Duodenal tumor risk in Lynch syndrome

Ampullary tumors: French Intergroup Clinical Practice Guidelines for diagnosis, treatments and follow-up (TNCD, SNFGE, FFCD, UNICANCER, GERCOR, SFCD, SFED, ACHBT, AFC, SFRO, RENAPE, SNFCP, AFEF, SFP, SFR)

BACKGROUND

Management of ampullary tumors (AT) is challenging because of a low level of scientific evidence. This document is a summary of the French intergroup guidelines regarding the management of AT, either adenoma (AA) or carcinoma (AC), published in July 2023, available on the website of the French Society of Gastroenterology (SNFGE) (www.tncd.org).

METHODS

A collaborative work was conducted under the auspices of French medical, endoscopic, oncological and surgical societies involved in the management of AT. Recommendations are based on recent literature review and expert opinions and graded in three categories (A, B, C), according to quality of evidence.

RESULTS

Accurate diagnosis of AT requires at least duodenoscopy and EUS. All patients should be discussed in multidisciplinary tumor board before treatment. Surveillance may only be proposed for small AA in familial adenomatous polyposis. For AA, endoscopic papillectomy is the preferred option only if R0 resection can be achieved. When not possible, surgical papillectomy should be considered. For AC beyond pT1a N0, pancreaticoduodenectomy is the procedure of choice. Adjuvant monochemotherapy (gemcitabine, 5FU) may be proposed. For aggressive tumors (pT3/T4, pN+, R1, poorly differentiated AC, pancreatobiliary differentiation) with high risk of recurrence, 6 months polychemotherapy (CAPOX/FOLFOX for the intestinal subtype and mFOLFIRINOX for the pancreatobiliary or the mixed subtype) may be a valid alternative. Clinical and radiological follow up is recommended for 5 years.

CONCLUSIONS

These guidelines help to homogenize and highlight unmet needs in the management of AA and AC. Each individual case should be discussed by a multidisciplinary team.

A pathological complete response after immunotherapy with pembrolizumab for distal duodenal adenocarcinoma caused by Lynch syndrome: a case report

Primary adenocarcinoma of the duodenum is a rare neoplasm that is often microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H). Pembrolizumab, a monoclonal antibody, has been recently approved in Japan for treatment of MSI-H solid tumors. Lynch syndrome is a frequent hereditary cancer predisposition syndrome. It is linked to an increased risk of various types of cancer, including colorectal and endometrial cancer, and is closely related to MSI-H. We present the case of a 55-year-old woman who was diagnosed with duodenal cancer. Biopsy findings revealed MSI-H, and pembrolizumab therapy was initiated because the tumor was in contact with the left renal vein and had metastasized to the mesenteric lymph nodes of the small intestine. Subsequently, after completing two courses of pembrolizumab therapy, the patient developed duodenal stenosis and underwent surgery. Pathological analysis of the resected specimen revealed no evidence of malignancy. Given the patient's previous cancer history and the occurrence of cancer in close relatives, genetic testing of peripheral blood was performed, which revealed the diagnosis of Lynch syndrome. Furthermore, the variant responsible for Lynch syndrome was found to be a mutation of NM_000251.3:c.211 + 1G > C in MSH2.

Endoscopic diagnosis and treatment of superficial non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors: A review

The surface of the small bowel mucosa is covered more than any other section of the digestive canal; however, the overall prevalence of small bowel tumors of the whole gastrointestinal tract is evidently low. Owing to the improvement in endoscopic techniques, the prevalence of small bowel tumors has increased across multiple countries, which is mainly due to an increase in duodenal tumors. Superficial non-ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors (SNADETs) are defined as tumors originating from the non-ampullary region in the duodenum that share similarities and discrepancies with their gastric and colorectal counterparts in the pathogenesis and clinicopathologic characteristics. To date, white light endoscopy (WLE) remains the cornerstone of endoscopic diagnosis for SNADETs. Besides, narrow-band imaging (NBI) techniques and magnifying endoscopy (ME) have been widely used in the clinic and endorsed by multiple guidelines and consensuses for SNADETs' evaluation. Confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE), endocytoscopy (ECS), and artificial intelligence (AI) are also up-and-coming methods, showing an exceptional value in the diagnosis of SNADETs. Similar to the endoscopic treatment for colorectal polyps, the choices for SNADETs mainly include cold snare polypectomy (CSP), endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), and laparoscopic endoscopic cooperative surgery (LECS). However, owing to the narrow lumen, rich vascularity, weak muscle layer, abundant Brunner's gland, and the hardship of endoscope control, the duodenum ranks as one of the most dangerous operating areas in the digestive tract. Therefore, endoscopists must anticipate the difficulties in endoscopic maneuverability, remain aware of the increased risk of complications, and then select the appropriate treatment according to the advantages and disadvantages of each method.

