Metastatic tumors to the spleen: a 25-year clinicopathologic study

Biological activity of a stable 6-aryl-2-benzoyl-pyridine colchicine-binding site inhibitor, 60c, in metastatic, triple-negative breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Improving survival for patients diagnosed with metastatic disease and overcoming chemoresistance remain significant clinical challenges in treating breast cancer. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype characterized by a lack of therapeutically targetable receptors (ER/PR/HER2). TNBC therapy includes a combination of cytotoxic chemotherapies, including microtubule-targeting agents (MTAs) like paclitaxel (taxane class) or eribulin (vinca class); however, there are currently no FDA-approved MTAs that bind to the colchicine-binding site. Approximately 70 % of patients who initially respond to paclitaxel will develop taxane resistance (TxR). We previously reported that an orally bioavailable colchicine-binding site inhibitor (CBSI), VERU-111, inhibits TNBC tumor growth and treats pre-established metastatic disease. To further improve the potency and metabolic stability of VERU-111, we created next-generation derivatives of its scaffold, including 60c.

RESULTS

60c shows improved in vitro potency compared to VERU-111 for taxane-sensitive and TxR TNBC models, and suppress TxR primary tumor growth without gross toxicity. 60c also suppressed the expansion of axillary lymph node metastases existing prior to treatment. Comparative analysis of excised organs for metastasis between 60c and VERU-111 suggested that 60c has unique anti-metastatic tropism. 60c completely suppressed metastases to the spleen and was more potent to reduce metastatic burden in the leg bones and kidney. In contrast, VERU-111 preferentially inhibited liver metastases and lung metastasis repression was similar. Together, these results position 60c as an additional promising CBSI for TNBC therapy, particularly for patients with TxR disease.

A Glimpse into the Role and Effectiveness of Splenectomy for Isolated Metachronous Spleen Metastasis of Colorectal Cancer Origin: Long-Term Survivals Can Be Achieved

Background: Many papers exploring the role of resectioning metastases in colorectal cancer (CRC) have focused mainly on liver and lung sites, showing improved survival compared with non-resectional therapies. However, data about exceptional metastatic sites such as splenic metastases (SMs) are scarce. This paper aims to assess the role and effectiveness of splenectomy in the case of isolated metachronous SM of CRC origin. Methods: The patients' data were extracted after a comprehensive literature search through public databases for articles reporting patients with splenectomies for isolated metachronous SM of CRC origin. Potential predictors of survival were explored, along with demographic, diagnostic, pathology, and treatment data for each patient. Results: A total of 83 patients with splenectomies for isolated metachronous SM of CRC origin were identified. The primary CRC was at an advanced stage (Duke's C-70.3%) and on the left colon (45.5%) for most patients, while the median interval between CRC resection and SM was 24 months. The median overall survival after splenectomy was 84 months, and patients younger than 62 years presented statistically significantly worse overall survival rates than those ≥62 years old (p = 0.011). There was no significant impact on the long-term outcomes for factors including primary tumor location or adjuvant chemotherapy (p values ≥ 0.070, ns). Laparoscopic splenectomy was increasingly used in the last 20 years from 2002 (33.3% vs. 0%, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Splenectomy is the optimal treatment for patients with isolated metachronous SM of CRC, with the laparoscopic approach being increasingly used and having the potential to become a standard of care. Encouraging long-term survival rates were reported in the context of a multidisciplinary approach. Younger ages are associated with worse survival. Perioperative chemotherapy in the context of a patient diagnosed with SM of CRC origin appears to be a reasonable option, although the present study failed to show any significant impact on long-term survival.

Pathological Characterization and Risk Factors of Splenic Nodular Lesions in Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris)

In dogs, the spleen is a secondary lymphoid organ that can be affected by both neoplastic and non-neoplastic nodules. In general, few studies relate histopathological diagnosis to tumor size and the number of nodules in spleen biopsies. Some of these studies are inconclusive regarding the difference between neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions and have small sample sizes or do not consider all splenic lesions. This study aimed to characterize splenic masses and determine risk factors for spleen tumors in dogs. A total of 507 histological reports corresponding to the diagnosis of splenic lesions in dogs from a private laboratory of animal pathology in the Metropolitan Region, Chile, were used. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression. The most frequent neoplastic and non-neoplastic diagnoses were hemangiosarcoma and hyperplasia, respectively. Most of the cases occurred in male (265 cases, 52.3%), senior (421 cases, 83%), and purebred individuals (342 cases, 67.5%). The most affected breeds were the Cocker Spaniel, German Shepherd, and Labrador Retriever. The most frequent lesion was a single nodule. The variables that exhibited a greater risk for the presentation of splenic neoplasia were male sex (odds ratio (OR) = 16.21; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.741-150.879; p = 0.014), the presence of two or more splenic nodules (OR = 3.94; 95% CI 2.168-7.177; p < 0.001), an increase in nodule size greater than 2 cm (OR for quartiles 2, 3 and 4 of 2.2; 95% CI 1.036-4.941; p = 0.041, 2.9; 95% CI 1.331-6.576; p = 0.008, and 3.6; 95% CI 1.562-8.499; p = 0.003, respectively), and increasing age (OR = 1.23; 95% CI 1.048-1.436; p = 0.011). On the other hand, males exhibited a lower risk as age increases (OR = 0.76; 95% CI 0.615-0.928; p = 0.008). In conclusion, this study identified that males, multinodular presentation, nodule size, and age are risk factors for the occurrence of splenic neoplasia in dogs, knowledge that will contribute to the diagnostic management of dogs with spleen lesions.

