Understanding and Overcoming the Pitfalls in Cytopathological Diagnosis of Hyalinizing Trabecular Tumor of Thyroid

Hyalinizing trabecular tumor (HTT), a rare low-malignant-potential thyroid neoplasm, is usually treated with conservative surgery. However, cytomorphological diagnosis of HTT is challenging due to the significant overlap of nuclear features with more common malignancies such as papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), which usually requires more radical surgical intervention. To avoid unnecessary overtreatment, a precise diagnosis of HTT is therefore essential. Advances in molecular diagnostics provide the opportunity to overcome the limitations of cytological analysis. We present a case of HTT in a 71-year-old male who was initially suspected to be PTC based on cytopathology. However, further molecular analysis revealed PAX8::GLIS3 gene fusion, classifying the lesion as HTT and preventing surgical overtreatment. We discuss the diagnostic pitfall of cytopathology in HTT and suggest using emerging molecular genetic tools to avoid it.

Diagnostic difficulties in non-tuberculous mycobacterial infection in lung transplant recipients

Despite antimicrobial prophylaxis, 34% to 59% of lung transplant recipients experience severe life-threatening opportunistic infections, sometimes caused by Nontuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) and Nocardia. Although differentiating these infections is of utmost importance for effective treatment, it can be challenging as they share morphological and growth characteristics. Therefore, culture remains the gold standard for laboratory confirmation. With the aid of novel molecular methods performed on the cultured organisms, diagnosis may be accomplished rapidly and precisely. We present a case of a lung transplant recipient with a pulmonary infection where long, thin, beaded, branching filamentous organisms were seen with Acid-Fast Bacilli (AFB) and Modified Gomori's Methenamine Silver (GMS) stains in bronchoalveolar lavage sample. Cytological characteristics led to the suspicion of a Nocardia species infection. However, culture and the PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis (PRA) identified M. fortuitum. Additionally, antibiotic resistance was detected, which aided in choosing the appropriate treatment. Therefore, to overcome such diagnostic difficulties to differentiate NTM and Nocardia, a multidisciplinary approach including culture, molecular methods, and cytology is needed to enhance clinical outcomes.

Sinonasal IgG4-related sclerosing disease: A rare entity and challenging diagnosis

Objectives

To describe the rare presentation, imaging and histological findings, and treatments in patients with IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) and diagnostic pitfalls and difficulties.

Methods

Cases of sinonasal IgG4-RD were retrieved, and clinicopathological features were reviewed.

Results

Seven cases of sinonasal IgG4-RD were identified over an 11-year period, including four males and three females, with an age range of 19-66 years (median 58 years). Patients presented with symptoms related to the mass effect of the lesions or the destructive nature of the disease including fullness, swelling, obstruction, and pain. Serum IgG and IgG4 levels, IgG/IgG4 ratios, storiform fibrosis, obliterative phlebitis, and plasma cell infiltration were seen in varying proportions. Bony erosion and tissue inflammation were present in some cases.

Conclusion

Sinonasal IgG4-RD is exceedingly rare among other IgG4-RD and varied in its clinical presentation thus posing as a clinically difficult disease to diagnosis. Proper clinical, pathological, and immunohistopathological analysis is required for accurate diagnosis. Such disease should be considered in all cases of similar presentation to those in this study.Level of Evidence: 4.

Rapid SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis using disposable strips and a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor platform

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has had a significant impact worldwide. Currently, the most common detection methods for the virus are polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and lateral flow tests. PCR takes more than an hour to obtain the results and lateral flow tests have difficulty with detecting the virus at low concentrations. In this study, 60 clinical human saliva samples, which included 30 positive and 30 negative samples confirmed with RT-PCR, were screened for COVID-19 using disposable glucose biosensor strips and a reusable printed circuit board. The disposable strips were gold plated and functionalized to immobilize antibodies on the gold film. After functionalization, the strips were connected to the gate electrode of a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor on the printed circuit board to amplify the test signals. A synchronous double-pulsed bias voltage was applied to the drain of the transistor and strips. The resulting change in drain waveforms was converted to digital readings. The RT-PCR-confirmed saliva samples were tested again using quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) to determine cycling threshold (Ct) values. Ct values up to 45 refer to the number of amplification cycles needed to detect the presence of the virus. These PCR results were compared with digital readings from the sensor to better evaluate the sensor technology. The results indicate that the samples with a range of Ct values from 17.8 to 35 can be differentiated, which highlights the increased sensitivity of this sensor technology. This research exhibits the potential of this biosensor technology to be further developed into a cost-effective, point-of-care, and portable rapid detection method for SARS-CoV-2.