Outcomes of upper endoscopy screening in Lynch syndrome: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Lynch syndrome (LS) predisposes affected individuals to a high lifetime risk of malignancies, including colorectal, endometrial, gastric, and duodenal cancers. The role of upper GI (UGI) cancer screening in LS has been uncertain, but recent studies have evaluated its utility.

METHODS

Databases were queried through December 2021 to identify studies that examined upper endoscopy screening in LS using EGD. Mantel-Haenszel pooled odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for outcomes were constructed using a random-effects model to identify pooled odds of endoscopic findings in persons with LS. Event rates for detection of gastric and duodenal cancers, high-risk lesions, and clinically actionable findings were calculated. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic.

RESULTS

Nine studies were identified with 2356 LS patients undergoing approximately 7838 EGDs. In total, 47 LS-associated UGI cancers (18 gastric and 29 duodenal cancers), 237 high-risk lesions, and 335 clinically actionable findings were identified. The pooled event rate for detection of any UGI cancer, high-risk lesions, and clinically actionable findings during screening were .9% (95% CI, .3-2.1; I² = 89%), 4.2% (95% CI, 1.6-10.9; I² = 98%), and 6.2% (95% CI, 2.2-16.5; I² = 99%), respectively. There was no difference between LS-associated gene and gastric or duodenal cancer detection.

CONCLUSIONS

In LS, there is evidence that endoscopic screening detects UGI cancers, precancerous lesions, and other clinically actionable findings that favor its use as a part of cancer risk management in LS.

The Approach to Performance of Quality Upper Endoscopy in Lynch Syndrome (QUELS): An International Expert Statement

Strong evidence demonstrates the protective benefit of frequent colonoscopy surveillance for colorectal cancer prevention in Lynch Syndrome (LS) and is endorsed by many guidelines. Until recently, the evidence supporting the utility of upper endoscopy [esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)] for upper gastrointestinal (UGI) cancer surveillance was limited. Over the last 3 years, multiple studies have demonstrated that EGD surveillance in LS is associated with the detection of both precancerous lesions and early-stage UGI cancers. On the basis of the emerging favorable evidence derived from EGD surveillance programs, the 2022 National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Guidelines for LS recommend UGI surveillance with EGD starting between age 30 and 40 years with repeat EGDs every 2 to 4 years, preferably in conjunction with colonoscopy, in all patients with a germline pathogenic variant (PV) in MLH1, MSH2, EPCAM, and MSH6 and, because of the lack of data, consideration in PMS2. Standardization of the approach to performing EGD surveillance in LS and reporting clinically actionable findings is requisite for both improving quality and understanding the cost efficiency and outcomes of patients undergoing EGD as a surveillance tool. Accordingly, the primary objective of this Quality of Upper Endoscopy in Lynch Syndrome (QUELS) statement is to articulate a framework for standardizing the approach to performing and reporting EGD findings in patients with LS by introducing emerging quality metrics. The recommendations presented herein were developed from available evidence and consensus-based expert opinion and provide a practical approach for clinicians applying EGD surveillance in accordance with the most recent and existing LS guidelines.

Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer Surveillance in Lynch Syndrome

Simple Summary

Lynch syndrome is the most common cause of hereditary colorectal cancer, but is also associated with increased extracolonic cancer risk, including upper gastrointestinal cancers. While there is agreement regarding the benefit of frequent colonoscopic surveillance in Lynch syndrome, there remains a lack of consensus on the use of upper gastrointestinal cancer surveillance. Here, we review the upper gastrointestinal cancer risks in Lynch syndrome, the varying guideline recommendations in this area, and the published outcomes of upper gastrointestinal cancer surveillance in this high-risk population. Finally, we highlight ongoing controversies in upper gastrointestinal cancer surveillance and opine on how upper gastrointestinal cancer surveillance can be incorporated into a Lynch syndrome risk management program. Upper gastrointestinal cancer surveillance is an increasingly studied area of risk management in Lynch syndrome, and continued research will be vital in determining how to best incorporate this surveillance in these high-risk patients.

