Loss of PTEN expression as diagnostic marker of endometrial precancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The Histomorphology to Molecular Transition: Exploring the Genomic Landscape of Poorly Differentiated Epithelial Endometrial Cancers

The peremptory need to circumvent challenges associated with poorly differentiated epithelial endometrial cancers (PDEECs), also known as Type II endometrial cancers (ECs), has prompted therapeutic interrogation of the prototypically intractable and most prevalent gynecological malignancy. PDEECs account for most endometrial cancer-related mortalities due to their aggressive nature, late-stage detection, and poor response to standard therapies. PDEECs are characterized by heterogeneous histopathological features and distinct molecular profiles, and they pose significant clinical challenges due to their propensity for rapid progression. Regardless of the complexities around PDEECs, they are still being administered inefficiently in the same manner as clinically indolent and readily curable type-I ECs. Currently, there are no targeted therapies for the treatment of PDEECs. The realization of the need for new treatment options has transformed our understanding of PDEECs by enabling more precise classification based on genomic profiling. The transition from a histopathological to a molecular classification has provided critical insights into the underlying genetic and epigenetic alterations in these malignancies. This review explores the genomic landscape of PDEECs, with a focus on identifying key molecular subtypes and associated genetic mutations that are prevalent in aggressive variants. Here, we discuss how molecular classification correlates with clinical outcomes and can refine diagnostic accuracy, predict patient prognosis, and inform therapeutic strategies. Deciphering the molecular underpinnings of PDEECs has led to advances in precision oncology and protracted therapeutic remissions for patients with these untamable malignancies.

Endometrial Atypical Hyperplasia and Risk of Endometrial Cancer

Endometrial atypical hyperplasia (EAH) is a premalignant condition with a substantial risk of progression to endometrial cancer (EC), with the endometrioid subtype being the most common. EAH is characterized by abnormal endometrial gland proliferation and cellular atypia, often resulting from prolonged unopposed estrogen exposure. This review aims to explore the clinical significance of EAH, its risk of progression to EC, and the current approaches to management. The risk of EAH progressing to EC ranges from 20 to 50%, influenced by factors such as histopathology and genetic mutations including PTEN and KRAS. Key risk factors include obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome, and postmenopausal status. Abnormal uterine bleeding is a hallmark symptom of EAH and early-stage EC, necessitating diagnostic evaluation through endometrial biopsy and transvaginal ultrasonography. Therapeutic management strategies depend on patient risk and fertility considerations. Hormonal therapy, particularly progestins, is the mainstay for fertility preservation, while hysterectomy is preferred for higher-risk patients. Regular monitoring with biopsies is essential for those undergoing conservative treatment. Recent advancements in the management of EAH and EC have shifted towards incorporation of molecular diagnostics and targeted therapies, enabling better risk stratification and individualized care. Biomarkers and minimally invasive surgical techniques are emerging as promising approaches in improving outcomes for women with EAH. This review underscores the importance of early diagnosis and personalized management in preventing the progression of EAH to EC, highlighting current clinical practices and potential future developments in this field.

Landscape of Endometrial Cancer: Molecular Mechanisms, Biomarkers, and Target Therapy

Endometrial cancer is one the most prevalent gynecological cancers and, unfortunately, has a poor prognosis due to low response rates to traditional treatments. However, the progress in molecular biology and understanding the genetic mechanisms involved in tumor processes offers valuable information that has led to the current classification that describes four molecular subtypes of endometrial cancer. This review focuses on the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of endometrial cancers, such as genetic mutations, defects in the DNA mismatch repair pathway, epigenetic changes, or dysregulation in angiogenic or hormonal signaling pathways. The preclinical genomic and molecular investigations presented allowed for the identification of some molecules that could be used as biomarkers to diagnose, predict, and monitor the progression of endometrial cancer. Besides the therapies known in clinical practice, targeted therapy is described as a new cancer treatment that involves identifying specific molecular targets in tumor cells. By selectively inhibiting these targets, key signaling pathways involved in cancer progression can be disrupted while normal cells are protected. The connection between molecular biomarkers and targeted therapy is vital in the fight against cancer. Ongoing research and clinical trials are exploring the use of standard therapy agents in combination with other treatment strategies like immunotherapy and anti-angiogenesis therapy to improve outcomes and personalize treatment for patients with endometrial cancer. This approach has the potential to transform the management of cancer patients. In conclusion, enhancing molecular tools is essential for stratifying the risk and guiding surgery, adjuvant therapy, and cancer treatment for women with endometrial cancer. In addition, the information from this review may have an essential value in the personalized therapy approach for endometrial cancer to improve the patient's life.

DNA methylation of selected tumor suppressor genes in endometrial hyperplasia

AIMS

To investigate DNA methylation of specific gene promoters in endometrial hyperplasia compared to normal endometrial tissue.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To search for epigenetic events, methylation-specific multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification was employed to compare the methylation status of 64 tissue samples with atypical endometrial hyperplasia, 60 tissue samples with endometrial hyperplasia without atypia, and 40 control tissue samples with normal endometrium.

RESULTS

Differences in DNA methylation among the groups were found in PTEN, CDH13, and MSH6 promoters (PTEN: atypical hyperplasia 32%, benign hyperplasia 6.8%, normal endometrium 10%; P=0.004; CDH13: atypical hyperplasia, 50%; benign hyperplasia, 43%; normal endometrium 8.1%; P=0.003; MSH6 atypical hyperplasia 84%, benign hyperplasia, 62%; normal endometrium, 52%; P=0.008.) Higher rates of CDH13 promoter methylation were identified in the groups with both forms of endometrial hyperplasia when compared to the control group (atypical hyperplasia, P=0.003, benign hyperplasia, P=0.0002). A higher rate of DNA methylation of the PTEN and MSH6 promoters was observed in samples with atypical endometrial hyperplasia than in samples with benign endometrial hyperplasia (PTEN: P=0.02; MSH6: P=0.01) and samples with normal endometrial tissue (PTEN, P=0.04; MSH6, P=0.006).

