A survey of DICER1 hotspot mutations in ovarian and testicular sex cord-stromal tumors

Adult Granulosa Cell Tumors of the Ovary With Tubular Differentiation: A Report of 80 Examples of an Underemphasized Feature With Clinicopathologic and Genomic Differences From Other Sex Cord-Stromal Tumors

Occasional ovarian sex cord-stromal tumors exhibit features suggestive of more than 1 subtype, including some with areas of both "female" (granulosa) and "male" (Sertoli and/or Leydig) cell types. These tumors, historically often referred to as "gynandroblastomas," are frequently difficult to classify due to considerable clinical and morphologic heterogeneity. Herein, we describe a particular pattern of differentiation in which tubules occurred within tumors whose overall clinicopathologic features indicate that they are best characterized as adult granulosa cell tumors (AGCT). Eighty tumors were identified. Patient ages ranged from 15 to 87 (median: 52) years, and 28 had endocrine manifestations (25 estrogenic; 3 androgenic). Follow-up was available in 13 patients and ranged from 10 to 266 (median: 60) months, disclosing recurrence in 2. Microscopically, all tumors not only contained areas of typical granulosa cell morphology (diffuse, trabecular, corded, and others), which often dominated, but also contained variable amounts of hollow and/or solid tubules resembling those seen in Sertoli cell tumors. Next-generation sequencing was successful in 11 tumors. Two of these harbored FOXL2 p.C134W variants, and 2 others had FOXL2 copy number gains; none had DICER1 mutations. On the basis of the average age of the patients, frequency of estrogenic manifestations, abundance of standard AGCT morphology, and occasional late recurrences, we suggest that these tumors form a distinct group and propose the term "AGCTs with tubular differentiation" to denote them.

Pathological and clinical insights into DICER1 hotspot mutated Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors: a comparative analysis

BACKGROUND

Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors (SLCTs) are a rare group of sex cord-stromal tumors that account for less than 0.5% of all ovarian tumors. This study aims to compare the pathological and clinical characteristics of SLCTs with and without DICER1 hotspot mutations, highlighting the impact of these genetic variations on clinical manifestation, prognosis, and pathological morphology.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 50 SLCTs. DICER1 RNase IIIb hotspot mutations were detected by the Sanger sequence. Clinical information, such as patients' symptoms, tumor staging, prognosis, and pathological features, such as tumor differentiation and growth patterns, were collected.

RESULTS

DICER1 mutation only appears in the intermediate/poorly differentiated SLCTs (35.7%), while none in the well-differentiated SLCTs. The patients with DICER1 mutation had a younger age of onset (17, 15-25) compared to the wild-type group (42, 27-58). Regarding pathological morphology, the mutant group showed a higher probability of having retiform components (40.0%) and cords or ribbon-like arrangement (33.3%). Besides, they exhibited mucinous edematous stroma (80.0%) and hemorrhage (80.0%) more frequently than the wild-type group. The mutant tumor had more mitotic figures. (11/10HPF), higher Ki-67 index (16.1%), and more CD20-positive cell infiltration. Patients of the mutant group were more likely to experience recurrence, and their tumors were more prone to rupture.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that DICER1-mutant and wildtype SLCTs have marked differences in pathological morphology and clinical manifestation. DICER1-mutatant SLCTs display worse prognosis, higher proliferative activity, and potentially more active immune microenvironments, which underscores the importance of genetic testing in diagnosing and assessing the prognosis of SLCTs.

A Novel Pathogenic Variant of DICER1 Gene in a Young Greek Patient with 2 Different Sex-Cord Ovarian Tumors and Multinodular Goiter

DICER1 syndrome (DICERs) represents a tumor predisposition genetic syndrome, inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. Germline loss-of-function variants of the DICER1 gene lead to impaired processing of microRNA, gene expression, and increased risk of tumorigenesis. Although pleuropulmonary blastoma (PPB) is the hallmark of the syndrome, multiple extrapulmonary malignant and non-malignant conditions have also been described, including multinodular goiter (MNG) and sex-cord stromal tumors. MNG is one of the most common components and is associated with an increased risk of thyroid carcinoma. Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor (SLCT) represents the most prevalent type of sex-cord stromal tumor associated with the syndrome, whereas juvenile granulosa cell tumor (JGCT) is considered to be a very rare phenotype. They both may present with abdominal pain due to mass effect and menstrual irregularities in case of hormone production. Although they exhibit low rates of mortality, recurrence rates highly depend on the grade of malignancy. Herein, we report a novel pathogenic DICER1 variant associated with MNG, bilateral ovarian SLCT, and JGCT in a young Greek patient. Clinicians should be aware of a potential germline DICER1 variant when evaluating MNG in young patients, especially if it coexists with other neoplasms.

Characteristics and prognostic implications of a cohort of 50 Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors at a single center

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to investigate the clinical characteristics, therapy strategies and prognosis of Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors (SLCTs).

METHODS

A total of 50 cases of ovarian SLCTs were retrospectively analyzed. We performed descriptive statistics to describe baseline characteristics.

RESULTS

A total of 70% of SLCT patients were below the age of 45 years. The dominant pathologic types were poor (40%) and moderate (40%) differentiation. Retiform variant tumor is more aggressive and tends to appear in children. According to the 2014 FIGO (the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) classification, tumors were classified as Stage I (n = 46: well differentiated, n = 4; moderately differentiated, n = 19; poorly differentiated, n = 18; and retiform, n = 5), Stage II (n = 1, moderately differentiated), Stage III (n = 1, poorly differentiated), and Stage IV (n = 2: poorly differentiated, n = 1; and retiform, n = 1). Median follow-up was 58.1 months (2-132 months). A total of 45 patients (90%) achieved clinical remission. Four patients experienced a relapse (34.5 months, range: 7-58) and one patient died of the tumor at 10 months after initial treatment. All patients in grossly Stage IA achieved complete response, irrespective of the presence or absence of staging surgery or chemotherapy. After treatment, five patients successfully gave birth to healthy babies.

CONCLUSION

The prognosis for women diagnosed with early stage (I-II) SLCT is generally favorable, especially Stage IA. while those with advanced stages, poorly differentiated, retiform variant, or tumors containing heterologous components exhibit a more aggressive clinical course. Fertility sparing surgery appears to represent a feasible treatment approach for early stage SLCTs.

Ovarian Sex Cord-Stromal Neoplasms: An Overview of Molecular Events and How to Correlate Morphology With Molecular Findings

Since the discovery in 2009 that missence pathogenic variants/mutations in FOXL2 are extremely common in ovarian adult granulosa cell tumours, the last 2 decades have witnessed significant developments in our understanding of the molecular events underlying the pathogenesis of other ovarian sex cord-stromal tumours (SCSTs). In this review, we cover the molecular events in ovarian SCSTs and provide practical guidance to the reporting pathologist as to how and when molecular testing may be useful in diagnosis. We stress the need to correlate the morphology and molecular since most of the molecular events are not entirely specific for a particular tumour type and our knowledge is continually evolving with the elucidation of "new" molecular events. We also discuss that in some tumours, molecular testing is helpful in triaging the patient for genetic referral and germline testing since some of the molecular events may be germline in nature.

Pure Leydig cell tumor of the ovary: a rare presentation of a rare entity in a pregnant patient

Aim: Leydig cell tumors (LCT) are rare neoplasms that represent less than 0.1% of all ovarian tumors. This tumor usually presents with signs and symptoms of excess androgen levels. Diagnosis is made based on a combination of history, laboratory findings, imaging techniques and histopathological findings.Case: We present the case of a 35-year-old gravida five para 3+1 pregnant woman with a unilateral ovarian cystic mass that was discovered incidentally during a cesarean section. The cyst measured 9 cm in its maximum dimension. A left oophorectomy was performed after the delivery of an alive male baby. Morphological and immunophenotypic findings were consistent with those of a pure Leydig cell tumor.Conclusion: Leydig cell tumors are uncommon and usually present with hyperandrogenism. The presentation could be polymorphic, ranging from the rapid onset of virilization to being asymptomatic.

