P53 gene and Wnt signaling in benign neoplasms: beta-catenin mutations in hepatic adenoma but not in focal nodular hyperplasia

Hepatocellular adenoma: Where are we now?

Hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) is a benign hepatocellular neoplasm, commonly occurs in young women with a history of oral contraceptive use. Complications including hemorrhage and malignant transformation necessitate the need for a thorough understanding of the underlying molecular signatures in this entity. Recent molecular studies have significantly expanded our knowledge of HCAs. The well-developed phenotype-genotype classification system improves clinical management through identifying “high risk” subtype of HCAs. In this article, we attempt to provide updated information on clinical, pathologic and molecular features of each subtype of HCAs.

Subtyping of hepatocellular adenoma: a machine learning-based approach

Subtyping of hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) is an important task in practice as different subtypes may have different clinical outcomes and management algorithms. Definitive subtyping is currently dependent on immunohistochemical and molecular testing. The association between some morphologic/clinical features and HCA subtypes has been reported; however, the predictive performance of these features has been controversial. In this study, we attempted machine learning based methods to select an efficient and parsimonious set of morphologic/clinical features for differentiating a HCA subtype from the others, and then assessed the performance of the selected features in identifying the correct subtypes. We first examined 50 liver HCA resection specimens collected at the University of Washington and Kobe University/Kings College London, including HNF1α-mutated HCA (H-HCA) (n = 16), inflammatory HCA (I-HCA) (n = 20), beta-catenin activated HCA (β-HCA) (n = 8), and unclassified HCA (U-HCA) (n = 6). Twenty-six morphologic/clinical features were assessed. We used LASSO (least absolute shrinkage and selection operator) to select key features that could differentiate a subtype from the others. We further performed SVM (support vector machine) analysis to assess the performance (sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy) of the selected features in HCA subtyping in an independent cohort of liver resection samples (n = 20) collected at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. With some overlap, different combinations of morphologic/clinical features were selected for each subtype. Based on SVM analysis, the selected features classified HCA into correct subtypes with an overall accuracy of at least 80%. Our findings are useful for initial diagnosis and subtyping of HCA, especially in clinical settings without access to immunohistochemical and molecular assays.

Preneoplastic lesions in the liver: Molecular insights and relevance for clinical practice

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) are the most frequent primary liver cancers, accounting for approximately 80% and 15%, respectively. HCC carcinogenesis occurs mostly in cirrhosis and is a complex multi-step process, from precancerous lesions (low-grade and high-grade dysplastic nodules) to progressed HCC. During the different stages of liver carcinogenesis, there is an accumulation of pathological, genetic and epigenetic changes leading to initiation, malignant transformation and finally tumour progression. In contrast, a small subset of HCC occurs in normal liver from the transformation of hepatocellular adenoma (HCA), a benign hepatocellular tumour. The recent molecular classification enables to stratify HCAs according to their risk of complication, in particular malignant transformation, associated with mutations in exon 3 of the catenin beta 1 (CTNNB1) gene. Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) derives from the multistep malignant transformation of preneoplastic lesions, like biliary intraepithelial neoplasia (BilIN) and intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct (IPNB), for which a pre-operative diagnosis remains difficult. Different genetic alterations are involved in BilIN and IPNB progression, leading to the development of tubular or intestinal adenocarcinoma. The aims of this review are to describe the main clinical and molecular features of preneoplastic lesions leading to the development of HCC and CCA, their implications in clinical practice and the perspectives for future research.

Clinicopathological features and post-resection outcomes of hepatocellular adenoma

Backgrounds/Aims

Hepatocellular adenomas (HCA) are rare benign liver tumors with the potential of malignant transformation and risk of bleeding. We investigated the clinicopathological features and outcomes of HCA in 19 patients who underwent surgical resection.

Methods

This retrospective observational study included 19 patients who underwent hepatic resection during a 9-year period from 2011 to 2019.

Results

The incidence of HCA was 0.18% of all hepatic resection cases during the study period. The mean age of the patients was 34.3±9.6 years, and 12 patients (63.2%) were female. Abdominal pain was present as initial clinical manifestation in 5 patients and the other 14 patients had no specific symptoms. HCA was diagnosed in 7 out of 8 patients who underwent liver biopsy. R0 resection was performed in 18 patients (94.7%) and laparoscopic liver resection was performed in 11 patients (57.9%). The mean tumor size was 5.6±3.6 cm and 17 patients had a single tumor. Immunohistochemical analysis of the resected tumor specimens revealed hepatocyte-nuclear-factor-1α mutated HCA in 2 (10.5%), β-catenin-mutated HCA in 2 (10.5%), inflammatory HCA in 12 (63.2%) and unclassified HCA in 3 (15.8%). There were no pathognomonic findings in the preoperative liver imaging studies among these four groups. Currently, all patients are alive with a mean follow-up period of 40.1±26.3 months. One patient showed residual tumors after incomplete resection.

Conclusions

Surgical resection may be indicated if imaging studies show diagnostic ambiguity, growing tumor or symptomatic mass. Because of the risk of tumor recurrence and malignant transformation, long-term follow-up is necessary.

Signal transduction pathway mutations in gastrointestinal (GI) cancers: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The present study was conducted to evaluate the prevalence of the signaling pathways mutation rate in the Gastrointestinal (GI) tract cancers in a systematic review and meta-analysis study. The study was performed based on the PRISMA criteria. Random models by confidence interval (CI: 95%) were used to calculate the pooled estimate of prevalence via Metaprop command. The pooled prevalence indices of signal transduction pathway mutations in gastric cancer, liver cancer, colorectal cancer, and pancreatic cancer were 5% (95% CI: 3-8%), 12% (95% CI: 8-18%), 17% (95% CI: 14-20%), and 20% (95% CI: 5-41%), respectively. Also, the mutation rates for Wnt pathway and MAPK pathway were calculated to be 23% (95% CI, 14-33%) and 20% (95% CI, 17-24%), respectively. Moreover, the most popular genes were APC (in Wnt pathway), KRAS (in MAPK pathway) and PIK3CA (in PI3K pathway) in the colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, and gastric cancer while they were beta-catenin and CTNNB1 in liver cancer. The most altered pathway was Wnt pathway followed by the MAPK pathway. In addition, pancreatic cancer was found to be higher under the pressure of mutation compared with others based on pooled prevalence analysis. Finally, APC mutations in colorectal cancer, KRAS in gastric cancer, and pancreatic cancer were mostly associated gene alterations.

Relevance of morphological features for hepatocellular adenoma classification in pathology practice

Background

Gene mutations correlated with histological and immunohistochemical phenotypes of hepatocellular adenoma were recently identified. Based on these findings, four adenoma subtypes were distinguished. We classify hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) into subtypes based on histologic and immunohistochemical findings and verify the contribution of histological features in pathology practice.

