Tumor budding in colorectal cancer--ready for diagnostic practice? Hum Pathol. 2016;47:4-19. [PMID: 26476568 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2015.08.007]

Intravoxel incoherent motion-derived histogram analysis for quantitative evaluation of tumor budding and prognostic stratification in rectal cancer

OBJECTIVE

To determine the value of intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) for quantitative tumor budding (TB) evaluation and prognostic stratification in patients with rectal cancer (RC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study enrolled 189 RC patients (training set 148, validation set 41) who underwent IVIM and were subsequently treated surgically within 2 weeks between January 2022 and April 2023. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was used for TB scoring. IVIM metrics were calculated on MRI images using biexponential fitting and histogram analysis. Differences in IVIM histogram metrics between the low-intermediate grade budding (Bd 1 + 2) and the high-grade budding (Bd 3) were analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to build the Combined model. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was used to assess the diagnostic performance of the IVIM histogram metrics and the Combined model. Kaplan-Meier analysis was employed to estimate disease-free and overall survival rates for patients.

RESULTS

Multivariate logistic analysis showed that the D_25th percentile, D_75th percentile, D_90th percentile, and D_95th percentile were independent predictors of Bd 3 (all p < 0.05). The Combined model incorporating these four factors had the best diagnostic performance, with the AUC, sensitivity, and specificity of 0.852, 73.02%, and 82.35% in the training set and 0.856, 75.00%, and 86.21% in the validation set. Furthermore, the score of the Combined model was significantly associated with worse 2-year overall survival (hazard ratio 6.804, 95% confidence interval 2.214 to 20.909, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The IVIM histogram metrics could distinguish different TB grades and be used as a preoperative risk stratification tool.

KEY POINTS

Questions Does intravoxel incoherent motion based on histogram analysis predict tumor budding grades and its prognosis in patients with rectal cancer? Findings The histogram metrics of slow diffusion coefficient are an independent prediction factor of high-grade tumor budding and a risk factor of poor 2-year overall survival. Clinical relevance This combined model, based on slow diffusion coefficient, is a reliable tool for preoperative predicting 2-year overall survival in patients with rectal cancer, contributing to risk stratification and individual treatment.

Tumor budding as an indicator of prognosis in locally advanced rectal cancer after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction

Tumor budding (TB) is recognized as a complementary prognostic factor for colorectal cancer. However, data on its impact on the survival of patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) remain limited. This study aims to investigate the role of TB in disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) among patients with locally advanced rectal cancer receiving nCRT.

Methods

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, an exhaustive search of the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science (WOS), Embase, and Cochrane databases was conducted, ultimately leading to the extraction of eight studies in the qualitative assessment and meta-analysis.

Results

All the included studies were of high quality. The total sample size comprised 1,941 individuals. Although eight studies were included, nine datasets were extracted, as some studies reported multiple outcome measurements. TB positivity was statistically associated with decreased overall survival of 3.24 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.71-6.16) and disease-free survival of 2.54 (95% CI: 1.56-4.15) in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer undergoing nCRT.

Discussion

Based on the findings of this study, TB negativity was statistically and directly associated with better OS and DFS in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer undergoing nCRT.

Tumour Budding Is a Useful Predictor to Identify High-Risk Stage II Colon Cancer Patients After Curative Surgery

Aim. Although it is now accepted in the literature that tumour budding (TB) is a useful survival indicator in colon cancer (CC), there are still uncertainties about daily use. Here we methodologically examined the role of TB on survival in CC. Methods. In our study, we examined colon cancer patients who had surgery up to 15 years before presentation. TB was calculated separately using different comprehensive methodological methods. Results. We first investigated an optimal evaluation method. Relationship with prognostic factors was better (Venous invasion [p = .001], advanced pT [p = .003], perineural invasion [p = .040], MSS [p = .016], advanced size [p = .001], tumour obstruction [p = .005], margin involvement [p = .043], and nodal involvement [p = .028]) in Method-1. Similarly, with the same method, the success of the cut-off value, the correlation of TB data (r = .724), and the repeatability of the method (Κappa = .53-.75) were quite good (ROC = .816 [.707-.925]). Then, survival analysis was performed using the best three methods, including this method. In univariate analysis using Method-1, survival analyses were worse in high TB patients (RFS: 81%, p < .001; OS: 84%, p < .001). Multivariate analyses using the same method confirmed that high TB for RFS and OS was an independent poor prognostic parameter for survival (p = .002, Hazard ratio [HR]: 1.42 [1.13-1.80]) and OS (p = .014, HR: 1.38 [1.07-1.79]). Conclusions. With our study, we showed that tumour budding calculated by the standard method is a very valuable prognostic parameter in stage II CC and can contribute to the detection of patients with poor prognosis in stage II CC.

Comparison of the prognosis and lymph node metastasis between no tumor budding and low-grade tumor budding in T1 and T2 colorectal cancer

Tumor budding is a significant prognostic factor in colorectal cancer (CRC) management and is graded as follows: 0-4 buds as low, 5-9 buds as intermediate, and > 10 buds as high. However, the specific prognostic difference between cases with 0 buds (BD0) and those with 1-4 buds (BD1) is not well established owing to a lack of comparative studies. This study aimed to examine and compare the rate of lymph node (LN) metastasis and prognosis by distinguishing between BD0 and BD1 within the low-grade category (0-4 buds) of tumor budding in submucosa (T1) and muscularis propria (T2) CRC. We retrospectively identified 223 cases of T1 and T2 CRC underwent surgery from 2015 to 2018 across three medical institutions using medical records. Pathology, including assessing tumor budding, was subsequently reconfirmed, and the recurrence and survival of patients were evaluated up to December 2023. Patients in the BD1 group exhibited a higher T stage than those in the BD0 group, accompanied by significantly increased rates of lymphovascular and perineural invasion. The prevalence of LN metastasis was 14.8%. No significant differences in LN metastasis were observed between the BD0 and BD1 groups. In a multivariate analysis exploring factors associated with LN metastasis, relevant factors included lymphatic invasion, perineural invasion, and ≥ 5 buds. There were no significant differences in 5-year survival and progression free survival rates between the BD0 and BD1 groups (P = 0.971). This study confirmed that there was no significant difference in LN metastasis or prognosis between patients with BD0 and BD1.

Assessment and Correlation of TP53 With Histological Parameters of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Background Oral squamous cell carcinoma is a common problem among tobacco chewers and related products in developing countries like India. Histopathological examination evaluates and confirms the diagnosis of oral SCC. Clinical examination and molecular profiling by histopathological examination (HPE) are important prognostic tools used in clinical practice. Histopathological grade, depth of invasion, lymphovascular invasion, perineural invasion and necrosis are the factors routinely assessed in every case during clinical examination. Aim and objectives The present study aims to evaluate TP53 expression and correlate it with the histopathological parameters of oral squamous cell carcinoma. Materials and methods The present retrospective study was conducted in the histopathological section of the Department of Pathology, Atal Bihari Vajpayee Government Medical College, Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh. All the histopathologically diagnosed cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma from November 2023 to October 2024 were included in the study. The collected data were scored, and the immunopositivity of P53 was recorded and correlated with histopathological parameters. Results Oral SCC histopathology was reviewed retrospectively, and the association of histopathological features with P53 was discussed. A total number of 45 cases were included in the study. The most common age group was 41-50 years comprising 18 patients (40%), followed by the 31-40 years age group consisting of 12 patients (26%). According to histopathological parameters, they were graded, scored, and correlated with P53. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.  Conclusion The initiating step in the treatment of patients with precancerous or malignant diseases in the oral cavity is accurate and timely diagnosis. The histopathological examination of suspicious oral lesions is currently the gold standard for diagnosis. The correct interpretation of biopsy, along with clinical and molecular evaluations, improves the prognosis. This study focuses on the importance of reporting various histopathological parameters of oral SCC.

The prognostic significance of growth pattern, tumor budding, poorly differentiated clusters, desmoplastic reaction pattern and tumor-stroma ratio in colorectal cancer and an evaluation of their relationship with KRAS, NRAS, BRAF mutations

Growth pattern (GP), tumor budding (TB), poorly differentiated clusters (PDC), desmoplastic reaction pattern (DRP) and tumor-stroma ratio (TSR) are prognostic histomorphological parameters in colorectal cancer (CRC). Correlations between these parameters, their individual prognostic values, and their relationship with KRAS/NRAS/BRAF mutations have not been comprehensively examined. We aimed to investigate these associations, which have not been previously explored in this combination. 126 CRC cases were included. GP, TB, PDC, DRP and TSR were evaluated by two experienced pathologists. KRAS/NRAS/BRAF mutation profile were determined using qPCR. Demographic, clinicopathological and survival data were recorded. Interrelations were investigated by statistical analysis. Infiltrative GP was more frequent in high-score TB, PDC-G3, and stroma-high tumors (p < 0.05). High-score TB was more common in PDC-G3 and stroma-high tumors (p < 0.05). Immature DRP was more frequent in stroma-high tumors (p = 0.014). Among histomorphological parameters, a significant relationship was found only between infiltrative GP and the presence of KRAS mutation (p = 0.023). Moreover, GP was significantly associated with pT, lymphatic invasion, perineural invasion (p < 0.05). Effects on survival were assessed using Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazards model. TB and PDC were identified as independent predictors of overall survival. Higher TB score (p = 0.008) and higher PDC grade (p = 0.013) lead to worse survival. Interestingly, GP, DRP, TSR or KRAS/NRAS/BRAF mutations were not associated with overall survival. Our results highlight the prognostic significance of TB and PDC. We suggest incorporating TB and PDC into routine CRC reports. The association of KRAS mutation with infiltrative GP supports its role in the acquisition of invasive behavior.