Abstract

Lynch syndrome is a common hereditary cancer predisposition syndrome associated with increased digestive cancer risk including colorectal, gastric, and duodenal cancers. While colorectal cancer surveillance is widely accepted to be an important part of a comprehensive Lynch syndrome risk management plan, the use of upper gastrointestinal cancer surveillance in Lynch syndrome remains more controversial. Currently, upper gastrointestinal cancer surveillance guidelines for Lynch syndrome vary widely, and there is no consensus on who should undergo upper gastrointestinal cancer surveillance, how surveillance should be performed, the age at which to initiate surveillance, or how often individuals with Lynch syndrome should undergo upper gastrointestinal cancer surveillance. Fortunately, research groups around the world have been focusing on upper gastrointestinal cancer surveillance in Lynch syndrome, and recent evidence in this field has demonstrated that upper gastrointestinal cancer surveillance can be performed with identification of precancerous lesions as well as early-stage upper gastrointestinal cancers. In this manuscript, we review the upper gastrointestinal cancer risks in Lynch syndrome, differing guideline recommendations for surveillance, outcomes of upper gastrointestinal cancer surveillance, and controversies in the field, and we provide a framework based on our collective experience with which to incorporate upper gastrointestinal cancer surveillance into a risk management program for individuals with Lynch syndrome.

Endoscopic management of non-ampullary duodenal adenomas

Duodenal polyps are found in 0.1 % to 0.8 % of all upper endoscopies. Duodenal adenomas account for 10 % to 20 % of these lesions. They can be sporadic or occur in the setting of a hereditary predisposition syndrome, mainly familial adenomatous polyposis. Endoscopy is the cornerstone of management of duodenal adenomas, allowing for diagnosis and treatment, primarily by endoscopic mucosal resection. The endoscopic treatment of duodenal adenomas has a high morbidity, reaching 15 % in a prospective study, consisting of bleeding and perforations, and should therefore be performed in expert centers. The local recurrence rate ranges from 9 % to 37 %, and is maximal for piecemeal resections of lesions > 20 mm. Surgical resection of the duodenum is flawed with major morbidity and considered a rescue procedure in cases of endoscopic treatment failures or severe endoscopic complications such as duodenal perforations. In this paper, we review the existing evidence on endoscopic diagnosis and treatment of non-ampullary duodenal adenomas.

Clinically actionable findings on surveillance EGD in asymptomatic patients with Lynch syndrome

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Lynch syndrome (LS) predisposes patients to multiple cancers including of the gastric and small bowel. Data supporting EGD surveillance in LS are limited. Our aim is to describe upper GI (UGI) findings in asymptomatic LS patients undergoing EGD surveillance within a hereditary colorectal cancer registry.

METHODS

Asymptomatic patients with LS who underwent ≥1 surveillance EGD were included. Demographics, genotype, and EGD findings were reviewed. The frequency of clinically actionable findings including neoplasia (cancer, adenomas), Barrett's esophagus (BE), Helicobacter pylori, and hyperplastic polyps >5 mm were assessed.

RESULTS

Three hundred twenty-three patients underwent 717 EGDs starting at a median age of 49.5 years. On average, each patient had 2 EGDs with an interval of 2.3 years between examinations. Clinically actionable findings were identified in 57 patients (17.6%). On baseline EGD 27.7% of findings were identified, with the remainder on surveillance EGD over an average of 3.5 years. Five asymptomatic patients (1.5%) had an UGI cancer detected during surveillance, all at early stage, including 1 patient each with BE-related esophageal adenocarcinoma, gastric neuroendocrine tumor, and gastric adenocarcinoma and 2 patients with duodenal adenocarcinoma. Two cancers were found on baseline EGD and 3 on follow-up EGD.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinically actionable findings were found in approximately 1 in 6 asymptomatic patients with LS undergoing EGD surveillance. Five patients (1.5%) were diagnosed with cancer, all detected at an early stage. These data suggest that both baseline and follow-up EGD surveillance are effective in detecting early-stage UGI cancers in asymptomatic patients with LS.