Methods

Thirty hepatocellular adenomas were classified in subtypes. Sinusoidal dilatation, ductular reaction, pseudoportal tracts, pseudoglands, steatosis, inflammatory infiltrate and cellular atypia were analyzed, as well as liver fatty acid binding protein, β catenin, serum amyloid A, glutamine synthetase, and C-reactive protein antibodies.

Results

Histologically, eleven adenomas were classified as HNF1A inactivated (HHCA), five were β-catenin-activated (bHCA) and fourteen were inflammatory adenoma (IHCA). Steatosis was found in all HHCA and was predominantly severe. Sinusoidal dilatation and inflammatory infiltrate were present in all IHCA. Ductular reaction, pseudoportal tracts and cellular atypia were observed in 71.4, 85.7 and 42.8%, respectively. Pseudoglands were present in 60% and cellular atypia in 80% of bHCA. According to immunohistochemistry, 11 were HHCA; 1 was bHCA; 17 were IHCA, among which 5 were β-catenin activated IHCA; and 1 was unclassified UHCA (UHCA). Superior concordance between the histological and immunohistochemical classifications was found for HHCA (К = 0.854) and IHCA (К = 0.657).

Conclusion

Approximately 90% of adenomas may be diagnosed by subgroup based only on morphological features. When aberrant β catenin nuclear staining is not found, glutamine synthetase positivity is useful for diagnosis, although supplementary molecular analysis may be necessary.

Wnt signaling in liver disease: emerging trends from a bibliometric perspective

Background

The Wnt signaling pathway, an evolutionarily conserved molecular transduction cascade, has been identified as playing a pivotal role in various physiological and pathological processes of the liver, including homeostasis, regeneration, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we aimed to use a bibliometric method to evaluate the emerging trends on Wnt signaling in liver diseases.

Methods

Articles were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection. We used a bibliometric software, CiteSpace V 5.3.R4, to analyze the active countries or institutions in the research field, the landmark manuscripts, important subtopics, and evolution of scientific ideas.

Results

In total, 1,768 manuscripts were published, and each was cited 33.12 times on average. The U.S. published most of the articles, and the most active center was the University of Pittsburgh. The top 5 landmark papers were identified by four bibliometric indexes including citation, burstness, centrality, and usage 2013. The clustering process divided the whole area into nine research subtopics, and the two major important subtopics were "liver zonation" and "HCC." Using the "Part-of-Speech" technique, 1,743 terms representing scientific ideas were identified. After 2008, the bursting phrases were "liver development," "progenitor cells," "hepatic stellate cells," "liver regeneration," "liver fibrosis," "epithelial-mesenchymal transition," and etc.

Conclusion

Using bibliometric methods, we quantitatively summarized the advancements and emerging trends in Wnt signaling in liver diseases. These bibliometric findings may pioneer the future direction of this field in the next few years, and further studies are needed.

Inflammatory Hepatocellular Adenoma with Elevated Serum Protein Induced by Vitamin K Absence/Antagonist-II in Adult Males

Two men (24 and 34 years of age) with a single hypervascular liver tumor were admitted to our hospital. The tumors were diagnosed as hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) by an ultrasound-guided biopsy and classified as inflammatory type by immunohistochemical staining. Considering the risk of malignant transformation, they underwent surgical resection. Although the serum levels of protein induced by vitamin K absence/antagonist-II (PIVKA-II) were slightly elevated, they normalized after the resection. The diagnosis of HCA including malignant transformation is often difficult by image findings alone. Careful immunohistochemical examinations are very useful for the diagnosis and classification of subgroups, including malignant transformation. In addition, we proved that HCA without malignant transformation expresses PIVKA-II.

In-depth characterization of the Wnt-signaling/β-catenin pathway in an in vitro model of Barrett's sequence

BACKGROUND

An altered Wnt-signaling activation has been reported during Barrett's esophagus progression, but with rarely detected mutations in APC and β-catenin (CTNNB1) genes.

METHODS

In this study, a robust in-depth expression pattern analysis of frizzled receptors, co-receptors, the Wnt-ligands Wnt3a and Wnt5a, the Wnt-signaling downstream targets Axin2, and CyclinD1, as well as the activation of the intracellular signaling kinases Akt and GSK3β was performed in an in vitro cell culture model of Barrett's esophagus. Representing the Barrett's sequence, we used normal esophageal squamous epithelium (EPC-1, EPC-2), metaplasia (CP-A) and dysplasia (CP-B) to esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) cell lines (OE33, OE19) and primary specimens of squamous epithelium, metaplasia and EAC.

RESULTS

A loss of Wnt3a expression was observed beginning from the metaplastic cell line CP-A towards dysplasia (CP-B) and EAC (OE33 and OE19), confirmed by a lower staining index of WNT3A in Barrett's metaplasia and EAC, than in squamous epithelium specimens. Frizzled 1-10 expression analysis revealed a distinct expression pattern, showing the highest expression for Fzd2, Fzd3, Fzd4, Fzd5, Fzd7, and the co-receptor LRP5/6 in EAC cells, while Fzd3 and Fzd7 were rarely expressed in primary specimens from squamous epithelium.

CONCLUSION

Despite the absence of an in-depth characterization of Wnt-signaling-associated receptors in Barrett's esophagus, by showing variations of the Fzd- and co-receptor profiles, we provide evidence to have a significant role during Barrett's progression and the underlying pathological mechanisms.

Argininosuccinate synthase 1 and periportal gene expression in sonic hedgehog hepatocellular adenomas

Genetic alterations define different molecular subclasses of hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) linked with risk factors, histology and clinical behavior. Recently, Argininosuccinate Synthase 1 (ASS1), a major periportal protein, was proposed as a marker of HCA with a high risk of hemorrhage. We aimed to assess the significance of ASS1 expression through the scope of the HCA molecular classification. ASS1 expression was evaluated using RNAseq, quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Immunohistochemistry. ASS1 and glioma-associated oncogene 1 (GLI1) expression were analyzed in vitro after modulation of GLI1 expression. Using RNAseq in 27 HCA and five nontumor liver samples, ASS1 expression was highly correlated with GLI1 expression (P<0.0001, R=0.75). In the overall series of 408 HCA, ASS1 overexpression was significantly associated with sonic hedgehog HCA (shHCA) compared to other molecular subgroups (P<0.0001), suggesting that sonic hedgehog signaling controls ASS1 expression. GLI1 expression silencing by siRNA induced a downregulation of ASS1 in PLC/PFR5 and SNU878 cell lines. In 390 HCA, we showed that ASS1 expression belonged to the periportal expression program that was maintained in shHCA but down-regulated in all the other HCA subtypes. In contrast, HCA with β-catenin activation showed an activation of a perivenous program. Despite the significant association between GLI1 and ASS1 expression, ASS1 mRNA expression was not associated with specific clinical features. At the protein level using immunohistochemistry, prostaglandin D synthase (PTGDS) was strongly and specifically overexpressed in shHCA.