A molecular and immunohistochemical study of 37 cases of ovarian Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor

This study provides an analysis of 37 ovarian Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors (SLCT), focusing on their morphological, immunohistochemical, and molecular features. The cohort was comprised of 9 well-differentiated, 25 moderately differentiated, and 3 poorly differentiated tumors. The immunohistochemical analysis was performed with 28 markers, including diagnostic markers and markers with possible predictive significance. The results showed high expression of sex cord markers (FOXL2, SF1, inhibin A, CD99, calretinin, ER, PR, AR), and variable expression of other markers such as CKAE1/3 (83%), CAIX (14%), and MUC4 (1%). Loss of PTEN expression was present in 14% of cases, and CTLA4 expression was seen in 43% of cases. All tumors were MMR proficient and HER2 and PD-L1 negative. The molecular analysis showed DICER1 mutations in 54.5% of cases, and a FOXL2 mutation in 6% of tumors. In addition, we detected 2 cases with TERT promoter mutation. RNA NGS sequencing identified significant differences in mRNA expression between DICER1MUT and DICER1WT tumors. The DICER1WT tumors showed increased expression of PRKCA, HNF1A, LDLR, and MAP2K5. On the contrary, the DICER1MUT cases showed increased expression of CDK6, NOTCH2, and FGFR2. The results of our study show that SLCTs exhibit distinct molecular features based on their degree of differentiation. We have confirmed that DICER1 mutations are characteristic of moderately and poorly differentiated SLCTs, while well-differentiated SLCTs may represent a distinct entity. DICER1MUT and DICER1WT tumors showed different mRNA expression profiles. The FOXL2 mutation is less common in these tumors and is mutually exclusive with the DICER1 mutation.

Sertoli-Leydig tumor and DICER1 gene mutation: A case series and literature review

OBJECTIVE

Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors (SLCTs) are rare neoplasms occurring in young women with 60% associated with DICER1 mutations. This is only the second published case series of patients with SLCTs with associated DICER1 gene alterations. DICER1 syndrome is a rare inherited tumor-susceptibility syndrome affecting organs such as the ovaries. We use this case series to inform readers on this increasingly important condition in gynecology.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We present three young females presenting with secondary amenorrhoea, hirsutism, acne and in one case tonic-clonic seizures. All cases had high testosterone levels and an adnexal mass on ultrasound. Following surgical removal, pathology confirmed SLCTs and genetic testing followed. All three patients had DICER1 syndrome with two patients subsequently found to be related.

DISCUSSION

The prevalence of DICER1 syndrome in the population is estimated to be 1 in 10 000 with a spectrum of sex cord stromal tumors affecting young women. The associated pathological classifications and management. This paper describes the DICER1 gene and the associated tumor predisposition syndrome alongside a surveillance protocol for use in clinical practice. It promotes discussion over the importance of early clinical genetics involvement in sex-cord stromal tumors and the associated difficulties in counseling in a young patient population. Genetic testing and early detection are imperative for targeted surveillance of at-risk organs to be performed but despite this there is no international guidance. The cases highlight the psychological impact of tumors in young patients and provokes an ethical discussion over DICER1 gene's inclusion in preimplantation genetics.

CONCLUSIONS

DICER1 syndrome is a rare but increasingly important condition in pediatric and adolescent gynecology with a paucity of published data and case reports. This makes international consensus on management and surveillance difficult.

Sex Cord-Stromal Tumors of the Ovary: An Update and Review. Part II - Pure Sex Cord and Sex Cord-Stromal Tumors

We review the time honored but still frequently challenging features of ovarian sex cord-stromal tumors and also emphasize new developments, including unusual morphologic appearances that, despite the relative rarity of many of the tumors, result in a disproportionate number of differential diagnostic problems, variant immunohistochemical profiles, and specific molecular and syndromic associations. These neoplasms are also of historical interest as current knowledge is still based in significant part to the contributions of 2 giants of gynecologic pathology, Dr Robert Meyer and Dr. Robert E. Scully. In part I, we reviewed the pure ovarian stromal tumors. Now, in part II, we present the major clinical, pathologic, and genomic features of pure sex cord and sex cord-stromal tumors.

DICER1 Tumor Syndrome: A Retrospective Review and Future Perspectives

DICER1 syndrome, a rare autosomal dominant genetic disorder, stems from mutations in the DICER1 gene, disrupting RNA interference and leading to various tumors. These tumors, affecting organs like the lung, kidney, ovaries, and brain, pose diagnostic challenges due to diverse presentations. Understanding DICER1-associated tumors, including pleuropulmonary blastoma, ovarian Sertoli–Leydig cell tumors, and others, is vital for early detection and management. Surgical resection, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies are primary treatment modalities, with genetic counseling playing a crucial role. Multidisciplinary care is essential for optimal management, offering hope for improved outcomes in affected individuals.

The microRNA Let-7 and its exosomal form: Epigenetic regulators of gynecological cancers

Many types of gynecological cancer (GC) are often silent until they reach an advanced stage, and are therefore often diagnosed too late for effective treatment. Hence, there is a real need for more efficient diagnosis and treatment for patients with GC. During recent years, researchers have increasingly studied the impact of microRNAs cancer development, leading to a number of applications in detection and treatment. MicroRNAs are a particular group of tiny RNA molecules that regulate regular gene expression by affecting the translation process. The downregulation of numerous miRNAs has been observed in human malignancies. Let-7 is an example of a miRNA that controls cellular processes as well as signaling cascades to affect post-transcriptional gene expression. Recent research supports the hypothesis that enhancing let-7 expression in those cancers where it is downregulated may be a potential treatment option. Exosomes are tiny vesicles that move through body fluids and can include components like miRNAs (including let-7) that are important for communication between cells. Studies proved that exosomes are able to enhance tumor growth, angiogenesis, chemoresistance, metastasis, and immune evasion, thus suggesting their importance in GC management.

Lessons from genomic profiling: towards a molecular-based classification of ovarian Sertoli-Leydig cell tumour

Currently available molecular data support a dichotomous classification of Sertoli-Leydig cell tumours (SLCTs) based on DICER1 mutational status. This correspondence suggests a possible roadmap towards a molecular-based classification of SLCT.

Endocrine tumors of the female reproductive tract

Endocrine cells responsible for hormone secretion are found in virtually every organ system. The diverse neoplasms arising from endocrine cells in the female reproductive tract are not well recognized as a distinct component of endocrine oncology. Here, we integrate cellular origins with native anatomical residence to help classify neoplasms of this system. The neoplasms include steroidogenic tumors that arise usually in ovarian stroma, neuroendocrine neoplasms that can arise from normal neuroendocrine cells throughout the female reproductive tract or in ovarian germ cell tumors, and thyroid follicular cell proliferations that are exclusively a component of an ovarian teratoma and may be malignant. The neuroendocrine neoplasms run the full spectrum from indolent neuroendocrine tumors to aggressive poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas. While many of these lesions are identified as incidental findings in surgically resected tissues, others present with inappropriate hormone excess. An important consideration is the distinction of primary disease from metastatic malignancy. Genetic disorders including those caused by germline mutations of the FOXL2, GNAS, DICER1, STK11 and MEN1 genes can present with primary endocrine neoplasms of the female reproductive tract.

Molecular features for timely cancer diagnosis and treatment - tumors of the ovary, fallopian tube and endometrium

Gynecologic pathology has moved, within only a few years, from being a diagnostic area devoid of molecular testing into a diagnostic discipline in which such analyses are becoming routine. The direct relevance of molecular characterization to the choice of treatment of patients with carcinomas originating in both the uterus and adnexae makes it likely that such testing will only expand along with our understanding of the molecular make-up of these tumors. As a consequence, gynecologic pathologists have become an integral part of patient management, rather than lab personnel providing external services.In parallel, molecular testing is expanding as a tool for diagnosing rare tumors affecting these organs, including soft tissue tumors, sex cord-stromal tumors and germ cell tumors, as well as other rare entities. Increased knowledge in this area bears directly on the ability to diagnose these tumors in a reproducible manner, as well as recognize and consult on genetic diseases. Hopefully, despite the inherent difficulty in studying rare cancers, it will also translate into new therapeutic options for the malignant ones among these rare cancers.