Early detection of duodenal cancer by upper gastrointestinal-endoscopy in Lynch syndrome

Small bowel cancer (SBC) is the malignancy with the highest standardized incidence ratio in Lynch syndrome (LS) patients. Of all SBCs, about 50% are duodenal cancers (DCs), therefore being accessible by esophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (EGD) for surveillance. We asked whether early detection of DC is possible for LS patients undergoing surveillance by EGD and if surveillance should be limited to specific subgroups. Data for LS patients with DC were retrieved from the registry of the German Consortium for Familial Intestinal Cancer. Patients undergoing active surveillance by EGDs (surveillance group) were compared to those who did not (nonsurveillance group) regarding tumor stage at diagnosis. Union for International Cancer Control stages I-IIA were defined as early stage disease and IIB-IV as advanced stage disease. Statistical analysis was performed using Fisher's exact test. Among 2015 patients with pathogenic variants in any mismatch-repair-gene, 47 patients with 49 DCs were identified. In 10% of cases, patients were under 35 years at diagnosis; family and personal tumor history did not correlate with DC diagnosis. Pathogenic germline variants in MSH6, PMS2 or EPCAM were present in 10% of patients. Statistical analysis could be performed on 13 DC patients in the surveillance group and 14 in the nonsurveillance group. Early detection was possible for 71% of patients in the surveillance group and 29% of patients in the nonsurveillance group (P = .021). Early detection of DC by EGD in LS patients is feasible regardless of family history, mutational status and should start no later than 25 years of age.

When to Consider Lynch Syndrome in Non-Colon and Non-Endometrial Malignancies

Lynch syndrome (LS) is a common genetic syndrome characterized by pathogenic mutations of DNA mismatch repair genes resulting in a hereditary predisposition to cancer. While typically associated with colonic and endometrial cancer, LS additionally influences the development of many other malignancies. The Amsterdam II and Revised Bethesda Guidelines are the established clinical criteria for diagnosing LS. These guidelines are based on the most general characteristics of LS and do not address specific characteristics of the less commonly LS-associated malignancies. For individuals that present initially with a non-colon and non-endometrial malignancy, recommendations and guidelines on when to consider screening for LS are limited. Therefore, it is essential that clinicians are familiar with distinct LS-associated patient- and tumor-specific characteristics, especially of the less common LS-associated cancers, so that LS's diagnosis is not missed. In this review article, we focus on extra-colonic and extra-endometrial LS-associated cancers, paying particular attention to any established or currently investigated cancer features that help raise suspicion for LS and potentially lead to its earlier diagnosis. This review will also discuss current guidelines specific to each LS-associated malignancy.

Upper Gastrointestinal Lesions during Endoscopy Surveillance in Patients with Lynch Syndrome: A Multicentre Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Patients with Lynch syndrome are at increased risk of gastric and duodenal cancer. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy surveillance is generally proposed, even though little data are available on upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in these patients. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the prevalence and incidence of gastrointestinal lesions following upper gastrointestinal endoscopy examination in Lynch patients.

METHODS

A large, multicentre cohort of 172 patients with a proven germline mutation in one of the mismatch repair genes and at least one documented upper gastrointestinal endoscopy screening was assessed. Detailed information was collected on upper gastrointestinal endoscopy findings and the outcome of endoscopic follow-up.

RESULTS

Seventy neoplastic gastrointestinal lesions were diagnosed in 45 patients (26%) out of the 172 patients included. The median age at diagnosis of upper gastrointestinal lesions was 54 years. The prevalence of cancer at initial upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was 5% and the prevalence of precancerous lesions was 12%. Upper gastrointestinal lesions were more frequent after 40 years of age (p < 0.001). Helicobacter pylori infection was associated with an increased prevalence of gastric, but not duodenal, lesions (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Neoplastic upper gastrointestinal lesions are frequent in patients with Lynch syndrome, especially in those over 40 years of age. The results of our study suggest that Lynch patients should be considered for upper gastrointestinal endoscopic and Helicobacter pylori screening.