Leiomyosarcoma of the Nasal Cavity and Paranasal Sinuses: A Case Report and Comprehensive Review of the Literature

Sinonasal leiomyosarcoma (LMS) is a rare and aggressive mesenchymal tumor with smooth muscle differentiation. The sinonasal tract is an unusual primary site for LMS, as scant smooth muscle exists in this location, with only 75 cases reported in the English literature including the case presented herein. Sinonasal LMS is considered an aggressive head and neck tumor with significant potential for recurrence and metastasis. Since recurrence is high and the potential for late metastasis exists, lifelong follow-up in these patients would be beneficial, especially among those with previous history of RB.

The CRTC1-MAML2 fusion is the major oncogenic driver in mucoepidermoid carcinoma

No effective systemic treatment is available for patients with unresectable, recurrent, or metastatic mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC), the most common salivary gland malignancy. MEC is frequently associated with a t(11;19)(q14-21;p12-13) translocation that creates a CRTC1-MAML2 fusion gene. The CRTC1-MAML2 fusion exhibited transforming activity in vitro; however, whether it serves as an oncogenic driver for MEC establishment and maintenance in vivo remains unknown. Here, we show that doxycycline-induced CRTC1-MAML2 knockdown blocked the growth of established MEC xenografts, validating CRTC1-MAML2 as a therapeutic target. We further generated a conditional transgenic mouse model and observed that Cre-induced CRTC1-MAML2 expression caused 100% penetrant formation of salivary gland tumors resembling histological and molecular characteristics of human MEC. Molecular analysis of MEC tumors revealed altered p16-CDK4/6-RB pathway activity as a potential cooperating event in promoting CRTC1-MAML2–induced tumorigenesis. Cotargeting of aberrant p16-CDK4/6-RB signaling and CRTC1-MAML2 fusion–activated AREG/EGFR signaling with the respective CDK4/6 inhibitor Palbociclib and EGFR inhibitor Erlotinib produced enhanced antitumor responses in vitro and in vivo. Collectively, this study provides direct evidence for CRTC1-MAML2 as a key driver for MEC development and maintenance and identifies a potentially novel combination therapy with FDA-approved EGFR and CDK4/6 inhibitors as a potential viable strategy for patients with MEC.

Proliferative Verrucous Leukoplakia: An Expert Consensus Guideline for Standardized Assessment and Reporting

The many diverse terms used to describe the wide spectrum of changes seen in proliferative verrucous leukoplakia (PVL) have resulted in disparate clinical management. The objective of this study was to produce an expert consensus guideline for standardized assessment and reporting by pathologists diagnosing PVL related lesions. 299 biopsies from 84 PVL patients from six institutions were selected from patients who had multifocal oral leukoplakic lesions identified over several years (a minimum follow-up period of 36 months). The lesions demonstrated the spectrum of histologic features described in PVL, and in some cases, patients developed oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). An expert working group of oral and maxillofacial and head and neck pathologists reviewed microscopic features in a rigorous fashion, in combination with review of clinical photographs when available. The working group then selected 43 single slide biopsy cases for whole slide digital imaging (WSI) review by members of the consensus conference. The digital images were then reviewed in two surveys separated by a washout period of at least 90 days. Five non-PVL histologic mimics were included as controls. Cases were re-evaluated during a consensus conference with 19 members reporting on the cases. The best inter-observer diagnostic agreement relative to PVL lesions were classified as "corrugated ortho(para)hyperkeratotic lesion, not reactive" and "SCC" (chi-square p = 0.015). There was less than moderate agreement (kappa < 0.60) for lesions in the "Bulky hyperkeratotic epithelial proliferation, not reactive" category. There was ≥ moderate agreement (> 0.41 kappa) for 35 of 48 cases. This expert consensus guideline has been developed with support and endorsement from the leadership of the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology and the North American Society of Head and Neck Pathologists to recommend the use of standardized histopathologic criteria and descriptive terminology to indicate three categories of lesions within PVL: (1) "corrugated ortho(para)hyperkeratotic lesion, not reactive;" (2) "bulky hyperkeratotic epithelial proliferation, not reactive;" and (3) "suspicious for," or "squamous cell carcinoma." Classification of PVL lesions based on a combination of clinical findings and these histologic descriptive categories is encouraged in order to standardize reporting, aid in future research and potentially guide clinical management.