Pediatric Sertoli-Leydig Cell Tumors of the Ovary: An Integrated Study of Clinicopathological Features, Pan-cancer-Targeted Next-generation Sequencing and Chromosomal Microarray Analysis From a Single Institution

Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors (SLCTs) are currently classified into 3 molecular subtypes: DICER1 -mutant (younger patient age), FOXL2 -mutant, and DICER1/FOXL2 -wildtype. However, it is not clear whether all pediatric SLCTs are DICER1 -mutant molecular subtypes and whether other molecular genetic aberrations besides DICER1 are involved in the pathogenesis and prognosis of these tumors. We studied comprehensive data for 8 cases of pediatric SLCTs, including clinicopathological features, pan-cancer-targeted next-generation sequencing/OncoKids panel, and chromosomal microarray analysis, to further analyze the correlation among clinicopathological features, molecular genetic aberrations, and prognosis. The ages of the patients ranged from 4 to 16 years (median, 14 y). Seven cases were moderately differentiated, and one was poorly differentiated with heterologous mesenchymal elements. Two cases had heterologous epithelium or retiform elements. Follow-up was available for all 8 patients (median, 49.5 mo). Seven patients were alive without evidence of recurrence or metastasis, and only case 5 developed metastases (synchronous bilateral pulmonary tumors with rhabdomyosarcomatous differentiation). All 8 tumors were found to harbor somatic hotspot DICER1 mutations, and 5 patients carried germline DICER1 mutations (2 of them had the phenotype of DICER1 syndrome). Together with recent studies, the DICER1 mutation frequency is 100% in pediatric SLCTs (n=27, age≤16 y). Copy number alterations were detected in 3 tumors; the only recurrent copy number alterations was the gain of whole chromosome 6 in case 5 and case 8. This is the first report describing clinicopathological features and molecular alterations in pediatric SLCTs. Our results demonstrate that all pediatric SLCTs belong to the DICER1 -mutant molecular subtype, highlighting that somatic hotspot DICER1 mutation detection has high sensitivity (100%) for the auxiliary diagnosis of pediatric SLCTs (age ≤16 y). Some pediatric SLCTs harbor molecular genetic aberrations other than DICER1 mutation, and their significance needs further study.

Testicular Neoplasms With Sex Cord and Stromal Components Harbor a Recurrent Pattern of Chromosomal Gains

A small subset of testicular sex cord-stromal tumors, designated as Sertoli-stromal cell tumors (SSCTs), comprises a mixture of Sertoli, spindle, and/or Leydig cells. The clinicopathologic features of these tumors have not been studied in any detail, and their molecular features are unknown. We, therefore, assessed the morphologic and genomic features of 14 SSCTs, including 1 tumor with features similar to the ovarian Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor (SLCT) with retiform tubules. The median age of the patients was 24 years (range, 10-55 years), and the median tumor size was 2.3 cm (range, 0.7-4.7 cm). All tumors showed Sertoli-like sex cord cells arranged in variably developed tubular structures, typically also forming nests and cords. These imperceptibly blended with a neoplastic spindle cell stroma or, in the SLCT, vacuolated to eosinophilic Leydig cells. Genomic analysis demonstrated the presence of a hotspot loss-of-function DICER1 mutation in the SLCT (patient 1) and hotspot gain-of-function CTNNB1 mutations in the tumors of patients 2 and 3, with both CTNNB1 variants being interpreted as possible subclonal events. The mutations were the only relevant findings in the tumors of patients 1 and 2, whereas the tumor of patient 3 harbored concurrent chromosomal arm-level and chromosome-level copy number gains. Among the remaining 11 tumors, all of those that had interpretable copy number data (9 tumors) harbored multiple recurrent chromosomal arm-level and chromosome-level copy number gains suggestive of a shift in ploidy without concurrent pathogenic mutations. The results of the present study suggest that CTNNB1 mutations (likely subclonal) are only rarely present in SSCTs; instead, most of them harbor genomic alterations similar to those seen in testicular sex cord-stromal tumors with pure or predominant spindle cell components. A notable exception was a testicular SLCT with morphologic features identical to the ovarian counterpart, which harbored a DICER1 mutation.

Relevance of Molecular Pathology for the Diagnosis of Sex Cord-Stromal Tumors of the Ovary: A Narrative Review

Ovarian sex cord-stromal tumors (SCSTs) account for 8% of all primary ovarian neo-plasms. Accurate diagnosis is crucial since each subtype has a specific prognostic and treatment. Apart from fibrosarcomas, stromal tumors are benign while sex cord tumors may recur, sometimes with a significant time to relapse. Although the diagnosis based on morphology is straightforward, in some cases the distinction between stromal tumors and sex cord tumors may be tricky. Indeed, the immunophenotype is usually nonspecific between stromal tumors and sex cord tumors. Therefore, molecular pathology plays an important role in the diagnosis of such entities, with pathognomonic or recurrent alterations, such as FOXL2 variants in adult granulosa cell tumors. In addition, these neoplasms may be associated with genetic syndromes, such as Peutz-Jeghers syndrome for sex cord tumors with annular tubules, and DICER1 syndrome for Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors (SLCTs), for which the pathologist may be in the front line of syndromic suspicion. Molecular pathology of SCST is also relevant for patient prognosis and management. For instance, the DICER1 variant is associated with moderately to poorly differentiated SLCTS and a poorer prognosis. The present review summarizes the histomolecular criteria useful for the diagnosis of SCST, using recent molecular data from the literature.

DICER1-mutated rhabdomyosarcoma of the ovary with teratoid features

DICER1-mutated rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare, emerging entity with a predilection for the gynecologic and genitourinary tracts. We report here a case of DICER1-mutated rhabdomyosarcoma of the ovary in a 14 years old girl which displayed interspersed mature teratoid glands, neuroectodermal rosettes and immature blastematous-like tubes. Morphologically the sarcomatous component predominated, corresponding to a high grade spindle cell rhabdomyosarcoma with botryoid features. Islets of cartilage were present. The sarcomatous proliferation encased the teratoid glands, forming cambium layer-like arrangements. The sarcoma cells were Myogenin and MYOD1 positive, the neuroectodermal rosettes expressed SALL4 along with cytokeratins and EMA and were negative for Inhibin; immature blastematous-like tubes were negative for SALL4 and Inhibin. Whole RNA- and targeted DNA-sequencing revealed two DICER1 mutations in exon 26: c.5113G>A: p.(Glu1705Lys) and exon 12: c.1642C>T: p.(Gln548X). The sarcomatous component harbored a complex genetic profile while the teratoid component was diploid, none of the above displayed abnormality of 12p. DICER1-mutated sarcomas display pathological features similar to embryonal rhabdomyosarcomas, botryoid type. They also display heterogeneous features combining cartilage foci, teratoid mature glands, immature blastematous-like tubes and/or neuroectodermal components. Molecular testing remains necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Further studies need to clarify the nosology of DICER1-mutated sarcomas and devise specific therapeutic strategies.

[DICER1 syndrome: clinical variety endocrine manifestations and features of diagnostics]

DICER1 syndrome is a rare genetic disorder with the progressive development of malignant and non-malignant diseases in childhood. The cause of this syndrome is a dusfunction of the endoribonuclease DICER, which plays an important role in the processing of microRNAs with subsequent regulation of the control of the expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. Clinical manifestations of dyseropathies is very different and may include both endocrine manifestations - multinodular goiter, differentiated thyroid cancers, ovarian stromal tumors, pituitary blastoma, and non-endocrine formations - pleuropulmonary blastoma, cystic nephroma, pineoblastoma. The presence of somatic mutations of the DICER1 gene is a resultant stage in the pathogenesis of dyseropathies, determining the further path of oncogenesis. At present, DICER1 syndrome is diagnosed extremely rarely, which leads to late detection of the components of the disease in the patient, late diagnosis of neoplasms, lack of family counseling. Diagnosis at the early stages of the disease, the development of screening programs for the management of these patients allows minimizing the risks of developing more malignant, aggressive forms of the disease.

DICER1 -Altered Extraovarian Moderately Differentiated Sertoli-Leydig Cell Tumor: Report of a Rare Case

We report an unusual case of a pelvic extraovarian moderately differentiated Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor arising in a 4-yr-old female. The tumor contained a DICER1 pathogenic variant which was absent in the germline ruling out DICER1 syndrome. In reporting this case, we discuss the differential diagnosis and possible histogenesis and review reported cases of extraovarian Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor.