Correlating Ultrastructural Changes in the Invasion Area of Colorectal Cancer with CT and MRI Imaging

The cancer invasion of the large intestine, a destructive process that begins within the mucous membrane, causes cancer cells to gradually erode specific layers of the intestinal wall. The normal tissues of the intestine are progressively replaced by a tumour mass, leading to the impairment of the large intestine's proper morphology and function. At the ultrastructural level, the disintegration of the extracellular matrix (ECM) by cancer cells triggers the activation of inflammatory cells (macrophages) and connective tissue cells (myofibroblasts) in this area. This accumulation and the functional interactions between these cells form the tumour microenvironment (TM). The constant modulation of cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) creates a specific milieu akin to non-healing wounds, which induces colon cancer cell proliferation and promotes their survival. This review focuses on the processes occurring at the "front of cancer invasion", with a particular focus on the role of the desmoplastic reaction in neoplasm development. It then correlates the findings from the microscopic observation of the cancer's ultrastructure with the potential of modern radiological imaging, such as computer tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which visualizes the tumour, its boundaries, and the tissue reactions in the large intestine.

[Clinico-pathological evaluation of tumor budding in the oncological progression of colorectal cancer]

INTRODUCTION

Tumor budding (TB), defined as the presence of individual neoplastic cells or isolated groups of up to 4 cells at the front of tumor invasion, has become an adverse prognostic marker in colorectal cancer (CRC) in recent decades. The prognostic impact of TB in CRC remains not clearly defined and histological methods for its evaluation vary depending on the center. The objective of this study is to investigate the association between TB and CRC, in terms of oncological evolution and pathological stage.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study was conducted, including patients undergoing curative oncological surgery for CRC between January 2017 and December 2022. The effects of TB on disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated according to the Kaplan-Meier curves.

RESULTS

In 78 cases TB was described in the pathology report. TB was present in 56 patients (71.8%), divided into the following categories: low grade in 22 (39.3%), intermediate grade in 17 (30.4%) and high grade in 17 (30.4%). The proportion of patients who presented lymph node metastases, lympho-vascular and perineural invasion was significantly higher in patients with TB (26.8% vs 0%, P=.008; 41.1% vs 4.5%, P=.002; 16.1% vs 0% P=.054; respectively). DFS was 86.3% in low-grade TB, 75.3% in intermediate-grade TB, and 70.3% in high-grade TB. Cases with intermediate and high grade were associated with a shorter OS compared to the low grade group (93.7% and 75.4% vs 100% P=.012, respectively).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that TB expression may be a useful risk factor as a prognostic factor for the detection of lymph node metastasis, local recurrence, and distant metastasis in CRC.

Combined High-Throughput Proteomics and Random Forest Machine-Learning Approach Differentiates and Classifies Metabolic, Immune, Signaling and ECM Intra-Tumor Heterogeneity of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a frequent, worldwide tumor described for its huge complexity, including inter-/intra-heterogeneity and tumor microenvironment (TME) variability. Intra-tumor heterogeneity and its connections with metabolic reprogramming and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) were investigated with explorative shotgun proteomics complemented by a Random Forest (RF) machine-learning approach. Deep and superficial tumor regions and distant-site non-tumor samples from the same patients (n = 16) were analyzed. Among the 2009 proteins analyzed, 91 proteins, including 23 novel potential CRC hallmarks, showed significant quantitative changes. In addition, a 98.4% accurate classification of the three analyzed tissues was obtained by RF using a set of 21 proteins. Subunit E1 of 2-oxoglutarate dehydrogenase (OGDH-E1) was the best classifying factor for the superficial tumor region, while sorting nexin-18 and coatomer-beta protein (beta-COP), implicated in protein trafficking, classified the deep region. Down- and up-regulations of metabolic checkpoints involved different proteins in superficial and deep tumors. Analogously to immune checkpoints affecting the TME, cytoskeleton and extracellular matrix (ECM) dynamics were crucial for EMT. Galectin-3, basigin, S100A9, and fibronectin involved in TME-CRC-ECM crosstalk were found to be differently variated in both tumor regions. Different metabolic strategies appeared to be adopted by the two CRC regions to uncouple the Krebs cycle and cytosolic glucose metabolism, promote lipogenesis, promote amino acid synthesis, down-regulate bioenergetics in mitochondria, and up-regulate oxidative stress. Finally, correlations with the Dukes stage and budding supported the finding of novel potential CRC hallmarks and therapeutic targets.

Identification of Tumor Budding-Associated Genes in Breast Cancer through Transcriptomic Profiling and Network Diffusion Analysis

Breast cancer has the highest diagnosis rate among all cancers. Tumor budding (TB) is recognized as a recent prognostic marker. Identifying genes specific to high-TB samples is crucial for hindering tumor progression and metastasis. In this study, we utilized an RNA sequencing technique, called TempO-Seq, to profile transcriptomic data from breast cancer samples, aiming to identify biomarkers for high-TB cases. Through differential expression analysis and mutual information, we identified seven genes (NOL4, STAR, C8G, NEIL1, SLC46A3, FRMD6, and SCARF2) that are potential biomarkers in breast cancer. To gain more relevant proteins, further investigation based on a protein-protein interaction network and the network diffusion technique revealed enrichment in the Hippo signaling and Wnt signaling pathways, promoting tumor initiation, invasion, and metastasis in several cancer types. In conclusion, these novel genes, recognized as overexpressed in high-TB samples, along with their associated pathways, offer promising therapeutic targets, thus advancing treatment and diagnosis for breast cancer.

Cellular senescence is associated with the spatial evolution toward a higher metastatic phenotype in colorectal cancer

In this study, we explore the dynamic process of colorectal cancer progression, emphasizing the evolution toward a more metastatic phenotype. The term "evolution" as used in this study specifically denotes the phenotypic transition toward a higher metastatic potency from well-formed glandular structures to collective invasion, ultimately resulting in the development of cancer cell buddings at the invasive front. Our findings highlight the spatial correlation of this evolution with tumor cell senescence, revealing distinct types of senescent tumor cells (types I and II) that play different roles in the overall cancer progression. Type I senescent tumor cells (p16INK4A+/CXCL12+/LAMC2-/MMP7-) are identified in the collective invasion region, whereas type II senescent tumor cells (p16INK4A+/CXCL12+/LAMC2+/MMP7+), representing the final evolved form, are prominently located in the partial-EMT region. Importantly, type II senescent tumor cells associate with local invasion and lymph node metastasis in colorectal cancer, potentially affecting patient prognosis.

Sporadic Polyps of the Colorectum

Colorectal polyps are common, and their diagnosis and classification represent a major component of gastrointestinal pathology practice. The majority of colorectal polyps represent precursors of either the chromosomal instability or serrated neoplasia pathways to colorectal carcinoma. Accurate reporting of these polyps has major implications for surveillance and thus for cancer prevention. In this review, we discuss the key histologic features of the major colorectal polyps with a particular emphasis on diagnostic pitfalls and areas of contention.

The Role of Galectin3, Tubulinβ, and Maspin in Promoting Tumor Budding in Colorectal Carcinoma and Their Clinical Implications

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of death worldwide. Despite the advances in surgical and therapeutic management, tumor metastases and poor prognosis are still major problems. Tumor budding is a relevant prognostic factor in CRC, and it can predict tumor metastasis. Galectin3 is responsible for the development and progression of many cancers through the regulation of cell-cell/cell-matrix interactions and tumor cell invasion. Tubulin is a microtubule protein, and maspin is a serine protease inhibitor; both induce tumor cell invasion through the stimulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between the expression of galecin3, tubulinβ, and maspin in CRC and clinicopathological features, including tumor budding, their prognostic roles, and clinical implications using immunohistochemistry. Galectin3, tubulinβ, and maspin were detected in tumor cells in 95%, 65%, and 87.5% of cases and in stromal cells in 28.8%, 40%, and 0% of cases. High expression of galectin3 and tubulinβ expression either in tumor cells or stroma was significantly associated with aggressive tumor features such as lymph node metastasis, lymphovascular invasion, tumor budding, and advanced tumor stage. The nucleocytoplasmic expression of maspin in tumor cells showed a significant association with deeper tumor invasion, lymph node metastasis, tumor budding, and advanced tumor stage. Significant associations were found between high galectin3 tumor cell expression and nucleocytoplasmic maspin and shorter survival. High expression of galectin3, tubulinβ, and nucleocytoplasmic maspin were significantly associated with aggressive tumor features such as tumor invasion, metastasis, high tumor budding, and short survival in CRC. They could be used as biomarkers for tumor budding and tumor aggressiveness in CRC and may be considered for future target therapy.