CONCLUSION

ASS1 is associated with sonic hedgehog activation as part of a periportal program expressed in shHCA, a molecular subgroup defined by INHBE-GLI1 gene fusion. (Hepatology 2018).

Molecular classification of hepatocellular adenomas: impact on clinical practice

Hepatocellular adenomas are rare benign liver tumors usually developing in young women using oral contraception. The two main complications are hemorrhage (10–20%) and malignant transformation into hepatocellular carcinoma (<5%). A molecular classification has been recently updated in six major subgroups, linked to risk factors, histology, imaging and clinical features: adenomas inactivated for HNF1A, inflammatory adenomas, β-catenin-activated adenomas mutated in exon 3, β-catenin-activated adenomas mutated in exon 7–8, sonic hedgehog adenomas, and unclassified adenomas. Indeed, β-catenin-mutated adenomas in exon 3 are associated with malignant transformation, and sonic hedgehog adenomas with bleeding. This new nosology of hepatocellular adenomas will help to stratify patients according to risk of complications and will guide therapeutics in the future.

The biology of Hepatocellular carcinoma: implications for genomic and immune therapies

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of primary liver cancer, is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. It is highly refractory to most systemic therapies. Recently, significant progress has been made in uncovering genomic alterations in HCC, including potentially targetable aberrations. The most common molecular anomalies in this malignancy are mutations in the TERT promoter, TP53, CTNNB1, AXIN1, ARID1A, CDKN2A and CCND1 genes. PTEN loss at the protein level is also frequent. Genomic portfolios stratify by risk factors as follows: (i) CTNNB1 with alcoholic cirrhosis; and (ii) TP53 with hepatitis B virus-induced cirrhosis. Activating mutations in CTNNB1 and inactivating mutations in AXIN1 both activate WNT signaling. Alterations in this pathway, as well as in TP53 and the cell cycle machinery, and in the PI3K/Akt/mTor axis (the latter activated in the presence of PTEN loss), as well as aberrant angiogenesis and epigenetic anomalies, appear to be major events in HCC. Many of these abnormalities may be pharmacologically tractable. Immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors is also emerging as an important treatment option. Indeed, 82% of patients express PD-L1 (immunohistochemistry) and response rates to anti-PD-1 treatment are about 19%, and include about 5% complete remissions as well as durable benefit in some patients. Biomarker-matched trials are still limited in this disease, and many of the genomic alterations in HCC remain challenging to target. Future studies may require combination regimens that include both immunotherapies and molecularly matched targeted treatments.

Hepatocellular Adenomas: Morphology and Genomics

Hepatocellular adenomas (HCAs) are rare benign tumors. This single entity has been split into 3 subtypes corresponding to specific mutations: HNF1α-inactivated HCA; inflammatory HCA related to different mutations, all leading to activation of STAT3 pathway; and β-catenin-activated HCA related to CTNNB1 mutations. The risk of malignant transformation depends on the level of β-catenin activation, reported mainly for exon 3, including S45. It is possible using specific immunohistochemical markers to identify the 3 different HCA subtypes and the level of β-catenin activation. Fewer than 10% of HCAs remain unclassified.

Correlation of exon 3 β-catenin mutations with glutamine synthetase staining patterns in hepatocellular adenoma and hepatocellular carcinoma

The current clinical practice is based on the assumption of strong correlation between diffuse glutamine synthetase expression and β-catenin activation in hepatocellular adenoma and hepatocellular carcinoma. This high correlation is based on limited data and may represent an oversimplification as glutamine synthetase staining patterns show wide variability in clinical practice. Standardized criteria for interpreting diverse glutamine synthetase patterns, and the association between each pattern and β-catenin mutations is not clearly established. This study examines the correlation between glutamine synthetase staining patterns and β-catenin mutations in 15 typical hepatocellular adenomas, 5 atypical hepatocellular neoplasms and 60 hepatocellular carcinomas. Glutamine synthetase staining was classified into one of the three patterns: (a) diffuse homogeneous: moderate-to-strong cytoplasmic staining in >90% of lesional cells, without a map-like pattern, (b) diffuse heterogeneous: moderate-to-strong staining in 50-90% of lesional cells, without a map-like pattern, and (c) patchy: moderate-to-strong staining in <50% of lesional cells (often perivascular), or weak staining irrespective of the extent, and all other staining patterns (including negative cases). Sanger sequencing of CTNNB1 exon 3 was performed in all cases. Of hepatocellular tumors with diffuse glutamine synthetase staining (homogeneous or heterogeneous), an exon 3 β-catenin mutation was detected in 33% (2/6) of typical hepatocellular adenoma, 75% (3/4) of atypical hepatocellular neoplasm and 17% (8/47) of hepatocellular carcinomas. An exon 3 mutation was also observed in 15% (2/13) of hepatocellular carcinomas with patchy glutamine synthetase staining. The results show a modest correlation between diffuse glutamine synthetase immunostaining and exon 3 β-catenin mutations in hepatocellular adenoma and hepatocellular carcinoma with discrepancy rates >50% in both hepatocellular adenoma and hepatocellular carcinoma. The interpretation of β-catenin activation based on glutamine synthetase staining should be performed with caution, and the undetermined significance of various glutamine synthetase patterns should be highlighted in pathology reports.

Benign Hepatocellular Nodules: Hepatobiliary Phase of Gadoxetic Acid-enhanced MR Imaging Based on Molecular Background

Gadoxetic acid is a contrast agent for magnetic resonance (MR) imaging with hepatocyte-specific properties and is becoming increasingly important in detection and characterization of hepatocellular carcinoma and benign hepatocellular nodules, including focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH), nodular regenerative hyperplasia (NRH), hepatocellular adenoma (HCA), and dysplastic nodule. In these hepatocellular nodules, a positive correlation between the grade of membranous uptake transporter organic anion-transporting polypeptide (OATP) 1B3 expression and signal intensity in the hepatobiliary (HB) phase has been verified. In addition, it has been clarified that OATP1B3 expression is regulated by activation of β-catenin and/or hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α. On the other hand, recent studies have also revealed some of the background molecular mechanisms of benign hepatocellular nodules. FNH commonly shows iso- or hyperintensity in the HB phase with equal or stronger OATP1B3 expression, with map-like distribution of glutamine synthetase (a target of Wnt/β-catenin signaling) and OATP1B3 expression. NRH shows doughnut-like enhancement with hypointensity in the central portion in the HB phase with OATP1B3 expression. The majority of HCAs show hypointensity in the HB phase, but β-catenin-activated HCA exclusively demonstrates iso- or hyperintensity with increased expression of nuclear β-catenin, glutamine synthetase, and OATP1B3. Dysplastic nodule commonly shows iso- or hyperintensity in the HB phase with similar to increased OATP1B3 expression, but one-third of high-grade dysplastic nodules can be demonstrated as a hypointense nodule with decreased OATP1B3 expression. Knowledge of these background molecular mechanisms of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MR imaging is important not only for precise imaging diagnosis but also understanding of the pathogenesis of benign hepatocellular nodules. ^©RSNA, 2016.