CONCLUSION

DNA methylation of CDH13, PTEN, and MSH6 appear to be involved in the development of endometrial hyperplasia.

Minimally invasive approaches for the early detection of endometrial cancer

Endometrial cancer (EC) is one of the most common gynecologic cancers and its incidence is rising globally. Although advanced EC has a poor prognosis; diagnosing EC at an earlier stage could improve long-term patient outcomes. However, there is no consensus on the early detection strategies for EC and the current diagnostic practices such as transvaginal ultrasound, hysteroscopy and endometrial biopsy are invasive, costly and low in specificity. Thus, accurate and less invasive screening tests that detect EC in women with early stages of the disease are needed. Current research has revolutionized novel EC early detection methodologies in many aspects. This review aims to comprehensively characterizes minimally invasive screening techniques that can be applied to EC in the future, and fully demonstrate their potential in the early detection of EC.

A Clinicopathological Review of 203 Cases of Atypical Polypoid Adenomyoma of the Uterus

OBJECTIVE

To provide a reference for the diagnosis and treatment of atypical polypoid adenomyoma (APA).

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 203 APA patients from 2011 to 2021. The clinicopathological characteristics, treatments, and prognosis were analyzed.

RESULTS

The average age at diagnosis of APA patients was 39.30 ± 11.01 years, and premenopausal women accounted for 81.3%. Abnormal uterine bleeding or menorrhagia were the most common clinical manifestations of APA. The uterine fundus (78.3%), followed by the lower segment of the uterus (11.8%), was the most common location of the APA lesions. Abnormal blood vessels were seen on the surface of 28 APA tumors. APA can coexist with atypical endometrial hyperplasia (18.2%) and endometrial cancer (10.8%). Immunohistochemical analysis was performed on 99 samples. In the glandular component, ER (94.8%), PR (94.8%), Ki-67 (51.5%), p53 (45.6%), PTEN (18.8%), and mismatch repair proteins (96.4%) were positively expressed. Stromal immunophenotype expression was exhibited as follows: CD10-(89.5%), p16+(86.9%), h-caldesmon-(66.7%), Desmin+(75%), and Vimentin+(88.9%). Fifty-five APA patients received TCR, and 33 of them received adjuvant therapy after the operation. The postoperative recurrence rate (9.1% vs. 36.4%, p < 0.05) and malignant transformation rate (3.0% vs. 18.2%, p < 0.05) of the treated group were significantly lower than the untreated group.

CONCLUSIONS

APA usually occurs in women of childbearing age, and the diagnosis is based on pathological morphology. APA has a low malignant potential, and those who have fertility requirements can undergo conservative TCR treatment, supplemented by progesterone treatment after surgery and close follow-up. Total hysterectomy is the treatment of choice for APA patients with atypical endometrial hyperplasia around the lesion.

Endometrial Metaplastic/Reactive Changes Coexistent with Endometrial Hyperplasia and Carcinoma: A Morphological and Immunohistochemical Study

The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between endometrial metaplastic/reactive changes (EMRCs) and endometrial neoplastic lesions. Twenty cases of “simple” (without architecture complexity) EMRCs coexistent with endometrial malignant/premalignant lesions, twenty cases of neoplasia-unassociated EMRCs, and eight cases of complex metaplastic lesions were assessed by immunohistochemistry. EMRCs coexisted with endometrioid carcinoma (n = 12), atypical endometrial hyperplasia (n = 3), serous carcinoma (n = 2), and clear cell carcinoma (n = 3). Neoplasia-associated EMRCs showed a mean Ki67 labeling index of 12.6% (range 0–30%); with nuclear atypia in 16/20 (80%) cases; diffuse p16 expression in 15/20 (75%) cases; and heterogeneous ER, PR, and vimentin expression. Compared to the associated neoplasia, EMRCs showed a lower Ki67 expression (p < 0.001) and higher p16 expression (p < 0.001). No EMRC case showed mitotic activity, PTEN loss, MMR deficiency, nuclear β-catenin, p53-mutant pattern, Napsin A, or AMACR expression. No significant differences were found between neoplasia-associated and neoplasia-unassociated EMRCs. Complex metaplastic lesions showed a lower Ki67 expression than EMRCs (p = 0.044) and PTEN loss in 5/8 cases, even in the absence of nuclear atypia. In conclusion, neoplasia-associated simple EMRCs may show evident atypia and a worrisome immunophenotype, but no data support their involvement in endometrial carcinogenesis. Architectural complexity appears as a crucial factor to identify precancerous lesions.

Exosome CTLA-4 Regulates PTEN/CD44 Signal Pathway in Spleen Deficiency Internal Environment to Promote Invasion and Metastasis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common primary cancers, and its pathogenesis is complicated and difficult to screen. Currently, there is no effective treatment. In traditional Chinese medicine, a large proportion of patients with HCC have been diagnosed with spleen deficiency (SD) syndrome and treated with tonifying traditional Chinese medicine, which has significant clinical efficacy. However, the role and molecular mechanism of SD in HCC remain unclear. In this study, 40 mice were randomly divided into four groups: control, SD, HCC, and SD-HCC groups. The liver cancer model of SD was established by reserpine induction and orthotopic transplantation. The effects of SD on the proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and metastasis of HCC cells were studied by cell proliferation, cell apoptosis, cell scratch, and transwell assay. We found that compared with the HCC group, the protein expressions of cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4), programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), and AKT (also known as protein kinase B or PKB) in the exosomes of the SD-HCC group were upregulated. In addition, the metastases and self-renewal of exosomes in the SD-HCC group were more aggressive than those in the HCC group, which could be partially reversed with the addition of CTLA-4 inhibitors. Further studies showed that in the internal environment of SD, CTLA-4 promoted tumor invasion and metastasis by regulating the PTEN/CD44 pathway. In conclusion, our findings suggest that during SD in the internal environment, exosome CTLA-4 regulates the PTEN/CD44 signal pathway to promote the proliferation, self-renewal, and metastasis of liver cancer.