Molecular Testing in Ovarian Tumours: Challenges from the Pathologist's Perspective

The use of molecular testing to direct diagnosis and treatment options in ovarian tumours has rapidly expanded in recent years, in particular with regard to the recommendation for routine homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) testing in all patients with high-grade ovarian epithelial tumours. The implications of this increased level of testing upon the pathologist is significant in terms of increased workload, the provision of adequate tumour samples for molecular testing, and the interpretation of complex molecular pathology reports. In order to optimise the quality of reports generated, it is important to establish clear pathways of communication on both a local and national level between clinicians, pathology lab staff, and medical scientists. On a national level, in the United Kingdom, Genomic Laboratory Hubs (GLHs) have been established to provide a uniform high-quality molecular diagnostics service to all patients with ovarian tumours within the National Health services in the country. On a local level, there are a number of small steps that can be taken to improve the quality of tissues available for testing and to streamline the processes involved in generating requests for molecular testing. This article discusses these factors from the perspective of the clinical histopathologist.

Update on Ovarian Sex Cord-Stromal Tumors

This article focuses on the recent advances in ovarian sex cord-stromal tumors, predominantly in the setting of their molecular underpinnings. The integration of genetic information with morphologic and immunohistochemical findings in this rare subset of tumors is of clinical significance from refining the diagnostic and prognostic stratifications to genetic counseling.

Well-differentiated Sertoli-Leydig Cell Tumors (SLCTs) Are Not Associated With DICER1 Pathogenic Variants and Represent a Different Tumor Type to Moderately and Poorly Differentiated SLCTs

Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors (SLCTs) are uncommon ovarian sex cord-stromal neoplasms which are currently classified into well, moderately, and poorly differentiated and retiform types. Well-differentiated SLCT is the least common and typically occurs in pure form, whereas moderately and poorly differentiated and retiform types often comprise a morphologic spectrum with an admixture of all 3. DICER1 pathogenic variants are very common in SLCTs but, as far as we are aware, have not been reported in well-differentiated neoplasms, although the number of cases studied is small due to the rarity of this neoplasm. We undertook DICER1 molecular testing in a cohort of 18 well-differentiated SLCTs and show all these to be DICER1 wild-type. None of the cases harbored the p. FOXL2 C134W hotspot mutation. Based upon the DICER1 molecular results, together with morphologic observations, we propose that well-differentiated SLCT is an unrelated neoplasm to the more common moderately/poorly differentiated and retiform SLCTs and is a fundamentally distinct and unrelated tumor type within the ovarian sex cord-stromal tumor family. The implications for tumor nomenclature and recommendations for future tumor classification are discussed within the context of tumors collectively known as SLCTs.

Molecular Correlates of Aggressive Behavior and Biologic Progression in Testicular Sertoli Cell Tumor

Sertoli cell tumor (SCT) is the second most common type of sex cord-stromal tumor in men and ∼10% exhibit malignant behavior. Although CTNNB1 variants have been described in SCTs, only a limited number of metastatic cases have been analyzed, and the molecular alterations associated with aggressive behavior remain largely unexplored. This study evaluated a series of nonmetastasizing and metastasizing SCTs using next-generation DNA sequencing to further characterize their genomic landscape. Twenty-two tumors from 21 patients were analyzed. Cases were divided into metastasizing SCTs and nonmetastasizing SCTs. Nonmetastasizing tumors were considered to have aggressive histopathologic features if they exhibited ≥1 of the following: size > 2.4 cm, necrosis, lymphovascular invasion, ≥ 3 mitoses per 10 high-power fields (HPF), severe nuclear atypia or invasive growth. Six patients had metastasizing SCTs and the remaining 15 had nonmetastasizing SCTs; 5 nonmetastasizing tumors had ≥1 aggressive histopathologic feature(s). Gain-of-function CTNNB1 or inactivating APC variants were highly recurrent in nonmetastasizing SCTs (combined frequency >90%), with arm-/chromosomal-level CNVs, loss of 1p and CTNNB1 LOH occurring exclusively in CTNNB1-mutant tumors with aggressive histopathologic features or size >1.5 cm. Nonmetastasizing SCTs were almost invariably driven by WNT pathway activation. In contrast, only 50% of metastasizing SCTs harbored gain-of-function CTNNB1 variants. The remaining 50% of metastasizing SCTs were CTNNB1-wild-type and harbored alterations in TP53, MDM2, CDKN2A/CDKN2B, and TERT pathways. These findings suggest that aggressive SCTs can arise from progression of CTNNB1-mutant benign SCTs, or from CTNNB1-wild type tumors with alterations of TP53, cell cycle regulation, and telomere maintenance pathways.

From Malignant Thyroid Teratoma to Thyroblastoma: Evolution of a Newly-recognized DICER1 -associated Malignancy

Thyroblastoma is a novel thyroid malignancy included in the 5th Edition WHO Classification of Endocrine and Neuroendocrine Tumours. The majority of tumors now classified as thyroblastoma were originally regarded to be malignant thyroid teratomas. However, these neoplasms were recently recognized as a separate entity based on a distinctive constellation of primitive multilineage elements, including immature thyroid epithelium, undifferentiated or rhabdomyoblastic spindle cell proliferations, and neuroepithelial blastema, as well as recurrent DICER1 hotspot mutations. Thyroblastoma is an aggressive tumor that leads to death from disease in ~50% of patients, making it essential to differentiate this entity from a wide range of other thyroid tumors that show overlapping histologic features or DICER1 mutations. This review aims to provide a practical overview of the background, clinicopathologic features, molecular underpinnings, and differential diagnosis of this recently-described and molecularly-defined entity.

Clinicopathologic and molecular spectrum of testicular sex cord-stromal tumors not amenable to specific histopathologic subclassification

A subset of testicular sex cord-stromal tumors (SCST), which includes neoplasms with mixed histology, cannot be classified into a specific histologic subtype. This study evaluated the clinicopathologic, immunophenotypic and molecular features of 26 SCST not amenable to specific classification by expert uropathologists. Median age at diagnosis was 43 years and median tumor size was 2.4 cm. Follow-up information was available for 18 (69%) patients, with evidence of an aggressive clinical course in 6 patients (4 alive with disease, 2 dead of disease 3 months and 6 months after orchiectomy). Microscopically, SCST not amenable to specific classification demonstrated monophasic epithelioid (9/26, 35%), monophasic spindle cell (5/26, 19%), and biphasic or mixed histology (12/26, 46%). One or more aggressive histopathologic features were seen in 11 cases. DNA sequencing was successful in 22 tumors. Pathogenic CTNNB1 and APC alterations were seen in 7 (33%) and 2 (10%) cases, respectively, with additional variants (e.g., CDKN2A, RB1, TP53, BRCA2) being identified in individual cases. Combined evaluation of morphology, sequencing data and beta-catenin immunohistochemistry resulted in reclassification of 6 (23%) tumors as Sertoli cell tumor, not otherwise specified. This was supported by comparing the methylation profiles of a subset of these tumors and those of typical Sertoli cell tumors. Additionally, a subset of 5 neoplasms (19%) with spindle cell or biphasic histology and SMA expression was characterized by hyperdiploid genomes with recurrent chromosomal gains and absence of driver mutations, possibly representing a distinct tumor type. The SCST that remained not amenable to specific histologic classification (15/26, 58%) were enriched for aggressive histologic features and malignant clinical behavior. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that a subset of testicular SCST that were originally not amenable to specific classification could be reclassified by combined evaluation of morphology, immunohistochemistry and molecular data.

Bilateral Ovarian Sertoli-Leydig Cell Tumors Harboring DICER1 Germline and Distinct Somatic Mutations: Case Report and Literature Review

Background: DICER1 tumor predisposition syndrome is characterized by an increased risk for development of pleuropulmonary blastoma, pituitary blastoma, multinodular thyroid goiter, thyroid carcinoma, sex cord stromal tumor, cystic nephroma, embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma, and tumors of the CNS, amongst others. Of this list, only pituitary blastoma is recognized as pathognomonic for the syndrome. Case report: We describe a 15-year-old female with bilateral, asynchronous Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors (SLCT). Both tumors harbored an identical germline frameshift mutation as well as unique somatic DICER1 hot-spot point mutations. Discussion: A review of bilateral SLCTs demonstrates that all patients with available DICER1 mutation status carried a germline DICER1 mutation (100%, 9 of 9). In cases with known somatic DICER1 status on bilateral tumors, all harbored distinct somatic mutations (100%, 5 of 5). Our findings support the notion that bilateral ovarian SLCTs are indeed separate events and do not represent recurrent or metastatic disease.