Incidental Focal Spleen Lesions: Integrated Imaging and Pattern Recognition Approach to the Differential Diagnosis

Spleen lesions and pseudolesions, detected incidentally in imaging, are not uncommon and may require further work-up. The imaging appearance of focal splenic lesions (FSLs) may not be pathognomonic, because of considerably overlapping features. Consequently, all imaging techniques lack specificity to fully characterize FSLs. Clinical correlation is mandatory, so as, first of all, to categorize the patient as having or not having a history of solid or hematologic malignancy. Nowadays, many patients have old imaging studies available for comparison and, consequently, it is important to understand if the lesion was previously present or not, and if the size is the same or has changed. In the absence of comparison studies, and with a lack of imaging features of benignity, further investigation may be necessary, using PET, biopsy, or short-term follow-up. Some algorithms have been proposed to manage incidental FSLs; however, none of these strategies has been validated by prospective studies to date. In this review we illustrate the topic of incidental FSLs and we analyze a number of published algorithms.

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Causing Atraumatic Splenic Rupture Without Splenic Metastasis

Atraumatic splenic rupture (ASR) is a rare occurrence but an important clinical entity. Although trauma is the most common cause of splenic rupture, there is limited literature on ASR. This case report discusses a 59-year-old woman presenting with tension hydrothorax and ASR in the setting of non-small cell lung carcinoma requiring emergent chest tube insertion and emergent splenectomy. Her hospital course was complicated by pulmonary embolism and thrombosis of the inferior vena cava. The patient expired three months after her initial presentation. This patient's presentation represents only the second documented case of atraumatic splenic rupture secondary to metastatic lung carcinoma without pathological evidence of splenic metastasis. Atraumatic splenic rupture secondary to metastatic NSCLC is a rare occurrence; though failure to detect, it may be fatal. Pathologic ASR may be an occult presentation of lung malignancy and in the presence of confirmed NSCLC may portend a poor prognosis.

Locally sourced: site-specific immune barriers to metastasis

Tumour cells migrate very early from primary sites to distant sites, and yet metastases often take years to manifest themselves clinically or never even surface within a patient's lifetime. This pause in cancer progression emphasizes the existence of barriers that constrain the growth of disseminated tumour cells (DTCs) at distant sites. Although the nature of these barriers to metastasis might include DTC-intrinsic traits, recent studies have established that the local microenvironment also controls the formation of metastases. In this Perspective, I discuss how site-specific differences of the immune system might be a major selective growth restraint on DTCs, and argue that harnessing tissue immunity will be essential for the next stage in immunotherapy development that reliably prevents the establishment of metastases.

Cutaneous Malignant Melanoma Presenting as an Isolated Splenic Metastasis: An Update

Although the spleen is a highly vascularized organ, metastatic deposits from non-hematolymphoid solid malignancies are rare. This is reasoned to the inherent resistance of the splenic parenchyma to harbor metastases. The splenic capsule, lack of afferent lymphatics, contractile properties of the spleen, and the angular and gyroid course of the splenic artery form several barriers against the metastatic spread of malignant tumors. Moreover, the immune cells in the white and red pulps of the spleen have strong defensive ability against the tumor cells. Metastasis from solid tumors to the spleen often occurs only during widespread distant spread. Malignant melanoma is a rare but fatal malignancy. Isolated splenic metastasis from malignant melanoma is exceptionally rare. Studies that addressed the splenic metastasis from cutaneous malignant melanoma are scarce. This minireview was performed to address this subject. Here we present an overview of the clinicopathologic features of isolated splenic metastatic melanoma. The diagnostic biochemical markers in melanoma are also discussed.

Isolated splenic metastasis from primary fallopian tube carcinoma and the application of laparoscopic splenectomy: a case report and literature review

Metastases to the spleen from various non-hematologic malignancies are generally not a common clinical event and usually indicate the late dissemination of disease. Solitary splenic metastases from solid neoplasm are extremely uncommon. Furthermore, solitary metastasis to the spleen from primary fallopian tube carcinoma (PFTC) is extremely rare and has not been reported previously. We report a case of isolated splenic metastasis in a 60-year-old woman, occurring 13 months after a total hysterectomy, a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, a pelvic lymphadenectomy, a para-aortic lymphadenectomy, an omentectomy, and an appendectomy were performed for PFTC. The patient's serum tumor marker CA125 was elevated to 49.25 U/ml (N < 35.0 U/ml). An abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a 4.0 × 3.0 cm low-density lesion in the spleen that was potentially malignant, with no lymphadenectasis or distant metastasis. The patient underwent a laparoscopic exploration, and one lesion was found in the spleen. Then, a laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) confirmed a splenic metastasis from PFTC. The histopathological diagnosis showed that the splenic lesion was a high-differentiated serous carcinoma from PFTC metastasis. The patient recovered for over 1 year, with no tumor recurrence. This is the first reported case of an isolated splenic metastasis from PFTC. This case underlines the importance of serum tumor marker assessment, medical imaging examination, and history of malignancy during follow-up, and LS seems to be the optimal approach for isolated splenic metastasis from PFTC.

Splenic Metastatic Choriocarcinoma with Nontraumatic Splenic Rupture: A Case Report and Literature Review

Choriocarcinoma is a highly malignant trophoblastic tumor that occurs mostly in women of childbearing age. The main mode of metastasis is hematogenous metastasis. The most common sites of metastasis are the lung, vagina and brain, while splenic metastasis is rare. Because of its rapid development, extensive metastasis can occur in a short period, and some patients only show metastatic symptoms, which are often missed or misdiagnosed as ectopic pregnancy or other diseases. We describe a rare case of splenic metastatic choriocarcinoma with acute abdominal pain caused by nontraumatic splenic rupture. In addition, we review the previous literature on splenic metastasis of choriocarcinoma and summarize the clinical manifestations, management measures and prognoses. Our case and literature review indicate that splenic metastatic choriocarcinoma is rare and difficult to distinguish from splenic ectopic pregnancy and other diseases. Clinicians should strengthen their understanding of this disease and avoid misdiagnosis.

