatomy, University of Messina
| | - Massimiliano Siracusa
- Unit of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina
| | - Angela Alibrandi
- Unit of Statistical and Mathematical Sciences, Department of Economics, University of Messina
| | - Davide Cardile
- Unit of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina
| | - Flavia La Torre
- Unit of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina
| | - Helena Lanzafame
- Unit of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina
| | - Giulia Giacoppo
- Unit of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina
| | - Antonio Ieni
- Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age "Gaetano Barresi", Unit of Pathological Anatomy, University of Messina
| | - Francesco Trimarchi
- Department of Clinical an Experimental Medicine, University of Messina
- Accademia Peloritana dei Pericolanti at the University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giovanni Tuccari
- Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age "Gaetano Barresi", Unit of Pathological Anatomy, University of Messina
| | - Sergio Baldari
- Unit of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina
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Zhou YF, Zhang YF, Fu HJ, Yang WP, Zhao CK, Xu HX. Improving the diagnosis of AUS/FLUS thyroid nodules using an algorithm with combination of BRAFV600E mutation analysis and ultrasound pattern-based risk stratification. Clin Hemorheol Microcirc 2021; 77:273-285. [PMID: 33185592 DOI: 10.3233/ch-200985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To propose a diagnostic algorithm for improving the diagnosis of atypia of undetermined significance or follicular lesion of undetermined significance (AUS/FLUS) thyroid nodules. METHODS This study retrospectively enrolled 77 consecutive patients with 81 AUS/FLUS nodules who underwent preoperative BRAFV600E mutation analysis. A new diagnostic algorithm was proposed that BRAFV600E mutation analysis for the Fine-needle aspiration cytology specimen was firstly carried out, in which positive BRAFV600E mutation indicated malignancy and classification of the nodules with negative BRAFV600E mutation was further performed based on ultrasound pattern-based risk stratification of American Thyroid Association Guidelines. The diagnostic performance of the new diagnostic algorithm was evaluated. RESULTS The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, accuracy, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of new diagnostic algorithm were 94.6%, 84.0%, 91.4%, 86.9%, 90.1%, and 0.893, respectively. The proposed diagnostic algorithm significantly increased the diagnostic performances (AUROC: 0.893 vs. 0.837 and 0.795), sensitivity (94.6% vs. 71.4% and 75.0%), and accuracy (90.1% vs. 79.0% and 77.8%) compared with BRAFV600E mutation analysis alone and ultrasound pattern-based risk stratification alone (all P < 0.05). CONCLUSION The proposed diagnostic algorithm is helpful for improving the diagnosis of AUS/FLUS nodules, which might be as a routine approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Fang Zhou
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Ultrasound Research and Education Institute, Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Ultrasound Diagnosis and Treatment, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Medical Ultrasound, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China.,Thyroid Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Center for Thyroid Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi-Feng Zhang
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Ultrasound Research and Education Institute, Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Ultrasound Diagnosis and Treatment, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Thyroid Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Center for Thyroid Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui-Jun Fu
- Thyroid Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Center for Thyroid Diseases, Shanghai, China.,Department of Pathology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-Ping Yang
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Chong-Ke Zhao
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Ultrasound Research and Education Institute, Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Ultrasound Diagnosis and Treatment, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Thyroid Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Center for Thyroid Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui-Xiong Xu
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Ultrasound Research and Education Institute, Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Ultrasound Diagnosis and Treatment, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Thyroid Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Center for Thyroid Diseases, Shanghai, China
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8
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Abstract
Goiters tend to grow slowly and steadily over many years, occasionally reaching the mediastinum and extending through the thoracic inlet into the visceral compartment. In most cases, retrosternal goiters originate from the cervical portion of the thyroid. The incidence of retrosternal goiters varies considerably, ranging from 0.2 to 45% of all thyroidectomies, depending on the criteria used to define this type of goiter. Symptoms are generally related to the compressive nature of the mass on the adjacent structures, and most patients report some form of respiratory manifestation associated with the goiter. A diagnostic assessment usually includes an evaluation of thyroid function, chest radiography, and computed tomography. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy should be avoided in substernal areas of the goiter due to limited visibility and location of vital structures in this region. Treatment of retrosternal goiters is surgical, as medical therapy is generally unsuccessful in these cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Knobel
- Thyroid Unit, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hospital das Clínicas, School of Medicine, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr. Eneas de Carvalho Aguiar, 155, 8th floor, bl 3, PAMb, São Paulo, 05403-900, Brazil.
