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Fujii E, Kato MK, Yamaguchi M, Higuchi D, Koyama T, Komatsu M, Hamamoto R, Ishikawa M, Kato T, Kohno T, Shiraishi K, Yoshida H. Genomic profiles of Japanese patients with vulvar squamous cell carcinoma. Sci Rep 2024; 14:13058. [PMID: 38844774 PMCID: PMC11156893 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-63913-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence of vulvar carcinoma varies by race; however, it is a rare disease, and its genomic profiles remain largely unknown. This study examined the characteristics of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) in Japanese patients, focusing on genomic profiles and potential racial disparities. The study included two Japanese groups: the National Cancer Center Hospital (NCCH) group comprised 19 patients diagnosed between 2015 and 2023, and the Center for Cancer Genomics and Advanced Therapeutics group comprised 29 patients diagnosed between 2019 and 2022. Somatic mutations were identified by targeted or panel sequencing, and TP53 was identified as the most common mutation (52-81%), followed by HRAS (7-26%), CDKN2A (21-24%), and PIK3CA (5-10%). The mutation frequencies, except for TP53, were similar to those of Caucasian cohorts. In the NCCH group, 16 patients of HPV-independent tumors were identified by immunohistochemistry and genotyping. Univariate analysis revealed that TP53-mutated patients were associated with a poor prognosis (log-rank test, P = 0.089). Japanese VSCC mutations resembled those of Caucasian vulvar carcinomas, and TP53 mutations predicted prognosis regardless of ethnicity. The present findings suggest potential molecular-targeted therapies for select VSCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erisa Fujii
- Division of Genome Biology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan
- Department of Gynecology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mayumi Kobayashi Kato
- Division of Genome Biology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan
- Department of Gynecology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Maiko Yamaguchi
- Division of Genome Biology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Daiki Higuchi
- Division of Genome Biology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takafumi Koyama
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaaki Komatsu
- Division of Medical AI Research and Development, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
- Cancer Translational Research Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryuji Hamamoto
- Division of Medical AI Research and Development, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
- Cancer Translational Research Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mitsuya Ishikawa
- Department of Gynecology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoyasu Kato
- Department of Gynecology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Kohno
- Division of Genome Biology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan
| | - Kouya Shiraishi
- Division of Genome Biology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan.
- Department of Clinical Genomics, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Hiroshi Yoshida
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan.
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Gordinier ME, Schau GF, Pollock SB, Shields LBE, Talwalkar S. Genomic characterization of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma reveals differential gene expression based on clinical outcome. Gynecol Oncol 2024; 180:111-117. [PMID: 38086165 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2023.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The greatest challenge in the management of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) is treatment of recurrent disease where options for surgery and radiation have been exhausted, or treatment of disease where distant metastasis is present. Identification of mutations differentially expressed between tumor from patients who died of aggressive disease and tumor from patients with an indolent course could reveal novel prognostic indicators and guide development of therapeutic drugs. METHODS From 202 consecutive patients with VSCC, patients who recurred and died of disease (group A) were identified and matched by age, tumor size, depth of invasion and nodal status with those whose disease did not recur (group B). Tumors from 21 patients were subjected to whole exome sequencing of DNA and RNA, immunohistochemistry (IHC) antibodies of PD-L1 and P16, and in-situ hybridization (ISH) for high-risk HPV. RESULTS Analysis of DNA and RNA revealed six genes that were strongly differentially expressed between group A and B: TGM3, ACVR2A, ROS1, NFEL2, CCND1 and BCL6. Clinically relevant DNA mutations were significantly greater in group A versus B: 7 vs 2.3 mutations per patient. The most common genomic alterations were mutations in TP53 and the promoter region of TERT. Other common genomic events include alterations of FAT1, CDKN2A, PIK3CA, CCND1, and LRP1B. All samples were MSI stable and tumor mutational burden (TMB) was similar in groups A and B. Most VSCC specimens (81%) were positive for PD-L1. CONCLUSIONS ACVR2A and TGM3 are significantly under-expressed in tumors with poor outcome, suggesting they may play a role in tumor suppression. Clinical outcome of VSCC appears independent of MSI, TMB, or PD-L1 status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary E Gordinier
- Norton Cancer Institute, Norton Healthcare, Louisville, KY 40207, USA.
| | | | | | - Lisa B E Shields
- Norton Neuroscience Institute, Norton Healthcare, Louisville, KY 40202, USA.
| | - Sameer Talwalkar
- Department of Pathology, Norton Healthcare, Louisville, KY 40202, USA.
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Xi R, Li D, Yang S, Zhang H, Hu L, Wang X, Wang G, Wang Y. Identification of potential prognostic biomarkers in vulval squamous cell carcinoma based on human papillomavirus infection Status-Analysis of GSE183454. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2023; 43:2160930. [PMID: 36689258 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2022.2160930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to elucidate the differences in vulval squamous cell carcinomas (VSCC) based on the HPV infection status. The sequencing data GSE183454 which contains 23 VSCC samples based on its HPV infection status was obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. We comprehensively dissected the differences of genomic and tumour microenvironment (TME) immune cell infiltration landscapes between HPV + and HPV- VSCC. The potential molecular mechanisms of prognostic genes were explored by functional enrichment analysis. Five novel key molecules (SYCP2, SMC1B, RNF212, MAJIN and C14orf39) with significantly up-regulated expression in HPV + VSCC were identified while protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were created upon Cytoscape software. Additionally, VSCC with up-regulated expression of these key molecules exhibited a significantly decreased TME immune cell infiltration. SYCP2 is overexpressed in HPV + VSCC and could be a candidate therapy target for further research.IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on this subject? VSCC are characterised by two aetiological pathways. The former occurs in the background of lichen sclerosus, while the latter is related to HPV infection. VSCC most commonly arises from the non-HPV related pathway portends worse prognosis than VSCC derived from HPV infection.What do the results of this study add? Five key molecules are identified and significantly up-regulated in HPV + VSCC. In which, SYCP2 is overexpressed in HPV + VSCC and exhibited a significantly decreased TME immune cell infiltration. SYCP2 constant expression could be a potential biomarker of neoplasms associated with HPV and could be a candidate therapy target in VSCC especially HPV + VSCC for further research.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? SYCP2 could be a candidate therapy target in VSCC especially with HPV + for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruxing Xi
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Donghong Li
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Shuanque Yang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Lijuan Hu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaowei Wang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Guoqing Wang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Nursing, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, Xi'an, China
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Lekshmy M, Dhanya CR, Smrithi JS, Sindhurani JA, Vandanamthadathil JJ, Veettil JT, Anila L, Lathakumari VS, Nayar AM, Madhavan M. Peptide Vaccines as Therapeutic and Prophylactic Agents for Female-Specific Cancers: The Current Landscape. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1054. [PMID: 37513965 PMCID: PMC10383774 DOI: 10.3390/ph16071054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast and gynecologic cancers are significant global threats to women's health and those living with the disease require lifelong physical, financial, and social support from their families, healthcare providers, and society as a whole. Cancer vaccines offer a promising means of inducing long-lasting immune response against the disease. Among various types of cancer vaccines available, peptide vaccines offer an effective strategy to elicit specific anti-tumor immune responses. Peptide vaccines have been developed based on tumor associated antigens (TAAs) and tumor specific neoantigens which can also be of viral origin. Molecular alterations in HER2 and non-HER2 genes are established to be involved in the pathogenesis of female-specific cancers and hence were exploited for the development of peptide vaccines against these diseases, most of which are in the latter stages of clinical trials. However, prophylactic vaccines for viral induced cancers, especially those against Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection are well established. This review discusses therapeutic and prophylactic approaches for various types of female-specific cancers such as breast cancer and gynecologic cancers with special emphasis on peptide vaccines. We also present a pipeline for the design and evaluation of a multiepitope peptide vaccine that can be active against female-specific cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manju Lekshmy
- Department of Botany and Biotechnology, St. Xavier's College, Thumba, Thiruvananthapuram 695586, Kerala, India
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Leelamma Anila
- Department of Biochemistry, NSS College, Nilamel, Kollam 691535, Kerala, India
| | - Vishnu Sasidharan Lathakumari
- Department of Biochemistry and Industrial Microbiology, Sree Narayana College for Women, Kollam 691001, Kerala, India
| | - Adhira M Nayar
- Department of Zoology, Mahatma Gandhi College, Thiruvananthapuram 695004, Kerala, India
| | - Maya Madhavan
- Department of Biochemistry, Government College for Women, Thiruvananthapuram 695014, Kerala, India
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Yang H, Almadani N, Thompson EF, Tessier-Cloutier B, Chen J, Ho J, Senz J, McConechy MK, Chow C, Ta M, Cheng A, Karnezis A, Huvila J, McAlpine JN, Gilks B, Jamieson A, Hoang LN. Classification of Vulvar Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Precursor Lesions by p16 and p53 Immunohistochemistry: Considerations, Caveats, and an Algorithmic Approach. Mod Pathol 2023; 36:100145. [PMID: 36828360 DOI: 10.1016/j.modpat.2023.100145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
There is emerging evidence that vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) can be prognostically subclassified into 3 groups based on human papillomavirus (HPV) and p53 status: HPV-associated (HPV+), HPV-independent/p53 wild-type (HPV-/p53wt), or HPV-independent/p53 abnormal (HPV-/p53abn). Our goal was to assess the feasibility of separating VSCC and its precursors into these 3 groups using p16 and p53 immunohistochemistry (IHC). A tissue microarray containing 225 VSCC, 43 usual vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (uVIN/HSIL), 10 verruciform acanthotic vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (vaVIN), and 34 differentiated VIN (dVIN), was stained for p16 and p53. Noncomplementary p16 and p53 patterns were resolved by repeating p53 IHC and HPV RNA in situ hybridization (ISH) on whole sections, and sequencing for TP53. Of 82 p16-positive VSCC, 73 (89%) had complementary p16 and p53 patterns and were classified into the HPV+ group, 4 (4.9%) had wild-type p53 staining, positive HPV ISH and were classified into the HPV+ group, whereas 5 (6.1%) had p53 abnormal IHC patterns (1 null, 4 overexpression), negativity for HPV ISH, and harbored TP53 mutations (1 splice site, 4 missense); they were classified as HPV-/p53abn. Of 143 p16-negative VSCC, 142 (99.3%) had complementary p53 and p16 patterns: 115 (80.4%) HPV-/p53abn and 27 (18.9%) HPV-/p53wt. One had a basal-sparing p53 pattern, positivity for HPV ISH and was negative for TP53 mutations-HPV+ category. The use of IHC also led to revised diagnoses-HSIL to dVIN (3/43), dVIN to vaVIN (8/34), and dVIN to HSIL (3/34). Overall, 215/225 VSCC (95.6%) could be easily classifiable into 3 groups with p16 and p53 IHC. We identified several caveats, with the major caveat being that "double-positive" p16/p53 should be classified as HPV-/p53abn. We propose an algorithm that will facilitate the application of p16 and p53 IHC to classify VSCC in pathology practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Yang
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia and Vancouver General Hospital, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Noorah Almadani
- Department of Pathology, Ministry of the National Guard - Health Affairs, and King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Emily F Thompson
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia and Vancouver General Hospital, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Julia Chen
- Medical Undergraduate Program, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Julie Ho
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia and Vancouver General Hospital, British Columbia, Canada; Genetic Pathology Evaluation Center (GPEC) and Molecular and Advanced Pathology Core (MAPcore), British Columbia, Canada
| | - Janine Senz
- Molecular Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Christine Chow
- Genetic Pathology Evaluation Center (GPEC) and Molecular and Advanced Pathology Core (MAPcore), British Columbia, Canada
| | - Monica Ta
- Genetic Pathology Evaluation Center (GPEC) and Molecular and Advanced Pathology Core (MAPcore), British Columbia, Canada
| | - Angela Cheng
- Genetic Pathology Evaluation Center (GPEC) and Molecular and Advanced Pathology Core (MAPcore), British Columbia, Canada
| | - Anthony Karnezis
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, UC Davis Medical Center, California
| | - Jutta Huvila
- Department of Pathology, University of Turku, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Jessica N McAlpine
- Gynecologic Oncology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Blake Gilks
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia and Vancouver General Hospital, British Columbia, Canada; Genetic Pathology Evaluation Center (GPEC) and Molecular and Advanced Pathology Core (MAPcore), British Columbia, Canada
| | - Amy Jamieson
- Gynecologic Oncology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lynn N Hoang
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia and Vancouver General Hospital, British Columbia, Canada; Genetic Pathology Evaluation Center (GPEC) and Molecular and Advanced Pathology Core (MAPcore), British Columbia, Canada.