Hepatocellular adenoma classification: a comparative evaluation of immunohistochemistry and targeted mutational analysis

BACKGROUND

Four subtypes of hepatocellular adenomas (HCA) are recognized: hepatocyte-nuclear-factor-1α mutated (H-HCA), β-catenin-mutated type with upregulation of glutamine synthetase (b-HCA), inflammatory type (IHCA) with serum-amyloid-A overexpression, and unclassified type. Subtyping may be useful since b-HCA appear to have higher risk of malignant transformation. We sought to apply subtype analysis and assess histological atypia, correlating these with next-generation sequencing analysis.

METHODS

Twenty-six HCA were stained with serum amyloid A (SAA), liver fatty acid-binding protein (LFABP), glutamine synthetase (GS), and β-catenin IHC, followed by analysis with a targeted multiplex sequencing panel.

RESULTS

By IHC, 4 HCA (15.4 %) were classified as b-HCA, 11 (42.3 %) as IHCA, 9 (34.6 %) as H-HCA, and two (7.7 %) unclassifiable. Eight HCA (30.8 %) showed atypia (3 b-HCA, 4 IHCA and 1 H-HCA). Targeted sequencing confirmed HNF1A mutations in all H-HCA, confirming reliability of LFABP IHC in identifying these lesions. CTNNB1 mutations were detected in 1 of 4 (25 %) of GS/β-catenin-positive cases, suggesting that positive GS stain does not always correlate with CTNNB1 mutations.

CONCLUSIONS

Immunohistochemistry does not consistently identify b-HCA. Mutational analysis improves the diagnostic accuracy of β-catenin-mutated HCA and is an important tool to assess risk of malignancy in HCA.

[Hepatocellular tumours in noncirrhotic liver tissue]

In recent years, the spectrum of tissue-based diagnostics of hepatocellular tumours has changed due to novel molecular pathological findings. Innovative radiographics filter out small lesions and ambiguous tumours for bioptical sampling. The spectrum of these tumours includes hepatocellular carcinoma, hepatocellular adenomas, focal nodular hyperplasia and macroregenerative nodules. Primarily, morphological analysis should identify the dignity of a lesion. After exclusion of HCC and reactive liver cell nodules, hepatocellular adenomas should be further subclassified based on immunohistochemical/molecular pathological criteria according to the WHO classification of liver tumours. This procedure provides significant additional information regarding the prognosis and therapeutic implications of hepatocellular adenomas.

Current Proceedings in the Molecular Dissection of Hepatocellular Adenomas: Review and Hands-on Guide for Diagnosis

Molecular dissection of hepatocellular adenomas has brought forward a diversity of well-defined entities. Their distinction is important for routine practice, since prognosis is tightly related to the individual subgroup. Very recent activity has generated new details on the molecular background of hepatocellular adenoma, which this article aims to integrate into the current concepts of taxonomy.

Hepatocellular adenoma management: advances but still a long way to go

Hepatocellular adenomas (HCAs) are composed of four molecular subgroups: mutations inactivating the HNF1A gene; the inflammatory phenotype with mutations of different genes leading to STAT3 activation; the activation of β-catenin by mutations in exon 3; among β-HCA, half display both inflammatory and β-catenin-activated phenotypes; and the unclassified tumors. The identification of these subtypes by MRI and immunohistochemistry on tissue is considered as a major criterion to manage patients. Of particular relevance is the identification of the β-catenin-mutated group due to its high risk of malignant transformation. In spite of this progress, the classification has not gained recognition among surgeons. It is hoped that by working as a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, radiologists, pathologists and molecular biologists, patients will be managed more rationally. In this article, we will present known and new data, well accepted and that which is still controversial. The progress made in the field of HCA in the last 12 years, whether in epidemiology, diagnosis (clinical, pathology, imaging) or management, is related in one way or another to molecular advances.

Immunostaining of glutamine synthetase is a sensitive and specific marker for diagnosing focal nodular hyperplasia in needle biopsy

AIMS

Focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) has characteristic histological features which may not be seen in needle biopsy specimens. We investigate the diagnostic role of glutamine synthetase (GS) in needle biopsy specimens.

METHODS

Sixty-one hepatic tumours were categorised into 20 'definite' FNHs, 13 'probable' FNHs, and 28 cases without specific diagnosis. Needle biopsy specimens of 92 non-tumourous lesions, 25 well-differentiated hepatocellular carcinomas (WDHCCs), and 4 high-grade dysplastic nodules (HGDNs) and resection specimens of 10 macroregenerative nodules were also selected for immunohistochemical stain of GS for comparison.

RESULTS

All 20 'definite' FNHs, nine 'probable' FNHs, and five cases without specific diagnosis expressed typical map-like staining pattern of GS. The demographic data of these five cases were similar to those of FNH. All cases of chronic hepatitis B and C, cirrhosis, macroregenerative nodule and peritumourous liver tissue showed normal pericentral/periseptal pattern. Fifteen of 25 WDHCCs and one HGDN showed diffuse pattern. Ten WDHCCs and two HGDNs showed negative staining. One HGDN showed mosaic pattern.

CONCLUSIONS

Immunohistochemical staining of GS increases the diagnostic sensitivity of FNH in needle biopsy, especially in those without typical morphology. It also helps in differentiating FNH from other tumourous and non-tumourous lesions.