Diagnostic performance and impact on patient management of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TOC PET/CT in colorectal neuroendocrine tumors derived from hindgut

The main purpose of this retrospective study was to determine the diagnostic performance of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-D-Phe1-Try3-octreotide(DOTA-TOC) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in patients with well-differentiated colorectal Neuroendocrine Tumours (NETs) originating from the hindgut. The other aims were to assess the impact of the examination on patient management and to analyze the results of 2-[18F]FDG and/or 6-[18F]FDOPA PET/CT when they were performed. [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TOC PET/CT and clinical data from 30 patients with biopsy-proven well-differentiated NETs originating from the hindgut were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed by comparing the [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TOC PET/CT findings with pathological and/or follow-up data. We also compared the [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TOC PET/CT results with 2-[18F]FDG and/or 6-[18F]FDOPA PET/CT results in 6 patients. The impact on management was determined in hindsight by comparing the patient management decided before and after the TEP examination based on data from multidisciplinary team meetings. On a patient basis, [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TOC PET/CT was accurate in 30 of the 30 examinations. [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TOC PET/CT correctly identified the primary tumor in all patients with primary tumors not resected before the examination and allowed the detection of unexpected distant metastases in 36% of the patients referred for initial staging. [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TOC PET/CT findings affected patient management in 57% of cases with generally major intermodality changes. Intraindividual comparison of the results of the different PET radiopharmaceuticals showed a clear superiority of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TOC PET/CT considering both the number of lesions and the intensity of uptake. [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TOC PET/CT is an accurate imaging modality for the assessment of well-differentiated colorectal NETs that highly impact patient management. Thus, we suggest that [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-TOC PET/CT be employed as a first choice for the assessment of these tumors in nuclear medicine.

Case report: solitary splenic metastasis occurring 19 months after primary treatment for occult breast cancer

Occult breast cancer, commonly presenting with axillary lymphadenopathy, is an extremely rare entity of breast cancer. Metastasis to the spleen as a single site is rarely seen and has been little reported in literature. Herein we described a case of a 60-year-old patient who presented with an asymptomatic solitary splenic mass 19 months after axillary lymph node dissection, regional radiotherapy, and systemic therapy. Laparoscopic splenectomy was performed, and histopathological examination confirmed metastasis from occult breast cancer. Then, the patient was administered with oral vinorelbine and dual-targeted treatment. With over 10 months of follow-up, there is no evidence of recurrence or metastasis of malignancy. To our knowledge, this study reports the first case of solitary splenic metastasis from occult breast cancer and highlights the importance of considering splenic metastasis as the only site of recurrence during follow-up of primary cancer, regardless of its rarity. If possible, splenectomy may be a therapeutic strategy.

Differential Diagnosis of Cystic Lesions of the Spleen: A Review of Clinical, Imaging and Pathological Findings

Cystic lesions of the spleen are being noticed with increased frequency as "incidentalomas" during imaging work-up for unrelated causes. As a group, these lesions encompass pure cystic and mixed cystic and solid, benign and malignant processes that in general require a tissue sample for definitive diagnosis. In this review, we will describe the differential diagnosis of cystic lesions of the spleen, highlighting key imaging, clinical and pathologic findings.

Imaging patterns in non-traumatic spleen lesions in adults-a review

The spleen is a complex organ involved in multiple physiological processes in the human body. Elective splenectomy is an uncommon operation, and the precise characterization of the lesion should be achieved to determine the risks and benefits of this operation accurately. Given the significant role of the spleen in homeostasis and the potential risks of the surgery itself and following sequelae such as infection susceptibility, accurate recognition, and classification of splenic lesions is required before surgery. This review provides an overview of malignant (e.g., lymphoma, angiosarcoma) and benign (e.g., cysts, hemangioma, hamartoma) splenic lesions that may warrant an elective splenectomy. Images from a cohort of adult patients undergoing isolated splenectomy for non-traumatic indications in a single center are provided. This review highlights the considerable overlap in imaging patterns between splenic lesions, splenic lesions masquerading as lesions in other organs, increased detection of asymptomatic splenic incidentalomas due to improvements in imaging modalities. This review also provides clinical correlations for each lesion, providing additional information to help clinicians differentiate between lesions and accurately identify diseases amenable to surgical management.

Spleen metastases secondary to gastric neuroendocrine carcinoma: case report

Neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) in the stomach represents a rare and rapidly growing type of gastric tumors. They are considered a distinct entity of neuroendocrine tumors characterized by an aggressive behavior and high metastases rate. On the other hand, spleen metastases of neuroendocrine tumors are extremely rare. We report the first case of spleen metastases of gastric neuroendocrine carcinoma. The patient was a 54-year-old male who presented with a 10-month history of epigastralgia. Upper gastro-intestinal endoscopy revealed a 5 cm ulcerative lesion located in the greater gastric curvature. Biopsies with immunohistochemical staining revealed gastric neuroendocrine carcinoma. Abdominal computed tomography showed thickening of the stomach with two large solid spleen lesions. Abdominal Magnetic Resonance Imaging and 18-fluorodexyglucose positron-emission tomography revealed peritoneal carcinosis and splenic metastases with splenic vein invasion. Clinicians should keep in mind that splenic metastases can arise from gastric neuroendocrine tumors (NETs).