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Di Fiore R, Suleiman S, Drago-Ferrante R, Subbannayya Y, Suleiman S, Vasileva-Slaveva M, Yordanov A, Pentimalli F, Giordano A, Calleja-Agius J. The Role of FBXW7 in Gynecologic Malignancies. Cells 2023; 12:1415. [PMID: 37408248 DOI: 10.3390/cells12101415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The F-Box and WD Repeat Domain Containing 7 (FBXW7) protein has been shown to regulate cellular growth and act as a tumor suppressor. This protein, also known as FBW7, hCDC4, SEL10 or hAGO, is encoded by the gene FBXW7. It is a crucial component of the Skp1-Cullin1-F-box (SCF) complex, which is a ubiquitin ligase. This complex aids in the degradation of many oncoproteins, such as cyclin E, c-JUN, c-MYC, NOTCH, and MCL1, via the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). The FBXW7 gene is commonly mutated or deleted in numerous types of cancer, including gynecologic cancers (GCs). Such FBXW7 mutations are linked to a poor prognosis due to increased treatment resistance. Hence, detection of the FBXW7 mutation may possibly be an appropriate diagnostic and prognostic biomarker that plays a central role in determining suitable individualized management. Recent studies also suggest that, under specific circumstances, FBXW7 may act as an oncogene. There is mounting evidence indicating that the aberrant expression of FBXW7 is involved in the development of GCs. The aim of this review is to give an update on the role of FBXW7 as a potential biomarker and also as a therapeutic target for novel treatments, particularly in the management of GCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Di Fiore
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, MSD 2080 Msida, Malta
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
| | - Sherif Suleiman
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, MSD 2080 Msida, Malta
| | | | - Yashwanth Subbannayya
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK
| | - Sarah Suleiman
- Whipps Cross Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, Leytonstone, London E11 1NR, UK
| | - Mariela Vasileva-Slaveva
- Department of Breast Surgery, "Dr. Shterev" Hospital, 1330 Sofia, Bulgaria
- Research Institute, Medical University Pleven, 5800 Pleven, Bulgaria
- Bulgarian Breast and Gynecological Cancer Association, 1784 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Angel Yordanov
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Medical University Pleven, 5800 Pleven, Bulgaria
| | - Francesca Pentimalli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, LUM University "Giuseppe DeGennaro", 70010 Casamassima, Italy
| | - Antonio Giordano
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Jean Calleja-Agius
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, MSD 2080 Msida, Malta
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Molecular Features of Preinvasive and Invasive Vulvar Neoplasms. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2023; 27:40-46. [PMID: 36083687 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Neoplasms arising from the vulva are uncommon and comprise various subtypes. Given the recent advancements in the molecular aspects of oncologic pathology and how they have impacted cancer treatment, an understanding of recent innovations in the molecular features of vulvar lesions is important. MATERIALS AND METHODS Systematic literature search was performed on PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases for molecular and genetic characteristics of vulvar neoplasms. Peer-reviewed literature published in English is included. RESULTS Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and its precursors are the predominant neoplasm at this site. Human papillomavirus (HPV) plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of some of these lesions. Human papillomavirus-associated SCC follows the carcinogenic pathway driven by viral proteins E6 and E7 while HPV-independent SCC shows a high incidence of mutation of TP53 and CDKN2A genes. Mutations in the genes involving the PI3K-Akt pathway play an important role in the pathogenesis of both types of SCC. Among other vulvar malignancies, melanoma, and vulvar Paget disease (VPD) pose a significant clinical challenge and have unique molecular characteristics. Compared with dermal cutaneous melanoma, vulvar melanoma shows a higher rate of mutation of cKIT and NRAS genes and a lower rate of mutations in BRAF . Less than 20% of VPD shows amplification of ERBB2 and seldom shows mutation in genes involving the PI3K-Akt pathway. CONCLUSIONS Several potentially targetable molecular pathways have emerged as they have been shown to be involved in the tumorigenesis of SCC, melanoma, and VPD.
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Hopkins MR, Palsgrove DN, Ronnett BM, Vang R, Lin J, Murdock TA. Molecular Analysis of HPV-independent Primary Endometrial Squamous Cell Carcinoma Reveals TP53 and CDKN2A Comutations : A Clinicopathologic Analysis With Re-evaluation of Diagnostic Criteria. Am J Surg Pathol 2022; 46:1611-1622. [PMID: 36069815 DOI: 10.1097/pas.0000000000001970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV)-independent primary endometrial squamous cell carcinoma (PESCC) is a rare but aggressive subtype of endometrial carcinoma for which little is known about the genomic characteristics. Traditional criteria have restricted the diagnosis of PESCC to cases without any cervical involvement. However, given that modern ancillary techniques can detect HPV and characteristic genetic alterations that should identify the more common mimics in the differential diagnosis, including endometrial endometrioid carcinoma with extensive squamous differentiation and HPV-associated primary cervical squamous cell carcinoma, those criteria may benefit from revision. To further characterize PESCC, we identified 5 cases of pure squamous cell carcinoma dominantly involving the endometrium that had the potential to be PESCC: 1 case involving only the endometrium and 4 cases with some involvement of the cervix. Clinicopathologic features were assessed and immunohistochemical analysis (p16, estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and p53), HPV RNA in situ hybridization (high-risk and low-risk cocktails and targeted probes for 16 and 18), and molecular studies were performed. All tumors showed aberrant/mutation-type p53 expression, were negative for estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and p16, and had no detectable HPV. Per whole-exome sequencing, 4 of the 5 tumors demonstrated comutations in TP53 and CDKN2A (p16). Four patients died of disease within 20 months (range, 1 to 20 mo; mean, 9 mo), and 1 patient had no evidence of disease at 38 months. PESCC represents a unique, clinically aggressive subtype of endometrial cancer with TP53 and CDKN2A comutations. This characteristic profile, which is similar to HPV-independent squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva, is distinct from endometrioid carcinoma with extensive squamous differentiation and HPV-associated primary cervical squamous cell carcinoma and can be used to distinguish PESCC from those mimics even when cervical involvement is present. Diagnostic criteria for PESCC should be relaxed to allow for cervical involvement when other pathologic features are consistent with, and ancillary techniques are supportive of classification as such.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jeffrey Lin
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, the Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD
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Thompson EF, Hoang L, Höhn AK, Palicelli A, Talia KL, Tchrakian N, Senz J, Rusike R, Jordan S, Jamieson A, Huvila J, McAlpine JN, Gilks CB, Höckel M, Singh N, Horn LC. Molecular subclassification of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma: reproducibility and prognostic significance of a novel surgical technique. Int J Gynecol Cancer 2022; 32:977-985. [PMID: 35764349 DOI: 10.1136/ijgc-2021-003251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Vulvar squamous cell carcinoma is subclassified into three prognostically relevant groups: (i) human papillomavirus (HPV) associated, (ii) HPV independent p53 abnormal (mutant pattern), and (iii) HPV independent p53 wild type. Immunohistochemistry for p16 and p53 serve as surrogates for HPV viral integration and TP53 mutational status. We assessed the reproducibility of the subclassification based on p16 and p53 immunohistochemistry and evaluated the prognostic significance of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma molecular subgroups in a patient cohort treated by vulvar field resection surgery. METHODS In this retrospective cohort study, 68 cases treated by vulvar field resection were identified from the Leipzig School of Radical Pelvic Surgery. Immunohistochemistry for p16 and p53 was performed at three different institutions and evaluated independently by seven pathologists and two trainees. Tumors were classified into one of four groups: HPV associated, HPV independent p53 wild type, HPV independent p53 abnormal, and indeterminate. Selected cases were further interrogated by (HPV RNA in situ hybridization, TP53 sequencing). RESULTS Final subclassification yielded 22 (32.4%) HPV associated, 41 (60.3%) HPV independent p53 abnormal, and 5 (7.3%) HPV independent p53 wild type tumors. Interobserver agreement (overall Fleiss' kappa statistic) for the four category classification was 0.74. No statistically significant differences in clinical outcomes between HPV associated and HPV independent vulvar squamous cell carcinoma were observed. CONCLUSION Interobserver reproducibility of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma subclassification based on p16 and p53 immunohistochemistry may support routine use in clinical practice. Vulvar field resection surgery showed no significant difference in clinical outcomes when stratified based on HPV status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily F Thompson
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Center, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lynn Hoang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Anne Kathrin Höhn
- Division of Gynecologic Pathology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Andrea Palicelli
- Pathology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Karen L Talia
- Royal Women's Hospital and VCS Foundation, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nairi Tchrakian
- Department of Molecular Oncology, BC Cancer Research Center, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Janine Senz
- Department of Molecular Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Research Center, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | | | - Amy Jamieson
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jutta Huvila
- Department of Pathology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Jessica N McAlpine
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division Gynecologic Oncology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - C Blake Gilks
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Michael Höckel
- Leipzig School of Radical Pelvis Surgery, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Naveena Singh
- Cellular Pathology, Barts Health and NHS Trust and Queen Mary University, London, UK
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Wei KX, Hoang LN. Squamous and Glandular Lesions of the Vulva and Vagina: What's New and What Remains Unanswered? Surg Pathol Clin 2022; 15:389-405. [PMID: 35715167 DOI: 10.1016/j.path.2022.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
A number of changes have been introduced into the 5th Edition of the World Health Organization (WHO) Classification of squamous and glandular neoplasms of the vulva and vagina. This review highlights the major shifts in tumor classification, new entities that have been introduced, recommendations for p16 immunohistochemical testing, biomarker use, molecular findings and practical points for pathologists which will affect clinical care. It also touches upon several issues that still remain answered in these rare but undeniably important women's cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly X Wei
- MD Undergraduate Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lynn N Hoang
- Vancouver General Hospital and University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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Mechanisms of Resistance to Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) in Vulvar Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084117. [PMID: 35456936 PMCID: PMC9028356 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a valuable treatment method for vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN). It allows for the treatment of a multifocal disease with minimal tissue destruction. 5-Aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) is the most commonly used prodrug, which is converted in the heme pathway to protoporphyrin IX (PpIX), an actual photosensitizer (PS). Unfortunately, not all patients treated with PDT undergo complete remission. The main cause of their failure is resistance to anticancer therapy. In many cancers, resistance to various anticancer treatments is correlated with increased activity of the DNA repair protein apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1 (APE1). Enhanced activity of drug pumps may also affect the effectiveness of therapy. To investigate whether multidrug resistance mechanisms underlie PDT resistance in VIN, porphyrins were isolated from sensitive and resistant vulvar cancer cells and their culture media. APE1 activity was measured, and survival assay after PDT combined with APE1 inhibitor was performed. Our results revealed that resistant cells accumulated and effluxed less porphyrins than sensitive cells, and in response to PDT, resistant cells increased APE1 activity. Moreover, PDT combined with inhibition of APE1 significantly decreased the survival of PDT-resistant cells. This means that resistance to PDT in vulvar cancer may be the result of alterations in the heme synthesis pathway. Moreover, increased APE1 activity may be essential for the repair of PDT-mediated DNA damage, and inhibition of APE1 activity may increase the efficacy of PDT.