Benign lesions of the mediastinum: A review with emphasis on cytology and small biopsy specimens

This review focuses on the diagnosis of select benign processes, ranging from reactive entities to heterotopic tissues to neoplasms, which may occur in the mediastinum. Currently, the mediastinum can be evaluated and biopsied with endoscopic procedures. Therefore, cytopathology specimens, fine needle aspirations, and small biopsies play an important role in the diagnosis of these lesions. In this review, an emphasis is given to relevant clinical presentations, histologic and cytologic findings, differential diagnoses, ancillary testing, and interpretation. Pitfalls are reviewed and discussed in each section. It is important for both surgical pathologists and cytopathologists to be familiar with these entities and their cytologic and histologic features that may be helpful in reaching a diagnosis.

Nanosensor networks for health-care applications

Functionalized transistors provide effective sensors for a variety of viruses (Zika, severe acute respiratory syndrome), toxins (botulinum), cancers (breast and prostate), and disease or injury biomarkers (troponin, cerebrospinal fluid). A hallmark of this approach is high specificity, rapid response (<5 minutes), and ability to be integrated with wireless data transmission capabilities. The ultimate goal is hand-held point-of-care detection that can streamline patient diagnosis.

Gastric Plexiform Fibromyxoma: A Great Mimic of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST) and Diagnostic Pitfalls

Through a multicenter study, we collected seven cases of gastric plexiform fibromyxoma including four females and three males, 21 to 79 y old (46.1 ± 10.1). All cases showed a unilocular lesion measuring 0.3 to 17 cm (5.3 ± 2.4), arising from antrum (5/7) or body (2/7). Six of the seven cases had intraoperative frozen sections and/or endoscopic ultrasound fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA), and all of them were preoperatively or intraoperatively diagnosed as gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). EUS-FNA material showed markedly elongated spindle cells with streaming oval to elongated nuclei with rounded ends. Histologically, the tumors exhibited a plexiform growth pattern and were composed of a rich myxoid stroma and cytologically bland uniform spindle cells without mitotic figures, with the exception of one case which displayed nuclear pleomorphism and increased mitosis. Immunostains showed the tumor cells to be focally positive for SMA (6/6), focally and weakly positive for desmin (3/6) and caldesmon (2/3), negative for CD117 (0/7), CD34 (0/7), DOG1 (0/4), and S100 (0/5). No mutations were identified on Next-Generation Sequencing test, and no loss of SDHB immunoreactivity was identified in the tumor with nuclear pleomorphism. One case was treated with Gleevec because of the initial diagnosis of GIST. All patients had a follow-up for up to 11 y, with no tumor recurrence or metastasis reported. Our results suggest that gastric plexiform fibromyxoma is rare and may be underrecognized and misinterpreted as GIST during intraoperative frozen section or preoperative EUS-FNA diagnosis without immunostains leading to inappropriate treatment.

Inter-observer Variability in the Diagnosis of Proliferative Verrucous Leukoplakia: Clinical Implications for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Understanding: A Collaborative Pilot Study