Loss of ten-eleven translocation 1 (TET1) expression as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of endometrial carcinoma

Endometrial carcinoma (EC) is the most common gynecological cancer. However, there is currently no routinely used biomarker for differential diagnosis of malignant and premalignant endometrial lesions. Ten-eleven translocation (TET) proteins, especially TET1, were found to play a significant role in DNA demethylation, via conversion of 5-methylcytosine (5-mC) to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC). TET1, 5-mC, and 5-hmC expression profiles in endometrial carcinogenesis are currently unclear. We conducted a hospital-based retrospective review of the immunohistochemical expression of TET1, 5-mC, and 5-hmC in 181 endometrial samples. A “high” TET1 and 5-hmC expression score was observed in all cases of normal endometrium (100.0% and 100.0%, respectively) and in most samples of endometrial hyperplasia without atypia (90.9% and 78.8%, respectively) and atypical hyperplasia (90.6% and 93.8%, respectively), but a “high” score was found in only less than half of the EC samples (48.8% and 46.5%, respectively). The TET1 and 5-hmC expression scores were significantly higher in normal endometrium and premalignant endometrial lesions than in ECs (p < 0.001). A “high” 5-mC expression score was observed more frequently for ECs (81.4%) than for normal endometrium (40.0%), endometrial hyperplasia without atypia (51.5%), and atypical hyperplasia (53.1%) (p < 0.001). We also found that TET1 mRNA expression was lower in ECs compared to normal tissues (p = 0.0037). TET1 immunohistochemistry (IHC) scores were highly proportional to the TET1 mRNA levels and we summarize that the TET1 IHC scoring can be used for biomarker determinations. Most importantly, a higher TET1 score in EC cases was associated with a good overall survival (OS) rate, with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.31 for death (95% confidence interval: 0.11–0.84). Our findings suggest that TET1, 5-mC, and 5-hmC expression is a potential histopathology biomarker for the differential diagnosis of malignant and premalignant endometrial lesions. TET1 is also a potential prognostic marker for EC.

PTEN protein expression has role in predicting disease-free-interval in endometrioid endometrial carcinoma

OBJECTIVES

To determine the significance of tumour PTEN protein expression in endometrioid endometrial carcinoma (EEC) and it is correlation with tumour characteristics.

METHODS

A total of 30 eligible archived paraffin-embedded tissue blocks from 61 EEC cases (January 2015-December 2017) were retrieved from the Histopathology Laboratory in Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre (UKMMC) following institutional ethic approval. For PTEN protein detection, immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining was performed and the data was correlated with clinicopathologic parameters.

RESULTS

Fourteen samples (46.7%) showed positive PTEN protein expression, while 16 (53.3%) were negative. The mean age was 62.00 ± 9.51 years old, while the mean Body Mass Index (BMI) was 27.28 ± 7.16 kg/m². There was no significant difference between age (p=0.27, 95% CI: -10.98 to 3.21) and BMI (p=0.67, 95% CI: -4.30 to 6.58) with PTEN protein expression. There were significant correlation between PTEN protein expression with myometrial invasion (p=0.010), but not with lymphovascular space invasion (p=0.743), grade (p=0.532), stage (p=0.733) and CA-125 level (p=0.47). The higher stage correlates with the presence of LVSI (p=0.002). PTEN positive associated with longer disease-free-interval (p=0.025), but not improving the overall survival (p=0.38).

CONCLUSIONS

Positive PTEN protein expression correlates with less myometrial invasion.

Immunophenotype of Atypical Polypoid Adenomyoma of the Uterus: Diagnostic Value and Insight on Pathogenesis

Atypical polypoid adenomyoma (APA) is a rare uterine lesion constituted by atypical endometrioid glands, squamous morules, and myofibromatous stroma. We aimed to assess the immunophenotype of the 3 components of APA, with regard to its pathogenesis and its differential diagnosis. A systematic review was performed by searching electronic databases from their inception to January 2019 for immunohistochemical studies of APA. Thirteen studies with 145 APA cases were included. APA glands appeared analogous to atypical endometrial hyperplasia (endometrioid cytokeratins pattern, Ki67≤50%, common PTEN loss, and occasional mismatch repair deficiency); the prominent expression of hormone receptors and nuclear β-catenin suggest that APA may be a precursor of "copy number-low," CTNNB1-mutant endometrial cancers. Morules appeared as a peculiar type of hyperdifferentiation (low KI67, nuclear β-catenin+, CD10+, CDX2+, SATB2+, p63-, and p40-), analogous to morular metaplasia in other lesions and distinguishable immunohistochemically from both conventional squamous metaplasia and solid cancer growth. Stroma immunphenotype (low Ki67, α-smooth-muscle-actin+, h-caldesmon-, CD10-, or weak and patchy) suggested a derivation from a metaplasia of normal endometrial stroma. It was similar to that of nonatypical adenomyoma, and different from adenosarcoma (Ki67 increase and CD10+ in periglandular stroma) and myoinvasive endometrioid carcinoma (h-caldesmon+ in myometrium and periglandular fringe-like CD10 pattern).

The immunohistochemical profile of basal cell nevus syndrome-associated and sporadic odontogenic keratocysts: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To provide a systematic review of the literature on studies comparing the immunoprofile of nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (BCNS)-associated and sporadic odontogenic keratocysts (OKCs), in order to identify markers that could accurately distinguish the two OKC subtypes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched MEDLINE/Pubmed, Web of Science, EMBASE via OVID, and grey literature for publications until December 28th, 2019, that compared the immunohistochemical expression of the two OKC subtypes. The studies were qualitatively assessed using the Critical Appraisal Tool for Case Series (Joana Briggs Institute). Sensitivity and specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratio, diagnostic odds ratio and area under the curve, and pooled estimates were calculated, using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

Seventy-one studies were qualitatively analyzed; 61 markers were evaluated in one study and 32 in ≥ 2 studies. Twenty-five studies reported differential expression of 29 markers in the form of higher number of positive cells or greater staining intensity usually in BCNS-associated OKCs. Meta-analysis for bcl-2, Cyclin D1, CD56, CK18, p53, and PCNA showed that none of those markers is distinguishable between BCNS-associated and sporadic OKCs, in a 95% confidence interval. The risk of bias was high in 34 studies, moderate in 22, and low in 15.