Prognostic significance of tumor budding in patients with pancreatic invasive ductal carcinoma who received neoadjuvant therapy

Neoadjuvant therapy is commonly used for invasive pancreatic ductal carcinoma (PDAC). Tumor budding and high podoplanin expression in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are prognostic factors in patients with various carcinomas including PDAC who have not received neoadjuvant therapy. In this study, we investigated whether tumor budding and podoplanin-positive CAFs are associated with outcomes in Japanese PDAC patients with neoadjuvant therapy. Histopathological findings of surgically resected PDACs with neoadjuvant therapy from 2005 to 2018 were reviewed (n = 97). With reference to International Tumor Budding Consensus Conference recommendations, tumors were evaluated for budding at 20 × magnification (/0.785 mm2) and at 40 × magnification (/0.237 mm2; mean number of fields: 3) for podoplanin expression in CAFs (%). Overall survival, disease-free survival, and disease-specific survival (DSS) were analyzed using the log-rank test and Cox proportional hazards model. After adjusting for T category, N category, resection margin, and adjuvant therapy, multivariate analyses demonstrated that tumor budding at 40 × magnification was an independent prognostic factor for worse DSS (hazard ratio: 2.41, p = 0.022). Tumor budding at 20 × magnification and podoplanin-positive CAFs tended to be associated with worse DSS; however, these findings were not statistically significant. Our findings indicate that tumor budding is an independent prognostic factor in PDAC patients with neoadjuvant therapy.

A different perspective on 18F-FDG PET radiomics in colorectal cancer patients: The relationship between intra & peritumoral analysis and pathological findings

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to determine the value of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) based primary tumoral and peritumoral radiomics in the prediction of tumor deposits (TDs), tumor budding (TB) and extramural venous invasion (EMVI) of colorectal cancer (CRC).

METHODS

Our retrospective study included 77 CRC patients who had preoperative 18F-FDG PET/CT between June 2020 and February 2022. A total of 131 radiomic features were extracted from primary tumors and peritumoral areas on PET/CT fusion images. The relationship between TDs, TB, EMVI and T stage in the postoperative pathology of the tumors and radiomic features was investigated. Features with a correlation coefficient (CC) less than 0.8 were analyzed by logistic regression. The area under curve (AUC) obtained from the receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to measure the model performance.

RESULTS

A model was developed from primary tumoral and peritumoral radiomics data to predict T stage (AUC 0.931), and also a predictive model was constructed from primary tumor derived radiomics to predict EMVI (AUC 0.739). Radiomic data derived from the primary tumor was obtained as a predictive prognostic factor in predicting TDs and a peritumoral feature was found to be a prognostic factor in predicting TB.

CONCLUSIONS

Intratumoral and peritumoral radiomics derived from 18F-FDG PET/CT are useful for non-invasive early prediction of pathological features that have important implications in the management of CRC.

Tumor budding in breast carcinoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis

ABSTRACT

Tumor budding is gaining importance as a prognostic factor in various carcinomas due to its association with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and hence clinical outcome. Reporting tumor budding in breast cancer lacks homogeneity. We aim to systematically review the existing literature and conduct a meta-analysis to assess the prognostic implication of tumor budding in breast carcinoma. A systematic search was performed to identify studies that compared different prognostic variables between high- and low-grade tumor budding. Quality assessment was performed using a modified Newcastle Ottawa Scale. Dichotomous variables were pooled using the odds ratio using the Der-Simonian-Laird method. Meta-analysis was conducted to study the association between low/high-grade tumor budding and tumor grade, lymph node metastasis, lymphovascular invasion, ER, PR, HER2neu, KI67, and the molecular subtype triple-negative breast carcinoma. Thirteen studies with a total of 1763 patients were included. A moderate risk of bias was noted. The median bias scoring was 7 (6-9). High-grade tumor budding was significantly associated with lymph node metastasis (OR: 2.25, 95% CI: 1.52-3.34, P < 0.01) and lymphovascular invasion (OR: 3.14, 95% CI: 2.10-4.71, P < 0.01), and low-grade budding was significantly associated with triple-negative breast carcinoma (OR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.39-0.95, P = 0.03)There was significant heterogeneity in the assessment and grading of tumor budding; thus, a checklist of items was identified that lacked standardization. Our meta-analysis concluded that tumor budding can act as an independent prognostic marker for breast cancer.

The prognostic significance of tumor budding and the expression of focal adhesion kinase and survivin in lung adenocarcinoma

OBJECTIVES

Adenocarcinoma is the tumor group with the highest incidence among lung cancers with poor prognosis. Tumor budding (TB) is the migration of single tumor cells or small clusters of cells from the neoplastic epithelium to the invasive front of the tumor. Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and survivin are considered as poor prognostic factors in several tumors. Hence, we investigated TB, FAK, and survivin expression in lung adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

The study included 103 cases of lung adenocarcinoma in the resection materials. In tumoral tissues; TB was counted and scored in one high-power field (HPF), as low if <5 in 1 HPF and high if ≥5 in 1 HPF. FAK and survivin were studied immunohistochemically.

RESULTS

The mean number of TB in 1 HPF is 3.96 ± 2.8. Low-grade TB was observed in 45 (43.7 %) and high-grade TB was observed in 58 (56.3 %) patients. There was a positive correlation between TB and pT stage (p = 0.017), clinical stage (p = 0.002), lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.001), and perineural invasion (p = 0.045). The 4-year survival rate in patients was 90 % in those with low-grade TB and 60 % in those with high-grade TB (p = 0.001). FAK and survivin expressions were significantly increased in tumors with high-grade TB (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

A significant correlation was found between the grade of TB and pT stage, clinical stage, lymphovascular and perineural invasion in lung adenocarcinoma. TB can be considered as a histological parameter showing poor prognosis. It is thought that high expression of FAK and survivin also affect the prognosis in these patients by increasing TB.

Prognostic evaluation of cancer associated fibrosis and tumor budding in colorectal cancer

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is the second most common cancer and third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Although the staging system provides a standardized guidance in treatment regimens, the clinical outcome in patients with colon cancer at the same TNM stage may vary dramatically. Thus, for better predictive accuracy, further prognostic and/or predictive markers are required. Patients who underwent curative surgery for colorectal cancer in past 3 years at a tertiary care hospital were retrospectively included in this cohort study to evaluate the prognostic indicators, tumor-stroma ratio (TSR) and tumor budding (TB) on histopathological sections and correlated them with pTNM staging, histopathological grading, tumor size, and lymphovascular and perineural invasion in patients with colo-rectal cancer. TB was strongly associated with advanced stage of the disease along with lympho-vascular and peri-neural invasion and it can be used as an independent adverse prognostic factor. TSR showed a better sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV as compared to TB in patients having poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma than those with moderately or well differentiated.

Prognostic Impact of Lymphatic Invasion, Venous Invasion, Perineural Invasion, and Tumor Budding in Rectal Cancer Treated With Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy Followed by Total Mesorectal Excision

BACKGROUND

The diagnostic implications of lymphatic invasion, venous invasion, perineural invasion, and tumor budding in rectal cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy are unknown.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to identify the prognostic impact of lymphatic invasion, venous invasion, perineural invasion, and tumor budding in locally advanced rectal cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective cohort study.

SETTINGS

This study was conducted at the Samsung Medical Center. Grouping was performed on the basis of lymphatic invasion, venous invasion, perineural invasion, and tumor budding status: no-risk group with 0 factor (n = 299), low-risk group with any 1 factor (n = 131), intermediate-risk group with any 2 factors (n = 75), and high-risk group with 3 or 4 risk factors (n = 32).

PATIENTS

Patients who underwent neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, followed by radical operation for locally advanced rectal cancer, from January 2010 to December 2015 were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The main outcome measures were disease-free and overall survival.

RESULTS

Disease-free and overall survival varied significantly between the groups in stage III ( p < 0.001 and p < 0.001). Disease-free survival in stage I differed between the no-risk group and the intermediate-risk group ( p = 0.026). In stage II, disease-free and overall survival differed between the no-risk group and the intermediate-risk group ( p = 0.010 and p = 0.045). In multivariable analysis, risk grouping was an independent prognostic factor for both disease-free (p <0.001) and overall survival ( p < 0.001).

LIMITATIONS

The inherent limitations are associated with the retrospective single-center study design.

CONCLUSIONS

Lymphatic invasion, venous invasion, perineural invasion, and tumor budding are strong prognostic factors for disease-free and overall survival in locally advanced rectal cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. Therefore, adjuvant chemotherapy is strongly recommended in patients with positive lymphatic invasion, venous invasion, perineural invasion, and tumor budding. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B919 .