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Salama AM, Momeni-Boroujeni A, Vanderbilt C, Ladanyi M, Soslow R. Molecular landscape of vulvovaginal squamous cell carcinoma: new insights into molecular mechanisms of HPV-associated and HPV-independent squamous cell carcinoma. Mod Pathol 2022; 35:274-282. [PMID: 34650187 PMCID: PMC9450957 DOI: 10.1038/s41379-021-00942-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Squamous cell carcinomas of the lower female genital tract may be human papillomavirus-associated or independent. We studied the HPV status, mutational repertoire, histology, and clinical data of 28 samples from 26 patients, 65% with a vulvar primary and 35% with a vaginal primary. These represented invasive vulvovaginal squamous cell carcinomas that underwent clinical tumor-normal targeted massively parallel sequencing analysis. HPV status was determined using the HPV high-risk RNA ISH assay and/or by MSK-IMPACT. Eleven patients had HPV-associated squamous cell carcinoma (four vulvar and seven vaginal) and 15 patients had HPV-independent SqCC (13 vulvar and 2 vaginal). Well-differentiated squamous cell carcinomas were always HPV-independent. HPV-independent moderately and poorly differentiated carcinomas frequently had alterations in the NOTCH signaling pathway (6/7), which were also associated with increased tumor budding (P: 0.002). HPV-associated vulvovaginal squamous cell carcinoma had PIK3CA activating mutations (7/11, 64%) as the most common genomic event, while TERT gene alterations, mainly TERT promoter mutations (14/15 cases, 93%) featured significantly in HPV-independent carcinomas. Other common abnormalities in HPV-independent tumors were TP53 mutations (13/15, 87%), CDKN2A alterations (10/15, 67%), and NOTCH1 and FAT1 mutations (7/15, 47% each). A subset of both HPV-associated and -independent tumors had NOTCH pathway alterations (6/11, 55% and 10/15, 67% respectively), but different genes in this pathway were altered in these tumors. In summary, TERT, TP53, CDKN2A, and NOTCH1 gene alterations strongly point away from an HPV-driven process (odds ratios: 0.01, 0.07, 0, and 0, respectively with p values < 0.02 for all four genes), while PIK3CA activating mutations without the other mutations strongly favors an HPV-driven tumor (odds ratio: 10.12, p value: 0.016). HPV-independent carcinomas are more likely to be moderately-poorly differentiated with intermediate to high tumor cell budding. Cancer cell fraction analysis of HPV-independent squamous carcinomas suggests that TERT and/or NOTCH1 alterations along with TP53 alterations can be the initiating event in these tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abeer M. Salama
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Chad Vanderbilt
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marc Ladanyi
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert Soslow
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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New Insights into the Epidemiology of Vulvar Cancer: Systematic Literature Review for an Update of Incidence and Risk Factors. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14020389. [PMID: 35053552 PMCID: PMC8773873 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14020389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Vulvar cancer incidence data were sought from official sources (WHO Cancer Incidence in Five Continents) and studies reporting comparable data. With respect to risk factors, a systematic PubMed search of articles published since 1980 identified 69 original cohort and case-control studies. Information was extracted using a PRISMA predesigned data collection form. Recent advances have provided further evidence in support of the carcinogenic model centred on human papillomavirus infection with different defects of the immune function. Conversely, the model centred on the role of vulvar lichen sclerosus and the often-associated differentiated vulva intraepithelial neoplasia has continued to be understudied. Abstract The aim of this review was an update of vulvar cancer incidence rates and trends and of all known and putative risk factors for the disease. The most recent incidence data were sought from official sources (WHO Cancer Incidence in Five Continents). To obtain an estimate of time trends in some areas, we compared data from Cancer Incidence in Five Continents with the few available studies that measured incidence using comparable methods. With respect to risk factors, a systematic PubMed search identified 1585 relevant articles published between 1980 and 2021. Abstracts and full texts were screened. Sixty-nine eligible original cohort and case-control studies were selected. Information was extracted using a PRISMA predesigned form. Nineteen risk factors, or risk factor categories, were investigated by two or more original studies. Solitary, unreplicated studies addressed the putative role of eight more factors. Recent advances have provided further evidence supporting the carcinogenic model centred on human papillomavirus infection with different defects of the immune function. Conversely, the model centred on the role of vulvar lichen sclerosus and the often associated differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia has continued to be epidemiologically understudied. More research on the association between these two conditions and vulvar cancer is a priority.
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Garganese G, Inzani F, Fragomeni SM, Mantovani G, Della Corte L, Piermattei A, Santoro A, Angelico G, Giacò L, Corrado G, Fagotti A, Zannoni GF, Scambia G. The Vulvar Immunohistochemical Panel (VIP) Project: Molecular Profiles of Vulvar Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13246373. [PMID: 34944993 PMCID: PMC8699435 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This study investigated the immunohistochemical expression of 14 biological markers as potential prognostic/therapeutic factors in vulvar squamous cell carcinoma, comparing 53 node-negative (Group A) and 48 node-positive (Group B) patients. Our results show a significantly higher p16 expression (surrogate of HPV-related tumors) in the vulvar samples of non-metastatic patients. In Group B, PD-L1 positivity and high EGFR expression were found in the vast majority of vulvar and/or nodal specimens. VEGF showed strong/moderate-diffuse expression in almost 14% of all vulvar samples. A mutated p53 and over-expressed PD-L1 showed a significant association with nodal metastasis. Our results support a potential role of immune checkpoint inhibitors and anti-VEGF and anti-EGFR drugs, especially in patients with worse prognosis (metastatic, HPV-independent). A panel including EGFR, VEGF, PDL1, p16, and p53 might be performed routinely in primary tumor and repeated in case of lymph node metastases to identify changes in marker expression. Abstract Introduction: The study’s aim was to investigate the immunohistochemical (IHC) expression of biological markers as potential prognostic/therapeutic factors in vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC). Methodology: A series of 101 patients surgically treated at our center from 2016 to 2020 were retrospectively enrolled: 53 node-negative (Group A) and 48 node-positive (Group B). A total of 146 samples, 101 from primary tumor (T) and 45 from nodal metastases (N), were investigated. The IHC panel included: p16, p53, MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, PD-L1, CD3, HER2/neu, ER, PR, EGFR, VEGF, and CD31. The reactions were evaluated on qualitative and semi-quantitative scales. Generalized Linear Model (GLM) and cluster analysis were performed in R statistical environment. A distance plot compared the IHC panel of T with the correspondent N. Results: In Group A: p16-positive expression (surrogate of HPV-dependent pathway) was significantly higher (20.8% vs. 6.2%, p = 0.04). In Group B: PD-L1 positivity and high EGFR expression were found, respectively, in 77.1% and 97.9% patients (T and/or N). Overall, p16-negative tumors showed a higher PD-L1 expression (60.9% vs. 50.0%). In both groups: tumoral immune infiltration (CD3 expression) was mainly moderate/intense (80% vs. 95%); VEGF showed strong/moderate-diffuse expression in 13.9% of T samples; CD31, related to tumoral microvessel density (MVD), showed no difference between groups; a mutated p53 and over-expressed PD-L1 showed significant association with nodal metastasis, with Odds Ratios (OR) of 4.26 (CI 95% = 1.14–15.87, p = 0.03) and 2.68 (CI 95% = 1.0–7.19, p < 0.05), respectively; since all mismatch repair proteins (MMR) showed a retained expression and ER, PR, and HER2/neu were negative, they were excluded from further analysis. The cluster analysis identified three and four sub-groups of molecular profiles, respectively, in Group A and B, with no difference in prognosis. The molecular signature of each N and corresponding T diverged significantly in 18/41 (43.9%) cases. Conclusions: Our results support a potential role of immune checkpoint inhibitors and anti-VEGF and anti-EGFR drugs especially in patients with worse prognosis (metastatic, HPV-independent). A panel including EGFR, VEGF, PDL1, p16, and p53 might be performed routinely in primary tumor and repeated in case of lymph node metastases to identify changes in marker expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Garganese
- Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica, Sezione Ginecologia e Ostetricia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.G.); (A.F.); (G.S.)
- Gynecology and Breast Care Center, Mater Olbia Hospital, 07026 Olbia, Italy
| | - Frediano Inzani
- Unità di Gineco-Patologia e Patologia Mammaria, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (F.I.); (A.P.); (A.S.); (G.A.); (G.F.Z.)
| | - Simona Maria Fragomeni
- Unità di Ginecologia Oncologica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (S.M.F.); (L.D.C.); (G.C.)
| | - Giulia Mantovani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Gynaecologic Oncology and Minimally-Invasive Pelvic Surgery, International School of Surgical Anatomy, IRCCS Sacro Cuore-Don Calabria Hospital, 37024 Negrar di Valpolicella, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Luigi Della Corte
- Unità di Ginecologia Oncologica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (S.M.F.); (L.D.C.); (G.C.)
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Alessia Piermattei
- Unità di Gineco-Patologia e Patologia Mammaria, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (F.I.); (A.P.); (A.S.); (G.A.); (G.F.Z.)
| | - Angela Santoro
- Unità di Gineco-Patologia e Patologia Mammaria, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (F.I.); (A.P.); (A.S.); (G.A.); (G.F.Z.)
| | - Giuseppe Angelico
- Unità di Gineco-Patologia e Patologia Mammaria, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (F.I.); (A.P.); (A.S.); (G.A.); (G.F.Z.)
| | - Luciano Giacò
- Bioinformatics Facility Core Research, Gemelli Science and Technology Park, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Giacomo Corrado
- Unità di Ginecologia Oncologica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (S.M.F.); (L.D.C.); (G.C.)
| | - Anna Fagotti
- Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica, Sezione Ginecologia e Ostetricia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.G.); (A.F.); (G.S.)
- Unità di Ginecologia Oncologica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (S.M.F.); (L.D.C.); (G.C.)
| | - Gian Franco Zannoni
- Unità di Gineco-Patologia e Patologia Mammaria, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (F.I.); (A.P.); (A.S.); (G.A.); (G.F.Z.)
- Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica, Sezione Anatomia Patologica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Scambia
- Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica, Sezione Ginecologia e Ostetricia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy; (G.G.); (A.F.); (G.S.)
- Unità di Ginecologia Oncologica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (S.M.F.); (L.D.C.); (G.C.)
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Transcriptome Analysis in Vulvar Squamous Cell Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13246372. [PMID: 34944992 PMCID: PMC8699756 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The number of women, especially younger women, diagnosed with vulvar cancer, has been rising mainly due to the infection with human papilloma virus (HPV) over the last years. In contrast to other tumor entities, limited information on the underlying genetic changes is available, and thus treatment advances, especially the development of personalized treatments, are hampered. We aimed to explore the RNA expression profiles in a group of 24 vulvar cancer samples in order to detect potential prognostic markers and therapeutic targets in order to establish to a more profound understanding of vulvar cancer carcinogenesis. Abstract To date, therapeutic strategies in vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) are lacking molecular pathological information and targeted therapy hasn’t been approved in the treatment of VSCC, yet. Two etiological pathways are widely accepted: HPV induced vs. HPV independent, associated with chronic skin disease, often harboring TP53 mutations (mut). The aim of this analysis was to analyze the RNA expression patterns for subtype stratification on VSCC samples that can be integrated into the previously performed whole exome sequencing data for the detection of prognostic markers and potential therapeutic targets. We performed multiplex gene expression analysis (NanoString) with 770 genes in 24 prior next generation sequenced samples. An integrative data analysis was performed. Here, 98 genes were differentially expressed in TP53mut vs. HPV+ VSCC, in the TP53mut cohort, where 56 genes were upregulated and 42 were downregulated in comparison to the HPV+ tumors. Aberrant expression was primarily observed in cell cycle regulation, especially in HPV+ disease. Within the TP53mut group, a distinct cluster was identified that was correlated to a significantly worse overall survival (p = 0.017). The RNA expression profiles showed distinct patterns with regard to the known VSCC subtypes and could potentially enable further subclassification in the TP53mut groups
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Next-Generation Sequencing Whole-Genome Analysis for Targeted Treatment Approach of Metastatic Bartholin Gland Adenocarcinoma: An Emblematic Case Report and Review of the Literature. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11112085. [PMID: 34829431 PMCID: PMC8624694 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11112085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Bartholin gland adenocarcinoma (BGA) is extremely rare and is characterized by high rates of lymph-node recurrence and distant metastases. No effective palliative treatments are available for metastatic BGA; therefore, advanced BGA remains a challenge for gynecologic oncologists. Considering the rarity of this disease and the lack of a standardized approach, the present study aims to discuss the available literature on current therapies for BGA and to describe an emblematic case treated with a novel tailored approach. A postmenopausal woman with advanced BGA was referred to our department for an adequate evaluation, staging and treatment. Notably, we used PET/CT as a fundamental imaging technique for staging and follow-up. The patient underwent primary surgery followed by standard chemotherapy and pelvic radiotherapy. Three months later, she relapsed, with the appearance of multiple metastatic sites. Considering the evident chemoresistance to standard chemotherapy and the absence of valid therapeutic alternatives for this rare cancer, she was treated with a combination of repeated minimally invasive surgical procedures for all the resectable metastatic lesions and innovative approaches comprising, firstly, chemoimmunotherapy with Nivolumab combined with metronomic vinorelbine, which resulted in a clinical response for approximately 7 months. Upon disease progression, we used a targeted systemic approach based on the whole genomic profile of the primary tumor, which showed PTEN loss, which is predictive of a benefit from an mTOR inhibitor, and a CCND1 amplification, which predicts sensitivity to CDK4/6 inhibitors. Therefore, she received Everolimus, resulting in a significant metabolic response that lasted 12 months. Thereafter, upon further progression of the disease, the patient started Palbociclib treatment, which is currently ongoing, with evidence of a metabolic response. The patient has survived for 54 months from diagnosis, with a good performance status. In conclusion, the present paper confirms the lack of efficacy of conventional therapeutic regimens in the context of advanced, recurrent or metastatic adenocarcinomas of the Bartholin gland. The case report shows how a personalized multidisciplinary approach based on repeated minimally invasive surgery and tailored anticancer treatment based on whole-genome sequencing analysis could be effective and associated with prolonged survival in this rare gynecological cancer.