CONCLUSIONS

The present systematic review and meta-analysis uncovered that, although several immunohistochemical markers might characterize the OKC phenotype, they cannot discriminate between the BCNS-associated and sporadic OKCs.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This study highlighted the requirement for additional screening for markers by immunohistochemistry, preferentially coupled to alternative diagnostic applications such as genomics technologies.

Clinical Predictive Factors of Response to Treatment in Patients Undergoing Conservative Management of Atypical Endometrial Hyperplasia and Early Endometrial Cancer

Purpose: Predictive markers of response to conservative treatment of atypical endometrial hyperplasia (AEH) or early endometrial cancer (EEC) are still lacking. We aimed to assess clinical predictive factors of response to conservative treatment of AEH and EEC. Methods: All patients with AEH or EEC conservatively treated from January 2007 to June 2018 were retrospectively assessed. The associations between 23 clinical factors and outcomes of response to treatment were assessed with standard univariate analyses and multivariate logistic regression (significant p-value <0.05). The primary outcome was the association of each clinical factor with treatment failure (i.e., no regression or relapse of the disease). Secondary outcomes were the associations of each clinical factor with: (1) no regression, (2) relapse, or (3) pregnancy after treatment. Results: Forty-three women, 37 (86%) with AEH and 6 (14%) with EEC were included. At univariate analyses, treatment failure was associated with longer menstrual cycle (p = 0.002), infrequent menstrual bleeding (p = 0.04), and a diagnosis of EEC instead of AEH (p = 0.008). Among the secondary outcomes, no regression was associated with infrequent menstrual bleeding (p = 0.04), and a diagnosis of EEC instead of AEH (p < 0.001), while relapse was associated with longer menstrual cycles (p = 0.007). At multivariate analyses, odds ratio for treatment failure was 4.54 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.24-84.4) for a diagnosis of EEC instead of AEH (p = 0.3), and 2.10 (95% CI, 1.03-4.29) for longer menstrual cycles (p = 0.042), while infrequent menstrual bleeding perfectly predicted treatment failure. Conclusions: Longer menstrual cycles and infrequent menstrual bleeding appear as independent predictive factors for conservative treatment failure in AEH and EEC. Further and larger studies are necessary to confirm these findings.

Diagnostic accuracy of p53 immunohistochemistry as surrogate of TP53 sequencing in endometrial cancer

Aberrant p53 immunohistochemical expression is used to identify the copy-number-high/TP53-mutant subgroup of endometrial cancer (EC). We aimed to determine the diagnostic accuracy of p53 immunohistochemistry as surrogate for TP53 sequencing through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Electronic databases were searched from their inception to June 2019. All studies assessing p53 expression and TP53 mutations in EC were included. Diagnostic accuracy was assessed based on area under the curve (AUC). Immunohistochemical criteria used to define aberrant p53 expression were "overexpression" and "overexpression or complete absence". Subgroup analysis was based on the sequencing technique adopted (Polymerase Chain Reaction + sequencing, or next generation sequencing, NGS). Thirteen observational studies with 727 endometrial cancers were included. Both "overexpression" and "overexpression or complete absence" showed high diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 0.9088 and 0.9030, respectively). The subgroup with "overexpression" and NGS showed the best results, with very high diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 0.9927). In conclusion, immunohistochemistry for p53 is a highly accurate surrogate of TP53 sequencing. Overexpression of p53 in ≥70-80% showed the best accuracy in predicting TP53 mutations. Further studies in this field should adopt optimized immunohistochemical procedures and take into account less common p53 patterns (e.g. cytoplasmic expression).

Hysteroscopic resectoscope-directed biopsies and outpatient endometrial sampling for assessment of tumor histology in women with endometrial cancer or atypical hyperplasia

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate and compare the diagnostic efficiency of outpatient endometrial sampling (OES) and hysteroscopic resectoscope-directed biopsies (HY_biopsy) to distinguish between endometrial cancer (EC) and atypical hyperplasia (AH) and to assess tumor type and grade (histotype) in women with EC.

DESIGN

Patients with AH or EC (n = 266) among 1013 patients consecutively referred because of postmenopausal bleeding were included. Identification of EC versus AH, and unfavorable tumor types (endometrioid grade 3 or non-endometrioid tumors) using OES and HY_biopsy was compared to final histopathology at hysterectomy. AH or EC were identified by OES in 184 patients and by HY_biopsy in212.

RESULTS

OES had only sufficient tissue samples in 72.7% of intended samples. Even when OES did provide sufficient material, addition of HY_biopsy was a better technique than OES alone to distinguish between EC and AH, with an AUC of 95.9% and 79.8%; sensitivity of 97.4% and 64.6% and a specificity of 94.4% and 95.0%, respectively (p = 0.008). AH was falsely diagnosed with OES in 58 (35.4%) of 164 women with a final diagnose of EC. A final diagnosis of stage 1b or more was seen in 22 of these 58 women, while 5 of 194 patients with EC all stage 1a grade 1 had AH by HY_biopsy. HY_biopsy had higher correlation in assessment of tumor type and grade than OES, but OES and HY_biopsy had comparable AUC of 90.3% and 92.4% for identification of unfavorable tumors when tumor histotype was successfully identified. Regarding identification of unfavorable tumors (n = 57), a successfully assessment of histotype by OES combined with HY_biopsy in women without successfully diagnosed histotype by OES alone had AUC of 91.3%.