IMPACTO PRONSTICO DE LA INVASIN LINFTICA, LA INVASIN VENOSA, LA INVASIN PERINEURAL Y LA GEMACIN TUMORAL EN EL CNCER DE RECTO TRATADO CON QUIMIORRADIOTERAPIA NEOADYUVANTE SEGUIDA DE ESCISIN TOTAL DEL MESORRECTO

ANTECEDENTES:Se desconocen las implicaciones diagnósticas de la invasión linfática, la invasión venosa, la invasión perineural y el crecimiento tumoral en el cáncer de recto tratado con quimiorradioterapia neoadyuvante.OBJETIVO:Este estudio fue diseñado para identificar el impacto pronóstico de la invasión linfática, la invasión venosa, la invasión perineural y la gemación tumoral en el cáncer de recto localmente avanzado tratado con quimiorradioterapia neoadyuvante.DISEÑO:Este estudio fue un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo.AJUSTES:Este estudio se realizó en el Centro Médico Samsung. La agrupación se realizó en función de la invasión linfática, la invasión venosa, la invasión perineural y el estado de crecimiento del tumor: grupo sin riesgo con 0 factores (n = 299), grupo de bajo riesgo con cualquier factor 1 (n = 131), grupo de riesgo intermedio con 2 factores cualquiera (n = 75), y un grupo de alto riesgo con 3 o 4 factores de riesgo (n = 32).PACIENTES:Se incluyeron un total de 537 pacientes que se sometieron a quimiorradioterapia neoadyuvante seguida de operación radical por cáncer de recto localmente avanzado desde enero de 2010 hasta diciembre de 2015.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Las principales medidas de resultado fueron la supervivencia libre de enfermedad y la supervivencia general.RESULTADOS:La mediana del período de seguimiento fue de 77 meses, y la supervivencia libre de enfermedad a los 5 años y la supervivencia general a los 5 años variaron significativamente entre los grupos en el estadio III (p < 0,001, p < 0,001). La supervivencia libre de enfermedad a los 5 años en el estadio I difirió entre el grupo sin riesgo y el grupo de riesgo intermedio (p = 0,026). En el estadio II, la supervivencia libre de enfermedad a 5 años y la supervivencia global a 5 años difirieron entre el grupo sin riesgo y el grupo de riesgo intermedio p = 0,010, p = 0,045). En el análisis multivariable, la agrupación de riesgo fue un factor pronóstico independiente tanto para la supervivencia libre de enfermedad (p < 0,001) como para la supervivencia global (p < 0,001).LIMITACIÓN:Las limitaciones inherentes están asociadas con el diseño de estudio retrospectivo de un solo centro..CONCLUSIÓN:La invasión linfática, la invasión venosa, la invasión perineural y la gemación tumoral son fuertes factores pronósticos para la supervivencia libre de enfermedad y la supervivencia general en el cáncer de recto localmente avanzado tratado con quimiorradioterapia neoadyuvante. Por lo tanto, se recomienda fuertemente la quimioterapia adyuvante en pacientes con invasión linfática positiva, invasión venosa, invasión perineural y tumor en en formacion. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B919 . (Traducción-Dr Yolanda Colorado ).

The predictive value of CD4, CD8, and C-reactive protein in the prognosis of schistosomal and non-schistosomal colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Although schistosomiasis has been basically eliminated, it has not been completely extinction in China and occasional outbreaks occur in Europe in recent years. The relationship between inflammation caused by Schistosoma japonicum and colorectal cancer (CRC) is still obscure, and the inflammation based prognostic systems of schistosomal colorectal (SCRC) has rarely been reported.

AIM

To explore the different roles of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in SCRC and in Non-schistosomal CRC (NSCRC), providing a possible predictive system to evaluate outcomes and to improve the risk stratification for CRC patients, especially for CRC patients with schistosomiasis.

METHODS

Three hundred fifty-one CRC tumors were evaluated for density of CD4 + , CD8 + T cells and CRP in intratumoral and stromal compartments by immunohistochemical using tissue microarray.

RESULTS

There were no association between TILs and CRP and schistosomiasis. Multivariate analysis identified stromal CD4 (sCD4) (p = 0.038), intratumoral CD8 (iCD8) (p = 0.003), schistosomiasis (p = 0.045) as independent prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) in the whole cohort; and sCD4 (p = 0.006) and iCD8 (p = 0.020) were independent prognostic factors for OS in the NSCRC and SCRC set, respectively. Besides, we found that there were no differences of TILs and CRP, which were distributed in different areas of tumor tissue, between CRC patients with and without schistosomiasis.

CONCLUSION

The results remind us that different subtypes of TILs have distinguished biological behavior and prognosis value in the immune microenvironment of NSCRC and SCRC patients. Meanwhile, the findings require us to stratify patients with schistosomiasis and this might facilitate patient counseling and management.

High-yield areas to grade tumor budding in colorectal cancer: A practical approach for pathologists

BACKGROUND

Tumor budding (TB) has significant prognostic implication in stage II colorectal cancer (CRC) and is graded based on the International Tumor Budding Consensus Conference (ITBCC) protocol. In the current study, we evaluate tumor budding and its relationship to multiple histologic features in 104 tumors.

METHODS

One-hundred four resected CRC cases were retrieved. Tumor bud count and TB grade were compared to the final tumor bud count/TB grade of the tumor per ITBCC protocol. The following high-yield co-features were assessed in each slide: highest T stage, presence of benign mucosa, presence of a precursor lesion, and highest tumor volume.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine (28 %) cases had discrepancies between slide TB grade and final TB grade. The least discrepancies were seen in slides with benign mucosa (7 %) and precursor lesions (7 %). Among stage II patients without high-risk features, no discrepancies were observed in slides with benign mucosa. Slides with deepest invasion (r_s = 1.000, p = 0.01) and benign mucosa (r_s = 0.957, p < 0.001) had the strongest correlation with final tumor bud count in the same stage II subgroup. Similar relationships were observed when comparing final TB grade. Deepest invasion, tumor volume, as well as lymphovascular invasion, when present, also showed strong correlations with final TB grade in the entire cohort (r_s = 0.828-0.845, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our study is the first study to evaluate the relationship between TB grade and co-existing histologic features. We highlight the benefit of focusing on slides with high-yield co-features, with the strongest correlation seen in slides with adjacent benign mucosa and precursor lesions.

Is there no need to discuss adjuvant chemotherapy in stage II colon cancer patients with high tumor budding and lymphovascular invasion?

PURPOSE

The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinicopathologic associations of tumor budding (Bd) as well as other potential prognosticators including lymphovascular invasion (LVI) in T3/4aN0 colon cancer patients and to investigate their impact on the outcome.

METHODS

The patients were enrolled in three groups according to the number of budding as Bd1 (0-4 buds), Bd2 (5-9 buds), and Bd3 (> 10 buds). These groups were retrospectively compared in terms of demographic features, other tumor characteristics, operative outcomes, recurrences, and survival. The mean follow-up time was 58 ± 22 months.

RESULTS

A total of 194 patients were divided as follows: 97 in Bd1, 41 in Bd2, and 56 in Bd3 groups. The Bd3 group was associated with significantly higher LVI and larger tumor size. The rate of recurrence increased progressively from 5.2% in Bd1 to 9.8% in Bd2 and to 17.9% in Bd3 group (p = 0.03). More importantly, the 5-year overall survival (OS: Bd1 = 92.3% vs. Bd2 = 88% vs. Bd3 = 69.5%, p = 0.03) and disease-free survival (DFS: Bd1 = 87.9% vs. Bd2 = 75.3% vs. Bd3 = 66%, p = 0.02) were significantly worse in Bd3 group. In addition, in the subgroup of patients with the presence of Bd3 and LVI together, the 5-year OS (60% vs. 92%, p = 0.001) and DFS (56.1% vs. 85.4%, p = 0.001) were significantly worse. In multivariate analysis, Bd3+LVI was significantly associated with poor OS and DFS (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

In patients with T3/4aN0 colon cancer, high tumor budding negatively affects long-term oncological outcomes. These findings strongly suggest that adjuvant chemotherapy be considered for the patients with Bd3 and LVI together.

Comparison of the prognostic value of stromal tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and CD3 + T cells between schistosomal and non-schistosomal colorectal cancer

AIM

To compare the prognostic value of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and CD3 + cells and CD20 + cells between schistosomal colorectal cancer (SCRC) and non-schistosomal CRC (NSCRC).

BACKGROUND

Although schistosomiasis has been basically eliminated, it has not been completely extinction in China, and occasional outbreaks occur in Europe recently. The role of immune cells in the immune microenvironment of SCRC and NSCRC is remaining obscure, and the inflammation-based prognostic systems of SCRC has rarely been reported.

METHODS

HE-stained sections of 349 colorectal cancer (CRC) tumors, which were completely resected, were evaluated for density of TILs. Meanwhile, we evaluated CD3 + T lymphocytes and CD20 + B lymphocytes by immunochemistry. The relationship of these infiltrating immune cells with clinicopathological features, including schistosomiasis, and clinical outcomes was evaluated, and the prognostic roles of TILs in SCRC and NSCRC were explored.