Isolated Splenic Metastasis of Primary Lung Cancer Presented as Metachronous Oligometastatic Disease—A Case Report

Modern oncology practice and new antitumor drugs prolonged disease-free intervals in patients with lung cancer. Patients with distant metastatic disease are treated only with palliative intent. The International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer, in the 8th edition of the TNM classification, for the first time includes oligometastatic disease as a clinical state that describes the patients with distant metastasis, limited in number and organ sites, who may have more indolent biology. In this paper, we present a case of a 56-year-old man who was admitted to our clinic regarding a radiologically diagnosed splenic lesion of uncertain nature, and who underwent a left upper lobectomy for primary lung cancer 12 years before. After a detailed radiological diagnosis, it was concluded that it is highly suspected metastatic lesion of the spleen and the patient underwent a splenectomy. While no definitive protocols exist on the management of isolated splenic metastasis from lung cancer, splenectomy, in suitable patients, with reasonable survival expectations, improves patient disease-free survival and can prevent potentially life-threatening complications, such as splenic rupture. 18F-FDG PET has very high sensitivity and specificity for differentiating benign and malignant splenic lesions especially in patients who are in the follow up protocol due to primary malignancy.

Splenic oligometastasis from cervical adenocarcinoma three years after disease free survival: A case report and a review of literature

Introduction

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among females. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common subtype of cervical cancer, followed by adenocarcinoma. The most reported sites of metastasis are the lungs, bones, liver, and brain. One of the rarest sites of metastasis, particularly from the adenocarcinoma subtype, is the spleen, with only four reported cases in the literature.

Case report

A 54-year-old post-menopausal female was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma of the endocervix (FIGO stage IIIB) after she presented to the gynecologist complaining of post-coital vaginal bleeding. The patient received chemoradiotherapy followed by brachytherapy. After completion of treatment, she had a restaging work-up which revealed a complete radiological and pathological response. During her routine follow-up, she was found to have a new splenic lesion by surveillance abdominopelvic MRI three years after completion of treatment. Surgical resection was performed, and pathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of metastatic cervical adenocarcinoma to spleen.

Conclusion

Cervical cancer metastasis to spleen is very rare, especially in the cervical adenocarcinoma subtype. A high index of suspicion is necessary during follow-up. Once there is a suspicion of splenic metastasis, surgical intervention should be considered for both curative and palliative intents.

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Solitary splenic metastasis of cervical adenocarcinoma is rare.

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A high index of suspicion is necessary during follow-up of cervical cancer.

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Splenectomy is the definitive treatment in cases of solitary splenic metastasis.

Spontaneous Splenic Rupture due to Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer

Introduction. Nontraumatic splenic rupture is a rare event. On the other hand, splenic metastasis is also rare and usually found in the context of disseminated disease. Spontaneous splenic rupture caused by a metastatic deposit has been reported only as case reports. To the best of our knowledge, pancreatic cancer being the primary site has been reported in only a handful of cases. Case Presentation. A case of spontaneous splenic rupture in a 68-year-old male presenting with acute onset left shoulder pain, caused by metastatic pancreatic cancer to the spleen, is presented herein. During the investigation, the patient developed hypovolemic shock due to intra-abdominal hemorrhage, necessitating emergency splenectomy. The patient recovered well and was discharged from the hospital on the 8^th postoperative day. Discussion. This study underlines the fact that the spleen is a rare site of metastasis, remaining mostly asymptomatic. However, it can nevertheless prove to be a life-threatening condition. The exact pathophysiological mechanism of splenic rupture due to metastasis still remains unknown, requiring further research. Emergency splenectomy remains the standard of care, and this clinical condition should be considered in the differential diagnosis of cases with acute abdomen and malignant neoplasm history.

Splenic metastasis from neuroendocrine tumor of the stomach: A case report

Splenic metastasis is extremely rare, and neuroendocrine tumor of the stomach represents one of the rarest primary sources. The present study aimed to describe a rare case of an endocrine tumor of the stomach revealed by a splenic metastasis.

We report a rare case of a 40 -year-old who presented a pain in her left hypochondriac, associated to sensation of heaviness. Abdominal ultrasound showed splenomegaly with a large lobulated hyperechoic mass associated to splenic vein thrombosis. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirming the splenomegaly, containing a large lobulated and heterogeneous mass occupying the almost totality of this organ and invading the venous system. The histological study of this splenic mass demonstrated to secondary splenic location of a grade 1 neuroendocrine tumor. As part of an investigation for a primary tumor, fibro scopy was performed and revealed an ulcerating-bourging fundic process with a histological study in favor of a grade 1 neuroendocrine tumor.

WFUMB Position Paper-Incidental Findings, How to Manage: Spleen

The World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (WFUMB) is addressing the issue of incidental findings (IFs) with a series of publications entitled "Incidental Imaging Findings-The Role of Medical Ultrasound." IFs are less commonly encountered in the spleen than in many other abdominal organs but remain a frequent dilemma in clinical practice. A histological diagnosis is rarely necessary for patient management. Many IFs, such as secondary spleens and splenic cysts, are harmless and do not require any further investigation. The diagnosis of many other focal splenic lesions is, however, often problematic. The following overview is intended to illustrate a variety of incidentally detected spleen pathologies such as size variants, shape variants, secondary spleens, focal splenic lesions and splenic calcifications. It should aid the examiner in establishing the diagnosis. Moreover, it should help the ultrasound practitioner decide which pathologies need no further investigation, those requiring interval imaging and cases in which immediate further diagnostic procedures are required.