CONCLUSION

Addition of HY_biopsy may improve diagnosis when preoperative OES identifies AH or is insufficient for explicit diagnosis of tumor type and grade. However, there is limited benefit of the addition of HY_biopsy in the presence of definite diagnosis of grade 1-2 endometrioid tumors by OES.

Toward Systems Pathology for PTEN Diagnostics

Germline alterations of the tumor suppressor PTEN have been extensively characterized in patients with PTEN hamartoma tumor syndromes, encompassing subsets of Cowden syndrome, Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndrome, Proteus and Proteus-like syndromes, as well as autism spectrum disorder. Studies have shown an increase in the risk of developing specific cancer types in the presence of a germline PTEN mutation. Furthermore, outside of the familial setting, somatic variants of PTEN occur in numerous malignancies. Here we introduce and discuss the prospect of moving toward a systems pathology approach for PTEN diagnostics, incorporating clinical and molecular pathology data with the goal of improving the clinical management of patients with a PTEN mutation. Detection of a germline PTEN mutation can inform cancer surveillance and in the case of somatic mutation, have value in predicting disease course. Given that PTEN functions in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, identification of a PTEN mutation may highlight new therapeutic opportunities and/or inform therapeutic choices.

Impact of endometrial carcinoma histotype on the prognostic value of the TCGA molecular subgroups

BACKGROUND

The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) identified four prognostic subgroups of endometrial carcinoma: copy-number-low/p53-wild-type (p53wt), POLE-mutated/ultramutated (POLEmt), microsatellite-instability/hypermutated (MSI), and copy-number-high/p53-mutated (p53mt). However, it is still unclear if they may be integrated with the current histopathological prognostic factors, such as histotype.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the impact of histotype on the prognostic value of the TCGA molecular subgroups of endometrial carcinoma.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed by searching 7 electronic databases from their inception to April 2019 for studies assessing prognosis in all TCGA subgroups of endometrial carcinoma. Pooled hazard ratio (HR) for overall survival (OS) was calculated in two different groups ("all-histotypes" and "endometrioid"), using p53wt subgroup as reference standard; HR for non-endometrioid histotypes was calculated indirectly. Disease-specific survival and progression-free survival were assessed as additional analyses.

RESULTS

Six studies with 2818 patients were included. In the p53mt subgroup, pooled HRs for OS were 4.322 (all-histotypes), 2.505 (endometrioid), and 4.937 (non-endometrioid). In the MSI subgroup, pooled HRs were 1.965 (all-histotypes), 1.287 (endometrioid), and 6.361 (non-endometrioid). In the POLEmt subgroup, pooled HRs were 0.763 (all-histotypes), 0.481 (endometrioid), and 2.634 (non-endometrioid). Results of additional analyses were consistent for all subgroups except for non-endometrioid POLEmt carcinomas.

CONCLUSION

Histotype of endometrial carcinoma shows a crucial prognostic value independently of the TCGA molecular subgroup, with non-endometrioid carcinomas having a worse prognosis in each TCGA subgroup. Histotype should be integrated with molecular characterization for the risk stratification of patients in the future.

Is there a causal link between PTEN deficient tumors and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment?

The PTEN tumor suppressor is the second most commonly inactivated gene across cancer types. While it's role in PI3K/AKT and DNA damage pathways are clear, increasing evidences suggest that PTEN may also promote anti-tumor immunity. PTEN-deficient tumors are characterized by (i) reduced levels of cytotoxic T cells, helper T cells and NK cells, (ii) elevated pro-oncogenic inflammatory cytokines like CCL2 and (iii) increased levels of immunosuppressive cells such as MDSCs and Tregs. An intriguing possibility is that link between PTEN and anti-tumor immunity is mediated by the interferon signaling pathway. In this review, we summarize the evidences for the mechanistic link between PTEN deficiency and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and the interferon signaling pathway. We further discuss how the link between these pathways can be exploited for development of personalized immunotherapy for patients with PTEN deficient tumors.

Histopathological characterization of ProMisE molecular groups of endometrial cancer

BACKGROUND

After the Proactive Molecular Risk Classifier for Endometrial Cancer (ProMisE) development, endometrial cancer (EC) may be reclassified in four novel prognostic groups: POLE-mutated (POLE-mt), mismatch-repair-deficient (MMR-d), p53-abnormal (p53abn), p53-wild-type (p53wt). However, histopathological characteristics of each ProMisE group are still undefined. Such characterization may be useful to understand how this novel molecular classifier may change the current patient management, reducing over- and undertreatment.

AIM

To provide a histopathological characterization of ProMisE groups of EC, in terms of histological grade (G3 vs G1-2), histotype, lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI), deep myometrial invasion (>50%), lymph node involvement, and European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) risk category.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed by searching seven electronic databases from their inception to May 2019, for studies that reported histopathological characteristics of each ProMisE group. Pooled prevalence of each histopathological characteristic of EC in each ProMisE group was calculated.

RESULTS

Four studies with 1171 patients were included in the systematic review, out of which three studies with 912 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled prevalence estimates were: CONCLUSIONS: The histopathological characterization of the ProMisE groups suggests that many patients are currently undertreated or overtreated (especially in the POLE-mt and MMR-d groups).

Congruence Between 1994 WHO Classification of Endometrial Hyperplasia and Endometrial Intraepithelial Neoplasia System

OBJECTIVES

To assess congruence between World Health Organization (WHO) 1994 and endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia (EIN) classification systems of endometrial hyperplasia.

METHODS

Systematic review and meta-analysis were performed by searching electronic databases for studies that classified endometrial hyperplasia according to both WHO 1994 and EIN systems. Congruence was based on the rate of specimens classified as EIN in WHO categories, which should be virtually 0.000 in nonatypical hyperplasia (NAH) and 1.000 in atypical hyperplasia (AH). Subgroup analyses were performed based on architecture complexity.