RESULTS

Except for age (P < 0.0001), there were no significant differences between NSCRC and SCRC patients in clinicopathological features (P > 0.05). Beside, the positive expression pattern of sTILs, iTILs, CD3, and CD20 between NSCRC and SCRC patients was also similar (P > 0.05). In the whole cohort, sTILs and CD3 were defined as independent prognostic factors (P = 0.031 and P = 0.003, respectively). CD3 was an independent prognostic factor both in the NSCRC and SCRC set (P = 0.026 and P = 0.045, respectively). Higher sTILs, CD3, and CD20 were correlated with less aggressive tumor characteristics in the whole cohort and in subgroups.

CONCLUSION

Although CD3 was an independent prognostic factor for both NSCRC and SCRC set, there were no significant differences between SCRC and NSCRC patients in sTILs, CD3, CD20, and in other clinicopathological features.

Diagnostic yield and repeat biopsies in rectal and nonrectal colorectal adenocarcinoma: Are we hedging on rectal biopsies?

Patients with rectal cancer undergo more repeat biopsies compared to those with nonrectal colon cancer prior to management. We investigated the factors driving the higher frequency of repeat biopsies in patients with rectal cancer. We compared clinicopathologic features of diagnostic and nondiagnostic (in regard to invasion) rectal (n = 64) and colonic (n = 57) biopsies from colorectal cancer patients and characterized corresponding resections. Despite similar diagnostic yield, repeat biopsy was more common in rectal carcinoma, especially in patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy (p < 0.05). The presence of desmoplasia (odds ratio 12.9, p < 0.05) was a strong predictor of making a diagnosis of invasion in both rectal and nonrectal colon cancer biopsies. Diagnostic biopsies had more desmoplasia, intramucosal carcinoma component and marked inflammation, and less low-grade dysplasia component (p < 0.05). Diagnostic yield of biopsy was higher for tumors with high-grade tumor budding, mucosal involvement by high-grade dysplasia/intramucosal carcinoma without low-grade dysplasia and diffuse surface desmoplasia irrespective of tumor location. Sample size, amount of benign tissue, appearance, and T stage did not affect diagnostic yield. Repeat biopsy of rectal cancer is primarily driven by management implications. Diagnostic yield in colorectal cancer biopsies is multifactorial and is not due to differing pathologists' diagnostic approach per tumor site. For rectal tumors, a multidisciplinary strategic approach is warranted to avoid repeat biopsy when unnecessary.

Prognostic Factors for Lymph Node Metastases in pT1 Colorectal Cancer Differ According to Tumor Morphology: A Nationwide Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether there is a differential impact of histopathological risk factors for lymph node metastases (LNM) in pedunculated and nonpedunculated pT1 colorectal cancers (CRC).

BACKGROUND

Tumor budding, lymphovascular invasion (LVI), and venous invasion (VI) are recognized risk factors for LNM in pT1 CRC. Whether the importance of these factors varies according to tumor morphology is unknown.

METHODS

Patients undergoing resection with lymphadenectomy for pT1 CRC in Denmark from January 2016 to January 2019 were identified in the Danish Colorectal Cancer Database and clinicopathological data was reviewed. Prognostic factors for LNM were investigated using multivariable analyses on the cohort as a whole as well as when stratifying according to tumor morphology (pedunculated vs. nonpedunculated).

RESULTS

A total of 1167 eligible patients were identified, of whom 170 had LNM (14.6%). Independent prognostic factors for LNM included LVI [odds ratio (OR)=4.26, P <0.001], VI (OR=3.42, P <0.001), tumor budding (OR=2.12, P =0.002), high tumor grade (OR=2.76, P =0.020), and age per additional year (OR=0.96, P <0.001). On subgroup analyses, LVI and VI remained independently prognostic for LNM regardless of tumor morphology. However, tumor budding was only prognostic for LNM in pedunculated tumors (OR=4.19, P <0.001), whereas age was only prognostic in nonpedunculated tumors (OR=0.61, P =0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

While LVI and LI were found to be prognostic of LNM in all pT1 CRC, the prognostic value of tumor budding differs between pedunculated and nonpedunculated tumors. Thus, tumor morphology should be taken into account when considering completion surgery in patients undergoing local excision.

Immune Pathway and Gene Database (IMPAGT) Revealed the Immune Dysregulation Dynamics and Overactivation of the PI3K/Akt Pathway in Tumor Buddings of Cervical Cancer

Tumor budding (TB) is a small cluster of malignant cells at the invasive front of a tumor. Despite being an adverse prognosis marker, little research has been conducted on the tumor immune microenvironment of tumor buddings, especially in cervical cancer. Therefore, RNA sequencing was performed using 21 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded slides of cervical tissues, and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed. Immune Pathway and Gene Database (IMPAGT) was generated for immune profiling. "Pathway in Cancer" was identified as the most enriched pathway for both up- and downregulated DEGs. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes Mapper and Gene Ontology further revealed the activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. An IMPAGT analysis revealed immune dysregulation even at the tumor budding stage, especially in the PI3K/Akt/mTOR axis, with a high efficiency and integrity. These findings emphasized the clinical significance of tumor buddings and the necessity of blocking the overactivation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway to improve targeted therapy in cervical cancer.

Self-generated gradients steer collective migration on viscoelastic collagen networks

Growing evidence suggests that the physical properties of the cellular microenvironment influence cell migration. However, it is not currently understood how active physical remodelling by cells affects migration dynamics. Here we report that cell clusters seeded on deformable collagen-I networks display persistent collective migration despite not showing any apparent intrinsic polarity. Clusters generate transient gradients in collagen density and alignment due to viscoelastic relaxation of the collagen networks. Combining theory and experiments, we show that crosslinking collagen networks or reducing cell cluster size results in reduced network deformation, shorter viscoelastic relaxation time and smaller gradients, leading to lower migration persistence. Traction force and Brillouin microscopy reveal asymmetries in force distributions and collagen stiffness during migration, providing evidence of mechanical cross-talk between cells and their substrate during migration. This physical model provides a mechanism for self-generated directional migration on viscoelastic substrates in the absence of internal biochemical polarity cues.

Predicting lymph node metastasis and recurrence in patients with early stage colorectal cancer

Tumor budding (TB), a powerful, independent predictor of colorectal cancer (CRC), is important for making appropriate treatment decisions. Currently, TB is assessed only using the tumor bud count (TBC). In this study, we aimed to develop a novel prediction model, which includes different TB features, for lymph node metastasis (LNM) and local recurrence in patients with pT1 CRC. Enrolled patients (n = 354) were stratified into training and validation cohorts. Independent predictors of LNM and recurrence were identified to generate predictive nomograms that were assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) and decision curve analysis (DCA). Seven LNM predictors [gross type, histological grade, lymphovascular invasion (LVI), stroma type, TBC, TB mitosis, and TB CDX2 expression] were identified in the training cohort. LNM, histology grade, LVI, TBC, stroma type, and TB mitosis were independent predictors of recurrence. We constructed an LNM predictive nomogram with a high clinical application value using the DCA. Additionally, a nomogram predicting recurrence-free survival (RFS) was constructed. It presented an AUROC value of 0.944 for the training cohort. These models may assist surgeons in making treatment decisions. In the high-risk group, radical surgery with a postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy was associated with RFS. Postoperative chemotherapy can be better for high-risk patients with pT1 CRC. We showed that TB features besides TBC play important roles in CRC pathogenesis, and our study provides prognostic information to guide the clinical management of patients with early stage CRC.

The neuronal protein Neuroligin 1 promotes colorectal cancer progression by modulating the APC/β-catenin pathway

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains largely incurable when diagnosed at the metastatic stage. Despite some advances in precision medicine for this disease in recent years, new molecular targets, as well as prognostic/predictive markers, are highly needed. Neuroligin 1 (NLGN1) is a transmembrane protein that interacts at the synapse with the tumor suppressor adenomatous polyposis Coli (APC), which is heavily involved in the pathogenesis of CRC and is a key player in the WNT/β-catenin pathway.

Methods

After performing expression studies of NLGN1 on human CRC samples, in this paper we used in vitro and in vivo approaches to study CRC cells extravasation and metastasis formation capabilities. At the molecular level, the functional link between APC and NLGN1 in the cancer context was studied.

Results

Here we show that NLGN1 is expressed in human colorectal tumors, including clusters of aggressive migrating (budding) single tumor cells and vascular emboli. We found that NLGN1 promotes CRC cells crossing of an endothelial monolayer (i.e. Trans-Endothelial Migration or TEM) in vitro, as well as cell extravasation/lung invasion and differential organ metastatization in two mouse models. Mechanistically, NLGN1 promotes APC localization to the cell membrane and co-immunoprecipitates with some isoforms of this protein stimulates β-catenin translocation to the nucleus, upregulates mesenchymal markers and WNT target genes and induces an “EMT phenotype” in CRC cell lines

Conclusions

In conclusion, we have uncovered a novel modulator of CRC aggressiveness which impacts on a critical pathogenetic pathway of this disease, and may represent a novel therapeutic target, with the added benefit of carrying over substantial knowledge from the neurobiology field.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-022-02465-4.