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HPV-Positive and HPV-Negative Vulvar Squamous Cell Carcinoma Are Biologically, but Not Clinically, Distinct. J Invest Dermatol 2021; 142:1280-1290.e7. [PMID: 34756880 PMCID: PMC9038635 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) pathogenesis is traditionally defined by the presence or absence of human papillomavirus (HPV), but the definition of these groups and their molecular characteristics remains ambiguous across studies. Here, we present a retrospective cohort analysis of 36 patients with invasive VSCC where HPV status was determined using RNA in situ hybridization (ISH) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Clinical annotation, p16 immunohistochemistry (IHC), programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) IHC, HPV16 circular E7 RNA (circE7) detection, and RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) of the cases was performed. A combination of ISH and PCR identified 20 cases (55.6%) as HPV-positive. HPV-status did not impact overall survival (HR: 1.36, 95% CI: 0.307 to 6.037, p=0.6857) or progression-free survival (HR: 1.12, 95% CI: 0.388 to 3.22, p=0.8367), and no significant clinical differences were found between the groups. PD-L1 expression did not correlate with HPV status, but increased expression of PD-L1 correlated with worse overall survival. Transcriptomic analyses (n=23) revealed distinct groups, defined by HPV status, with multiple differentially expressed genes previously implicated in HPV-induced cancers. HPV-positive tumors showed higher global expression of endogenous circular RNAs (circRNAs), including several circRNAs that have previously been implicated in the pathogenesis of other cancers.
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Bujko M, Zalewski K, Szczyrek M, Kowalik A, Boresowicz J, Długosz A, Goryca K, Góźdź S, Kowalewska M. Circulating Hsa-miR-431-5p as Potential Biomarker for Squamous Cell Vulvar Carcinoma and Its Premalignant Lesions. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11091706. [PMID: 34574047 PMCID: PMC8465739 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11091706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) develops from high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) and differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN). This study aimed to assess the diagnostic value of circulating hsa-miR-431-5p in vulvar precancers and VSCC. Expression levels of hsa-miR-431-5p were analyzed by quantitative RT-PCR in plasma samples of 29 patients with vulvar precancers (HSIL or dVIN), 107 with VSCC as well as 15 healthy blood donors. We used hsa-miR-93-5p and hsa-miR-425-5p as normalizers. The levels of miR-431-5p were increased in the blood of patients with VSCC compared to those with vulvar precancers. Statistically significant differences in the survival rates (time to progression) were revealed for VSCC patients categorized by miR-431-5p levels. Low levels of circulating miR-431-5p were found to be indicative of unfavorable survival rates. In summary, our data reveal the diagnostic potential of circulating miR-431-5p in patients with vulvar precancers and VSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateusz Bujko
- Department of Molecular and Translational Oncology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (M.B.); (K.Z.); (M.S.); (J.B.)
| | - Kamil Zalewski
- Department of Molecular and Translational Oncology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (M.B.); (K.Z.); (M.S.); (J.B.)
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Holycross Cancer Center, 25-734 Kielce, Poland
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, 00-315 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Martyna Szczyrek
- Department of Molecular and Translational Oncology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (M.B.); (K.Z.); (M.S.); (J.B.)
| | - Artur Kowalik
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics, Holycross Cancer Centre, 25-734 Kielce, Poland;
- Division of Medical Biology, Institute of Biology Jan Kochanowski University, 25-406 Kielce, Poland
| | - Joanna Boresowicz
- Department of Molecular and Translational Oncology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (M.B.); (K.Z.); (M.S.); (J.B.)
| | - Angelika Długosz
- Department of Immunology, Biochemistry and Nutrition, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Krzysztof Goryca
- Genomics Core Facility, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Stanisław Góźdź
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Holycross Cancer Centre, 25-734 Kielce, Poland;
- Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, 25-317 Kielce, Poland
| | - Magdalena Kowalewska
- Department of Molecular and Translational Oncology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (M.B.); (K.Z.); (M.S.); (J.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-22-546-26-50
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Aberrant activation of the Hedgehog signalling pathway in squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva as a potential target for cancer therapy. Sci Rep 2021; 11:17665. [PMID: 34480080 PMCID: PMC8417215 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-96940-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In a previous study, we showed that the Hedgehog (Hh) signalling pathway is aberrantly activated in vulval squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC). In this study, we further validated our findings on a prospective cohort of primary VSCC cases, where immunohistochemical staining confirmed that key Hh pathway components were overexpressed in VSCC compared to normal vulval epithelium. We also undertook a series of in vitro studies to determine the extent of Hh pathway activation in VSCC-derived cell lines, and examine the consequences of pathway inhibition on the growth of these cells. We found that of six cell lines tested, four displayed elevated baseline Hh pathway activity that was dependent on SHH ligand, or in one case, a PTCH1 gene mutation. Hh signalling appeared necessary to sustain cell growth, as SHH ligand depletion with Robotikinin or SMO inhibition, either with chemical inhibitors (Itraconazole or LDE-225) or SMO-specific siRNA, attenuated GLI1 activity and cell proliferation in both monolayer and organotypic raft culture. Furthermore, treatment of Hh-dependent cell lines with SMO inhibitors sensitised cells to Cisplatin. Findings from our study offer us the opportunity to explore further the development of targeted chemotherapy for women with VSCC driven by aberrant Hh activation.
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Molecular Landscape of Vulvar Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22137069. [PMID: 34209172 PMCID: PMC8269046 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22137069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) is a rare malignancy with dual pathogenesis, Human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated and HPV-independent, with a poorly explored molecular landscape. We aimed to summarize the findings of the series analyzing molecular hallmarks of this neoplasm. In January 2021, we conducted a comprehensive literature search using Pubmed Medline and Scopus to identify publications focused on genomic profiling of VSCC. Observational studies, including both prospective and retrospective designs, evaluating molecular alterations in VSCC were deemed eligible. A total of 14 studies analyzing 749 VSCC were identified. The study series were heterogeneous in HPV testing and sequencing strategies, included small sets of tumors and cancer genes, and commonly lacked survival analysis. Only one extensive targeted next-generation sequencing-based study comprised a large cohort of 280 VSCC. The mutated genes, their number, and frequencies were highly variable between the series. Overall, TP53 and CDKN2A, followed by PIK3CA, HRAS, and PTEN, were the most frequently studied and mutated genes. Mutations involved in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, including TP53, HRAS, KRAS, and PIK3CA, have been consistently reported across the studies. However, the role of individual mutations or pathways in the development of VSCC remains unclear. In conclusion, heterogeneity and the small sample size of available molecular series contribute to a limited view of the molecular landscape of VSCC. Large-scale genome- or exome-wide studies with robust HPV testing are necessary to improve the molecular characterization of VSCC.
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Rafael TS, de Vries HM, Ottenhof SR, Hofland I, Broeks A, de Jong J, Bekers E, Horenblas S, de Menezes RX, Jordanova ES, Brouwer OR. Distinct Patterns of Myeloid Cell Infiltration in Patients With hrHPV-Positive and hrHPV-Negative Penile Squamous Cell Carcinoma: The Importance of Assessing Myeloid Cell Densities Within the Spatial Context of the Tumor. Front Immunol 2021; 12:682030. [PMID: 34194435 PMCID: PMC8236714 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.682030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Comprehensive analysis of tumor infiltrating myeloid cells in the tumor microenvironment of penile squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC) is lacking. In this retrospective study, for the first time, PSCC resection specimens (N = 103) were annotated into the following compartments: intratumoral tumor (IT Tumor), intratumoral stroma (IT Stroma), peritumoral tumor (PT Tumor) and peritumoral stroma (PT Stroma) compartments. We then quantified CD14+, CD68+ and CD163+ myeloid cells within these compartments using an image analysis software and assessed their association with various clinical parameters, including high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) status. In the total cohort, hrHPV status, grade of differentiation, age and tumor size were associated with myeloid cell densities. hrHPV+ tumors had higher infiltration rates of CD14+, CD68+ and CD163+ myeloid cells in the IT tumor compartment (p < 0.001, for all) compared to hrHPV- tumors. Furthermore, when examining the association between compartment-specific infiltration and differentiation grade, increased myeloid cell densities in the IT tumor compartment were associated with a more advanced histological grade (p < 0.001, for all). This association remained significant when the hrHPV- cohort (N = 60) was analyzed (CD14+ p = 0.001; CD68+ p < 0.001; CD163+ p = 0.004). Subgroup analysis in the hrHPV+ group (N = 43) showed that high infiltration rates of CD68+ and CD163+ cells in the PT tumor compartment were associated with lymph node (LN) metastasis (p = 0.031 and p = 0.026, respectively). Regarding the association between myeloid cell densities and disease-specific survival, the risk of death was found to decrease slightly as the number of myeloid cells in the IT tumor compartment increased (CD14+ p = 0.04; CD68+ p = 0.05; CD163+ p = 0.02). However, after adjusting for hrHPV, no independent association between myeloid densities and disease-specific survival were found. Altogether, these findings demonstrate the importance of assessing myeloid cell densities within the spatial context of the tumor. Further studies are needed to unravel the specific phenotype of myeloid cells residing in the different compartments, their effect on clinical parameters and the impact of hrHPV on the recruitment of myeloid cell populations in PSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tynisha S Rafael
- Department of Urology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Hielke M de Vries
- Department of Urology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sarah R Ottenhof
- Department of Urology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ingrid Hofland
- Core Facility Molecular Pathology & Biobanking, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Annegien Broeks
- Core Facility Molecular Pathology & Biobanking, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jeroen de Jong
- Department of Pathology, Reinier Haga Medisch Diagnostisch Centrum (MDC), The Hague, Netherlands
| | - Elise Bekers
- Department of Pathology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Simon Horenblas
- Department of Urology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Renée X de Menezes
- Biostatistics Center, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ekaterina S Jordanova
- Department of Urology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Center for Gynecologic Oncology Amsterdam (CGOA), Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Oscar R Brouwer
- Department of Urology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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22
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To highlight the recent advances regarding molecular mechanisms and therapeutic strategies in vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC), a rare but continuously rising disease. RECENT FINDINGS Clinical research focuses on deescalation especially with regard to surgery. Recurrence patterns have been analyzed to further understand the course of disease showing a persistent risk for local recurrence even several years after the initial diagnosis. The main focuses of recent translational research are the distinct molecular mechanisms behind human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive and -negative VSCC. Next-generation sequencing analyses have highlighted TP53 as central driver mutation in HPV-negative disease. For HPV-independent VSCC, an impaired prognosis with limited disease-free and overall survival has been reported from a large multicenter analysis. Although no targeted agent has been granted approval, the impact of immunotherapy in vulvar cancer has been investigated in basket trials. Therapy response, however, was limited. SUMMARY Further clinical research should focus on deciphering the molecular mechanisms of tumor development further. Detailed understanding of the molecular landscape will help to find novel therapy targets, fight the disease in advanced stages and thereby improve the quality of life for affected patients.