RESULTS

Eight studies with 1,352 hyperplasias were included. Congruence with EIN criteria was fair in NAH (0.241) and moderate in AH (0.815). Subgroup analyses of NAH showed high congruence in simple NAH (0.065), null in complex NAH (0.517), null in simple AH (0.148), and high in complex AH (0.901).

CONCLUSIONS

WHO 1994 system is not congruent with the EIN system and cannot be directly translated into a dual classification.

Precise Immunodetection of PTEN Protein in Human Neoplasia

PTEN is a major tumor-suppressor protein whose expression and biological activity are frequently diminished in sporadic or inherited cancers. PTEN gene deletion or loss-of-function mutations favor tumor cell growth and are commonly found in clinical practice. In addition, diminished PTEN protein expression is also frequently observed in tumor samples from cancer patients in the absence of PTEN gene alterations. This makes PTEN protein levels a potential biomarker parameter in clinical oncology, which can guide therapeutic decisions. The specific detection of PTEN protein can be achieved by using highly defined anti-PTEN monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), characterized with precision in terms of sensitivity for the detection technique, specificity for PTEN binding, and constraints of epitope recognition. This is especially relevant taking into consideration that PTEN is highly targeted by mutations and posttranslational modifications, and different PTEN protein isoforms exist. The precise characterization of anti-PTEN mAb reactivity is an important step in the validation of these reagents as diagnostic and prognostic tools in clinical oncology, including their routine use in analytical immunohistochemistry (IHC). Here, we review the current status on the use of well-defined anti-PTEN mAbs for PTEN immunodetection in the clinical context and discuss their potential usefulness and limitations for a more precise cancer diagnosis and patient benefit.

Diabetes mellitus and responsiveness of endometrial hyperplasia and early endometrial cancer to conservative treatment

Objective: The conservative treatment of endometrial hyperplasia without atypia (HWA), atypical endometrial hyperplasia (AH/EIN) and early endometrioid carcinoma (EEC) is based on progestins. We aimed to assess whether diabetes mellitus affects the responsiveness of HWA, AH/EIN and EEC to conservative treatment, through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Study design: Electronic databases were searched for studies assessing the outcome of conservative treatment in HWA, AH/EIN and EEC, stratified based on the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. The association of diabetes mellitus with treatment failure was assessed by using odds ratio (OR). A p-value  < .05 was considered significant. The risk of publication bias was assessed by using a funnel plot. A subgroups analyses was performed based on histologic diagnosis of benignity (HWA) or premalignancy/malignancy (AH/EIN or EEC). Results: Six studies with 876 patients (383 HWA, 365 AH/EIN and 128 EEC) were included. Overall, diabetes mellitus was not associated with outcome of treatment (OR = 1.20; p = .62). The association was not significant in both the HWA subgroup (OR = 0.95; p = .93) and in AH/EIN and EEC subgroup (OR = 1.43; p = .46). There was no significant risk of publication bias. Conclusions: Diabetes mellitus does not affect the outcome of conservative treatment in HWA, AH/EIN and EEC.

Exosome-Mediated MiR-155 Transfer Contributes to Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Proliferation by Targeting PTEN

BACKGROUND Most eukaryocytes release nano vesicles (30-120 nm), named exosomes, to various biological fluids such as blood, lymph, and milk. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the tumors with the highest incidence rate in primary malignant carcinoma of the liver. However, the mechanism of HCC proliferation remains elusive. In this study, we aim to explore whether HCC cell-derived exosomes affect the proliferation of cancer cells. MATERIAL AND METHODS Exosomes were isolated from HCC cells by ultracentrifugation and were visualized the phenotype by transmission electron microscopy. Cell proliferation was detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 assays and EdU (5-ethynyl-2-deoxyuridine) incorporation assays. Dual-luciferase assays were performed to validate the paired correlation of miR-155 and 3'-UTR of PTEN (gene of phosphate and tension homology deleted on chromosome 10). A xenograft mice model was constructed to verify the effect of exosome-mediated miR-155 on cell proliferation in vivo. RESULTS Our finding showed that miR-155 was enriched in exosomes released from HCC cells. The exosome-containing miR-155 transferred into new HCC targeted cells and lead to the elevation of HCC cells' proliferation. Besides, the exosomal miR-155 directly bound to 3'-UTR of PTEN leading to the reduction of relevant targets in recipient liver cells. The knockdown of PTEN attenuated the proliferation of HCC cells treated with the exosomal miR-155. Moreover, nude-mouse experiment results revealed a promotional effect of the exosomal miR-155 on HCC cell-acquired xenografts. CONCLUSIONS Our study indicated that exosomal-specific miR-155 transfers to adjacent and/or more distant cells and stimulates the proliferation of HCC cells.

Prognostic factors in Krukenberg tumor

BACKGROUND

Krukenberg tumor (KT) is a rare secondary ovarian tumor. Little is known about clinicopathologic factors affecting prognosis in KT.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the prognostic value of clinicopathologic factors in KT through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

Electronic databases were searched from their inception to February 2019 for studies assessing the association of clinicopathologic factors with overall survival in KT. Pooled hazard ratio (HR) was calculated for each factor; a p value < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

Twenty-three studies with 1743 patients were included. A decreased overall survival was significantly associated with peritoneal involvement (HR 1.944; p = 0.003), ascites (HR 2.055; p = 0.034), synchronous presentation (HR 1.679; p = 0.034) and increased serum CEA levels (HR 1.380; p = 0.010), but not with age > 50 (HR 0.946; p = 0.743), menopausal status (HR 1.565; p = 0.204), gastric origin (HR 1.600; p = 0.201), size > 5 cm (HR 1.292; p = 0.119), size > 10 cm (HR 0.925; p = 0.714), bilateral ovarian involvement (HR 1.113; p = 0.347), non-peritoneal extaovarian metastases (HR 1.648; p = 0.237), liver metastases (HR 1.118, p = 0.555), predominant signet ring cell morphology (HR 1.322; p = 0.208) and levels of CA125 (HR 0.933; p = 0.828) and CA19.9 (HR 0.996; p = 0.992).