Gene mutations in hepatocellular adenomas

Hepatocellular adenomas (HCA) are rare, benign liver tumours that often occur in women of reproductive age. HCA has been associated with the use of oral contraceptives, but the increased incidence of the tumour in older women and in men has linked the tumour type to other diseases, including the metabolic syndrome. Genotypical classification of the adenomas has led to the identification of four subgroups that correlate genotype with phenotype: human hepatocyte nuclear factor-1 alpha (HNF1α) inactivating HCA, β-catenin activating HCA, inflammatory HCA and unclassified HCA. HNF1α inactivating HCA is associated with bi-allelic mutations in the TCF1 gene and morphologically has marked steatosis. β-catenin activating HCA has increased activity of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and is associated with possible malignant transformation. Inflammatory HCA is characterized by an oncogene-induced inflammation due to alterations in the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway. In the diagnostic setting, sub classification of HCA is based primarily on immunohistochemical analyzes, and has had an increasing impact on choice of treatment and individual prognostic assessment. This review offers an overview of the reported gene mutations associated with hepatocellular adenomas together with a discussion of the diagnostic and prognostic value.

Update on the new classification of hepatic adenomas: clinical, molecular, and pathologic characteristics

CONTEXT

Hepatic adenoma is an uncommon, benign, hepatic neoplasm that typically occurs in women of child-bearing age, often with a history of long-term use of oral contraceptive drugs. This is usually detected as an incidental mass lesion in a noncirrhotic liver during imaging studies. Pathologic evaluation by needle core biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosis. Molecular studies have revealed that hepatic adenomas involve unique molecular pathways that are distinct from hepatocellular carcinoma. Based on these studies, a French collaborative group has recently proposed a molecular-pathologic classification for hepatic adenomas. In addition, advances in molecular studies have led to reclassification of the "telangiectatic variant of focal nodular hyperplasia" as "hepatic adenoma, inflammatory subtype."

OBJECTIVE

To review the proposed, new classification of hepatic adenoma and the changes in diagnostic workup in light of the above-mentioned developments.

DATA SOURCES

Review of published literature and illustrations from clinical case material.

CONCLUSIONS

Definitive diagnosis of liver mass lesion on needle core biopsies has a decisive role in clinical management. With the advent of the new classification of hepatic adenomas and its prognostic implications, it is vital for pathologists to be aware of the morphologic features seen in different subtypes and the available diagnostic tools, such as immunohistochemistry, to help identify the correct subtype.

Open and laparoscopic resection of hepatocellular adenoma: trends over 23 years at a specialist hepatobiliary unit

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) is a rare benign liver epithelial tumour that can require surgery. This retrospective study reports a 23-year experience of open and laparoscopic resections for HCA.

METHODS

Patients with a histological diagnosis of HCA were included in this analysis. Surgical resection was performed in all symptomatic patients and in those with lesions measuring >5 cm.

RESULTS

Between 1989 and 2012, 62 patients, 59 of whom were female, underwent surgery for HCA (26 by open surgery and 36 by laparoscopic surgery). Overall, 96.6% of female patients had a history of contraceptive use; 54.8% of patients presented with abdominal pain and 11.2% with haemorrhage; the remaining patients were asymptomatic. Patients who underwent laparoscopy had smaller lesions (mean ± standard deviation diameter: 68.3 ± 35.2 mm versus 91.9 ± 42.5 mm; P = 0.022). Operatively, laparoscopic and open liver resection did not differ except in the number of pedicle clamps, which was significantly lower in the laparoscopic group (27.8% versus 57.7% of patients; P = 0.008). Postoperative variables did not differ between the groups. Mortality was nil. Two surgical specimens were classified as HCA/borderline hepatocellular carcinoma. At the 3-year follow-up, all patients were alive with no recurrence of HCA.

CONCLUSIONS

Open and laparoscopic liver resections are both safe and feasible approaches for the surgical management of HCA. However, laparoscopic liver resections may be limited by lesion size and location and require advanced surgical skills.

Novel aspects of the liver microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma pathogenesis and development

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent primary liver cancer that is derived from hepatocytes and is characterised by high mortality rate and poor prognosis. While HCC is driven by cumulative changes in the hepatocyte genome, it is increasingly recognised that the liver microenvironment plays a pivotal role in HCC propensity, progression and treatment response. The microenvironmental stimuli that have been recognised as being involved in HCC pathogenesis are diverse and include intrahepatic cell subpopulations, such as immune and stellate cells, pathogens, such as hepatitis viruses, and non-cellular factors, such as abnormal extracellular matrix (ECM) and tissue hypoxia. Recently, a number of novel environmental influences have been shown to have an equally dramatic, but previously unrecognized, role in HCC progression. Novel aspects, including diet, gastrointestinal tract (GIT) microflora and circulating microvesicles, are now being recognized as increasingly important in HCC pathogenesis. This review will outline aspects of the HCC microenvironment, including the potential role of GIT microflora and microvesicles, in providing new insights into tumourigenesis and identifying potential novel targets in the treatment of HCC.

Clinicopathological analysis of hepatocellular adenoma according to new bordeaux classification: report of eight korean cases

Background

Hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) is a rare benign tumor of the liver. A subtype classification of HCA (hepatocyte nuclear factor 1α [HNF1α]-mutated, β-catenin-mutated HCA, inflammatory HCA, and unclassified HCA) has recently been established based on a single institutional review of a HCA series by the Bordeaux group.

Methods

We used histologic and immunohistochemical parameters to classify and evaluate eight cases from our institution. We evaluated the new classification method and analyzed correlations between our results and those of other reports.

Results

Seven of our eight cases showed histologic and immunohistochemical results consistent with previous reports. However, one case showed overlapping histologic features, as previously described by the Bordeaux group. Four cases showed glutamine synthetase immunohistochemical staining inconsistent with their classification, indicating that glutamine synthetase staining may not be diagnostic for β-catenin-mutated HCA. HNF1α-mutated HCA may be indicated by the absence of liver fatty acid binding protein expression. Detection of amyloid A may indicate inflammatory HCA. HCA with no mutation in the HNF1α or β-catenin genes and no inflammatory protein expression is categorized as unclassified HCA.

Conclusions

Although the new classification is now generally accepted, validation through follow-up studies is necessary.

Molecular classification of hepatocellular adenomas

Hepatocellular adenomas (HCAs) are benign tumors developed in normal liver most frequently in women before menopause. HCAs lead to diagnostic pitfalls and several difficulties to assess the risk of malignant transformation in these young patients. Recent advances in basic knowledge have revealed a molecular classification related to risk factors, pathological features, and risk of transformation in hepatocellular carcinoma. Three major molecular pathways have been identified altered in specific HCA subgroups that are defined by either (1) inactivation of hepatocyte nuclear factor 1A (HNF1A) transcription factor, (2) activation of the WNT/β-catenin by CTNNB1 mutations, or (3) activation of the IL6/STAT3 pathway by somatic mutation of IL6ST, GNAS, or STAT3. Here, we will review the different molecular classes of HCA.