Tumor budding as a prognostic indicator in colorectal carcinoma: a retrospective study of primary colorectal carcinoma cases in a tertiary care center

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide. Along with many established prognostic factors, tumor budding is emerging as a valuable marker of prognosis. Tumor budding is not yet universally reported but it has recently been suggested in guidelines by ITBCC (International Tumor Budding Consensus Conference). Our aim is to study prognostic implications of tumor budding in CRC. Hundred cases of primary CRC specimens were retrospectively studied from January, 2016, to February, 2017. Tumor bud count and other histopathological parameters were evaluated from hematoxyline and eosin (H & E) stained slides. Survival analysis was done using Cox proportional hazards model. Association of tumor budding and cancer-specific survival was found to be statistically significant (P = 0.018 for average tumor budding and P = 0.035 for highest tumor budding) Tumor budding was found to be significantly associated with other clinicopathological parameters such as T stage, N stage, TNM stage, and lymphovascular invasion with p value < 0.05. Tumor budding is a valuable prognostic indictor for primary CRC and also significantly associated with other prognostic parameters. It should be reported routinely as a guide to prognosis and further management of patients.

Role of one-step nucleic acid amplification in colorectal cancer lymph node metastases detection

Current histopathological staging procedures in colorectal cancer (CRC) depend on midline division of the lymph nodes (LNs) with one section of hematoxylin and eosin staining. Cancer cells outside this transection line may be missed, which could lead to understaging of Union for International Cancer Control Stage II high-risk patients. The one-step nucleic acid amplification (OSNA) assay has emerged as a rapid molecular diagnostic tool for LN metastases detection. It is a molecular technique that can analyze the entire LN tissue using a reverse-transcriptase loop-mediated isothermal amplification reaction to detect tumor-specific cytokeratin 19 mRNA. Our findings suggest that the OSNA assay has a high diagnostic accuracy in detecting metastatic LNs in CRC and a high negative predictive value. OSNA is a standardized, observer-independent technique, which may lead to more accurate staging. It has been suggested that in stage II CRC, the upstaging can reach 25% and these patients can access postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy. Moreover, intraoperative OSNA sentinel node evaluation may allow early CRC to be treated with organ-preserving surgery, while in more advanced-stage disease, a tailored lymphadenectomy can be performed considering the presence of aberrant lymphatic drainage and skip metastases.

Automatic Tumor Grading on Colorectal Cancer Whole-Slide Images: Semi-Quantitative Gland Formation Percentage and New Indicator Exploration

Tumor grading is an essential factor for cancer staging and survival prognostication. The widely used the WHO grading system defines the histological grade of CRC adenocarcinoma based on the density of glandular formation on whole-slide images (WSIs). We developed a fully automated approach for stratifying colorectal cancer (CRC) patients' risk of mortality directly from histology WSI relating to gland formation. A tissue classifier was trained to categorize regions on WSI as glands, stroma, immune cells, background, and other tissues. A gland formation classifier was trained on expert annotations to categorize regions as different degrees of tumor gland formation versus normal tissues. The glandular formation density can thus be estimated using the aforementioned tissue categorization and gland formation information. This estimation was called a semi-quantitative gland formation ratio (SGFR), which was used as a prognostic factor in survival analysis. We evaluated gland formation percentage and validated it by comparing it against the WHO cutoff point. Survival data and gland formation maps were then used to train a spatial pyramid pooling survival network (SPPSN) as a deep survival model. We compared the survival prediction performance of estimated gland formation percentage and the SPPSN deep survival grade and found that the deep survival grade had improved discrimination. A univariable Cox model for survival yielded moderate discrimination with SGFR (c-index 0.62) and deep survival grade (c-index 0.64) in an independent institutional test set. Deep survival grade also showed better discrimination performance in multivariable Cox regression. The deep survival grade significantly increased the c-index of the baseline Cox model in both validation set and external test set, but the inclusion of SGFR can only improve the Cox model less in external test and is unable to improve the Cox model in the validation set.

Tumor Stroma Ratio and Its Significance in Locally Advanced Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related death, and its incidence is rising in the younger patient population. In the past decade, research has unveiled several processes (underlying tumorigenesis, many of which involve interactions between tumor cells and the surrounding tissue or tumor microenvironment (TME). Interactions between components of the TME are mediated at a sub-microscopic level. However, the endpoint of those interactions results in morphologic changes which can be readily assessed at microscopic examination of biopsy and resection specimens. Among these morphologic changes, alteration to the tumor stroma is a new, important determinant of colorectal cancer progression. Different methodologies to estimate the proportion of tumor stroma relative to tumor cells, or tumor stroma ratio (TSR), have been developed. Subsequent validation has supported the prognostic value, reproducibility and feasibility of TSR in various subgroups of colorectal cancer. In this manuscript, we review the literature surrounding TME in colorectal cancer, with a focus on tumor stroma ratio.

Potential key roles of tumour budding: a representative malignant pathological feature of non-small cell lung cancer and a sensitive indicator of prognosis

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the relationship between tumour budding, clinicopathological characteristics of patients and prognosis in non-small cell lung cancer.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective study was used.

PARTICIPANTS

We selected 532 patients with non-small cell lung cancer from China, including 380 patients with adenocarcinoma and 152 with squamous cell carcinoma.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Tumour budding was visible using H&E staining as well as pancytokeratin staining. The count data and measurement data were compared using the χ² test and the t-test, respectively. The overall survival rate was the follow-up result. The survival curves were drawn using the Kaplan-Meier method, and the differences between groups were analysed using the log-rank method. The independent prognostic factor of patients with lung cancer was determined using a multivariate Cox proportional hazard model.

RESULTS

In patients with lung adenocarcinoma, there was a correlation between tumour budding and spread through air spaces (OR 36.698; 95% CI 13.925 to 96.715; p<0.001), and in patients with squamous cell carcinoma, tumour budding state was closely related to the peritumoural space (OR 11.667; 95% CI 4.041 to 33.683; p<0.001). On Cox regression analysis, multivariate analysis showed that tumour budding, pleural and vascular invasion, spread through air spaces, tumour size, lymph node metastasis, and tumour node metastasis stage were independent risk factors of prognosis for patients with non-small cell lung cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

As an effective and simple pathological diagnostic index, it is necessary to establish an effective grading system in the clinical diagnosis of lung cancer to verify the value of tumour budding as a prognostic indicator. We hope that this analysis of Chinese patients with non-small cell lung cancer can provide useful reference material for the continued study of tumour budding.

A Novel Superpixel Approach to the Tumoral Microenvironment in Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most common malignancy of the gastrointestinal tract. The stroma and the tumoral microenvironment (TME) represent ecosystem-like biological networks and are new frontiers in CRC. The present study demonstrates the use of a novel machine learning-based superpixel approach for whole slide images to unravel this biology. Findings of significance include the association of low proportionated stromal area, high immature stromal percentage, and high myxoid stromal ratio (MSR) with worse prognostic outcomes in CRC. Overall, stromal computational markers outperformed all others at predicting clinical outcomes. MSR may be able to prognosticate patients independent of pathological stage, representing an optimal way to effectively prognosticate CRC patients which circumvents the need for more extensive molecular and/or computational profiling. The superpixel approaches to the TME demonstrated here can be performed by a trained pathologist and recorded during synoptic cancer reporting with appropriate quality assurance. Future clinical trials will have the ultimate say in determining whether we can better tailor the need for adjuvant therapy in patients with CRC.

Current Perspectives on the Importance of Pathological Features in Prognostication and Guidance of Adjuvant Chemotherapy in Colon Cancer

There is not a clear consensus on which pathological features and biomarkers are important in guiding prognosis and adjuvant therapy in colon cancer. The Pathology in Colon Cancer, Prognosis and Uptake of Adjuvant Therapy (PiCC UP) Australia and New Zealand questionnaire was distributed to colorectal surgeons, medical oncologists and pathologists after institutional board approval. The aim of this study was to understand current specialist attitudes towards pathological features in the prognostication of colon cancer and adjuvant therapy in stage II disease. A 5-scale Likert score was used to assess attitudes towards 23 pathological features for prognosis and 18 features for adjuvant therapy. Data were analysed using a rating scale and graded response model in item response theory (IRT) on STATA (Stata MP, version 15; StataCorp LP). One hundred and sixty-four specialists (45 oncologists, 86 surgeons and 33 pathologists) participated. Based on IRT modelling, the most important pathological features for prognosis in colon cancer were distant metastases, lymph node metastases and liver metastases. Other features seen as important were tumour rupture, involved margin, radial margin, CRM, lymphovascular invasion and grade of differentiation. Size of tumour, location, lymph node ratio and EGFR status were considered less important. The most important features in decision making for adjuvant therapy in stage II colon cancer were tumour rupture, lymphovascular invasion and microsatellite instability. BRAF status, size of tumour, location, tumour budding and tumour infiltrating lymphocytes were factored as lesser importance. Biomarkers such as CDX2, EGFR, KRAS and BRAF status present areas for further research to improve precision oncology. This study provides the most current status on the importance of pathological features in prognostication and recommendations for adjuvant therapy in Australia and New Zealand. Results of this nationwide study may be useful to help in guiding prognosis and adjuvant treatment in colon cancer.