Leukaemia: a model metastatic disease

In contrast to solid cancers, which often require genetic modifications and complex cellular reprogramming for effective metastatic dissemination, leukaemic cells uniquely possess the innate ability for migration and invasion. Dedifferentiated, malignant leukocytes retain the benign leukocytes' capacity for cell motility and survival in the circulation, while acquiring the potential for rapid and uncontrolled cell division. For these reasons, leukaemias, although not traditionally considered as metastatic diseases, are in fact models of highly efficient metastatic spread. Accordingly, they are often aggressive and challenging diseases to treat. In this Perspective, we discuss the key molecular processes that facilitate metastasis in a variety of leukaemic subtypes, the clinical significance of leukaemic invasion into specific tissues and the current pipeline of treatments targeting leukaemia metastasis.

Incidental Splenic Findings on Cross-Sectional Imaging

Incidental splenic focal findings are commonly encountered in clinical practice and frequently represent a diagnostic dilemma due to nonspecific imaging features. Most are benign, particularly in patients without a history of malignancy and without symptoms of fever, weight loss, or left upper quadrant or epigastric pain. Incidental malignant splenic processes are exceedingly rare. This article reviews imaging characteristics of incidental focal splenic findings, and proposes a practical approach for management of such findings, which can prevent unnecessary workup and its related drawbacks in clinical practice.

A unique case of splenic tumor exhibiting a serous carcinoma phenotype

The spleen has no epithelial element; thus, primary carcinoma of the spleen is quite rare. We present the case of a patient with serous carcinoma of the spleen. A 76-year-old woman with no significant medical history presented with a huge lesion in the spleen. Except this lesion, clinical examination, including imaging examination, revealed no remarkable findings. She underwent excision of the spleen for treatment and diagnosis. Postoperative pathological examination revealed neoplastic cells with pleomorphic and hyperchromatic nuclei, prominent nucleoli, and frequent mitotic activity. The neoplastic cells exhibited a papillary pattern with psammoma bodies. Immunohistochemistry showed positivity for cytokeratin 7, PAX-8, WT-1, p16, p53, and Ber-EP4 and negativity for cytokeratin 20, thyroid transcription factor-1, carcinoembryonic antigen, CD10, estrogen receptor, calretinin, D2-40, intelectin-1, and sialylated HEG1. We inferred that this tumor was a primary splenic serous carcinoma. Serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma is the plausible origin of most pelvic serous carcinomas. However, the origin of serous carcinoma of the spleen remains unknown. We speculated that endosalpingiosis might be the origin of the tumor.

Roles of Pathological Assessments of Frozen Sections in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Pathological assessment of frozen sections of tissues is important in the clinical management (intraoperative consultation) and research in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Frozen sections may be used in the assessment of status of resection margins, extent of cancer metastasis (pathological staging), confirmation of the pathology, and increased volume of cancer cells for tissue banking. However, the applications of frozen sections have many technical limitations. Thus, interpretation of frozen sections needs expertise, collaborations, and attention to proper technical skills in the sectioning.

Revisiting the Spleen—An Imaging Review of the Common and Uncommon Splenic Pathology

The spleen is the largest lymphatic organ and is responsible for both hematological and immunological functions. Several common etiologies such as trauma, developmental variants, infectious/inflammatory conditions, and benign and malignant lesions can occur in the spleen. The role of imaging modalities such as ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in diagnosing these conditions continues to evolve. The main objective of this review article is to illustrate the role of imaging in identifying the common and uncommon pathology of the spleen.

The clinical course and management of cervical cancer with splenic metastasis: Case report and review of the literature

Adenovirus-mediated herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase gene therapy (ADV-TK) in combination with interventional treatment could relieve the symptoms in patients with widespread splenic metastasis.

Evaluation of cross-sectional imaging features that aid in the differentiation of benign and malignant splenic lesions

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the role of cross-sectional imaging in differentiating between benign and malignant splenic lesions based on various imaging features.

METHODS

Database of imaging reports from January 2015 to December 2017 were searched dedicatedly for "spleen" or "splenic" terms to identify patients with splenic lesions found either on CT or MRI. The study cohort consisted of patients who had available histological reports or had follow-up imaging for a minimum of one year. Patients were categorized into the benign subcohort if they did not have a history of extra-splenic malignancy, and had a splenic lesion(s) falling into one of these categories: benign histopathology on biopsy, stable size and enhancement, or decreased size on follow-up imaging. Those who had malignant histopathology on biopsy were included in the malignant subcohort. Various morphologic features and enhancement patterns of these lesions were carefully reviewed by two radiologists who were blinded to the final histopathologic diagnosis.

RESULTS

We identified 161 patients (54 % males, mean age ± SD = 59.7 ± 15.4) including 124 (77 %) in the benign and 37 (23 %) in the malignant subcohort. Benign lesions were more likely to be cystic (21.7 % vs 2.7 %, p < 0.001), homogenous (59.7 % vs. 29.7 %, p = 0.001) and to demonstrate well-defined borders (69.3 % vs. 29.7 % p= <0.001). Malignant lesions had significantly larger diameter (median size: 15 vs 11 mm, p = 0.03). Restricted diffusion was not seen in any of the benign lesions; however, 50 % of malignant lesions demonstrated restricted diffusion (p = 0.003). Features such as lesion distribution, presence of calcification, splenomegaly and number of lesions were not significantly different between benign and malignant lesions.

CONCLUSION

Smaller lesion diameter, well-defined border and homogeneity favor benign nature of splenic lesions while restricted diffusion should raise suspicion for malignancy.