DICER1-associated Tumors in the Female Genital Tract: Molecular Basis, Clinicopathologic Features, and Differential Diagnosis

DICER1 syndrome is a tumor predisposition syndrome in which patients are at an increased risk of developing a wide variety of benign and malignant neoplasms with a hallmark constellation of pediatric pleuropulmonary blastoma, cystic nephroma, and thyroid lesions. DICER1 encodes an RNA endoribonuclease that is crucial to the processing of microRNA and may play a role in the maturation of Müllerian tissue. Within the gynecologic tract, germline mutations in DICER1 are associated with an array of rare tumors, including Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor, embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma of the cervix, gynandroblastoma, and juvenile granulosa cell tumor, which typically present in childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood. In addition, somatic DICER1 mutations have been described in rare gynecologic tumors such as adenosarcoma, Sertoli cell tumor, ovarian fibrosarcoma, cervical primitive neuroectodermal tumor, carcinosarcoma, and germ cell tumors. In light of the significant association with multiple neoplasms, genetic counseling should be considered for patients who present with a personal or family history of these rare DICER1-associated gynecologic tumors. This review highlights the most current understanding of DICER1 genetic alterations and describes the clinical, histopathologic, and immunohistochemical features and differential diagnoses for gynecologic tumors associated with DICER1 mutation.

Congenital midline spinal hamartoma in an infant with DICER1 syndrome: A case report

Congenital spinal hamartomas are rare benign tumors. They are mostly seen in infants and are typically asymptomatic at presentation. Spinal hamartomas have not been associated with any known cancer predisposition syndrome. DICER1 syndrome is a well-characterized cancer predisposition syndrome caused by a germline mutation in the DICER1 gene, which shows variable expressivity. To our knowledge, spinal hamartoma has never been described in individuals with DICER1 syndrome. Here, we describe a rare association of congenital spinal hamartoma and DICER1 syndrome in a 5-week-old infant, with molecular findings suggestive of the implication of DICER1 in the pathogenesis of this tumor.

Update on Ovarian Sex Cord-Stromal Tumors

This article focuses on the recent advances in ovarian sex cord-stromal tumors, predominantly in the setting of their molecular underpinnings. The integration of genetic information with morphologic and immunohistochemical findings in this rare subset of tumors is of clinical significance from refining the diagnostic and prognostic stratifications to genetic counseling.

Testicular Sertoli cell tumour and potentially testicular Leydig cell tumour are features of DICER1 syndrome

DICER1 syndrome is a rare paediatric autosomal dominant inherited disorder predisposing to various benign and malignant tumours. It is caused by a germline pathogenic variant in DICER1, and the second hit for tumour development is usually a missense hotspot pathogenic variant in the DICER1 ribonuclease IIIb domain. While DICER1 predisposing variants account for about 60% of ovarian Sertoli-Leydig cell tumours, no DICER1-related testicular stromal tumours have been described. Here we report the first two cases of testicular stromal tumours in children carrying a DICER1 germline pathogenic variant: a case of Sertoli cell tumour and a case of Leydig cell tumour diagnosed at 2 and 12 years of age, respectively. A somatic DICER1 hotspot pathogenic variant was detected in the Sertoli cell tumour. This report extends the spectrum of DICER1-related tumours to include testicular Sertoli cell tumour and potentially testicular Leydig cell tumour. Diagnosis of a testicular Sertoli cell tumour should prompt DICER1 genetic testing so that patients with a DICER1 germline pathogenic variant can benefit from established surveillance guidelines. DICER1 genetic evaluation may be considered for testicular Leydig cell tumour. Our findings suggest that miRNA dysregulation underlies the aetiology of some testicular stromal tumours.

DICER1 tumor predisposition syndrome: an evolving story initiated with the pleuropulmonary blastoma

DICER1 syndrome (OMIM 606241, 601200) is a rare autosomal dominant familial tumor predisposition disorder with a heterozygous DICER1 germline mutation. The most common tumor seen clinically is the pleuropulmonary blastoma (PPB), a lung neoplasm of early childhood which is classified on its morphologic features into four types (IR, I, II and III) with tumor progression over time within the first 4-5 years of life from the prognostically favorable cystic type I to the unfavorable solid type III. Following the initial report of PPB, its association with other cystic neoplasms was demonstrated in family studies. The detection of the germline mutation in DICER1 provided the opportunity to identify and continue to recognize a number seemingly unrelated extrapulmonary neoplasms: Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor, gynandroblastoma, embryonal rhabdomyosarcomas of the cervix and other sites, multinodular goiter, differentiated and poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma, cervical-thyroid teratoma, cystic nephroma-anaplastic sarcoma of kidney, nasal chondromesenchymal hamartoma, intestinal juvenile-like hamartomatous polyp, ciliary body medulloepithelioma, pituitary blastoma, pineoblastoma, primary central nervous system sarcoma, embryonal tumor with multilayered rosettes-like cerebellar tumor, PPB-like peritoneal sarcoma, DICER1-associated presacral malignant teratoid neoplasm and other non-neoplastic associations. Each of these neoplasms is characterized by a second somatic mutation in DICER1. In this review, we have summarized the salient clinicopathologic aspects of these tumors whose histopathologic features have several overlapping morphologic attributes particularly the primitive mesenchyme often with rhabdomyoblastic and chondroid differentiation and an uncommitted spindle cell pattern. Several of these tumors have an initial cystic stage from which there is progression to a high grade, complex patterned neoplasm. These pathologic findings in the appropriate clinical setting should serve to alert the pathologist to the possibility of a DICER1-associated neoplasm and initiate appropriate testing on the neoplasm and to alert the clinician about the concern for a DICER1 mutation.

Clinicians Practicing Obstetrics and Gynecology Are Uniquely Situated to Recognize DICER1 Syndrome

Pediatric gynecologic malignancies are rare, present with diverse pathologic findings, and can be associated with genetic syndromes such as Peutz-Jeghers, Lynch, and Li-Fraumeni. DICER1 mutation is an emerging entity that has been demonstrated to cause a hereditary tumor predisposition syndrome. Previously, gynecologic manifestations of DICER1 syndrome have been described in single or small case reports with an array of pathologic findings. Here, we discuss pediatric and adolescent patients with gynecologic DICER1-associated tumors, outline the significance of DICER1, and suggest points of care where the syndrome may be diagnosed in the context of routine obstetric and gynecology practice. Patients presenting with a personal or family history suspicious for DICER1 syndrome should undergo both germline and somatic testing, as the presence of DICER1 mutations will have an impact on both treatment and surveillance strategies.

Thoracic Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor: An alternative type of pleuropulmonary blastoma associated with DICER1 variation

A 2-year-old boy presented with a large cystic and solid chest mass arising from the lung, radiographically consistent with pleuropulmonary blastoma (PPB). He underwent right lower lobectomy with resection of a well-circumscribed, mixed solid and cystic mass. The solid areas were composed of cords and nests of tumor cells in the myxoid stroma and retiform foci whose pathologic and immunophenotypic findings were consistent with a sex cord-stromal tumor with features of a Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor. Tumor testing showed a pathogenic variant in the DICER1 RNase IIIb hotspot domain. Family history was suggestive of DICER1 germline pathogenic DICER1 variation in absence of a detectable germline variant. He received 12 cycles of chemotherapy with ifosfamide, vincristine, dactinomycin and doxorubicin (IVADo) and surgery with complete response. One year after completion of chemotherapy, imaging studies showed concern for recurrence confirmed by thorascopic biopsy of a pleural-based mass. He is currently receiving cisplatin-based chemotherapy with reduction in tumor size. Review of the literature showed no similar cases; however, review of our pathology files revealed a single similar case of anterior mediastinal Sertoli cell tumor in a 3-year-old girl.