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23
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Nishimura S, Yashiro M, Sera T, Yamamoto Y, Kushitani Y, Sugimoto A, Kushiyama S, Togano S, Kuroda K, Okuno T, Murakami Y, Ohira M. Serine threonine kinase 11/liver kinase B1 mutation in sporadic scirrhous-type gastric cancer cells. Carcinogenesis 2021; 41:1616-1623. [PMID: 32236518 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgaa031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Revised: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Scirrhous-type gastric carcinoma (SGC), which is characterized by the rapid proliferation of cancer cells accompanied by extensive fibrosis, shows extremely poor survival. A reason for the poor prognosis of SGC is that the driver gene responsible for SGC has not been identified. To identify the characteristic driver gene of SGC, we examined the genomic landscape of six human SGC cell lines of OCUM-1, OCUM-2M, OCUM-8, OCUM-9, OCUM-12 and OCUM-14, using multiplex gene panel testing by next-generation sequencing. In this study, the non-synonymous mutations of serine threonine kinase 11/liver kinase B1 (STK11/LKB1) gene were detected in OCUM-12, OCUM-2M and OCUM-14 among the six SGC cell lines. Capillary sequencing analysis confirmed the non-sense or missense mutation of STK11/LKB1 in the three cell lines. Western blot analysis showed that LKB1 expression was decreased in OCUM-12 cells and OCUM-14 cells harboring STK11/LKB1 mutation. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor significantly inhibited the proliferation of OCUM-12 and OCUM-14 cells. The correlations between STK11/LKB1 expression and clinicopathologic features of gastric cancer were examined using 708 primary gastric carcinomas by immunochemical study. The low STK11/LKB1 expression group was significantly associated with SGC, high invasion depth and frequent nodal involvement, in compared with the high STK11/LKB1 expression group. Collectively, our study demonstrated that STK11/LKB1 mutation might be responsible for the progression of SGC, and suggested that mTOR signaling by STK11/LKB1 mutation might be one of therapeutic targets for patients with SGC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadaaki Nishimura
- Molecular Oncology and Therapeutics, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Cancer Center for Translational Research, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masakazu Yashiro
- Molecular Oncology and Therapeutics, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Cancer Center for Translational Research, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Sera
- Molecular Oncology and Therapeutics, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Cancer Center for Translational Research, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yurie Yamamoto
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Cancer Center for Translational Research, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yukako Kushitani
- Molecular Oncology and Therapeutics, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Cancer Center for Translational Research, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Atsushi Sugimoto
- Molecular Oncology and Therapeutics, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Cancer Center for Translational Research, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shuhei Kushiyama
- Molecular Oncology and Therapeutics, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Cancer Center for Translational Research, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shingo Togano
- Molecular Oncology and Therapeutics, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Cancer Center for Translational Research, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kenji Kuroda
- Molecular Oncology and Therapeutics, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Cancer Center for Translational Research, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tomohisa Okuno
- Molecular Oncology and Therapeutics, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Cancer Center for Translational Research, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Murakami
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaichi Ohira
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
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24
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Rusetska N, Kowalski K, Zalewski K, Zięba S, Bidziński M, Goryca K, Kotowicz B, Fuksiewicz M, Kopczynski J, Bakuła-Zalewska E, Kowalik A, Kowalewska M. CXCR4/ACKR3/CXCL12 axis in the lymphatic metastasis of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma. J Clin Pathol 2021; 75:324-332. [PMID: 33692092 PMCID: PMC9046756 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2020-206917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Aims Vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) spreads early and mainly locally via direct expansion into adjacent structures, followed by lymphatic metastasis to the regional lymph nodes (LNs). In the lymphatic metastasis, cancer cells bearing CXCR4 and ACKR3 (CXCR7) receptors are recruited to the LNs that produce the CXCL12 ligand. Our study aimed to assess the role of the CXCR4/ACKR3/CXCL12 axis in VSCC progression. Methods Tumour and LN tissue samples were obtained from 46 patients with VSCC and 51 patients with premalignant vulvar lesions. We assessed CXCR4, ACKR3 and CXCL12 by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in the tissue samples. Additionally, CXCL12 levels were determined by ELISA in the sera of 23 patients with premalignant lesions, 37 with VSCC and 16 healthy volunteers. Results CXCR4 and ACKR3 proteins were virtually absent in vulvar precancers, while in VSCC samples the IHC staining was strong. In the LNs of patients with VSCC, 98% of metastatic cells expressed CXCR4 and 85% expressed ACKR3. Neither CXCR4 nor ACKR3 presence was correlated with tumour human papilloma virus status. Few CXCL12-positive cells were found in the analysed tissue samples, but serum CXCL12 levels were significantly increased in both patients with premalignant vulvar lesions and with VSCC compared with healthy volunteers. Conclusions It appears that during progression and lymphatic spread of VSCC, the CXCR4/ACKR3/CXCL12 axis is activated. Moreover, our data suggest that CXCR4 antagonists merit further attention as a possible therapeutic option in patients with VSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Rusetska
- Department of Molecular and Translational Oncology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kamil Kowalski
- Department of Cytology, Institute of Developmental Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kamil Zalewski
- Department of Molecular and Translational Oncology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Holycross Cancer Center, Kielce, Poland.,Chair and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Warsaw Medical University, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Sebastian Zięba
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics, Holycross Cancer Center, Kielce, Poland
| | - Mariusz Bidziński
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Goryca
- Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland.,Genomics Core Facility, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Beata Kotowicz
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Diagnostics, Laboratory of Tumor Markers, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Fuksiewicz
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Diagnostics, Laboratory of Tumor Markers, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Janusz Kopczynski
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Holycross Cancer Center, Kielce, Poland
| | - Elwira Bakuła-Zalewska
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Diagnostics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Artur Kowalik
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics, Holycross Cancer Center, Kielce, Poland.,Division of Medical Biology, Jan Kochanowski University, Kielce, Poland
| | - Magdalena Kowalewska
- Department of Molecular and Translational Oncology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland .,Department of Immunology, Biochemistry and Nutrition, Centre for Preclinical Research and Technologies, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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25
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Xing D, Fadare O. Molecular events in the pathogenesis of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma. Semin Diagn Pathol 2021; 38:50-61. [PMID: 33032902 PMCID: PMC7749059 DOI: 10.1053/j.semdp.2020.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Vulvar squamous cell carcinomas (VSCC), which constitute over 90% of vulvar malignancies in adults, are classifiable into 2 subgroups that are mostly clinicopathologically distinct, a classification that is fundamentally based whether or not the tumors are HPV-mediated. In this review, we aim to summarize the recent advances in the understanding of molecular events in the pathogenesis of VSCC, including common and targetable mutations, copy number alterations, epigenetics, noncoding RNAs, and tumor immune microenvironment, which may provide insight into the future management of the disease. These events show substantial differences between the 2 subgroups, although significant areas of overlap exist. Recurrent, driver mutations appear to be substantially more prevalent in HPV(-) VSCC. TP53 mutations are the most common somatic mutations in VSCC overall, and are notably predominant in the HPV(-) VSCC, where 30-88% show a mutation. TP53 mutations are associated with worse patient outcomes, and co-mutations between TP53 and either HRAS, PIK3CA or CDKN2A appear to define subsets with even worse outcomes. A wide variety of other somatic mutations have been identified, including a subset with different mutational frequencies between HPV(+) and HPV(-) VSCC. CDKN2A mutations are common, and have been identified in 21 to 55% of HPV(-) VSCC, and in 2 to 25% of HPV(+) VSCC. Hypermethylation of CDKN2A is the most frequently reported epigenetic alteration in VSCC and the expression of some microRNAs may be associated with patient outcomes. The PTEN/PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway is commonly altered in HPV(+) VSCC, and is accordingly potentially targetable. HPV-positivity/p16 block expression by immunohistochemistry has been found to be an independent prognostic marker for improved survival in VSCC, and may have some predictive value in VSCC patients treated with definitive radiotherapy. 22-39.3% and 68% of VSCC show EGFR amplification and protein overexpression respectively, although the prognostic and predictive value of an EGFR alteration requires additional study. Recurrent chromosomal gains in VSCCs have been found at 1q, 2q, 3q, 4p, 5p, 7p, 8p, 8q, and 12q, and there may be differential patterns of alterations depending on HPV-status. At least one-third of VSCC patients may potentially benefit from immune checkpoint inhibition therapy, based on a high frequency of PD-L1 expression or amplification, or a high tumor mutational burden. Additional studies are ultimately required to better understand the global landscape of genetic and epigenetic alterations in VSCC, and to identify and test potential targets for clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deyin Xing
- Departments of Pathology, Oncology, Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, United States.
| | - Oluwole Fadare
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego Health, La Jolla, CA, United States
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26
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Fatalska A, Rusetska N, Bakuła-Zalewska E, Kowalik A, Zięba S, Wroblewska A, Zalewski K, Goryca K, Domański D, Kowalewska M. Inflammatory Proteins HMGA2 and PRTN3 as Drivers of Vulvar Squamous Cell Carcinoma Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 13:cancers13010027. [PMID: 33374674 PMCID: PMC7793473 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13010027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Current knowledge on the biology of squamous cell vulvar carcinoma (VSCC) is limited. We aimed to identify protein markers of VSCC tumors that would permit to stratify patients by progression risk. Early-stage tumors from patients who progressed (progVSCC) and from those who were disease-free (d-fVSCC) during follow-up, along with normal vulvar tissues were examined by mass spectrometry-based proteomics. Differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were then verified in solid tissues and blood samples of patients with VSCC tumors and vulvar premalignant lesions. In progVSCC vs. d-fVSCC tumors, the immune response was the most over-represented Gene Ontology category for the identified DEPs. Pathway profiling suggested bacterial infections to be linked to aggressive VSCC phenotypes. High Mobility Group AT-Hook 2 (HMGA2) and Proteinase 3 (PRTN3) were revealed as proteins predicting VSCC progression. HMGA2 and PRTN3 abundances are associated with an aggressive phenotype, and hold promise as markers for VSCC patient stratification. It appears that vulvovaginal microflora disturbances trigger an inflammatory response contributing to cancer progression, suggesting that bacterial rather than viral infection status should be considered in the development of targeted therapies in VSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Fatalska
- Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics-Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland; (A.F.); (D.D.)
| | - Natalia Rusetska
- Department of Molecular and Translational Oncology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (N.R.); (K.Z.)
| | - Elwira Bakuła-Zalewska
- Department of Pathology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Artur Kowalik
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics, Holycross Cancer Center, 25-734 Kielce, Poland; (A.K.); (S.Z.)
- Division of Medical Biology, Institute of Biology, Jan Kochanowski University, 25-369 Kielce, Poland
| | - Sebastian Zięba
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics, Holycross Cancer Center, 25-734 Kielce, Poland; (A.K.); (S.Z.)
| | | | - Kamil Zalewski
- Department of Molecular and Translational Oncology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (N.R.); (K.Z.)
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Holycross Cancer Center, 25-734 Kielce, Poland
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Warsaw Medical University, 03-242 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Goryca
- Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland;
- Genomics Core Facility, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dominik Domański
- Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics-Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland; (A.F.); (D.D.)
| | - Magdalena Kowalewska
- Department of Molecular and Translational Oncology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland; (N.R.); (K.Z.)
- Department of Immunology, Biochemistry and Nutrition, Centre for Preclinical Research and Technologies, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-22-5462650
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27
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Rakislova N, Alemany L, Clavero O, Saco A, Torné A, del Pino M, Munmany M, Rodrigo-Calvo MT, Guerrero J, Marimon L, Vega N, Quirós B, Lloveras B, Ribera-Cortada I, Alejo M, Pawlita M, Quint W, de Sanjose S, Ordi J. p53 Immunohistochemical Patterns in HPV-Independent Squamous Cell Carcinomas of the Vulva and the Associated Skin Lesions: A Study of 779 Cases. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218091. [PMID: 33138328 PMCID: PMC7662853 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV)-independent vulvar squamous cell carcinomas (VSCC) and its precursors frequently harbour TP53 mutations. Recently, six p53 immunohistochemical (IHC) patterns have been defined, which have shown strong correlation with TP53 mutation status. However, few studies have applied this new six-pattern framework and none of them exhaustively compared p53 IHC positivity and patterns between invasive VSCC and adjacent skin lesion. We performed p53 IHC in a series of 779 HPV-independent VSCC with adjacent skin and evaluated the IHC slides following the newly described classification. Some 74.1% invasive VSCC showed abnormal p53 IHC staining. A skin lesion was identified in 450 cases (57.8%), including 254 intraepithelial precursors and 196 inflammatory/reactive lesions. Two hundred and ten of 450 (47%) VSCC with associated skin lesions showed an abnormal p53 IHC stain, with an identical staining pattern between the VSCC and the adjacent skin lesion in 80% of the cases. A total of 144/450 (32%) VSCC showed wild-type p53 IHC both in the invasive VSCC and adjacent skin lesion. Finally, 96/450 (21%) VSCC showed p53 IHC abnormal staining in the invasive VSCC but a wild-type p53 staining in the skin lesion. Most of the discordant cases (70/96; 73%) showed adjacent inflammatory lesions. In conclusion, the p53 IHC staining and pattern are usually identical in the VSCC and the intraepithelial precursor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Rakislova
- Department of Pathology, ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (N.R.); (A.S.); (M.T.R.-C.); (J.G.); (L.M.); (N.V.); (I.R.-C.)
| | - Laia Alemany
- Unit of Infections and Cancer, Cancer Epidemiology Research Program, Catalan Institute of Oncology, IDIBELL, 08908 L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; (L.A.); (O.C.); (B.Q.)