Synchronous splenic metastases from squamous cell carcinoma of oesophagus: a case report and review of literature

Synchronous splenic metastases from oesophageal squamous cell carcinomas are extremely rare. Most of the cases of splenic metastases reported in the literature are mainly metachronous and occur usually from adenocarcinoma primary. The treatment options range from splenectomy to palliative chemotherapy with standard doses in fit individuals. However, in cases with poor performance status, the management is often the best supportive care only due to the fear of tolerance and toxicities with standard dose chemotherapy. Herein, we report a case of squamous cell carcinoma of the distal thoracic oesophagus in a poorly fit elderly male diagnosed with synchronous splenic metastases and successfully treated with palliative chemotherapy with reduced flat doses and radiotherapy with no significant toxicities.

When a House Is Not a Home: A Survey of Antimetastatic Niches and Potential Mechanisms of Disseminated Tumor Cell Suppression

Over the last four decades, the cancer biology field has concentrated on cellular and microenvironmental drivers of metastasis. Despite this focus, mortality rates upon diagnosis of metastatic disease remain essentially unchanged. Would a small change in perspective help? Knowing what constitutes an inhospitable, rather than hospitable, microenvironment could provide the inspiration necessary to develop better therapies and preventative strategies. In this review, we canvas the literature for hints about what characteristics four common antimetastatic niches-skeletal muscle, spleen, thyroid, and yellow bone marrow-have in common. We posit that thorough molecular and mechanistic characterization of antimetastatic tissues may inspire reimagined therapies that inhibit metastatic development and/or progression in an enduring manner.

Unexpected death due to spontaneous splenic rupture: A rare case in splenic angiosarcoma

Splenic angiosarcoma (SA) is a rare disease that can cause spontaneous splenic rupture leading to unexpected death. The rare incidence and non-specific clinical presentations made the early correct diagnosis of SA impossible in clinical practice. Even with medical intervention, 80% of patients died within 6 months after diagnosis. Here, we report a man who had complained of abdominal distension for 2 weeks and succumbed to the disease nine hours after admission. Diagnosis of hepatic and splenic angiosarcomas was based on post-mortem histopathological examination and immunohistochemistry, and the cause of death was hemorrhagic shock caused by spontaneous splenic rupture secondary to SA. This present case was the first forensic autopsy of spontaneous splenic rupture secondary to SA, which can highlight the diagnosis of rare diseases in forensic practice, and forensic pathologists should bear in mind these rare diseases even in routine practice.

A case of long-term survival after splenectomy for solitary splenic metastasis from gastric cancer

Background

Very rarely does a splenic solitary metastasis arise from a gastric carcinoma because splenic metastasis is usually seen in association with widespread visceral metastasis. Splenectomy is considered to be a curative treatment; however, long-term prognosis after splenectomy has scarcely been reported. We report a case of a metachronous and solitary metastasis to the spleen from gastric cancer in which the patient achieved 5-year recurrence-free survival after splenectomy.

Case presentation

An 84-year-old man underwent an open total gastrectomy involving D1+ lymph nodes dissection for gastric cancer located in the cardia (pT3N1M0, pStage IIB). Eighteen months later, a 2-cm solitary hypodense lesion was detected in the spleen by computed tomography (CT). Twenty-three months later, the serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) value elevated to 19.9 ng/ml, and abdominal CT revealed an increase in tumor size to 5 cm. Positron-emission tomography (PET)-CT revealed intense ¹⁸F-2-deoxy-2-fluoro-glucose (FDG) uptake in the spleen without the involvement of other organs and lymph nodes. We diagnosed him with solitary splenic metastasis from gastric cancer and performed a splenectomy 26 months after the first surgery. Histological examination revealed that the splenic tumor was a moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma, which was very similar to the primary gastric tumor; the lesion was diagnosed as a metastatic tumor from the previous gastric carcinoma. The patient remains healthy to date without recurrence, 5 years after the splenectomy.

Conclusion

We experienced a case of a solitary splenic metastasis from gastric cancer in which 5-year recurrence-free survival was achieved after splenectomy. To determine the surgical indication in patients with splenic metastasis, it is important to differentiate between a solitary lesion or multiple metastasis. Especially, occult metastasis should be excluded by means of several months of follow-up with imaging tests and systemic FDG-PET surveys before splenectomy.

Robotic-assisted laparoscopic splenectomy for recurrent ovarian cancer

PURPOSE

Recurrent ovarian cancer frequently involves the spleen. Our aims were to describe the technique of robotic-assisted laparoscopic splenectomy and to evaluate outcomes including progression-free and overall survival in patients who underwent this procedure for recurrent ovarian cancer.

METHODS

Chart reviews were performed on all consecutive patients who underwent robotic splenectomy (April 2012 to May 2019) for recurrent ovarian cancer. Patients had ≤3 sites of disease and no ascites. Extent of disease was confirmed by positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) pre-operatively and platinum-doublet chemotherapy was initiated post-operatively. Peri- and post-operative outcomes, progression-free survival, and overall survival were assessed. Two video links are included to demonstrate variations in technique and anatomy.