Spectrum of DICER1 Germline Pathogenic Variants in Ovarian Sertoli-Leydig Cell Tumor

Sertoli–Leydig Cell Tumors (SLCTs) are rare ovarian sex cord-stromal neoplasms, which predominantly affect adolescents and young female adults. The SLCTs clinical diagnosis and treatment remains challenging due to the rarity and the varied presentation. A large majority of SLCTs are unilateral, but also bilateral neoplasms have been reported, sometimes in the context of DICER1 syndrome. In fact, the most significant discovery regarding the molecular genetics basis of SLCTs was the finding of somatic and germline pathogenic variants in the DICER1 gene. The DICER1 protein is a key component of the micro-RNA processing pathway. Germline DICER1 pathogenic variants are typically inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern and are most often loss-of-function variants dispersed along the length of the gene. Contrarily, DICER1-related tumors harbor a characteristic missense “RNase IIIb hotspot” mutation occurring in trans, or, less frequently, loss of heterozygosity (LOH) event involving the wild-type allele. While DICER1 mutations have been identified in approximately 60% of SLCTs, especially in the moderately or poorly differentiated types, there are only a few case reports of ovarian SLCT with underlying germline DICER1 mutations. In this review, we focus on the molecular genetic features of SLCT, performing an extensive survey of all germline pathogenic variants modifying the whole sequence of the DICER1 gene. We point out that DICER1 genetic testing, coupled with an accurate variants classification and timely counseling, is of crucial importance in the clinical management of ovarian SLCT-affected patients.

Genetic characterisation of adult primary pleomorphic uterine rhabdomyosarcoma and comparison with uterine carcinosarcoma

AIMS

To characterise the genetic alterations in adult primary uterine rhabdomyosarcomas (uRMSs) and to investigate whether these tumours are genetically distinct from uterine carcinosarcomas (UCSs).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Three tumours originally diagnosed as primary adult pleomorphic uRMS were subjected to massively parallel sequencing targeting 468 cancer-related genes and RNA-sequencing. Mutational profiles were compared with those of UCSs (n = 57) obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Sequencing data analyses were performed using validated bioinformatic approaches. Pathogenic TP53 mutations and high levels of genomic instability were detected in the three cases. uRMS1 harboured a likely pathogenic YTHDF2-FOXR1 fusion. uRMS2 harboured a PPP2R1A hotspot mutation and amplification of multiple genes, including WHSC1L1, FGFR1, MDM2, and CCNE1, whereas uRMS3 harboured an FBXW7 hotspot mutation and an ANKRD11 homozygous deletion. Hierarchical clustering of somatic mutations and copy number alterations revealed that these tumours initially diagnosed as pleomorphic uRMSs and UCSs were similar. Subsequent comprehensive pathological re-review of the three uRMSs revealed previously unidentified minute pan-cytokeratin-positive atypical glands in one case (uRMS3), favouring its reclassification as UCS with extensive rhabdomyosarcomatous overgrowth.

CONCLUSIONS

Adult pleomorphic uRMSs harbour TP53 mutations and high levels of copy number alterations. Our findings underscore the challenge in discriminating between uRMS and UCS with rhabdomyosarcomatous differentiation.

Rare DICER1 and Absent FOXL2 Mutations Characterize Ovarian Juvenile Granulosa Cell Tumors

FOXL2 somatic mutation occurs in a high percentage of ovarian adult granulosa cell tumors and DICER1 mutations in a high proportion of Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors. These mutations have only been studied in a limited number of juvenile granulosa cell tumors (JGCTs), and their occurrence and frequency in these neoplasms is controversial. We aimed to determine the frequency of FOXL2 and DICER1 mutations in a large cohort of 50 JGCTs, and to evaluate the prognostic impact of these mutations. A FOXL2 hotspot mutation was found in 2/50 JGCTs. Review of these 2 cases reclassified them as adult granulosa cell tumors. Thus, FOXL2 mutation was absent from our large cohort of JGCTs. DICER1 mutations in the RNase IIIb domain were found in 4 cases. After review of the mutated cases, 1 was reclassified as a gynandroblastoma with a prominent JGCT component. Thus, DICER1 mutations were detected in 3/47 (6%) of pathologically confirmed JGCTs. Our results show that FOXL2 mutations are not present in JGCT, whereas a small percentage of these neoplasms exhibit DICER1 mutations.

Sertoli-Leydig Cell Tumors of the Ovary With Follicular Differentiation Often Resembling Juvenile Granulosa Cell Tumor: A Report of 38 Cases Including Comments on Sex Cord-Stromal Tumors of Mixed Forms (So-called Gynandroblastoma)

Thirty-eight ovarian Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors that contained follicles are described; in 33 of them follicles imparted a microscopic appearance resembling that of the juvenile granulosa cell tumor. The average age of the patients (28 y), frequency of androgenic manifestations (40%), and dominant histopathologic features were all typical of Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor, mostly (80%) of intermediate differentiation. The remaining tumors were poorly differentiated; none were well differentiated. The follicles that mimicked juvenile granulosa cell tumor accounted for ∼5% to 40% of the tumor volume. They typically arose out of the characteristic lobules seen in Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors of intermediate differentiation. There appeared to be a gradual loosening of the stroma imparting a pale appearance to the lobules and on that background follicles emerged. The follicles were mostly relatively regular and round to oval with basophilic or eosinophilic secretion and when fully formed perfectly mimicked juvenile granulosa cell morphology. In 18 of these cases, and 5 others, follicles were present that had a nonspecific morphology and had a random, nonlobule-associated distribution. The presence of a juvenile granulosa-like appearance often raised consideration of the diagnosis of a sex cord-stromal tumor of mixed forms (so-called gynandroblastoma) but a multifocal origin within lobules of otherwise typical Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors, and overall tumor characteristics indicates aberrant differentiation within the latter tumor of a nature only sporadically noted in the prior literature. Such neoplasms should, in our opinion, not be placed in the grouping of a sex cord-stromal tumor of mixed forms but rather in the Sertoli-Leydig category.

Prevalence of Pathogenic Germline DICER1 Variants in Young Individuals Thyroidectomised Due to Goitre - A National Danish Cohort

INTRODUCTION

DICER1 syndrome encompasses a variety of benign and malignant manifestations including multinodular goitre, which is the most common manifestation among individuals carrying pathogenic DICER1 variants. This is the first study estimating the prevalence of pathogenic DICER1 variants in young individuals with multinodular goitre.

METHODS

Danish individuals diagnosed with nodular goitre based on thyroidectomy samples in 2001-2016 with the age limit at time of operation being ≤ 25 years were offered germline DICER1 gene testing.

RESULTS

Six of 46 individuals, 13% (CI [3.3;22.7], p <0.05), diagnosed with nodular goitre on the basis of thyroidectomy samples under the age of 25 years had pathogenic germline variants in DICER1. They were found in different pathoanatomical nodular goitre cohorts i.e. nodular goitre (n=2), colloid nodular goitre (n=3) and hyperplastic nodular goitre (n=1).

CONCLUSIONS

We recommend referral of patients thyroidectomised due to goitre aged <21 years and patients thyroidectomised due to goitre aged <25 years with a family history of goitre to genetic counselling. Patients of all ages thyroidectomised due to goitre, who are affected by another DICER1 manifestation should be referred to genetic counselling.