CONCLUSION

Peritoneal involvement, synchronous presentation, ascites and increased serum CEA levels appear as unfavorable prognostic factors in KT and might affect the patient management.

Nuclear expression of β-catenin in endometrial hyperplasia as marker of premalignancy

We aimed to assess (1)-whether nuclear β-catenin is a marker of endometrial precancer, and (2)-the diagnostic accuracy of β-catenin immunohistochemistry in the differential diagnosis between benign and premalignant endometrial hyperplasia (EH), defining criteria for its use. Electronic databases were searched for studies evaluating β-catenin immunohistochemistry in normal endometrium (NE), benign and/or premalignant EH, and endometrioid carcinoma (EC). Odds ratio (OR; p < 0.05), sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic OR (DOR), positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+, LR-) were calculated. Subgroup analyses were based on the classification system used (WHO or EIN) and criteria to define aberrant β-catenin expression (only nuclear or cytoplasmic/nuclear). Twelve studies with 1510 specimens were included. Nuclear β-catenin rate significantly increased from NE to benign EH (OR = 26.01; p = 0.0002, only in WHO subgroup), and from benign EH to premalignant EH (OR = 3.89; p = 0.0002; more markedly in EIN subgroup), but not from premalignant EH to EC (OR = 0.78; p = 0.29). Nuclear β-catenin accuracy was very low in WHO subgroup (sensitivity = 0.40, specificity = 0.76, LR+ = 1.85, LR- = 0.72; DOR = 2.89) and moderate in EIN subgroup (sensitivity = 0.19, specificity = 1.00, LR+ = 14.80, LR- = 0.83; DOR = 18.14). Cytoplasmic/nuclear β-catenin accuracy was absent in WHO subgroup (sensitivity = 0.45, specificity = 0.54, LR+ = 1.01, LR- = 1.01; DOR = 0.99) and low in EIN subgroup (sensitivity = 0.57, specificity = 0.86, LR+ = 3.63, LR- = 0.51; DOR = 8.30). Considering nuclear expression and using EIN system, β-catenin immunohistochemistry might be reliable as rule-in test for diagnosis of endometrial precancer, with perfect specificity and moderate overall accuracy.

BAG3 expression correlates with the grade of dysplasia in squamous intraepithelial lesions of the uterine cervix

INTRODUCTION

Bcl-2-associated athanogene 3 (BAG3) is a protein involved in apoptosis and stress response, which is overexpressed in invasive cervical cancer. However, nothing is known about BAG3 expression in precancerous lesions of the uterine cervix. We aimed to evaluate the expression of BAG3 in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia/squamous intraepithelial lesions (CIN/SIL).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Forty patients (16 CIN1/L-SIL, 11 CIN2/H-SIL and 13 CIN3/H-SIL) were assessed by immunohistochemistry for BAG3. The intensity of BAG3 expression was categorized as null, minimal, weak, moderate or strong. The association of BAG2 intensity of expression with the grade of dysplasia was assessed using Chi-square test (significant P value <0.05).

RESULTS

In all normal controls, BAG3 expression was negative. In L-SIL specimens, BAG3 expression was confined to the basal third of the epithelium, with an intensity minimal in nine cases (56.3%), weak in six (37.5%) and strong in one (6.3%). In H-SIL specimens, BAG3 expression involved also the two upper thirds of the epithelium, with an intensity moderate in 13 cases (54.2%; 8 CIN2 and 5 CIN3) and strong in 11 cases (45.8%; 3 CIN2 and 8 CIN3). The distribution of BAG3 expression correlated perfectly with the grade of dysplasia (P = 0.0); a moderate/strong expression of BAG3 was significantly associated with H-SIL (P < 0.0001), with no significant difference between CIN2 and CIN3 (P = 0.1228).

CONCLUSIONS

In CIN/SIL, both distribution and intensity of BAG3 expression correlate directly with the grade of dysplasia, supporting the involvement of BAG3 in all phases of cervical carcinogenesis and its possible diagnostic and prognostic role in cervical premalignant lesions.

TCGA molecular groups of endometrial cancer: Pooled data about prognosis

BACKGROUND

After The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) findings, four novel prognostic groups may direct the management of endometrial cancer (EC): POLE-mutated/ultramutated (POLEmt), microsatellite-instable/hypermutated (MSI), copy-number-low/p53-wild-type (p53wt), and copy-number-high/p53-mutated (p53mt). However, data about prognosis in each group are different across the studies, and definitive pooled estimates are lacking after validation series. Such data may be crucial in directing clinical study design and establishing the optimal tailored management of patients.

AIM

To provide pooled estimates of hazard ratio (HR) for overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), progression-free survival (PFS) in each prognostic group.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed by searching 7 electronic databases, from their inception to April 2019, for studies assessing prognosis in each TCGA EC group. Both univariable and multivariable HR analysis was performed for OS, DSS and PFS in each group, using p53wt as reference group.

RESULTS

Six studies with 2818 patients were included. Regarding OS, pooled HRs were 3.179 and 1.986 for p53mt group, 1.522 and 1.192 for MSI group, and 0.589 and 0.795 for POLEmt group at univariable and multivariable analyses, respectively. Regarding DSS, pooled HR were 5.052 and 2.133 for p53mt group, 1.965 and 1.068 for MSI group, and 0.552 and 0.325 for POLEmt group at univariable and multivariable analyses, respectively. Regarding PFS, pooled HR were 3.512 and 1.833 for p53mt group, 1.354 and 0.817 for MSI group, and 0.287 and 0.217 for POLEmt group at univariable and multivariable analyses, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Prognosis of p53mt group is consistently the worst one and is further worsened by unfavorable clinicopathological factors. Prognosis of MSI group overlaps with p53wt group but is worsened by unfavorable clinicopathological factors. Prognosis of POLEmt group is the best one and does not seem to be significantly affected by clinicopathological factors.