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9
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Massa F, Caraci P, Sapino A, De Rosa G, Volante M, Papotti M. Outcome and diagnostic reproducibility of the thyroid cytology "indeterminate categories" SIAPEC/SIE 2014 in a consecutive series of 302 cases. J Endocrinol Invest 2021; 44:803-809. [PMID: 32797379 PMCID: PMC7946669 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-020-01377-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The clinical impact of the SIAPEC/SIE 2014 classification for thyroid cytology has been addressed in few studies that evaluated the malignancy rate and the relative prevalence of each category. No study analyzed its intra-observer and inter-observer reproducibility, so far. METHODS We retrospectively collected all "indeterminate" lesions diagnosed before (2011-2014) and after (2015-2018) the application of the SIAPEC/SIE 2014 classification at our Institution. Their relative malignancy risks were calculated based on available histological diagnoses. Cytological and clinical features of TIR3A were compared with the surgical outcome. Finally, a large set of samples was re-evaluated in blind of the original cytological and histological diagnoses by two pathologists, independently. RESULTS The prevalence of "indeterminate" diagnoses increased in years 2015-2018 (302/1482, 21% with 14% of TIR3A and 7% TIR3B categories) compared to years 2011-2014 (261/1680, 16%). Surgery was performed in 27% TIR3A and in 97% TIR3B cases. Malignancy rates were 40% for TIR3B and 17% for TIR3A, but were greatly influenced by the adoption of the WHO 2017 re-classification of encapsulated follicular-patterned lesions (decreasing to 28% and 6%, respectively). No criteria except for tumor size were associated to malignancy in TIR3A category. Intra-observer agreement of the experienced pathologist was 122/141 (86%), whereas inter-observer agreement between the expert and in-training pathologist was 95/141 (67%). CONCLUSIONS In this real-life experience, the sub-classification of TIR3A and TIR3B slightly increased the overall prevalence of "indeterminate" diagnoses. Malignancy rates were higher than estimated for both TIR3A and TIR3B categories. Agreement among observers highly depended on pathologist's training.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Massa
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin and Pathology Unit, San Luigi Hospital, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043, Orbassano, Torino, Italy
| | - P Caraci
- Internal Medicine Unit, San Luigi Hospital, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - A Sapino
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - G De Rosa
- Pathology Unit, Mauriziano Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - M Volante
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin and Pathology Unit, San Luigi Hospital, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043, Orbassano, Torino, Italy.
| | - M Papotti
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, and Pathology Unit, "Città della Salute e della Scienza" Hospital, Turin, Italy
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10
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) is an important diagnostic tool for the evaluation of thyroid nodules. However, in almost ¼ of all nodules submitted to FNA cytology is indeterminate. Since the majority of genetic alterations in thyroid cancer have been identified, the use of molecular testing platforms has been endorsed by American Thyroid Association for management of indeterminate nodules. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION Several commercial tests were based on mRNA expression of FNA samples (Afirma®, Veracyte, South San Francisco, CA, USA) while others detect DNA alterations (ThyroSeq, UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, USA). Noncommercial tests detect limited number of point mutations or re-arrangements (gene panels). Literature study included a Pubmed research for adult original studies from 2003 to 2020, focusing on terms such as "molecular tests," "nodules with indeterminate AUS/FLUS and FN/SFN cytology." EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Gene expression profile tests serve as "rule out" tests due to their high negative predictive value and perform better in a setting of low cancer pretest probability. Genetic alteration platforms display high positive predictive value and serve as rather "rule in" tests but their diagnostic accuracy is hampered either because a small proportion of nodules does not harbor any of these alterations targeted (gene panels) or because commonly identified RAS mutations can also be found in benign nodules. CONCLUSIONS Next generation sequencing development and incorporation of other genetic markers such as miRNA can improve diagnostic accuracy of molecular tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Karapanou
- 401Hellenic Army General Military Hospital of Athens, Athens, Greece -