Changing epidemiology of hepatocellular adenoma in the United States: review of the literature

Hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) is a benign neoplasm arising from hepatocytes. There is evidence that the inflammatory subtype may be associated with obesity and alcohol use and that men with metabolic syndrome may be at risk for malignant transformation of HCA. We sought to explore the combined experience of US centers as reported in the literature to document the epidemiologic shift in risk factors for HCA formation in the United States, namely, a shift from oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) to an emerging role of obesity as a contributing factor. Methods. Publications reporting HCA in the United States were identified through a PubMed search and a review of the literature. We excluded publications prior to 1970, single case reports, and publications for which there was no data available regarding patient characteristics including OCP use and the number of adenomas. Conclusion. Whereas earlier reports of HCA in the United States described cases exclusively in women exposed to OCPs, there is a trend towards an increase in HCAs reported in men, HCAs in the absence of OCP use, and increased reporting of multiple HCAs. This may be a result of newer OCP formulations and increasing prevalence of obesity.

Histological and immunohistochemical revision of hepatocellular adenomas: a learning experience

Light has been shed on the genotype/phenotype correlation in hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) recognizing HNF1 α -inactivated HCA (H-HCA), inflammatory HCA (IHCA), and β -catenin-activated HCA (b-HCA). We reviewed retrospectively our surgical HCA series to learn how to recognize the different subtypes histopathologically and how to interpret adequately their immunohistochemical staining. From January 1992 to January 2012, 37 patients underwent surgical resection for HCA in our institution. Nine had H-HCA (25%) characterized by steatosis and loss of L-FABP expression; 20 had IHCA (55.5%) showing CRP and/or SAA expression, sinusoidal dilatation, and variable inflammation; and 1 patient had both H-HCA and IHCA. In 5 patients (14%), b-HCA with GS and β -catenin nuclear positivity was diagnosed, two already with hepatocellular carcinoma. Two cases (5.5%) remained unclassified. One of the b-HCA showed also the H-HCA histological and immunohistochemical characteristics suggesting a subgroup of β -catenin-activated/HNF1 α -inactivated HCA, another b-HCA exhibited the IHCA histological and immunohistochemical characteristics suggesting a subgroup of β -catenin-activated/inflammatory HCA. Interestingly, three patients had underlying vascular abnormalities. Using the recently published criteria enabled us to classify histopathologically our retrospective HCA surgical series with accurate recognition of b-HCA for which we confirm the higher risk of malignant transformation. We also underlined the association between HCA and vascular abnormalities.

MR Imaging of Hepatocellular Adenomas and Differential Diagnosis Dilemma

HEPATOCELLULAR ADENOMAS (HCAS) ARE CURRENTLY CATEGORIZED INTO DISTINCT GENETIC AND PATHOLOGIC SUBTYPES AS FOLLOWS: inflammatory hepatocellular adenoma, hepatocyte-nuclear-factor-1-alpha (HNF-1 α -mutated) hepatocellular adenoma, and β -catenin-mutated hepatocellular adenomas; the fourth, defined as unclassified subtype, encompasses HCAs without any genetic abnormalities. This classification has accepted management implications due to different risks of haemorrhage and malignant transformation of the four subtypes. Imaging guided biopsy and/or surgical resection very important in obtaining definitive characterization; nevertheless, MRI with intra-extravascular and hepatobiliary (dual phase) agents, is an important tool not only in differential subtypes definition but even in surveillance with early identification of complications and discovery of some signs of HCA malignant degeneration. Inflammation, abnormal rich vascularisation, peliotic areas, and abundant fatty infiltration are pathologic findings differently present in the HCA subtypes and they may be detected by multiparametric MRI approach. Lesion enlargement and heterogeneity of signal intensity and of contrast enhancement are signs to be considered in malignant transformation. The purpose of this paper is to present the state of the art of MRI in the diagnosis of HCA and subtype characterization, with particular regard to morphologic and functional information available with dual phase contrast agents, and to discuss differential diagnosis with the most common benign and malignant lesions mimicking HCAs.

Role of contrast-enhanced sonography in differentiation of subtypes of hepatocellular adenoma: correlation with MRI findings

OBJECTIVE

Hepatocellular adenomas (HCAs) are divided into three subtypes according to genotype and phenotype. The two main subgroups are hepatocyte nuclear factor 1α (HNF1α)-inactivated HCA and inflammatory HCA. Specific imaging features of these subgroups of adenoma have been delineated with MRI. The aim of this study was to document the contrast-enhanced sonographic (CEUS) features specific for adenoma subtypes and to correlate them with MRI findings.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed data on 38 patients with HCA confirmed at pathologic examination in all cases. All cases were classified with MRI.

RESULTS

HNF1α-inactivated HCA (n = 16) was found to have a homogeneous hyperechoic aspect at baseline gray-scale sonography, isovascularity or moderate hypervascularity with mixed filling in the arterial phase, and isoechogenicity in the portal and late portal venous phases. Homogeneous hyperechogenicity during B-mode sonography was the most specific pattern (sensitivity, 88%; specificity, 91%) and correlated with diffuse fat repartition observed on MR images obtained with chemical-shift sequences. In inflammatory HCA (n = 17) the association of arterial hypervascularity with centripetal filling, linear vascularities, peripheral rim of sustained enhancement, and central washout in the late venous phase was specific (sensitivity, 64%; specificity, 100%). Discrepancy between delayed washout during CEUS and sustained enhancement during MRI could be related to differences between gadolinium and microbubbles in diffusing in the interstitial spaces. In the five other HCA cases (four unclassified, one β-catenin activated) CEUS showed characteristics of benign hepatocellular tumors with no specific features.

CONCLUSION

HNF1α-inactivated HCA and inflammatory HCA had characteristic CEUS patterns. Delayed washout, an unusual finding in benign hepatic lesions, is of particular interest and was a characteristic of inflammatory HCA subtype.