- CIBER Epidemiologia y Salud Pública, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Omar Clavero
- Unit of Infections and Cancer, Cancer Epidemiology Research Program, Catalan Institute of Oncology, IDIBELL, 08908 L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; (L.A.); (O.C.); (B.Q.)
- CIBER Epidemiologia y Salud Pública, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Adela Saco
- Department of Pathology, ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (N.R.); (A.S.); (M.T.R.-C.); (J.G.); (L.M.); (N.V.); (I.R.-C.)
| | - Aureli Torné
- Institute of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clínic—Institut d´Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Faculty of Medicine-University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (A.T.); (M.d.P.); (M.M.)
| | - Marta del Pino
- Institute of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clínic—Institut d´Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Faculty of Medicine-University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (A.T.); (M.d.P.); (M.M.)
| | - Meritxell Munmany
- Institute of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clínic—Institut d´Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Faculty of Medicine-University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (A.T.); (M.d.P.); (M.M.)
| | - Maria Teresa Rodrigo-Calvo
- Department of Pathology, ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (N.R.); (A.S.); (M.T.R.-C.); (J.G.); (L.M.); (N.V.); (I.R.-C.)
| | - José Guerrero
- Department of Pathology, ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (N.R.); (A.S.); (M.T.R.-C.); (J.G.); (L.M.); (N.V.); (I.R.-C.)
| | - Lorena Marimon
- Department of Pathology, ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (N.R.); (A.S.); (M.T.R.-C.); (J.G.); (L.M.); (N.V.); (I.R.-C.)
| | - Naiara Vega
- Department of Pathology, ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (N.R.); (A.S.); (M.T.R.-C.); (J.G.); (L.M.); (N.V.); (I.R.-C.)
| | - Beatriz Quirós
- Unit of Infections and Cancer, Cancer Epidemiology Research Program, Catalan Institute of Oncology, IDIBELL, 08908 L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; (L.A.); (O.C.); (B.Q.)
| | - Belen Lloveras
- Department of Pathology, Hospital del Mar, 08003 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Inmaculada Ribera-Cortada
- Department of Pathology, ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (N.R.); (A.S.); (M.T.R.-C.); (J.G.); (L.M.); (N.V.); (I.R.-C.)
| | - Maria Alejo
- Department of Pathology, Hospital General d’Hospitalet, 08906 L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain;
| | - Michael Pawlita
- Division of Molecular Diagnostics of Oncogenic Infections, Research Program Infection, Inflammation and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
| | - Wim Quint
- DDL Diagnostic Laboratory, 2288 Rijswijk, The Netherlands;
| | | | - Jaume Ordi
- Department of Pathology, ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (N.R.); (A.S.); (M.T.R.-C.); (J.G.); (L.M.); (N.V.); (I.R.-C.)
- CIBER Epidemiologia y Salud Pública, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-93-227-5450
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Zubor P, Wang Y, Liskova A, Samec M, Koklesova L, Dankova Z, Dørum A, Kajo K, Dvorska D, Lucansky V, Malicherova B, Kasubova I, Bujnak J, Mlyncek M, Dussan CA, Kubatka P, Büsselberg D, Golubnitschaja O. Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma (CAP) as a New Tool for the Management of Vulva Cancer and Vulvar Premalignant Lesions in Gynaecological Oncology. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21217988. [PMID: 33121141 PMCID: PMC7663780 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21217988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvar cancer (VC) is a specific form of malignancy accounting for 5–6% of all gynaecologic malignancies. Although VC occurs most commonly in women after 60 years of age, disease incidence has risen progressively in premenopausal women in recent decades. VC demonstrates particular features requiring well-adapted therapeutic approaches to avoid potential treatment-related complications. Significant improvements in disease-free survival and overall survival rates for patients diagnosed with post-stage I disease have been achieved by implementing a combination therapy consisting of radical surgical resection, systemic chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. Achieving local control remains challenging. However, mostly due to specific anatomical conditions, the need for comprehensive surgical reconstruction and frequent post-operative healing complications. Novel therapeutic tools better adapted to VC particularities are essential for improving individual outcomes. To this end, cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) treatment is a promising option for VC, and is particularly appropriate for the local treatment of dysplastic lesions, early intraepithelial cancer, and invasive tumours. In addition, CAP also helps reduce inflammatory complications and improve wound healing. The application of CAP may realise either directly or indirectly utilising nanoparticle technologies. CAP has demonstrated remarkable treatment benefits for several malignant conditions, and has created new medical fields, such as “plasma medicine” and “plasma oncology”. This article highlights the benefits of CAP for the treatment of VC, VC pre-stages, and postsurgical wound complications. There has not yet been a published report of CAP on vulvar cancer cells, and so this review summarises the progress made in gynaecological oncology and in other cancers, and promotes an important, understudied area for future research. The paradigm shift from reactive to predictive, preventive and personalised medical approaches in overall VC management is also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavol Zubor
- Department of Gynaecological Oncology, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, 0379 Oslo, Norway; (Y.W.); (A.D.)
- OBGY Health & Care, Ltd., 010 01 Zilina, Slovakia
- Correspondence: or
| | - Yun Wang
- Department of Gynaecological Oncology, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, 0379 Oslo, Norway; (Y.W.); (A.D.)
| | - Alena Liskova
- Department of Medical Biology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia; (A.L.); (M.S.); (L.K.); (P.K.)
| | - Marek Samec
- Department of Medical Biology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia; (A.L.); (M.S.); (L.K.); (P.K.)
| | - Lenka Koklesova
- Department of Medical Biology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia; (A.L.); (M.S.); (L.K.); (P.K.)
| | - Zuzana Dankova
- Biomedical Centre Martin, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia; (Z.D.); (D.D.); (V.L.); (B.M.); (I.K.)
| | - Anne Dørum
- Department of Gynaecological Oncology, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, 0379 Oslo, Norway; (Y.W.); (A.D.)
| | - Karol Kajo
- Department of Pathology, St. Elizabeth Cancer Institute Hospital, 81250 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Dana Dvorska
- Biomedical Centre Martin, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia; (Z.D.); (D.D.); (V.L.); (B.M.); (I.K.)
| | - Vincent Lucansky
- Biomedical Centre Martin, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia; (Z.D.); (D.D.); (V.L.); (B.M.); (I.K.)
| | - Bibiana Malicherova
- Biomedical Centre Martin, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia; (Z.D.); (D.D.); (V.L.); (B.M.); (I.K.)
| | - Ivana Kasubova
- Biomedical Centre Martin, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia; (Z.D.); (D.D.); (V.L.); (B.M.); (I.K.)
| | - Jan Bujnak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kukuras Michalovce Hospital, 07101 Michalovce, Slovakia;
| | - Milos Mlyncek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty Hospital Nitra, Constantine the Philosopher University, 949 01 Nitra, Slovakia;
| | - Carlos Alberto Dussan
- Department of Surgery, Orthopaedics and Oncology, University Hospital Linköping, 581 85 Linköping, Sweden;
| | - Peter Kubatka
- Department of Medical Biology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia; (A.L.); (M.S.); (L.K.); (P.K.)
| | - Dietrich Büsselberg
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Education City, Qatar Foundation, P.O. Box 24144 Doha, Qatar;
| | - Olga Golubnitschaja
- Predictive, Preventive Personalised (3P) Medicine, Department of Radiation Oncology, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, 53105 Bonn, Germany;
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29
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Pouwer AFW, VAN DEN Einden LCG, VAN DER Linden M, Hehir-Kwa JY, Yu J, Hendriks KM, Kamping EJ, Eijkelenboom A, Massuger LFAG, Bulten J, VAN Tilborg AAG, DE Hullu JA, Kuiper RP. Clonal Relationship Between Lichen Sclerosus, Differentiated Vulvar Intra-epithelial Neoplasia and Non HPV-related Vulvar Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2020; 17:151-160. [PMID: 32108037 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN) and lichen sclerosus (LS) can give rise to vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC), but genetic evidence is currently still limited. We aimed to determine genetic abnormalities in VSCC and backtrack these abnormalities in the dVIN and LS lesions. MATERIALS AND METHODS DNA from VSCC and patient-matched dVIN and LS samples of twelve patients was collected. High-resolution genome-wide copy number analysis was performed and subsequently, we sequenced TP53. RESULTS Copy number alterations were identified in all VSCC samples. One dVIN lesion presented with three copy number alterations that were preserved in the paired VSCC sample. Targeted sequencing of TP53 identified mutations in five VSCCs. All five mutations were traced back in the dVIN (n=5) or the LS (n=1) with frequencies ranging from 3-19%. CONCLUSION Our data provide genetic evidence for a clonal relationship between VSCC and dVIN or LS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Floor W Pouwer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Loes C G VAN DEN Einden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Michelle VAN DER Linden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Jayne Y Hehir-Kwa
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.,Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jiangyan Yu
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Koen M Hendriks
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Eveline J Kamping
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Astrid Eijkelenboom
- Department of Pathology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Leon F A G Massuger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Johan Bulten
- Department of Pathology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Joanne A DE Hullu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Roland P Kuiper
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.,Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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30
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Somatic Mutation Profiling in Premalignant Lesions of Vulvar Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21144880. [PMID: 32664330 PMCID: PMC7402303 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21144880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) originates from the progression of either a high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) or differentiated-type vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN), often in a background of lichen sclerosus (LS). The mechanisms leading to the progression of these premalignant lesions to VSCC are elusive. This study aims to identify pathogenic mutations implicated in VSCC development. Using next-generation sequencing, 38 HSIL, 19 dVIN, 20 LS, of which 10 were solitary lesions and 10 with adjacent VSCC, and 10 VSCC adjacent to LS, were screened for hotspot mutations in 50 genes covered by the Ion AmpliSeq Cancer Hotspot Panel v2 Kit (Thermo Fisher Scientific). Pathogenic mutations of TP53 were the most common genetic alterations identified in 53% and 24% of dVIN and HSIL cases, respectively, followed by CDKN2A (p16) mutated in 42% and 0% of dVIN and HSIL, respectively. Seven (70%) and three (30%) of 10 cases of VSCC associated with LS carried TP53 and CDKN2A mutations, respectively, whereas neither solitary LS nor LS associated with VSCC cases harbored mutations in these genes. It appears that TP53 mutations are early events during VSCC carcinogenesis, being present in both HSIL and dVIN lesions. Our preliminary data do not support a genetic background for the notion of LS as the VSCC premalignant lesion.