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Are Bethesda III Thyroid Nodules More Aggressive than Bethesda IV Thyroid Nodules When Found to Be Malignant? Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12092563. [PMID: 32916807 PMCID: PMC7564274 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12092563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The Bethesda classification system for thyroid fine needle aspirate (FNA) is used to predict the risk of malignancy and to guide the management of thyroid nodules. We postulated that thyroid malignancies characterized as Bethesda III on FNA have more aggressive features than those classified as Bethesda IV. A retrospective chart review was performed to identify those who underwent thyroid surgery at a single tertiary hospital setting between 2015 and 2020. Associations between Bethesda category, molecular genetic test results, and histopathologic findings were examined. Out of 628 surgeries that were performed, 199 (54.2%) Bethesda III nodules and 216 (82.8%) Bethesda IV nodules were malignant. Of those that were malignant, 37 (18.6%) and 22 (10.2%) Bethesda III and Bethesda IV nodules showed aggressive features, respectively (p value = 0.014). There was a proportionally increased number of aggressive features in extra-thyroidal extension, lymph nodes metastasis, and all aggressive subtypes of papillary thyroid cancer in the Bethesda III category. Although Bethesda IV nodules are much more likely to be malignant (p value = 0.002), our study suggests that Bethesda III nodules that are resected are more likely to have aggressive features than Bethesda IV nodules, with a statistically significant increase in the solid variant of papillary thyroid cancer and lymph node metastasis.
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12
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Cozzolino A, Pozza C, Pofi R, Sbardella E, Faggiano A, Isidori AM, Giannetta E, Pernazza A, Rullo E, Ascoli V, Lenzi A, Gianfrilli D. Predictors of malignancy in high-risk indeterminate (TIR3B) cytopathology thyroid nodules. J Endocrinol Invest 2020; 43:1115-1123. [PMID: 32100197 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-020-01200-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The classification of indeterminate cytopathology at thyroid fine-needle-aspiration (FNA) has been updated to reduce the number of unnecessary surgery; the 2014 Italian classification introduced the low-risk (TIR3A) and high-risk (TIR3B) subcategories. Aim of this study was to identify the ultrasonographic (US), clinical and cytological predictors of malignancy among TIR3B nodules from a single institution. METHODS A prospective observational study including 1844 patients who underwent thyroid FNA from June 2014 to January 2019. Ultrasonographic, clinical and cytological features were recorded. All TIR3B diagnoses were referred to surgery. According to final histology, patients were divided into thyroid cancer (TC) or benign nodules. Chi-square test, or Fisher exact test when appropriate, were used to compare groups and logistic regression analyses were used to determine independent predictors of malignancy. RESULTS Of 1844 FNAs, 96 (5.2%) were TIR3B. Histology report was available in 65. Among them, 25 (38.5%) were TC. Predictors of TC were nodule size < 20 mm [Odds Ratio (OR) = 5.88, 95% CI 1.91-18.11, p = 0.002], absence or weak intralesional flow [OR = 0.3, 95% CI 0.09-0.77, p = 0.015], microcalcifications [OR = 6.5, 95% CI 1.90-21.93, p = 0.003] at US; nuclear inclusions [OR = 25.3, 95% CI 1.34-476.07, p = 0.031] and chromatin clearing [OR = 3.7, 95% CI 1.27-10.99, p = 0.017] at cytopathology. Patients aged < 55 years had a significantly higher risk of TC [OR = 9.7, 95% CI 2.79-34.07, p < 0.001]. In multivariate analysis, age < 55 and nodule size < 20 mm resulted as independent risk factors. CONCLUSIONS Patients < 55 years receiving a diagnosis TIR3B on nodules < 20 mm, with microcalcifications, showing specific nuclear atypia at cytopathology are more likely to have TC. Combining US, cytological and clinical features could help determining which patients with a TIR3B diagnosis should be referred to surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Cozzolino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - C Pozza
- Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - R Pofi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - E Sbardella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - A Faggiano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - A M Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - E Giannetta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - A Pernazza
- Department of Radiology, Oncology and Pathological Science, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - E Rullo
- Department of Radiology, Oncology and Pathological Science, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - V Ascoli
- Department of Radiology, Oncology and Pathological Science, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - A Lenzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - D Gianfrilli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy
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Muzza M, Colombo C, Pogliaghi G, Karapanou O, Fugazzola L. Molecular markers for the classification of cytologically indeterminate thyroid nodules. J Endocrinol Invest 2020; 43:703-716. [PMID: 31853887 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-019-01164-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnosis of indeterminate lesions of the thyroid is a challenge in cytopathology practice. Indeed, up to 30% of cases lack the morphological features needed to provide definitive classification. Molecular tests have been developed to assist in the diagnosis of these indeterminate cases. The first studies dealing with the preoperative molecular evaluation of FNA samples focused on the analysis of BRAFV600E or on the combined evaluation of two or three genetic alterations. The sensitivity of molecular testing was then improved through the introduction of gene panels, which became available for clinical use in the late 2000s. Two different categories of molecular tests have been developed, the 'rule-out' methods, which aim to reduce the avoidable treatment of benign nodules, and the 'rule-in' tests that have the purpose to optimize surgical management. The genetic evaluation of indeterminate thyroid nodules is predicted to improve patient care, particularly if molecular tests are used appropriately and with the awareness of their advantages and weaknesses. The main disadvantage of these tests is the cost, which makes them rarely used in Europe. To overcome this limitation, customized panels have been set up, which are able to detect the most frequent genetic alterations of thyroid cancer. CONCLUSIONS In the present review, the most recent available versions of commercial molecular tests and of custom, non-commercial panels are described. Their characteristics and accuracy in the differential diagnosis of indeterminate nodules, namely Bethesda classes III (Atypical follicular lesion of undetermined significance, AUS/FLUS) and IV (Suspicious for follicular neoplasm, FN/SFN) are fully analyzed and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Muzza
- Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS IstitutoAuxologicoItaliano, 20149, Milan, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, P.le Brescia 20, 20149, Milano, Italy
| | - C Colombo
- Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS IstitutoAuxologicoItaliano, 20149, Milan, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, P.le Brescia 20, 20149, Milano, Italy
| | - G Pogliaghi
- Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS IstitutoAuxologicoItaliano, 20149, Milan, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, P.le Brescia 20, 20149, Milano, Italy
| | - O Karapanou
- Department of Endocrinology, 401 Military Hospital, 11525, Athens, Greece
| | - L Fugazzola
- Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS IstitutoAuxologicoItaliano, 20149, Milan, Italy.
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, P.le Brescia 20, 20149, Milano, Italy.
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14
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Bakkar S, Macerola E, Proietti A, Aljarrah Q, Al-Omar K, Materazzi G, Basolo F, Miccoli P. Developing a tool that could reliably refute total thyroidectomy for solitary Bethesda IV thyroid nodules. Updates Surg 2020; 73:281-288. [PMID: 32410160 DOI: 10.1007/s13304-020-00783-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the reliability of a simple, accessible, cost-effective rule-out tool, for use in triaging patients with Bethesda IV nodules to appropriate surgery. METHODS The diagnostic tool was assembled by combining the negativity for suspicious ultrasound features (irregular margins, microcalcification, and a taller-than-wide orientation), and mutational marker negativity (BRAF and NRAS). The tool, (US-/mutation-), was tested on 167 patients with solitary Bethesda IV nodules. The primary outcome was its negative predictive value (NPV) for lesions requiring total thyroidectomy (TT). The impact of mutational marker negativity, as part of the tool, was evaluated by comparing the NPV of (US-/mutation-) to that of (US-/mutation+). RESULTS 10 out of 167 lesions were positive for a mutational marker. These underwent TT, and only 2/10 (20%) were benign, on final histology. In 6/8 malignant lesions, TT was concordant with current clinical guidelines. 157 patients comprised the negative study cohort, for both mutational markers and suspicious US features. These underwent thyroid lobectomy, and 17 cases resulted in malignancy, only 8 of which required completion thyroidectomy. Accordingly, the NPV of (US-/mutation-) for malignancy was 89% (140/157), and 95% (149/157) for malignancy requiring TT. However, the NPV of (US-/mutation+) was 20% for malignancy, and 40% for malignancy requiring TT. These differences were statistically significant (89% vs. 20%; p < 0.0001, and 95% vs. 40%; p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION US-/mutation- is a reliable rule-out tool, with sufficient diagnostic accuracy to spare patients, with Bethesda IV nodules, an overly radical TT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohail Bakkar
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, 13133, Jordan.