Atypical hepatocellular adenoma-like neoplasms with β-catenin activation show cytogenetic alterations similar to well-differentiated hepatocellular carcinomas

The distinction of hepatocellular adenoma from well-differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) arising in noncirrhotic liver can be challenging, particularly when tumors histologically resembling hepatocellular adenoma occur in unusual clinical settings such as in a man or an older woman or show focal atypical morphologic features. In this study, we examine the morphologic, immunohistochemical, and cytogenetic features of hepatocellular adenoma-like neoplasms occurring in men, women 50 years or older or younger than 15 years, and/or those with focal atypia (small cell change, pseudogland formation, and/or nuclear atypia), designated atypical hepatocellular neoplasms, where the distinction of hepatocellular adenoma versus HCC could not be clearly established. Immunohistochemistry was performed for β-catenin, glutamine synthetase, and serum amyloid A in 31 hepatocellular adenomas, 20 well-differentiated HCCs, and 40 atypical hepatocellular neoplasms. Chromosomal gains/losses had previously been determined in 37 cases using comparative genomic hybridization or fluorescence in situ hybridization. β-Catenin activation was observed in 35% of atypical hepatocellular neoplasms compared with 10% of typical hepatocellular adenomas (P < .05) and 55% of well-differentiated HCCs (P = .14). Cytogenetic changes typically observed in HCC were present in all atypical hepatocellular neoplasms with β-catenin activation. β-Catenin activation in atypical hepatocellular neoplasms was also associated with atypical morphologic features. Follow-up data were limited, but adverse outcome was observed in 2 atypical hepatocellular neoplasms with β-catenin activation (1 recurrence, 1 metastasis); transition to areas of HCC was observed in 1 case. The similarity in morphologic and cytogenetic features of β-catenin-activated hepatocellular adenoma-like tumors and HCC suggests that the former tumors represent an extremely well-differentiated variant of HCC.

Case of telangiectatic/inflammatory hepatocellular adenoma arising in a patient with primary sclerosing cholangitis

Hepatocellular adenomas (HCA) have been recently identified as a heterogeneous group, differing based on genotypic as well as morphological characteristics. HCA are most frequently found in women on oral contraception. A type of HCA, inflammatory HCA, is also known as telangiectatic HCA and was previously referred to as telangiectatic focal nodular hyperplasia. We present the first case of HCA arising from the liver with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). This case is a 30-year-old man with a past medical history of PSC, ulcerative colitis and diabetes mellitus. A routine ultrasonography for PSC detected the gradually enlarged intrahepatic mass. Liver biopsy could reveal the diagnosis of telangiectatic/ inflammatory HCA by morphological and immunohistochemical analyses. Partial hepatectomy was performed and the resected liver was pathologically diagnosed as the telangiectatic/inflammatory HCA arising in PSC. This is the first case report of such an association and here we review the current developments and published work of this rare tumor and the association with an activated inflammatory related tumorogenic pathway and PSC.

Genetics and imaging of hepatocellular adenomas: 2011 update

Hepatocellular adenomas are benign liver neoplasms with specific but varied histopathologic findings and tumor biology. The results from recent studies of the pathologic and genetic basis of hepatocellular adenomas provide important insights into the pathogenesis and molecular changes, as well as the putative oncologic pathways used by diverse adenoma subtypes. On the basis of the genetic and pathologic features, hepatocellular adenomas are categorized into three distinct subtypes: (a) inflammatory hepatocellular adenomas, (b) hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 α-mutated hepatocellular adenomas, and (c) β-catenin-mutated hepatocellular adenomas. Different subtypes show variable clinical behavior, imaging findings, and natural history, and thus the options for treatment and surveillance may vary. Cross-sectional imaging plays an important role in the diagnosis, subtype characterization, identification of complications, and surveillance of hepatocellular adenomas. New schemas for genotype-phenotype classification of hepatic adenomas, as well as management triage of patients with specific subtypes of adenomas, are being proposed in an attempt to improve clinical outcomes.

Focal nodular hyperplasia--a review of myths and truths

BACKGROUND

Focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) is a benign hyperplastic lesion of the liver with no known malignant potential. It has generated much interest due to the frequency with which it presents with atypical features on radiological imaging. Often resulting in misdiagnosis. Moreover, the understanding of particular subtypes of this lesion at a molecular level has changed in recent years. This may have implications on how certain subtypes should be managed.

PURPOSE

This review aims to analyse current literature pertaining to FNH and to provide clinically relevant advice regarding diagnosis and management.

Hepatocellular adenoma containing hepatocellular carcinoma in a male patient with familial adenomatous polyposis coli: Report of a case

Hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) is a benign condition occurring most frequently in young women using oral contraceptives. We herein report the first case of a 28-year-old man with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) who experienced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) within HCA. A preoperative computed tomography scan of the abdomen disclosed a tumor measuring 5.8 cm in diameter in the left lobe of the liver. A total proctocolectomy with construction of a linear stapled J-pouch, a hand-sewn ileoanal anastomosis and a liver tumor resection were performed. The pathology of the resected specimen confirmed the diagnosis of HCA containing HCC. Five cases of HCA have been reported that developed in patients with FAP, but this is the first case of HCA containing HCC. Hepatocellular adenomas occur due to the inactivation of hepatic nuclear factor 1α, but the mechanism underlying the malignant transformation from HCA to HCC could not be identified in this case.

Hepatocellular adenomas: current update on genetics, taxonomy, and management

Hepatocellular adenomas (HCAs) are uncommon, benign hepatocellular neoplasms that commonly occur in young women. Recent advances in pathology and cytogenetics have thrown fresh light on the pathogenesis of HCAs leading to classification of HCAs into 3 distinct subtypes, each with a characteristic epidemiology, histopathology, oncogenesis, and imaging findings. The aim of the article was to provide a comprehensive review of contemporary taxonomy of HCAs, with an emphasis on cross-sectional imaging findings and management.

Molecular pathology of hepatic neoplasms: classification and clinical significance

Recent technological advances have enabled investigators to characterize the molecular genetics and genomics of hepatic neoplasia in remarkable detail. From these studies, an increasing number of molecular markers are being identified that correlate with clinically important tumor phenotypes. This paper discusses current knowledge relevant to the molecular classification of epithelial primary hepatic tumors that arise in adults, including focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH), hepatocellular adenoma (HCA), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), cholangiocarcinoma (CC), and combined HCC-CC. Genetic analysis has defined molecular subtypes of HCA that are clinicopathologically distinct and can be distinguished through immunohistochemistry. Gene expression studies have identified molecular signatures of progression from dysplastic nodules (DNs) to early HCC in cirrhosis. Analyses of the mutational spectra, chromosomal aberrations and instability, transcriptomics, and microRNA profiles of HCC have revealed the existence of biologically distinct subtypes of this common malignancy, with prognostic implications. Molecular characterization of biliary and hepatic progenitor cell phenotypes in liver cancer has shed new light on the histogenesis of these tumors and has focused attention on novel therapeutic targets. In coming years, the molecular classification of hepatic neoplasms will be increasingly valuable for guiding patient care, as targeted therapies for liver cancer are developed and brought into clinical practice.