RESULTS

A total of 10 patients were included. The median age was 63.5 years (range 46-74) and median body mass index was 30 kg/m² (range 21.5-40.1). Disease was limited to the spleen in seven patients and three had evidence of up to two other sites of disease on imaging. The median robotic splenectomy operative time was 159 min (range 112-214) that included laparoscopic lysis of adhesions prior to robotic port placement in seven cases, and excision of diaphragm or omental implants in three cases. There were no transfusions, laparotomy conversions, return to the operating room, abscesses, or pancreatic pseudocysts. The median length of stay was 2 days (range 1-4). The median time to resumption of chemotherapy was 40 days (range 25-78). After a median follow-up of 51 months (range 12-98), five patients had recurrence (two deaths, three alive with disease), with a median time to recurrence of 14 months (range 12-15). The median progression-free survival was 15 months (range 12-98) and the median overall survival was 51 months (range 12-98) post-splenectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

Robotic splenectomy was feasible, achieving complete cytoreduction of splenic recurrent ovarian cancer, short hospital length-of-stay, and acceptable morbidity.

Cutaneous malignant melanoma with rarest combination of prostatic and splenic metastases on fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography-computed tomography scan

Cutaneous malignant melanoma (MM) metastases to prostate and spleen are very rarely experienced in clinical setting. As per our knowledge, coexistence of prostate and splenic metastatic MM is not reported worldwide. We are presenting a case of 70-year-old male patients with biopsy and clinically proven case of multifocal cutaneous malignant melanomatous lesions having multiple metastatic lymph nodes and systemic metastases, including prostate and spleen. This is the first case reported worldwide having a combination of prostate and splenic metastases.

Local and systemic immunosuppression in pancreatic cancer: Targeting the stalwarts in tumor's arsenal

Late detection, compromised immune system, and chemotherapy resistance underlie the poor patient prognosis for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients, making it the 3^rd leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Cooperation between the tumor cells and the immune system leads to the immune escape and eventual establishment of the tumor. For more than 20 years, sincere efforts have been made to intercept the tumor-immune crosstalk and identify the probable therapeutic targets for breaking self-tolerance toward tumor antigens. However, the success of these studies depends on detailed examination and understanding of tumor-immune cell interactions, not only in the primary tumor but also at distant systemic niches. Innate and adaptive arms of the immune system sculpt tumor immunogenicity, where they not only aid in providing an amenable environment for their survival but also act as a driver for tumor relapse at primary or distant organ sites. This review article highlights the key events associated with tumor-immune communication and associated immunosuppression at both local and systemic microenvironments in PDAC. Furthermore, we discuss the approaches and benefits of targeting both local and systemic immunosuppression for PDAC patients. The present articles integrate data from clinical and genetic mouse model studies to provide a widespread consensus on the role of local and systemic immunosuppression in undermining the anti-tumor immune responses against PDAC.

Splenectomy for Solitary Splenic Metastasis in Recurrent Papillary Thyroid Cancer. A Case Report and Literature Review

Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine malignancy, presenting with 23 500 new cases per year in the United States. About 7-23% of the patients will present recurrent metastases disease during follow-up. The classic variant of papillary carcinoma is less aggressive compared to its other variants like diffuse sclerosing, tall cell or columnar cell, and insular variants, and the sites to which this metastasizes is already well identified. Metastasis to the spleen is an extremely rare manifestation of papillary thyroid cancer. To date, only 3 cases have been reported in the literature. Herein, we present a 52-year-old male, who developed spleen metastases, 2.4 years after total thyroidectomy and central neck dissection followed by radioactive iodine ablation and seven months after treatment with sorafenib for lung metastases. The splenic lesion was detected in surveillance studies. This case highlights that splenic metastasis, although rare, may occur even in a patient with a locoregional and systemic controlled thyroid cancer and that it can be treated safely with surgical resection.

Introduction: Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma-Current Status and Future Advances

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma is the most common histological subtype of esophageal cancer. The carcinoma is more common in high-incidence areas such as in Central and Southeast Asia, Eastern and Southern Africa, South America, etc. Common risk factors associated with the cancer are tobacco smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Dietary factors, genetic factors, microorganisms, and some other environmental factors may contribute to the etiopathogenesis of the disease. Despite the global incidence of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma decreases slightly in the recent years, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma is still a major cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. Further improvement of the outcomes of the patients with the disease could be achieved by early diagnosis, collaborative efforts of multidisciplinary clinical and research teams, use of standardized protocol for pathological reporting and staging of the disease, proper use of cancer tissue, as well as improvement in clinical, pathological, therapeutic, and research approaches to the cancer.

Isolated Splenic Metastases from Renal Cell Carcinoma 11 Years after Surgery

Splenic metastases are rare and usually occur in cases of disseminated disease. We report a case of a patient who had isolated splenic metastases with a previous history of left nephrectomy due to a renal cell carcinoma 11 years before. The aim of this report is to describe the case and review the literature of isolated splenic metastases due to renal carcinoma. This case emphasizes the importance of considering splenic metastatic disease even after many years of diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma.

Isolated Splenic Recurrence of Treated Jejunal Cancer: A Case Report with Brief Review of Literature

Spleen is a very infrequent site of metastasis despite the fact that it is the most vascular organ in the body. Even if systemic metastasis occurs, splenic metastasis largely remained asymptomatic due to its large functional reserve, and most often, the metastasis is detected incidentally on follow-up scan. Many cases of asymptomatic splenic metastasis detected on follow-up scans are reported in literature from different primary sites. Herein, we report a similar case of a 33-year-old male who presented with isolated splenic recurrence after a long treatment-free interval following curative treatment of adenocarcinoma jejunum. As stated, there are few previous reports of isolated splenic metastasis from carcinoma colon, but considering small intestinal adenocarcinoma, this is the first unique case reported to the best of our knowledge. Due to rarity of clinical scenario and lack of established guidelines, the treatment of such cases varies from patient to patient, and the knowledge, whatever we owe, is on the basis of case reports only.