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31
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Prieske K, Alawi M, Oliveira-Ferrer L, Jaeger A, Eylmann K, Burandt E, Schmalfeldt B, Joosse SA, Woelber L. Genomic characterization of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma. Gynecol Oncol 2020; 158:547-554. [PMID: 32591094 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2020.06.482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite increasing incidence, vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) is still a rare disease. Until now, two etiological pathways have been described: a high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV)-dependent route and an HPV-independent pathway often associated with lichen sclerosus. To date, therapeutic strategies in VSCC are not influenced by molecular pathological information and therapeutic options for advanced or recurrent disease are limited. METHODS Whole exome sequencing of DNA, isolated from 34 VSCC samples and matched normal tissue for each individual was performed on an Illumina HiSeq4000. Short variant discovery was carried out using BWA mem and FreeBayes. Variants were annotated using ANNOVAR. RESULTS FIGO stages were: IB (n = 7), II (n = 11), III (n = 8), and IVA (n = 3), (n = 5 unknown). TP53 missense mutations were most commonly detected with 56% (19/34). 12/34 (35.3%) samples were HPV positive (all HPV16), HPV positivity and TP53 mutations were mutually exclusive (p < .0001). Additionally, we observed mutations in known cancer relevant genes, like NBPF1 (n = 7), MACF1 (n = 5), SYNE2 (n = 5), DOCK2 (n = 4), KMT2D (n = 4), MAP2 (n = 4), NACA (n = 4), PIK3CA (n = 4), SYNE1 (n = 4), FBWX7 (n = 3), MSH6 (n = 3), NSD1 (n = 3), POLE (n = 3), TSC2, (n = 3) and CDKN2A (n = 2), but at considerably lower frequencies. For the total cohort 1848 cancer related mutations were detected (median of 54.4 per sample). CONCLUSIONS The key mutation in HPV negative vulvar carcinoma affects TP53. While a multitude of cancer related mutations was detected in various samples, only few mutations recur and/or affect concurrent signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Prieske
- Department of Gynaecology and Gynaecologic Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Malik Alawi
- Bioinformatics Core Facility, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Leticia Oliveira-Ferrer
- Department of Gynaecology and Gynaecologic Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anna Jaeger
- Department of Gynaecology and Gynaecologic Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kathrin Eylmann
- Department of Gynaecology and Gynaecologic Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Eike Burandt
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Barbara Schmalfeldt
- Department of Gynaecology and Gynaecologic Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Simon A Joosse
- Department of Tumor Biology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Linn Woelber
- Department of Gynaecology and Gynaecologic Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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32
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Williams EA, Werth AJ, Sharaf R, Montesion M, Sokol ES, Pavlick DC, McLaughlin-Drubin M, Erlich R, Toma H, Williams KJ, Venstrom JM, Alexander BM, Shah N, Danziger N, Hemmerich AC, Severson EA, Killian JK, Lin DI, Ross JS, Tse JY, Ramkissoon SH, Mochel MC, Elvin JA. Vulvar Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Comprehensive Genomic Profiling of HPV+ Versus HPV- Forms Reveals Distinct Sets of Potentially Actionable Molecular Targets. JCO Precis Oncol 2020; 4:1900406. [PMID: 32923875 PMCID: PMC7446361 DOI: 10.1200/po.19.00406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (vSCC) encompasses two predominant variants: one associated with detectable high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (hrHPV) and a second form often occurring in the context of chronic dermatitis in postmenopausal women. Genomic assessment of a large-scale cohort of patients with aggressive vSCC may identify distinct mutational signatures. MATERIALS AND METHODS Tumor samples from a total of 280 patients with vSCC underwent hybridization capture with analysis of up to 406 cancer-related genes. Human papillomavirus (HPV) sequences were detected by de novo assembly of nonhuman sequencing reads and aligned to the RefSeq database. Immunohistochemistry for programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) was assessed. RESULTS One hundred two of 280 vSCCs (36%) contained hrHPV sequences, predominantly HPV 16 (88%). The HPV-positive (HPV+) group was significantly younger (median age, 59 v 64 years; P = .001). Compared with HPV-negative (HPV–) vSCCs, HPV+ tumors showed more frequent pathogenic alterations in PIK3CA (31% v 16%; P = .004), PTEN (14% v 2%; P < .0001), EP300 (14% v 1%; P < .0001), STK11 (14% v 1%; P < .0001), AR (5% v 0%; P = .006), and FBXW7 (10% v 3%; P = .03). In contrast, HPV– vSCCs showed more alterations in TP53 (83% v 6%; P < .0001), TERTp (71% v 9%; P < .0001), CDKN2A (55% v 2%; P < .0001), CCND1 amplification (22% v 2%; P < .0001), FAT1 (25% v 4%; P < .0001), NOTCH1 (19% v 6%; P = .002), and EGFR amplification (11% v 0%; P < .0001), as well as a higher rate of 9p24.1 (PDL1/PDL2) amplification (5% v 1%) and PD-L1 immunohistochemistry high-positive tumor staining (33% v 9%; P = .04). CONCLUSION Comprehensive molecular profiles of vSCC vary considerably with hrHPV status and may inform patient selection into clinical trials. Sixty-one percent of HPV+ vSCCs had a pathogenic alteration in the PI3K/mTOR pathway, whereas HPV– vSCCs showed alterations in TP53, TERTp, CDKN2A, CCND1, and EGFR, and biomarkers associated with responsiveness to immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adrienne J Werth
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Christiana Hospital, Newark, DE
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Helen Toma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Christiana Hospital, Newark, DE
| | - Kevin Jon Williams
- Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Department of Physiology, Department of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jeffrey S Ross
- Foundation Medicine, Cambridge, MA.,Department of Pathology, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY
| | - Julie Y Tse
- Foundation Medicine, Cambridge, MA.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Shakti H Ramkissoon
- Foundation Medicine, Cambridge, MA.,Wake Forest Comprehensive Cancer Center and Department of Pathology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Mark C Mochel
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA
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33
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Zięba S, Chechlińska M, Kowalik A, Kowalewska M. Genes, pathways and vulvar carcinoma - New insights from next-generation sequencing studies. Gynecol Oncol 2020; 158:498-506. [PMID: 32522421 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2020.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
In this review, we summarize the existing literature on next generation sequencing (NGS) studies in vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC). A total of 201 VSCC tumor samples were investigated in five studies published between 2017 and 2019. Findings on somatic mutations in human papillomavirus (HPV)-DNA positive (HPV+) and HPV-DNA negative (HPV-) disease were extracted and submitted to pathway and drug candidate analyses. The general genetic findings show cell cycle activity aberrations common to both HPV+ and HPV- VSCC. In silico analyses of somatic mutations detected in NGS studies pointed to PI3K-Akt pathway as the main pathway dysregulated in both HPV+ and HPV- VSCC tumors. In addition, pathways specific for HPV+ VSCC, i.e. AMPK, Prolactin, mTOR and Chemokine pathways as well as pathways unique for HPV- disease, i.e. GnRH, Neurotrophin, Oxytocin, Notch pathways were identified. These observations provide a rationale for incorporating novel specific therapeutic strategies in vulvar cancer. In this review, based on the Drug Gene Interaction database analysis of the NGS data, we listed potential drugs for this disease. The candidates revealed in our analysis provide new therapeutic opportunities in VSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Zięba
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics, Holycross Cancer Center, Kielce, Poland
| | - Magdalena Chechlińska
- Department of Immunology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Artur Kowalik
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics, Holycross Cancer Center, Kielce, Poland; Division of Medical Biology, Institute of Biology, Jan Kochanowski University, Kielce, Poland.
| | - Magdalena Kowalewska
- Department of Molecular and Translational Oncology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland; Department of Immunology, Biochemistry and Nutrition, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland.
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34
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Giulia Mantovani, Fragomeni SM, Inzani F, Fagotti A, Della Corte L, Gentileschi S, Tagliaferri L, Zannoni GF, Scambia G, Garganese G. Molecular pathways in vulvar squamous cell carcinoma: implications for target therapeutic strategies. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2020; 146:1647-1658. [PMID: 32335720 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-020-03226-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Additional prognostic factors and personalized therapeutic alternatives for vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC), especially for advanced stages with poor prognosis, are urgently needed. OBJECTIVES To review and assess literature regarding underlying molecular mechanisms of VSCC target therapeutic and prognostic approaches. METHODS We performed a narrative literature review from the inception of the database up to January 2020 limited to English language, organizing knowledge in five main fields: extracellular and intracellular cell cycle deregulation, tumor immune microenvironment, tumor angiogenesis and hormones. RESULTS EGFR immunohistochemical overexpression/gene amplification, representing early events in VSCC carcinogenesis, have been correlated with a worse prognosis and led to inclusion of erlotinib in cancer guidelines. p16 expression and HPV positivity are linked to a better prognosis, while p53 overexpression is linked to a worse prognosis; thus, biomarkers could help tailoring conventional treatment and follow-up. The implications of PD-L1 positivity in reference to HPV status and prognosis are still not clear, even though pembrolizumab is part of available systemic therapies. The role of tumor angiogenesis emerges through data on microvessel density, immunohistochemical VEGF staining and evaluation of serum VEGF concentrations. Few data exist on hormonal receptor expression, even though hormonal therapy showed great manageability. CONCLUSIONS We suggest adding p16, p53 and HPV status to routine hystopathological examination of vulvar biopsies or surgical specimens. Predictive biomarkers for anti-EGFR and anti-PD-1/PD-L1 drugs are needed. Enough preclinical data supporting anti-angiogenic target therapies in clinical trials are existing. Hormonal receptor expression deserves further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Mantovani
- Dipartimento di Ginecologia e Ostetricia, Ginecologia Oncologica e Chirurgia Pelvica Mini-Invasiva, International School of Surgical Anatomy, IRCCS Ospedale Sacro Cuore Don Calabria, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - Simona Maria Fragomeni
- Unità di Ginecologia Oncologica, Dipartimento Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.
| | - Frediano Inzani
- Unità di Gineco-Patologia e Patologia Mammaria, Dipartimento Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Fagotti
- Unità di Ginecologia Oncologica, Dipartimento Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.,Istituto di Clinica Ostetrica e Ginecologica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Della Corte
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze e Scienze Riproduttive ed Odontostomatologiche, Scuola di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefano Gentileschi
- Unità di Chirurgia Plastica, Dipartimento Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Istituto di Clinica Chirurgica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Tagliaferri
- Unità Operativa Complessa di Radioterapia, Dipartimento di Scienze Radiologiche, Radioterapiche ed Ematologiche, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Gian Franco Zannoni
- Unità di Gineco-Patologia e Patologia Mammaria, Dipartimento Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Istituto di Anatomia Patologica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Scambia
- Unità di Ginecologia Oncologica, Dipartimento Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.,Istituto di Clinica Ostetrica e Ginecologica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgia Garganese
- Unità di Ginecologia Oncologica, Dipartimento Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.,Gynecology and Breast Care Center, Mater Olbia Hospital, Olbia, Italy
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35
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Gaulin NB, Lesnock JL, Tian C, Osei-Bonsu K, Jacobs A, Richard SD, Krivak TC, Miller EM, Shriver CD, Casablanca Y, Maxwell GL, Darcy KM. Survival disparities in vulvar cancer patients in Commission on Cancer®-accredited facilities. Gynecol Oncol 2020; 157:136-145. [PMID: 31954540 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2019.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate survival disparities and prognostic factors in vulvar cancer by age at diagnosis. METHODS Women who underwent surgery and were diagnosed with stage I-IV vulvar cancer from 2004 to 2014 in the National Cancer Database were eligible. Proportions were compared using Chi-Square test. Survival was evaluated using Cox analysis. RESULTS There were 18,207 eligible women. Median age at diagnosis was 64 years, and 31% diagnosed ≥75 years old were categorized as elderly. Most vulvar cancers were diagnosed at stage I and with squamous histology. Diagnosis with higher stage or non-squamous histology was more common in elderly vs. non-elderly patients (P < 0.001). Survival was 3.5 times worse in the elderly than the non-elderly (P < 0.0001). Risk of death for each 5-year increment in age increased by 22% for non-elderly and 43% for elderly patients (P < 0.0001). The prognostic value of comorbidity score, stage, regional node assessment and histology was smaller in elderly vs. non-elderly women (each P < 0.05). Adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CTRT) use in the elderly vs. non-elderly was rare for stage I-II disease (3% vs. 2%) and more common for stage III-IV disease (6% vs. 43%), respectively (P < 0.0001). The survival disadvantage for elderly patients persisted following no adjuvant therapy, radiotherapy or chemotherapy alone, or CTRT (P < 0.0001). In stage III-IV disease, survival was superior following CTRT vs. radiotherapy when diagnosed <75 years (HR = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.69-0.93) but not in the elderly (HR = 0.99, P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Age-associated risk of death increased at different rates in vulvar cancer and was larger in elderly vs. non-elderly patients. The impact of other prognostic factors was smaller in elderly vs. non-elderly women. The survival benefit of CTRT over radiotherapy in stage III-IV did not extend to the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole B Gaulin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Western Pennsylvania Hospital, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Jamie L Lesnock
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Magee Womens Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Chunqiao Tian
- Gynecologic Cancer Center of Excellence, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA; The Henry M Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Kathryn Osei-Bonsu
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Inova Fairfax Medical Campus, Falls Church, VA, USA.
| | - Allison Jacobs
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Inova Fairfax Medical Campus, Falls Church, VA, USA.