Hepatocellular adenomas: accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging and liver biopsy in subtype classification

Hepatocellular adenomas (HCAs) are divided into genotype/phenotype subgroups associated with different evolutive profiles. Therefore, recognition of subtype is of clinical importance in patient management. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered the most informative imaging modality and liver biopsy a key diagnostic tool whose role in HCA subtyping has never been extensively studied. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of MRI and liver biopsy with and without immunohistochemistry and to assess the interobserver agreement for MR classification in a consecutive series of resected HCAs. Forty-seven HCAs with preoperative MRI and biopsy were retrospectively included. MRI data were reviewed independently by two abdominal radiologists blind to the pathological results and classification. Subtyping of HCAs on liver biopsy was made blindly to clinical, biological, and imaging data and to final classification. Routine histological analysis was based on morphological criteria and immunohistochemistry was systematically performed when enough tissue was available. Final subtyping of HCA was based on the examination of the surgical specimen. Radiologists correctly classified HCAs in 85%. The interobserver kappa correlation coefficient was 0.86. Routine histological analysis led to 76.6% of correct classification and 81.6% when immunophenotypical characteristics were available. The additional value of immunophenotypical markers is best in HCAs containing steatosis. Agreement between MRI findings and routine histological analysis was observed in 74.5%, leading to a likelihood ratio of subtype diagnosis higher than 20.

CONCLUSION

MRI and biopsy analysis are two efficient methods in subtyping HCAs and their association increases the diagnosis confidence. Interobserver variability in MRI criteria is very low.

Malignant transformation of hepatocellular adenomas into hepatocellular carcinomas: a systematic review including more than 1600 adenoma cases

BACKGROUND

Malignant transformation of hepatocellular adenomas (HCAs) into hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) has been reported repeatedly and is considered to be one of the main reasons for surgical treatment. However, its actual risk is currently unknown.

OBJECTIVE

To provide an estimation of the frequency of malignant transformation of HCAs and to discuss its clinical implications.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted using the following databases: The Cochrane Hepatobiliary Group Controlled Trials Register, The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, MEDLINE and EMBASE.

RESULTS

One hundred and fifty-seven relevant series and 17 case reports (a total of 1635 HCAs) were retrieved, reporting an overall frequency of malignant transformation of 4.2%. Only three cases (4.4%) of malignant alteration were reported in a tumour smaller than 5 cm in diameter.

DISCUSSION

Malignant transformation of HCAs into HCCs remains a rare phenomenon with a reported frequency of 4.2%. A better selection of exactly those patients presenting with an HCA with an amplified risk of malignant degeneration is advocated in order to reduce the number of liver resections and thus reducing the operative risk for these predominantly young patients. The Bordeaux adenoma tumour markers are a promising method of identifying these high-risk adenomas.

Clonality and TP53 mutation analysis of focal nodular hyperplasia of the liver

Focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) is considered a benign tumor of the liver. However, the biologic nature and clonality status of FNH are not well established. We sought to determine the clonality and TP53 mutation status of FNH to better characterize the nature of FNH. We analyzed 15 cases of FNH from female patients who underwent surgical resection of their lesions. Genomic DNA was extracted from paraffin-embedded tissue sections using laser-capture microdissection and analyzed for X-chromosome inactivation status and TP53 mutations by direct DNA sequencing. Thirteen cases were informative for X-chromosome inactivation analysis. Of the 13 informative cases, 4 (31%) showed a nonrandom pattern of X-chromosome inactivation, consistent with monoclonal origin. No TP53 mutations were detected in any of the FNH cases. The clonality status was not associated with any clinicopathologic parameters such as age and lesion size. Our data indicate that a significant proportion of FNH lesions have a monoclonal origin, suggesting that they are neoplastic rather than reactive.

Molecular classification of hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most frequent tumour derived from the malignant transformation of hepatocytes. It is well established that cancer is a disease of the genome and, as in other types of solid tumours, a large number of genetic and epigenetic alterations are accumulated during the hepatocarcinogenesis process. Recent developments using comprehensive genomic tools have enabled the identification of the molecular diversity in human HCC. Consequently, several molecular classifications have been described using different approaches and important progress has been made particularly with the transcriptomic, genetic, chromosomal, miRNA and methylation profiling. On the whole, all these molecular classifications are related and one of the major determinants of the identified subgroups of tumours are gene mutations found in oncogenes and tumour suppressors. However, the full understanding of the HCC molecular classification requires additional comprehensive studies using both genomic and pathway analyses. Finally, a refinement of the molecular classification of HCC, taking into account the geographical and genetic diversity of the patients, will be essential for an efficient design of the forthcoming personalized clinical treatments.

Primary liver tumors: origin and target therapy

BACKGROUND

The liver is the largest gland and chief metabolic organ of the human body possessing a unique ability to regenerate. The general interest of primary liver tumors is noteworthy because of their increasing worldwide incidence and mortality. Recent studies have focused on the ancestors of mature hepatocytes, which are capable of proliferating, differentiating and self-renewing.

OBJECTIVE

To provide a brief and up-to-date review on the cellular origin of primary liver tumors and to examine the use of stem cells in potential future therapeutic attempts.

METHODS

A review of relevant literature.

RESULTS

It is clear that hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) could be the basis of some hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC), cholangiocarcinomas (CHC), hepatocellular adenomas and hepatoblastomas. Cancer stem cell (CSC) theory emphasizes the role of hepatic stem cells in the development and progression of liver tumors.

CONCLUSION

The expression of HPCs markers may be used as new independent prognostic factors in HCC. Conventional treatments for HCC do not seem to be beneficial for the majority of patients and new therapeutic approaches such as gene therapy and targeted drug therapy are of great clinical interest.

A single-center surgical experience of 122 patients with single and multiple hepatocellular adenomas

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Hepatocellular adenoma (HA) is associated with risk of bleeding and malignancy, justifying resection. Patients with multiple forms of HA are difficult to manage. We evaluated the characteristics and outcome of 122 patients with single and multiple HAs after surgery.

METHODS

From 1990 to 2004, 122 patients (14 male) underwent surgical resection. Complications (hemorrhage and malignancy) were assessed according to size, number, and histologic subtype (steatotic, telangiectatic, and unclassified), with a mean follow-up period of 70 months.

RESULTS

Hemorrhagic HA occurred in 21% of cases and malignant HA occurred in 8%. Risk of complications was not related to the number of HAs but was associated with size (>5 cm), especially of telangiectatic and unclassified subtypes. Patients with steatotic HA had a low risk of complications. Malignant HA was more frequent in men (43%); all patients treated by partial resection survived, without recurrent malignancy, after a mean follow-up period of 78 months. After 109 patients with benign HA revealed recurrence or progression of HA in 8% and regression in 9% of cases. No complications were observed in 11 women who became pregnant during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with HAs greater than 5 cm, telangiectatic or unclassified subtypes, and men have an increased risk of complicated disease; resection should be restricted to these patients. The risk of complications was not related to the number of HAs, so patients with multiple HAs do not need liver transplantation.