Metachronous Isolated Splenic Metastasis in a Young Patient With Renal Cell Carcinoma: Case Report and Literature Review

Splenic metastasis is uncommon and is usually associated with widespread disease.^1,2 Isolated splenic metastases from renal cancer are also rarer and are often an incidental finding. This eventuality may turn into a dangerous scenario due to a spontaneous splenic rupture leading to sudden death.^2,3 At the best of our knowledge, only few cases of metastasis from renal cell carcinoma (RCC) have been documented in the literature.^4-11 We hereby present a literature review of these cases and report a case of isolated splenic metastasis in a young man on active follow-up for a clear cell RCC clear cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (ccRCC).

Squamous cell carcinoma of the spleen: A case report

Tumor incidence in the spleen is relatively low compared with that in other organs. The majority of primary splenic tumors are benign, and the majority of malignant tumors are lymphoma or fibrosarcoma. While the occurrence of single squamous cell carcinoma in the spleen is rare, the present study reports a case of single splenic squamous cell carcinoma in which the patient received surgery, chemotherapy and Chinese herbal treatment, and died 14 months after diagnosis. As to the best of our knowledge this case type has not been previously reported; the present study provides insight into the response for standard treatment and the prognosis of the splenic squamous cell carcinoma for a single case.

Presence of S100A8/Gr1-Positive Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells in Primary Tumors and Visceral Organs Invaded by Breast Carcinoma Cells

BACKGROUND

Increased S100A8/A9 expression in Gr1-positive cells has been shown in myeloid-derived suppressor cells and may play a role in the formation of a metastatic milieu. We aimed to determine S100A8/A9 expression alone and with coexpression of Gr1 (a myeloid marker) in primary tumor and visceral tissues invaded by metastatic breast carcinoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Female BALB/c mice were injected with 4TLM, 4THM, and 67NR orthotopically. Confluent cells (75%-80%) were used. Primary tumor, lung, liver, and spleen tissue samples were removed 26 days after injection. Peripheral blood smears and metastasis assay were performed, as was immunohistochemistry and staining.

RESULTS

S100A8/A9 immunoreactivity alone or coexpressed with Gr1 was found in primary tumors formed by 4TLM and 4THM cells, which was markedly higher than in primary tumors formed by nonmetastatic 67NR cells. Similarly, liver and lung tissues obtained from mice injected with 4TLM or 4THM cells were invaded by S100A8/A9-positive and Gr1-positive cells. Double-positive cells were markedly fewer in liver and lung tissues of animals injected with 67NR cells. S100A8/A9-positive cells were mostly localized in red pulp of spleens. We observed an increased number of neutrophils in the peripheral blood of mice injected with metastatic breast carcinoma cells.

CONCLUSION

Tumor-derived factors may increase S100A8/A9-positive cells locally and systemically, and S100A8/A9-positive cells may provide an appropriate milieu for the formation of metastasis.

Laparoscopic splenectomy for splenic rupture secondary to metastatic choriocarcinoma

Gestational choriocarcinoma is a rare and aggressive type of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, which is characterized by early vascular invasion and widespread metastases. Choriocarcinoma metastasizes hematogenously, and bleeding from metastases is common. Splenic rupture from a metastatic tumour is exceedingly rare, with only a few reports. We report a case of a 41-year-old female presenting with acute abdomen and haemorrhagic shock secondary to splenic rupture from metastatic choriocarcinoma, which was managed with emergency laparoscopic splenectomy.

Breast cancer metastasis to the spleen: a case report and literature review

Splenic metastasis from cancers is extremely rare. They usually occur and are detected simultaneously with metastasis to other organs. We present a case of splenic metastasis from carcinoma of the breast occurring 5 years after initial treatment. The metastatic recurrence was an oligometastic form made from the association of a unique bone metastasis to a rib and the metastasis to the spleen. Treatment of the metastatic recurrence was a second line hormonotherapy as the primitive tumor was estrogen receptors positive and gave a 2 year’s long control of the disease. A clinical progression occurred then, the patient complained from pain in the left hypochondrium and was objective on [18F]-FDG PET which leaded to splenectomy. This case is being reported because of the rarity of the lesion and its originality is the first reported case with use of an in vivo demonstration of estrogen receptors expression in the spleen metastasis using PET/CT with 16α-[18F]-Fluoroestradiol.

Solitary splenic metastasis of pulmonary carcinoid: A rare case report and literature review

We herein report a rare case of solitary splenic metastasis of a pulmonary carcinoid, for which hand-assisted laparoscopic splenectomy was performed. A 73-year-old man was admitted to the Inoue Hospital (Fukuyama, Japan) in March 2015 with an abnormal shadow of the spleen. The patient had a history of right upper lobectomy with lymph node dissection for a pulmonary typical carcinoid (pT1N0M0 stage IA) 7 years earlier. Plain abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed a low-density area in the spleen. Enhanced abdominal CT revealed a mass in the spleen measuring 3×3 cm. Blood tests and tumor marker analysis revealed no abnormalities. Abdominal magnetic resonance imaging revealed a mass that was low-intensity on T1- and high-intensity on T2-weighted images, and positron emission tomography revealed abnormal fluorodeoxyglucose accumulation in the mass. Hand-assisted laparoscopic splenectomy was performed for diagnosis and treatment. The resected specimen included a reddish-brown mass. On immunohistochemistry, the mass was positive for chromogranin A, synaptophysin and CD56, which was similar to the resected pulmonary carcinoid tumor; thus, splenic metastasis of pulmonary carcinoid was diagnosed. The postoperative course was uneventful and the patient is currently under observation and remains recurrence-free, with no adjuvant chemotherapy.