Recurrent DICER1 Hotspot Mutations in Malignant Thyroid Gland Teratomas: Molecular Characterization and Proposal for a Separate Classification

Thyroid gland teratomas are rare tumors that span a wide clinicopathologic spectrum. Although benign and immature teratomas arise in infants and young children and generally have good outcomes, malignant teratomas affect adults and follow an aggressive course. This divergent behavior raises the possibility that benign/immature and malignant teratomas are separate entities rather than different grades of a single tumor. However, the histogenesis and molecular underpinnings of thyroid gland teratomas are poorly understood regardless of grade. In this study, we performed next-generation sequencing on 8 thyroid gland teratomas, including 4 malignant, 3 benign, and 1 immature. We identified DICER1 hotspot mutations in all 4 malignant cases (100%) but not in any benign/immature cases (0%). No clinically significant mutations in other genes were found in either group. We also performed immunohistochemistry to characterize the primitive components of malignant teratomas. Not only did all cases consistently contain immature neural elements (synaptophysin and INSM1 positive), but also spindled cells with rhabdomyoblastic differentiation (desmin and myogenin positive) and bland epithelial proliferations of thyroid follicular origin (TTF-1 and PAX8 positive). Although DICER1 mutations have previously been implicated in multinodular hyperplasia and well-differentiated thyroid carcinomas, these findings demonstrate the first recurrent role for DICER1 in primitive thyroid tumors. The combined neural, rhabdomyoblastic, and homologous epithelial elements highlighted in this series of malignant thyroid gland teratomas parallel the components of DICER1-mutated tumors in other organs. Overall, these molecular findings further expand the differences between benign/immature teratomas and malignant teratomas, supporting the classification of these tumors as separate entities.

Clinical Characteristics and Mutation Analyses of Ovarian Sertoli-Leydig Cell Tumors

BACKGROUND

There are limited studies on Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors (SLCTs) and no data in the population of Chinese patients with SLCTs from the genetic level. In addition, previous studies on SLCTs have focused exclusively on mutations in the DICER1 gene and no data exists on the genetic landscape of SLCTs.

METHODS

Patients with moderately or poorly differentiated SLCTs who underwent surgical resection between January 2012 and October 2018 in our institution were recruited. Whole exome sequencing was performed on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumor tissue and peripheral blood or normal tissue samples.

RESULTS

Seventeen patients were recruited with 19 tumor samples. The rate of tumor-associated germline mutations was 6 of 17 (35.3%), and that of DICER1 germline mutations was 4 of 17 (23.5%). Regarding clinical relapse, patients with germline tumor-associated mutations had significantly poorer prognosis than those without (p = .007), and those with germline DICER1 mutations were relatively more likely to exhibit clinical relapse, although not to a significant degree (p = .069). Regarding somatic mutations, firstly, the subclone evolution analysis demonstrated that the two tumors on the contralateral ovary were primary tumors, respectively. Secondly, somatic mutations were most commonly found in CDC27 (10/19, 52.6%), DICER1 (4/19, 21.1%), and MUC22 (4/19, 21.1%). And the analysis of cancer cell fractions showed that DICER1 mutations were correlated with tumorigenesis of SLCTs. The rates of germline and somatic DICER1 mutations were higher in patients who were younger than 18 years than those in older patients (p = .022 and p = .001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Our study indicates that genetic testing may have important clinical significance for patients with SLCTs, particularly for younger patients.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Bilateral ovarian Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors were verified to be primary tumors from the genetic perspective. The rates of germline and somatic DICER1 mutations were 4 of 17 (23.5%) and 4 of 19 (21.1%), respectively. The rates of germline and somatic DICER1 mutations were higher in patients who were younger than 18 years than those in older patients (p = .022 and p = .001, respectively).

Practical roles for molecular diagnostic testing in ovarian adult granulosa cell tumour, Sertoli-Leydig cell tumour, microcystic stromal tumour and their mimics

Within the last decade, molecular advances have provided insights into the genetics of several ovarian sex cord-stromal tumours that have otherwise been enigmatic. Chief among these advances are the identification of FOXL2, DICER1 and CTNNB1 mutations in adult granulosa cell tumours, Sertoli-Leydig cell tumours (SLCTs), and microcystic stromal tumours (MCSTs), respectively. As access to molecular diagnostic laboratories continues to become more widely available, the potential roles for tumour mutation testing in the pathological diagnosis of these tumours merit discussion. Furthermore, links to inherited cancer susceptibility syndromes may exist for some women with SLCT (DICER1 syndrome) and MCST [familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)]. This review will address practical issues in deciding when and how to apply mutation testing in the diagnosis of these three sex cord-stromal tumours. The pathologist's role in recommending referral for formal risk assessment for DICER1 syndrome and FAP will also be discussed.

Evaluation of molecular analysis in challenging ovarian sex cord-stromal tumours: a review of 50 cases

Molecular profiling was performed in 50 problematic ovarian sex cord-stromal tumours (SCSTs) most of which were seen in consultation. Following analysis, 17 were classified as adult granulosa cell tumour (AGCT), 16 of which showed a FOXL2 sequence variant (mutation); the initial favoured diagnosis in five of the cases was benign thecoma/fibrothecoma. Thirteen tumours ultimately classified as cellular fibroma or thecoma were FOXL2 sequence variant negative which was helpful in excluding AGCT. All six Sertoli-Leydig cell tumours (SLCTs) demonstrated DICER1 'hot spot' sequence variants, and one case each of AGCT and SLCT showed high grade histological transformation associated with a concurrent TP53 sequence variant. All eight unclassified SCSTs were negative for FOXL2 mutations and the six tested cases were DICER1 wild type; however, three tumours demonstrated MET, CTNNB1 or TP53 sequence variants. Four cases were classified as juvenile granulosa cell tumour, and one of these harboured a GNAS sequence variant. The single gynandroblastoma and microcystic stromal tumours in the series demonstrated FOXL2 and CTNNB1 alterations, respectively. In summary, molecular analysis aids in accurate classification of challenging ovarian SCSTs and sometimes leads to revision of the favoured provisional diagnosis. TP53 sequence variants may be associated with dedifferentiation in both SLCTs and AGCTs.

Genomic profiling of primary and recurrent adult granulosa cell tumors of the ovary

Adult-type granulosa cell tumor (aGCT) is a rare malignant ovarian sex cord-stromal tumor, harboring recurrent FOXL2 c.C402G/p.C134W hotspot mutations in 97% of cases. These tumors are considered to have a favorable prognosis, however aGCTs have a tendency for local spread and late recurrences, which are associated with poor survival rates. We sought to determine the genetic alterations associated with aGCT disease progression. We subjected primary non-recurrent aGCTs (n = 7), primary aGCTs that subsequently recurred (n = 9) and their matched recurrences (n = 9), and aGCT recurrences without matched primary tumors (n = 10) to targeted massively parallel sequencing of ≥410 cancer-related genes. In addition, three primary non-recurrent aGCTs and nine aGCT recurrences were subjected to FOXL2 and TERT promoter Sanger sequencing analysis. All aGCTs harbored the FOXL2 C134W hotspot mutation. TERT promoter mutations were found to be significantly more frequent in recurrent (18/28, 64%) than primary aGCTs (5/19, 26%, p = 0.017). In addition, mutations affecting TP53, MED12, and TET2 were restricted to aGCT recurrences. Pathway annotation of altered genes demonstrated that aGCT recurrences displayed an enrichment for genetic alterations affecting cell cycle pathway-related genes. Analysis of paired primary and recurrent aGCTs revealed that TERT promoter mutations were either present in both primary tumors and matched recurrences or were restricted to the recurrence and absent in the respective primary aGCT. Clonal composition analysis of these paired samples further revealed that aGCTs display intra-tumor genetic heterogeneity and harbor multiple clones at diagnosis and relapse. We observed that in a subset of cases, recurrences acquired additional genetic alterations not present in primary aGCTs, including TERT, MED12, and TP53 mutations and CDKN2A/B homozygous deletions. Albeit harboring relatively simple genomes, our data provide evidence to suggest that aGCTs are genetically heterogeneous tumors and that TERT promoter mutations and/or genetic alterations affecting other cell cycle-related genes may be associated with disease progression and recurrences.

Mutant FOXL2C134W Hijacks SMAD4 and SMAD2/3 to Drive Adult Granulosa Cell Tumors

The mutant protein FOXL2^C134W is expressed in at least 95% of adult-type ovarian granulosa cell tumors (AGCT) and is considered to be a driver of oncogenesis in this disease. However, the molecular mechanism by which FOXL2^C134W contributes to tumorigenesis is not known. Here, we show that mutant FOXL2^C134W acquires the ability to bind SMAD4, forming a FOXL2^C134W/SMAD4/SMAD2/3 complex that binds a novel hybrid DNA motif AGHCAHAA, unique to the FOXL2^C134W mutant. This binding induced an enhancer-like chromatin state, leading to transcription of nearby genes, many of which are characteristic of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. FOXL2^C134W also bound hybrid loci in primary AGCT. Ablation of SMAD4 or SMAD2/3 resulted in strong reduction of FOXL2^C134W binding at hybrid sites and decreased expression of associated genes. Accordingly, inhibition of TGFβ mitigated the transcriptional effect of FOXL2^C134W. Our results provide mechanistic insight into AGCT pathogenesis, identifying FOXL2^C134W and its interaction with SMAD4 as potential therapeutic targets to this condition. SIGNIFICANCE: FOXL2^C134W hijacks SMAD4 and leads to the expression of genes involved in EMT, stemness, and oncogenesis in AGCT, making FOXL2^C134W and the TGFβ pathway therapeutic targets in this condition. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT: http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/canres/80/17/3466/F1.large.jpg.

Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor in two siblings with DICER1 syndrome: A case report and literature review

RATIONALE

DICER1 syndrome is an autosomal-dominant tumor predisposition syndrome associated with numerous cancerous and noncancerous conditions. The most common sex cord-stromal tumor associated with DICER1 syndrome is Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor of the ovary (SLCT), which is extremely unusual and accounts for < 0.5% of all ovarian neoplasms. SLCT predominantly affects adolescents and young female adults. To date, there are only a few case reports of ovarian SLCT with underlying germline DICER1 mutations. The diagnosis and treatment of this rare malignancy remains challenging in the clinic mainly due to its rarity and varied presentation.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 21-year-old Chinese girl (proband) was admitted in hospital for experiencing a lower abdominal pain and irregular vaginal bleeding for half a year. She was initially diagnosed with abdominal cavity mass prior to surgical operation. The other 20-year-old patient is the younger sister of the proband, who was diagnosed with ovarian cysts and had irregular menstruation and amenorrhea for 4 months. The elder sister underwent an uncomplicated bilateral ovarian tumor resection. Given a high degree of malignancy, comprehensive staged fertility-preserving surgery, including left adnexectomy, omentectomy, pelvic, and para-aortic lymphadenectomy, was performed. Since the other patient requested to maintain her fertility, tumor resection was only conducted in the right ovary.

DIAGNOSES

The elder sister was diagnosed as poorly differentiated SLCT accompanied with heterologous stage IC rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) based on its typical pathology features and molecular characteristics from immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining. The younger sister was diagnosed as poorly differentiated SLCT. Targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) detected DICER1 mutation in the plasma samples and postoperative tumor tissues of both patients.

INTERVENTIONS

Both patients underwent surgical tumor resection, followed by combination chemotherapy with bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin for 4 cycles.

OUTCOMES

Patients received the above clinical interventions but eventually died from disease recurrence. The elder sister died from disease relapse after one and a half years postsurgery. The younger sister had a relapse of the disease 1 year later, but she refused the comprehensive staged surgery and died from disease relapse quickly.

LESSONS

Ovarian SLCT patients with DICER1 mutations and a family history have a high degree of malignancy and are associated with a poor prognosis. With ongoing research efforts on DICER1 mutations, genetic screening and counselling on a regular basis is recommended for predicting potential future cancer risk of individuals with DICER1 syndrome family history.

Mutational and Immunophenotypic Profiling of a Series of 8 Tubo-ovarian Carcinosarcomas Revealed a Monoclonal Origin of the Disease

Carcinosarcomas are rare, highly aggressive neoplasms composed of a combination of carcinomatous and sarcomatous elements. These tumors represent a paradigmatic field for the study of intratumor heterogeneity. A series of 8 tubo-ovarian carcinosarcomas was characterized for the following: (i) immunohistochemical expression of MNF116, epithelial membrane antigen, vimentin, S100, chromogranin, synaptophysin, desmin, myogenin (MYF4), and p53; (ii) mutational profiling of KRAS, BRAF, PIK3CA, NRAS, TP53, and DICER1 genes. Heterologous differentiation was present in 6 of 8 tumors. Cytokeratin MNF116 and epithelial membrane antigen were positive in all the carcinomatous components and in 87.5% and 50.0% of the sarcomatous components, respectively. The sarcomatous components showed positive staining for vimentin in all cases. Two cases demonstrated positivity for neuroendocrine markers in their carcinomatous components. All rhabdomyosarcomas were positive for desmin and MYF-4. Chondrosarcomas were positive for S100. All but one tumor showed similar p53 immunoreactivity in both the carcinomatous and sarcomatous components, and one case showed cytoplasmic p53 expression. Three of 8 cases (37.5%) showed TP53 mutations, and, in 2 cases, the TP53 mutation was shared by both epithelial and mesenchymal components. DICER1 mutation was found in all components of one case. Mutations in KRAS, NRAS, BRAF, and PIK3CA genes were not found in the study cohort. Our results highlight the heterogeneity of ovarian carcinosarcomas at the phenotypic level. A common mutational signature was observed in both components in 3 of 4 informative tumors. More studies are required to dissect different levels of ovarian carcinosarcomas' heterogeneity in order to define the best therapeutic approaches to these aggressive neoplasms.

Novel insights into the mixed germ cell-sex cord stromal tumor of the testis: detection of chromosomal aneuploidy and further morphological evidence supporting the neoplastic nature of the germ cell component

The existence of a true mixed germ cell-sex cord stromal tumor (MGSCT) of the testis remains controversial. Based on our experience with rare testicular tumors in this spectrum, we sought to perform a detailed clinicopathologic and molecular study of MGCSCT. Eight cases of testicular MGSCT were morphologically reviewed, screened for chromosomal aberrations (using array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) and low pass genomic sequencing), and analyzed by next generation sequencing (The Illumina TruSight Tumor 170). Immunohistochemistry for OCT3/4, Nanog, SALL4, DMRT1, and inhibin was performed on the cohort. Clinical data and follow-up were assessed by medical record review. All patients were karyotypically normal men aged 27-74 years (median 41). All tumors had a similar biphasic morphology characterized by various proportions of the sex cord component resembling granulosa cell tumor of adult type and the germ cell component cytomorphologically akin to spermatocytic tumor. Germ cells were haphazardly scattered throughout the tumor or arranged in larger groups, without tubular formation. In 4 cases, atypical mitoses were found within the germ cells. Additionally, in 2 cases there was invasion into the spermatic cord, adjacent hilar soft tissue and into the tumor capsule, which contained both tumor components. Immunohistochemically, focal nuclear expression of DMRT1 was found in the germ cell component in 7/7 analyzable tumors, while SALL4 was positive in 6 cases and negative in one case. All tumors were negative with OCT3/4 and Nanog. The sex cord stromal component had immunoreactivity for inhibin in 7/7 analyzable cases. Four of 8 cases were cytogenetically analyzable: 4/8 by low pass genomic sequencing and 2/8 by aCGH. The results of both methods correlated well, revealing mostly multiple chromosomal losses and gains. One case revealed loss of chromosome 21; 1 case had loss of chromosomes 21 and 22 and partial gain of 22; 1 case had loss of chromosomes 22 and Y, partial loss of X, and gain of chromosomes 20, 5, 8, 9, 12, and 13; and the remaining one gain of chromosomes 20, 3, 6, 8, 2x(9), 11, 2x(12), 13, 14, 18, and 19. Three cases were analyzable by NGS; clinically significant activating mutations of either FGFR3 or HRAS were not detected in any case. Follow-up was available for 4 patients (12, 24, 84, and 288 months) and was uneventful in all 4 cases. The identification of extratesticular invasion of both the germ cell and sex cord stromal components, the DMRT1 expression, and the presence of atypical mitoses in germ cells argue for the neoplastic nature of the germ cell component. The molecular genetic study revealing multiple chromosomal losses and gains in a subset of the cases provides the first evidence that molecular abnormalities occur in testicular MGSCT. Multiple chromosomal aneuploidies, namely, recurrent losses of chromosomes 21 and 22 and gains of 8, 9, 12, 13, and 20, indicate that the germ cell component might be related to the morphologically similar spermatocytic tumor, which is characterized by extensive aneuploidies including recurrent gains of chromosomes 9 and 20 and loss of chromosome 7. In summary, our data support that rare examples of true MGSCT of the testis do exist and they represent a distinct tumor entity with admixed adult-type granulosa cell tumor and spermatocytic tumor components.