| | - Scott D Richard
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Thomas C Krivak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Western Pennsylvania Hospital, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Eirwen M Miller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Western Pennsylvania Hospital, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Craig D Shriver
- John P Murtha Cancer Center Research Program, Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Yovanni Casablanca
- Gynecologic Cancer Center of Excellence, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA; John P Murtha Cancer Center Research Program, Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - G Larry Maxwell
- Gynecologic Cancer Center of Excellence, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA; John P Murtha Cancer Center Research Program, Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Falls Church, VA, USA; Inova Schar Cancer Institute, Inova Center for Personalized Health, Falls Church, VA, USA.
| | - Kathleen M Darcy
- Gynecologic Cancer Center of Excellence, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA; The Henry M Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA; John P Murtha Cancer Center Research Program, Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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36
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Dasgupta S, Ewing-Graham PC, Swagemakers SMA, van der Spek PJ, van Doorn HC, Noordhoek Hegt V, Koljenović S, van Kemenade FJ. Precursor lesions of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma - histology and biomarkers: A systematic review. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2020; 147:102866. [PMID: 32058913 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2020.102866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The precursor lesion of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC), namely vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN), is classified as: human papillomavirus (HPV)-related high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL), and HPV-independent differentiated VIN (dVIN). Traditionally, histology and immunohistochemistry (IHC) have been the basis of diagnosis and classification of VIN. HSIL shows conspicuous histological atypia, and positivity on p16-IHC, whereas dVIN shows less obvious histological atypia, and overexpression or null-pattern on p53-IHC. For both types of VIN, other diagnostic immunohistochemical markers have also been evaluated. Molecular characterization of VIN has been attempted in few recent studies, and novel genotypic subtypes of HPV-independent VSCC and VIN have been identified. This systematic review appraises the VSCC precursors identified so far, focusing on histology and biomarkers (immunohistochemical and molecular). To gain further insights into the carcinogenesis and to identify additional potential biomarkers, gene expression omnibus (GEO) datasets on VSCC were analyzed; the results are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shatavisha Dasgupta
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | | | - Sigrid M A Swagemakers
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Bioinformatics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Peter J van der Spek
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Bioinformatics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Helena C van Doorn
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Vincent Noordhoek Hegt
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Senada Koljenović
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Folkert J van Kemenade
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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37
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PIK3CA Gene Mutations in Solid Malignancies: Association with Clinicopathological Parameters and Prognosis. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 12:cancers12010093. [PMID: 31905960 PMCID: PMC7017171 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12010093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Phosphoinositide kinases (PIKs) are a group of lipid kinases that are important upstream activators of various significant signaling pathways. Hyperactivation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways—either via mutations or genomic amplification—confers key oncogenic activity, essential for the development and progression of several solid tumors. Alterations in the PIK3CA gene are associated with poor prognosis of solid malignancies. Although the literature reports contradictory prognostic values of PIK3CA in aggressive cancers, most of the available data highlight the important role of PIK3CA mutation in mediating tumorigenesis via increased signaling of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR survival pathway. Several inhibitors of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways are investigated as potential therapeutic options in solid malignancies. This article reviews the role of PIK3CA mutations and inhibitors of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways in major cancer types and examines its association with clinicopathological parameters and prognosis.
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38
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Garziera M, Cecchin E, Giorda G, Sorio R, Scalone S, De Mattia E, Roncato R, Gagno S, Poletto E, Romanato L, Ecca F, Canzonieri V, Toffoli G. Clonal Evolution of TP53 c.375+1G>A Mutation in Pre- and Post- Neo-Adjuvant Chemotherapy (NACT) Tumor Samples in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer (HGSOC). Cells 2019; 8:cells8101186. [PMID: 31581548 PMCID: PMC6829309 DOI: 10.3390/cells8101186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 09/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Carboplatin/paclitaxel is the reference regimen in the treatment of advanced high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) in neo-adjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) before interval debulking surgery (IDS). To identify new genetic markers of platinum-resistance, next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis of 26 cancer-genes was performed on paired matched pre- and post-NACT tumor and blood samples in a patient with stage IV HGSOC treated with NACT-IDS, showing platinum-refractory/resistance and poor prognosis. Only the TP53 c.375+1G>A somatic mutation was identified in both tumor samples. This variant, associated with aberrant splicing, was in trans configuration with the 72Arg allele of the known germline polymorphism TP53 c.215C>G (p. Pro72Arg). In the post-NACT tumor sample we observed the complete expansion of the TP53 c.375+1G>A driver mutant clone with somatic loss of the treatment-sensitive 72Arg allele. NGS results were confirmed with Sanger method and immunostaining for p53, BRCA1, p16, WT1, and Ki-67 markers were evaluated. This study showed that (i) the splice mutation in TP53 was present as an early driver mutation at diagnosis; (ii) the mutational profile was shared in pre- and post-NACT tumor samples; (iii) the complete expansion of a single dominant mutant clone through loss of heterozygosity (LOH) had occurred, suggesting a possible mechanism of platinum-resistance in HGSOC under the pressure of NACT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marica Garziera
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO), IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy.
| | - Erika Cecchin
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO), IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy.
| | - Giorgio Giorda
- Gynecological Oncology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO), IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy.
| | - Roberto Sorio
- Medical Oncology Unit C, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO), IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy.
| | - Simona Scalone
- Medical Oncology Unit C, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO), IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy.
| | - Elena De Mattia
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO), IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy.
| | - Rossana Roncato
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO), IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy.
| | - Sara Gagno
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO), IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy.
| | - Elena Poletto
- Medical Oncology, "Santa Maria della Misericordia" University Hospital, ASUIUD, 33100 Udine, Italy.
| | - Loredana Romanato
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO), IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy.
| | - Fabrizio Ecca
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO), IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy.
| | - Vincenzo Canzonieri
- Pathology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO), IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy.
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Toffoli
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico (CRO), IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy.
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39
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PTEN and Gynecological Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11101458. [PMID: 31569439 PMCID: PMC6826459 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11101458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PTEN is a tumour suppressor gene, and its loss of function is frequently observed in both heritable and sporadic cancers. It is involved in a great variety of biological processes, including maintenance of genomic stability, cell survival, migration, proliferation and metabolism. A better understanding of PTEN activity and regulation has therefore emerged as a subject of primary interest in cancer research. Gynaecological cancers are variously interested by PTEN deregulation and many perspective in terms of additional prognostic information and new therapeutic approaches can be explored. Here, we present the most significant findings on PTEN in gynaecological cancers (ovarian, endometrial, cervical, vulvar and uterine cancer) focusing on PTEN alterations incidence, biological role and clinical implications.
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40
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Xing D, Liu Y, Park HJ, Baek I, Tran H, Cheang G, Novo J, Dillon J, Matoso A, Farmer E, Cheng MA, Tsai YC, Lombardo K, Conner MG, Vang R, Hung CF, Wu TC, Song W. Recurrent genetic alterations and biomarker expression in primary and metastatic squamous cell carcinomas of the vulva. Hum Pathol 2019; 92:67-80. [PMID: 31437519 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2019.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Using a comprehensive next-generation sequencing pipeline (143 genes), Oncomine Comprehensive v.2, we analyzed genetic alterations on a set of vulvar squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) with emphasis on the primary and metastatic samples from the same patient, to identify amenable therapeutic targets. Clinicopathologic features were reported and genomic DNA was extracted from 42 paraffin-embedded tumor tissues of 32 cases. PD-L1 expression was evaluated in 20 tumor tissues (10 cases with paired primary and metastatic tumors). Fifteen (88%) of 17 successfully analyzed HPV-unrelated SCCs harbored TP53 mutations. 2 different TP53 mutations had been detected in the same tumor in 4 of 15 cases. Other recurrent genetic alterations in this group of tumors included CDKN2a mutations (41%), HRAS mutations (12%), NOTCH1 mutations (12%) and BIRC3 (11q22.1-22.2) amplification (12%). Six HPV-related tumors harbored PIK3CA, BAP1, PTEN, KDR, CTNNB1, and BRCA2 mutations, of which, one case also contained TP53 mutation. Six cases showed identical mutations in paired primary site and distant metastatic location and four cases displayed different mutational profiles. PD-L1 expression was seen in 6 of 10 primary tumors and all 6 paired cases showed discordant PD-L1 expression in the primary and metastatic sites. Our results further confirmed the genetic alterations that are amenable to targeted therapy, offering the potential for individualized management strategies for the treatment of these aggressive tumors with different etiology. Discordant PD-L1 expression in the primary and metastatic vulvar SCCs highlights the importance of evaluation of PD-L1 expression in different locations to avoid false negative information provided for immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deyin Xing
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore 21231, MD; Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore 21231, MD.
| | - Yuehua Liu
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore 21231, MD
| | - Hyeon Jin Park
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York 10065, NY
| | - Inji Baek
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York 10065, NY
| | - Hung Tran
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York 10065, NY
| | - Gloria Cheang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York 10065, NY
| | - Jorge Novo
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore 21231, MD
| | - Jessica Dillon
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore 21231, MD
| | - Andres Matoso
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore 21231, MD
| | - Emily Farmer
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore 21231, MD
| | - Max A Cheng
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore 21231, MD
| | - Ya-Chea Tsai
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore 21231, MD
| | - Kara Lombardo
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore 21231, MD
| | - Michael G Conner
- Department of Pathology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham 35233, AL
| | - Russell Vang
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore 21231, MD; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore 21231, MD
| | - Chien-Fu Hung
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore 21231, MD; Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore 21231, MD
| | - Tzyy-Choou Wu
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore 21231, MD; Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore 21231, MD; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore 21231, MD
| | - Wei Song
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York 10065, NY.
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41
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aim of this article is to provide clinicians and pathologists with an understanding of the aetiopathology, pathogenesis and classification of vulval neoplasia and their molecular correlates. RECENT FINDINGS There is an increased understanding of subcellular changes in vulvar malignancies. These provide the direction for further research and aid personalised treatment for patients. The article explores concepts of the aetiology of vulvar cancer and updates the reader with the equivalence of terminology of preneoplastic vulval disease. The differential diagnosis of squamous neoplasia and their clinicopathological correlation is detailed. The salient findings from recent literature into the understanding of the disease of squamous cell neoplasia and rare vulvar malignancies are summarised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Williams
- Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, 1st Floor Labs, Mindelsohn Way, Birmingham, B15 2TG, UK
| | - Sheeba Syed
- Pathology Department, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Glasgow, 1345 Govan Road, Laboratory Medicine and Facility Building, Glasgow, G51 4TF, UK
| | - Shireen Velangi
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Mindelsohn Way, Birmingham, B15 2TG, UK
| | - Raji Ganesan
- Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, 1st Floor Labs, Mindelsohn Way, Birmingham, B15 2TG, UK.
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42
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Cohen PA, Anderson L, Eva L, Scurry J. Clinical and molecular classification of vulvar squamous pre-cancers. Int J Gynecol Cancer 2019; 29:821-828. [PMID: 30737358 DOI: 10.1136/ijgc-2018-000135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) is a precursor to vulvar squamous cell carcinoma and is defined histopathologically by the presence of atypia. VIN has been classified into two types: usual vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (uVIN), which is also referred to as a vulvar high-grade squamous intra-epithelial lesion (HSIL), and differentiated VIN (dVIN). The former is associated with chronic infection by sub-types of the human papilloma virus (HPV), whereas dVIN is HPV-independent and frequently associated with lichen sclerosus. The distinction is important because dVIN has a greater risk of, and more rapid transit to, vulvar squamous cell carcinoma. Furthermore, dVIN-associated vulvar cancers have an increased risk of recurrence and higher mortality than those arising from HSIL. Molecular characterization of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma precursors using next-generation sequencing is a relatively novel, but rapidly advancing field. This review appraises recent studies that have investigated the risks of progression to vulvar malignancy associated with HSIL and dVIN, the prognosis of HPV-dependent and HPV-independent vulvar squamous cell carcinomas, and conducted next generation sequencing mutation analyses to elucidate the genomic profiles underlying VIN. These studies suggest that HSIL and dVIN are characterized by different underlying molecular alterations that may have important implications for treatment and follow-up of women diagnosed with vulvar squamous cell cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Cohen
- Department of Gynaecological Oncology, St John of God Hospital Bendat Family Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Perth, Western Australia, Australia .,Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Lyndal Anderson
- Anatomical Pathology Department, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Penrith South, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lois Eva
- Department of Gynaecological Oncology, National Women's Health, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand.,Department of Gynaecological Oncology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - James Scurry
- Pathology North, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia.,Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
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