Prognostic Impact of Tumor Budding on Moroccan Colon Cancer Patients

BACKGROUND

Tumor budding is now emerging as one of the robust and promising histological factors that play an important role in colon cancer. In this study, we aimed to investigate the association between tumor budding and tumor clinicopathological factors, tumor molecular signature, and patient survival for the first time in a Moroccan population.

METHODS

We collected data of 100 patients operated from colon adenocarcinoma. Tumor budding was assessed on HES slides, according to the International Tumor Budding Consensus Conference 2016 recommendations. The expression of MMR proteins was performed by immunohistochemistry. KRAS and NRAS mutations testing was performed by Sanger sequencing and pyrosequencing.

RESULTS

High tumor budding grade (BUD 3) was found to be significantly associated with adverse clinicopathological features including older age (P=0.03), presence of perineural invasion (P=0.02), presence of vascular invasion (P=0.05), distant metastases (P < 0.001), advanced TNM stage (P=0.001), the occurrence of relapse (P=0.04), and the high number of deceased cases (P=0.02). Interestingly, we found that tumors with high-grade tumor budding were more likely to be microsatellite stable (MSS) (P=0.005) and harbor more KRAS mutations (P=0.02). Tumors with high-grade tumor budding were strongly associated with KRAS G12D mutation (P=0.007). In all stages, high tumor budding was correlated with poorer overall survival (P=0.04) and decreased relapse-free survival with a difference close to significance ((P=0.09). We concluded that high tumor budding was strongly associated with unfavorable clinicopathological features and special molecular biomarkers and effectively affects the overall survival of CC patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on these findings and the ITBCC group recommendations, tumor budding should be taken into account along with other clinicopathologic factors in the risk assessment of colorectal cancer.

The feasibility of MRI-based radiomics model in presurgical evaluation of tumor budding in locally advanced rectal cancer

PURPOSE

To build and validate a magnetic resonance imaging-based radiomics model to preoperatively evaluate tumor budding (TB) in locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC).

METHODS

Pathologically confirmed LARC cases submitted to preoperative rectal MRI in two distinct hospitals were enrolled in this retrospective study and assigned to cohort 1 (training set, n = 77; test set, n = 51) and cohort 2 (validation set, n = 96). Radiomics features were obtained from multiple sequences, comprising high-resolution T2, contrast-enhanced T1, and diffusion-weighted imaging (T2WI, CE-T1WI, and DWI, respectively). The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) was utilized to select the optimal features from T2WI, CE-T1WI, DWI, and the combination of multi-sequences, respectively. A support vector machine (SVM) classifier was utilized to construct various radiomics models for discriminating the TB grades. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and decision curve analysis (DCA) were carried out to determine the diagnostic value.

RESULTS

Five optimal features associated with TB grade were determined from combined multi-sequence data. Accordingly, a radiomics model based on combined multi-sequences had an area under the curve of 0.796, with an accuracy of 81.2% in the validation set, showing a better performance in comparison with other models in both cohorts (p < 0.05). DCA exhibited a clinical benefit for this radiomics model.

CONCLUSION

The novel MRI-based radiomics model combining multiple sequences is an effective and non-invasive approach for evaluating TB grade preoperatively in patients with LARC.

Pathological Features and Prognostication in Colorectal Cancer

The prognostication of colorectal cancer (CRC) has traditionally relied on staging as defined by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) TNM staging classifications. However, clinically, there appears to be differences in survival patterns independent of stage, suggesting a complex interaction of stage, pathological features, and biomarkers playing a role in guiding prognosis, risk stratification, and guiding neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies. Histological features such as tumour budding, perineural invasion, apical lymph node involvement, lymph node yield, lymph node ratio, and molecular features such as MSI, KRAS, BRAF, and CDX2 may assist in prognostication and optimising adjuvant treatment. This study provides a comprehensive review of the pathological features and biomarkers that are important in the prognostication and treatment of CRC. We review the importance of pathological features and biomarkers that may be important in colorectal cancer based on the current evidence in the literature.

TRAIL signaling promotes entosis in colorectal cancer

Entosis is a form of nonphagocytic cell-in-cell (CIC) interaction where a living cell enters into another. Tumors show evidence of entosis; however, factors controlling entosis remain to be elucidated. Here, we find that besides inducing apoptosis, TRAIL signaling is a potent activator of entosis in colon cancer cells. Initiation of both apoptosis and entosis requires TRAIL receptors DR4 and DR5; however, induction of apoptosis and entosis diverges at caspase-8 as its structural presence is sufficient for induction of entosis but not apoptosis. Although apoptosis and entosis are morphologically and biochemically distinct, knockout of Bax and Bak, or inhibition of caspases, also inhibits entotic cell death and promotes survival and release of inner cells. Analysis of colorectal cancer tumors reveals a significant association between TRAIL signaling and CIC structures. Finally, the presence of CIC structures in the invasive front regions of colorectal tumors shows a strong correlation with adverse patient prognosis.

Investigation of Novel Small Molecular TRPM4 Inhibitors in Colorectal Cancer Cells

Simple Summary

Transient receptor potential melastatin 4 (TRPM4) ion channel malfunction or aberrant expression is implicated in many diseases, including different cancers and cardiovascular diseases. Currently, there is a need for specific and potent TRPM4 inhibitors. They would allow to study the role of TRPM4 in disease models and to validate it as a potential target in therapies, including anti-cancer therapy. In colorectal cancer (CRC), TRPM4 is upregulated, and its conductivity plays a role in the regulation of viability and cell cycle of CRC cells. In this study, we tested three novel TRPM4 inhibitors, CBA, NBA, and LBA, in CRC cells. In HCT116 cells, we show that NBA inhibits TRPM4 currents in the micromolar range and alters proliferation and cell cycle. Furthermore, NBA decreases the viability of Colo205 cells. This makes NBA a promising candidate for further evaluation as a specific TRPM4 inhibitor in other cellular systems and disease models.

Abstract

(1) Background: Transient receptor potential melastatin (TRPM4) ion channel aberrant expression or malfunction contributes to different types of cancer, including colorectal cancer (CRC). However, TRPM4 still needs to be validated as a potential target in anti-cancer therapy. Currently, the lack of potent and selective TRPM4 inhibitors limits further studies on TRPM4 in cancer disease models. In this study, we validated novel TRPM4 inhibitors, CBA, NBA, and LBA, in CRC cells. (2) Methods: The potency to inhibit TRPM4 conductivity in CRC cells was assessed with the whole-cell patch clamp technique. Furthermore, the impact of TRPM4 inhibitors on cellular functions, such as viability, proliferation, and cell cycle, were assessed in cellular assays. (3) Results: We show that in CRC cells, novel TRPM4 inhibitors irreversibly block TRPM4 currents in a low micromolar range. NBA decreases proliferation and alters the cell cycle in HCT116 cells. Furthermore, NBA reduces the viability of the Colo205 cell line, which highly expresses TRPM4. (4) Conclusions: NBA is a promising new TRPM4 inhibitor candidate, which could be used to study the role of TRPM4 in cancer disease models and other diseases.

Predicting Tumor Budding Status in Cervical Cancer Using MRI Radiomics: Linking Imaging Biomarkers to Histologic Characteristics

BACKGROUND

Our previous study demonstrated that tumor budding (TB) status was associated with inferior overall survival in cervical cancer. The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether radiomic features can predict TB status in cervical cancer patients.

METHODS

Seventy-four patients with cervical cancer who underwent preoperative MRI and radical hysterectomy from 2011 to 2015 at our institution were enrolled. The patients were randomly allocated to the training dataset (n = 48) and test dataset (n = 26). Tumors were segmented on axial gadolinium-enhanced T1- and T2-weighted images. A total of 2074 radiomic features were extracted. Four machine learning classifiers, including logistic regression (LR), random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and neural network (NN), were used. The trained models were validated on the test dataset.

RESULTS

Twenty radiomic features were selected; all were features from filtered-images and 85% were texture-related features. The area under the curve values and accuracy of the models by LR, RF, SVM and NN were 0.742 and 0.769, 0.782 and 0.731, 0.849 and 0.885, and 0.891 and 0.731, respectively, in the test dataset.

CONCLUSION

MRI-based radiomic features could predict TB status in patients with cervical cancer.