| | - Elisabetta Macerola
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Pathology, and Critical Care, The University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Agnese Proietti
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Pathology, and Critical Care, The University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Qusai Aljarrah
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
| | - Khaled Al-Omar
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, 13133, Jordan
| | - Gabriele Materazzi
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Pathology, and Critical Care, The University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fulvio Basolo
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Pathology, and Critical Care, The University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paolo Miccoli
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Pathology, and Critical Care, The University of Pisa, 56124, Pisa, Italy
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Trimboli P, Scappaticcio L, Treglia G, Guidobaldi L, Bongiovanni M, Giovanella L. Testing for BRAF (V600E) Mutation in Thyroid Nodules with Fine-Needle Aspiration (FNA) Read as Suspicious for Malignancy (Bethesda V, Thy4, TIR4): a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Endocr Pathol 2020; 31:57-66. [PMID: 31811566 DOI: 10.1007/s12022-019-09596-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In patients with thyroid fine-needle aspiration (FNA) report of suspicious for malignancy (SFM), both lobectomy and thyroidectomy might be considered. BRAF mutation analysis could guide towards accurate surgical therapy. The primary outcome was the reliability of BRAF (V600E) in detecting malignancy in nodules with FNA reading of SFM. The secondary outcome was to analyze its positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) considering the surgical histology as gold standard. A literature search of online databases was performed in June 2019. BRAF prevalence among thyroid nodules with FNA read as SFM according to the most popular classification systems (i.e., Bethesda V, Thy4, TIR4 category) was searched. The random-effects model was used. Three hundred sixty original articles were identified and 34 were finally included in the study. There were 1428 thyroid nodules with FNA read as SFM and 1287 (90.1%) lesions underwent surgery with a cancer rate 89.6%. The pooled prevalence of BRAF (V600E) mutation among all nodules with SFM cytology was 47% (95% CI = 40 to 54, I2 = 85.5%). Pooled PPV and NPV of BRAF testing were 99% (95% CI, 97-99) and 24% (95% CI, 16-32), respectively. BRAF (V600E) mutation was found in about one in two nodules with thyroid FNA read as SFM, its PPV to detect cancers was excellent, and its NPV was very poor. The routine BRAF testing in FNA read as SFM cannot be recommended. BRAF (V600E) test may be useful to extend surgical approach in selected cases with further suspicious clinical/ultrasound features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierpaolo Trimboli
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Thyroid Centre, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Bellinzona, Switzerland.
| | - Lorenzo Scappaticcio
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Thyroid Centre, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Bellinzona, Switzerland
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Giorgio Treglia
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Thyroid Centre, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Leo Guidobaldi
- Azienda Sanitaria Unità Sanitaria Locale Roma 2, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Bongiovanni
- Service of Clinical Pathology, Institute of Pathology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Luca Giovanella
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Thyroid Centre, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Bellinzona, Switzerland
- Medical School Zürich, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
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16
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Macerola E, Poma AM, Proietti A, Romani R, Torregrossa L, Ugolini C, Rago T, Vitti P, Basolo F. Digital Gene Expression Analysis on Cytology Smears Can Rule Out Malignancy in Follicular-Patterned Thyroid Tumors. J Mol Diagn 2019; 22:179-187. [PMID: 31751679 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmoldx.2019.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with indeterminate thyroid nodules (Bethesda III and IV) are often treated with diagnostic lobectomy, which in most cases represents an overtreatment. A reliable rule-out molecular test could spare patients unnecessary surgery. Stained smears of 88 indeterminate thyroid nodules with histologic diagnosis of follicular-patterned tumors were selected: 34 follicular adenomas (FAs), 34 follicular variant papillary thyroid carcinomas (FVPTCs), and 20 noninvasive follicular neoplasms with papillary-like nuclear features (NIFTPs). The expression level of 126 genes was measured by digital counting. Mutation testing was performed for the main gene mutations and fusions. Performance of gene expression and mutation tests was calculated by receiver operating characteristic analysis. The gene expression model showed an area under the curve (AUC) of 88%, with 91% negative predictive value in FAs and FVPTCs only. Part of NIFTPs was labeled as benign, and part was labeled as malignant; thus, the classifier performance worsened. Two FAs (5.9%), eight NIFTPs (40%), and 22 FVPTCs (64.7%) were mutation positive. Mutation testing AUC was 79% in FAs and FVPTCs, and decreased by including NIFTPs. This gene expression-based test was feasible in thyroid-stained smears, showed higher AUC than mutation test, and had a high negative predictive value-making it a good candidate as a rule-out test for indeterminate thyroid cytology. NIFTPs have a heterogeneous phenotype, and their preoperative diagnosis requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Macerola