Accuracy of One-Step Nucleic Acid Amplification in Detecting Lymph Node Metastases in Endometrial Cancer

One-step nucleic acid amplification (OSNA) is used to intraoperatively detect sentinel lymph node metastases in breast cancer. OSNA has also been proposed in endometrial cancer, but evidence in this regard is unclear to define the diagnostic accuracy of OSNA in detecting lymph node metastases in endometrial cancer. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed by searching 8 electronic databases from their inception to March 2019 for studies testing the diagnostic accuracy of OSNA in detecting sentinel lymph node metastasis in endometrial cancer. Pathologic ultrastaging was the reference standard. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratio (LR+ and LR-), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) and area under the curve (AUC) on SROC curve were calculated. Four studies with 237 patients and 691 lymph nodes were included. OSNA showed sensitivity = 0.88, specificity = 0.93, LR + =17.95, LR- = 0.15, DOR = 191.23 and high diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 0.959). OSNA appears as a highly accurate tool for intraoperative assessment of sentinel lymph node in endometrial cancer.

PTEN as a Prognostic/Predictive Biomarker in Cancer: An Unfulfilled Promise?

Identifying putative biomarkers of clinical outcomes in cancer is crucial for successful enrichment, and for the selection of patients who are the most likely to benefit from a specific therapeutic approach. Indeed, current research in personalized cancer therapy focuses on the possibility of identifying biomarkers that predict prognosis, sensitivity or resistance to therapies. Phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) is a tumor suppressor gene that regulates several crucial cell functions such as proliferation, survival, genomic stability and cell motility through both enzymatic and non-enzymatic activities and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-dependent and -independent mechanisms. Despite its undisputed role as a tumor suppressor, assessment of PTEN status in sporadic human tumors has yet to provide clinically robust prognostic, predictive or therapeutic information. This is possibly due to the exceptionally complex regulation of PTEN function, which involves genetic, transcriptional, post-transcriptional and post-translational events. This review shows a brief summary of the regulation and function of PTEN and discusses its controversial aspects as a prognostic/predictive biomarker.

PTEN expression in endometrial hyperplasia and risk of cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Rates of progression of endometrial hyperplasia (EH) to endometrial cancer (EC) are highly variable. Among several prognostic markers, PTEN has been recommended by ESMO-ESGO-ESTRO to identify premalignant EH. However, its prognostic accuracy is unclear. Thus, we aimed to assess: (1) the association between PTEN loss in EH and risk of cancer, and (2) the prognostic accuracy of PTEN immunohistochemistry in EH.

METHODS

Electronic databases were searched from their inception to June 2018. All studies assessing PTEN immunohistochemistry in EH and the presence of EC on subsequent hysterectomy were included. Odds ratio (OR), sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value (PPV and NPV), positive and negative likelihood ratio (LR + and LR-) and area under the curve (AUC) on SROC curves were calculated with subgroup analysis (short/long-term; atypical/non-atypical EH).

RESULTS

Nine retrospective studies assessing 933 EH were included. PTEN loss in EH was significantly associated with increased risk of EC (OR = 3.32, p = 0.001). The association was significant only on the short term ( < 1 year) (OR = 3.45, p = 0.002) and in atypical EH (OR = 1.89, p = 0.01). For overall analysis and short-term/atypical EH subgroup the prognostic accuracy was low, with sensitivity = 0.58 and 0.68, specificity = 0.60 and 0.48, VPp = 0.41 and 0.54, VPN = 0.75 and 0.63, LR +  = 1.80 and 1.37, LR - =  0.62 and 0.56, AUC = 0.687 and 0.721, respectively.

CONCLUSION

PTEN loss in EH is a risk factor for EC, but is not reliable in predicting the risk of EC. In atypical EH, PTEN loss is associated with a risk of concurrent EC of over 50%. This information might integrate the patients' informed consent for the choice of treatment (conservative/hysterectomy), especially in borderline cases. In conservative approach, PTEN loss might suggest closer follow-up.

Endometrial hyperplasia and progression to cancer: which classification system stratifies the risk better? A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Benign and precancerous endometrial hyperplasias (EH) are differentiated thorough two possible histomorphologic classifications: WHO (adopting the subjective evaluation of cytologic atypia) and EIN (adopting several histomorphologic parameters, evaluable subjectively, or objectively with a computerized analysis calculating a prognostic score, the D score). ACOG recommends the use of EIN system although no distinction was made between objective assessment (not widely available), and subjective assessment (more applicable in the common practice). Moreover, it is still unclear if subjective EIN system is actually preferable to WHO classification. We aimed to assess the reliability of WHO system, D score and subjective EIN system in stratifying the risk of progression to cancer in EH.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Sciences, Scopus, ClinicalTrial.gov, OVID, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar were searched for relevant articles from the inception to August 2018. All studies assessing the rates of progression of EH to cancer were included.

RESULTS

Twelve cohort studies and one case-control study, assessing 3629 EH, were included. Relative risk (RR) for cancer progression was calculated with 95% confidence interval (CI), and results were compared using Chi-square test (significant p value < 0.05). WHO system showed a RR of 8.74 (95% CI 6.66-11.47). Objective D score showed a RR of 29.22 (95% CI 13.24-64.51), significantly higher than WHO (p = 0.005). Subjective EIN system showed a RR of 19.37 (95% CI 5.86-64.01), intermediate between WHO and D score, without significant differences (p = 0.20 and p = 0.57, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Objective EIN criteria with D score are significantly more reliable than WHO criteria in stratifying the risk of progression of EH to cancer. Subjective EIN criteria did not show significant superiority over WHO instead. Further studies are necessary to determine if subjective EIN system should replace WHO system in the routine diagnosis of EH.