Stroma AReactive Invasion Front Areas (SARIFA)-A New Easily to Determine Biomarker in Colon Cancer-Results of a Retrospective Study

Simple Summary

Many studies have used histomorphological features to more precisely predict the prognosis of patients with colon cancer, focusing on tumor budding, poorly differentiated clusters, and the tumor–stroma ratio. Here, we introduce SARIFA: Stroma AReactive Invasion Front Area(s). We defined SARIFA as the direct contact between a tumor gland/tumor cell cluster (≥5 cells) and inconspicuous surrounding adipose tissue in the invasion front. SARIFA shows an excellent interobserver reliability and high prognostic value and is thus a promising histomorphological prognostic indicator for adipose-infiltrative adenocarcinomas of the colon.

Abstract

Many studies have used histomorphological features to more precisely predict the prognosis of patients with colon cancer, focusing on tumor budding, poorly differentiated clusters, and the tumor–stroma ratio. Here, we introduce SARIFA: Stroma AReactive Invasion Front Area(s). We defined SARIFA as the direct contact between a tumor gland/tumor cell cluster (≥5 cells) and inconspicuous surrounding adipose tissue in the invasion front. In this retrospective, single-center study, we classified 449 adipose-infiltrative adenocarcinomas (not otherwise specified) from two groups based on SARIFA and found 25% of all tumors to be SARIFA-positive. Kappa values between the two pathologists were good/very good: 0.77 and 0.87. Patients with SARIFA-positive tumors had a significantly shorter colon-cancer-specific survival (p = 0.008, group A), absence of metastasis, and overall survival (p < 0.001, p = 0.003, group B). SARIFA was significantly associated with adverse features such as pT4 stage, lymph node metastasis, tumor budding, and higher tumor grade. Moreover, SARIFA was confirmed as an independent prognostic indicator for colon-cancer-specific survival (p = 0.011, group A). SARIFA assessment was very quick (<1 min). Because of low interobserver variability and good prognostic significance, SARIFA seems to be a promising histomorphological prognostic indicator in adipose-infiltrative adenocarcinomas of the colon. Further studies should validate our results and also determine whether SARIFA is a universal prognostic indicator in solid cancers.

Superpixel image segmentation of VISTA expression in colorectal cancer and its relationship to the tumoral microenvironment

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cause of cancer related death in the United States (Jasperson et al. in Gastroenterology 138:2044–2058, 10.1053/j.gastro.2010.01.054, 2010). Many studies have explored prognostic factors in CRC. Today, much focus has been placed on the tumor microenvironment, including different immune cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM). The present study aims to evaluate the role of V-domain immunoglobulin suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA). We utilized QuPath for whole slides image analysis, performing superpixel image segmentation (SIS) on a 226 patient-cohort. High VISTA expression correlated with better disease-free survival (DFS), high tumor infiltrative lymphocyte, microsatellite instability, BRAF mutational status as well as lower tumor stage. High VISTA expression was also associated with mature stromal differentiation (SD). When cohorts were separated based on SD and MMR, only patients with immature SD and microsatellite stability were found to correlate VISTA expression with DFS. Considering raised VISTA expression is associated with improved survival, TILs, mature SD, and MMR in CRC; careful, well-designed clinical trials should be pursued which incorporate the underlying tumoral microenvironment.

Tumor Budding as a Prognostic Marker in Rectal Cancer Patients on Propensity Score Analysis

BACKGROUND

Tumor budding is associated with adverse histology. It is a predictor of poor oncologic outcomes in colorectal cancer. However, it remains unclear whether tumor budding is a predictor of poor prognosis for rectal cancer patients regardless of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study analyzed 2888 rectal cancer patients who underwent radical surgery from 2007 to 2014. Among these patients, 939 underwent nCRT while 1949 did not receive nCRT. Tumor budding was defined as positive if the number of isolated tumor cells or small clusters of up to five tumor cells at the invasive front of the tumor was five or more. If the number was less than five, it was defined as negative. Patients were categorized according to tumor budding status. We used 1:1 propensity score matching to adjust for potential baseline confounders between the two groups.

RESULTS

Among 2888 patients, 939 received nCRT while 1949 did not receive nCRT. A total of 418 patients who received nCRT were matched (209 in each group). A total of 1024 patients without nCRT were also matched (512 in each group). In matched patients, 5-year overall survival (OS) and 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) rates for the positive budding group were significantly lower than those in the negative budding group regardless of nCRT. On multivariate analysis of prognostic factors, positive budding was associated with poorer disease-free survival independent of nCRT.

CONCLUSION

Tumor budding positivity is a prognostic indicator of poor outcomes in rectal cancer patients regardless of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy.

Combined histopathological risk score using TP53 protein expression, CD8+ T cell density and intratumoral budding is an independent predictor of neoadjuvant therapy response in rectal adenocarcinoma

AIMS

Neoadjuvant therapy is the recommended treatment for locally advanced rectal adenocarcinoma; however, there remains significant variability in response to therapy. Tumour protein 53 (TP53) has been associated with therapy response and prognosis with conflicting data. Recently, we demonstrated that immune cell density and intratumoral budding (ITB) are predictive factors in rectal cancer. We investigated the predictive value of TP53 immunohistochemistry with CD8⁺ T cell density and ITB on pretreatment biopsies of rectal adenocarcinoma for response to neoadjuvant therapy.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Pretreatment biopsies of rectal adenocarcinoma from 117 patients with neoadjuvant therapy were analysed for TP53 expression by immunohistochemistry, ITB, CD8⁺ T cell density and mismatch repair protein (MMR) status. Most rectal adenocarcinomas displayed aberrant TP53 expression (86 of 117, 74%). Compared to wild-type TP53, aberrant TP53 expression was associated with proficient MMR status (P = 0.003) and low CD8⁺ T cell density (P = 0.001). Aberrant TP53 was significantly associated with a partial to poor response to neoadjuvant therapy [odds ratio (OR) = 2.42, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.04-5.62, P = 0.04]. A combined histopathological risk score (HRS) was created using CD8⁺ T cell density, ITB and TP53 expression. Patients were separated into low (none to one factor) and high (two to three factors) HRS categories. In the multivariable model, patients with a high HRS were 3.25-fold more likely to have a partial or poor response to neoadjuvant therapy (95% CI = 1.48-7.11, P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates that aberrant TP53 expression, high ITB and low CD8⁺ T cell density in pretreatment biopsies can help predict response to neoadjuvant therapy. These biomarkers may be helpful in identifying patients at risk for therapy resistance.

RETRACTED: Tumor cell-secreted exosomal miR-22-3p inhibits transgelin and induces vascular abnormalization to promote tumor budding

This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (http://www.elsevier.com/locate/withdrawalpolicy). This article has been retracted at the request of the editor-in-chief. The editor-in-chief was informed of evidence for image duplication in identical or altered fashion in Figures 3A and 8D, as well as undisclosed reuse of an image in Figure 5B from a previous article in Cell Death & Disease (https://doi.org/10.1038/s41419-018-0902-5), in a PubPeer thread: https://pubpeer.com/publications/F5B591481C516F4CE42C7925AC48E9. Image analysis performed by the journal's editorial office confirmed these findings. This reuse (and in part misrepresentation) of data without appropriate attribution represents a severe abuse of the scientific publishing system.

Assessment of Histological Features in Squamous Cell Carcinoma Involving Head and Neck Skin and Mucosa

BACKGROUND

squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of malignancy worldwide. Skin and mucosa of the head and neck areas are the most frequently affected. An aggressive behavior in SCC is not easily detected, and despite all efforts, mortality in these types of cancer did not show major improvements during recent decades. In this study, we aim to determine the role of histological features available through standard pathology assessment in SCC and their relation with tumor behavior and patients' survival.

METHOD

in a group of one hundred patients diagnosed with SCC involving the head and neck areas, we assessed the presence of four histological features (tumor/stroma ratio, immune infiltration at the front of invasion, tumor-budding activity, and tumor necrosis), their correlations with tumor type (mucosal or cutaneous), tumor clinicopathological characteristics, and their prognostic potential.

RESULTS

the comparison between histological features in cutaneous versus mucosal SCC reveals no significant differences for any of the four parameters assessed. We found significant correlations between tumor/stroma ratio and lymphatic metastasis (p = 0.0275), perineural invasion (p = 0.0006), and clinical staging (p = 0.0116). Immune infiltration at the front of invasion revealed similar correlations with lymph node involvement (p = 0.002), perineural invasion (p = 0.0138), and clinical staging (p = 0.0043). Tumor budding and tumor necrosis correlated with the size of the tumor (p = 0.0077 and p = 0.0004) and the clinical staging (p = 0.0039 and p = 0.0143). In addition, tumor budding was significantly correlated with perineural invasion (p = 0.0454). In mucosal SCC, patients with improved outcome revealed high values for the tumor/stroma ratio (p = 0.0159) and immune infiltration at the front of invasion (p = 0.0274). However, the multivariate analysis did not confirm their independent prognostic roles.

CONCLUSIONS

extended histological assessments that include features such as tumor/stroma ratio, immune infiltration at the front of invasion, tumor budding, and tumor necrosis can be an easy, accessible method to collect additional information on tumor aggressiveness in skin and mucosa SCC affecting the head and neck areas.