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area (Anatomical Pathology Section), University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Anello M Poma
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area (Anatomical Pathology Section), University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Agnese Proietti
- Division of Anatomical Pathology, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Rossana Romani
- Division of Anatomical Pathology, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Clara Ugolini
- Division of Anatomical Pathology, University Hospital of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Teresa Rago
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine (Endocrinology Section), University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paolo Vitti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine (Endocrinology Section), University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fulvio Basolo
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and Critical Area (Anatomical Pathology Section), University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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Goldner WS, Angell TE, McAdoo SL, Babiarz J, Sadow PM, Nabhan FA, Nasr C, Kloos RT. Molecular Variants and Their Risks for Malignancy in Cytologically Indeterminate Thyroid Nodules. Thyroid 2019; 29:1594-1605. [PMID: 31469053 PMCID: PMC6864764 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2019.0278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Background: Gene panels are routinely used to assess predisposition to hereditary cancers by simultaneously testing multiple susceptibility genes and/or variants. More recently, genetic panels have been implemented as part of solid tumor malignancy testing assessing somatic alterations. One example is targeted variant panels for thyroid nodules that are not conclusively malignant or benign upon fine-needle aspiration (FNA). We systematically reviewed published studies from 2009 to 2018 that contained genetic data from preoperative FNA specimens on cytologically indeterminate thyroid nodules (ITNs) that subsequently underwent surgical resection. Pooled prevalence estimates per gene and variant, along with their respective positive predictive values (PPVs) for malignancy, were calculated. Summary: Our systematic search identified 540 studies that were supplemented by 18 studies from bibliographies or personal files. Sixty-one studies met all inclusion criteria and included >4600 ITNs. Overall, 26% of nodules contained at least 1 variant or fusion. However, half of them did not include details on the specific gene, variant, and/or complete fusion pair reported for inclusion toward PPV calculations. The PPVs of genomic alterations reported at least 10 times were limited to BRAFV600E (98%, 95% confidence interval [CI 96-99%]), PAX8/PPARG (55% [CI 34-78%]), HRASQ61R (45% [CI 22-72%]), BRAFK601E (42% [CI 19-68%]), and NRASQ61R (38% [CI 23-55%]). Excluding BRAFV600E, the pooled PPV for all other specified variants and fusions was 47%. Multiple variants within the same nodule were identified in ∼1% of ITN and carried a cumulative PPV of 77%. Conclusions: The chance that a genomic alteration predicts malignancy depends on the individual variant or fusion detected. Only five alterations were reported at least 10 times; BRAFV600E had a PPV of 98%, while the remaining four had individual PPVs ranging from 38% to 55%. The small sample size of most variants and fusion pairs found among ITNs, however, limits confidence in their individual PPV point estimates. Better specific reporting of genomic alterations with cytological category, histological subtype, and cancer staging would facilitate better understanding of cancer prediction, and the independent contribution of the genomic profile to prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whitney S. Goldner
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
- Address correspondence to: Whitney S. Goldner, MD, Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 984120 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-4120
| | - Trevor E. Angell
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angles, California
| | | | | | - Peter M. Sadow
- Pathology Service, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Fadi A. Nabhan
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and Arthur G. James Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Christian Nasr
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio
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