The use of diverse terminology may lead to inconsistent diagnosis and subsequent mistreatment of lesions within the proliferative verrucous leukoplakia (PVL) spectrum. The objectives of this study were: (a) to measure inter-observer variability between a variety of pathologists diagnosing PVL lesions; and (b) to evaluate the impact of diverse terminologies on understanding, interpretation, and subsequent treatment planning by oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMFS). Six oral pathologists (OP) and six head and neck pathologists (HNP) reviewed 40 digitally scanned slides of PVL-type lesions. Inter-observer agreement on diagnoses was evaluated by Fleiss' kappa analysis. The most commonly used diagnostic terminologies were sent to ten OMFS to evaluate their resulting interpretations and potential follow-up treatment approaches. The overall means of the surgeons' responses were compared by Student t test. There was poor inter-observer agreement between pathologists on the diagnosis of PVL lesions (κ = 0.270), although there was good agreement (κ = 0.650) when diagnosing frankly malignant lesions. The lowest agreement was in diagnosing verrucous hyperplasia (VH) with/without dysplasia, atypical epithelial proliferation (AEP), and verrucous carcinoma (VC). The OMFS showed the lowest agreement on identical categories of non-malignant diagnoses, specifically VH and AEP. This study demonstrates a lack of standardized terminology and diagnostic criteria for the spectrum of PVL lesions. We recommend adopting standardized criteria and terminology, proposed and established by an expert panel white paper, to assist pathologists and clinicians in uniformly diagnosing and managing PVL spectrum lesions.

An unusual case of chylothorax

Pleural effusions occur in up to 70% of cases of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). However, MPM rarely presents as a chylous effusion making it a diagnostic challenge. There are only six reported cases to date. Most cases of chylothoraces due to malignancy are due to lymphoma or bronchogenic carcinoma. We report an interesting case of MPM in a 75-year-old man who presented with recurrent chylothorax. He reported a four-month history of dyspnea and chest discomfort. Chest x-ray revealed a pleural effusion. Pleural fluid analysis was consistent with a chylothorax. Pleural fluid cytology was negative for malignancy. Computed tomography of the chest showed pleural calcifications, mediastinal adenopathy and left lung infiltrate. A fine needle aspirate of the lymph node and transbronchial biopsy specimen (TBBX) of the left lung infiltrate showed extensive reactive appearing mesothelial cells but none that appeared malignant. A video assisted thoracoscopic surgery was suggested but the patient declined. He returned 3 months later with recurrent pleural effusion and worsening airspace disease. Thoracentesis revealed a chylothorax again. Repeat analysis of TBBX and lymph node specimens showed extensive reactive appearing mesothelial cells. Due to concern for MPM, ancillary testing was obtained - loss of BRCA1 associated protein (BAP-1) and CDKN2A/p16 gene deletion. BAP1 staining was lost in the mesothelial cells supporting MPM. This case highlights a rare cause of MPM presenting as a chylous effusion. In a patient with an unknown etiology of chylothorax, MPM must remain in the differential.

Impact of oncogene panel results on surgical management of cytologically indeterminate thyroid nodules

BACKGROUND

The impact of oncogene panel results on the surgical management of indeterminate thyroid nodules (ITNs) is currently unknown.

METHODS

Surgical management of 649 patients consecutively evaluated from October 2008 to April 2016 with a single nodule biopsied and indeterminate cytology (193 evaluated with and 456 without oncogene panels) was assessed and compared. Histological features of 629 consecutively resected ITNs (164 evaluated with and 465 without oncogene panels) were also characterized and compared.

RESULTS

Oncogene panel evaluation was associated with higher rates of total thyroidectomy (45% vs 28%; P = .006), and central lymph node dissection (19% vs 12%; P = .03) without increasing the yield of malignancy or decreasing the rate of completion thyroidectomy. Most malignancies (64%), including 83% of those with driver mutation identified, were low-risk cancers for which a lobectomy could have been sufficient initial treatment.

CONCLUSION

Current oncogene panel results seem insufficient to guide the surgical extent of solitary ITNs.

Clinical performance of endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration for assessing programmed death ligand-1 expression in nonsmall cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Pembrolizumab was recently approved as a first line agent for metastatic NSCLC in patients with high programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression.

OBJECTIVES

Since a significant portion of lung cancer is diagnosed by endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS TBNA); there is a need for PD-L1 testing in these specimens. However, to date few studies have evaluated performance of cytology specimens from EBUS TBNA for PD-L1 analysis.

METHODS

Patients who had a diagnosis of NSCLC and in whom ancillary testing, i.e., next generation sequencing (NGS), anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), and PD-L1 expression was requested between January and May 2017 were reviewed.

RESULTS

Fifty of the 112 patients reviewed had the diagnosis of NSCLC for which ancillary testing was requested. Twelve patients (24%) had squamous cell carcinoma, twenty-seven had adenocarcinoma (54%), five had NSCLC favor adenocarcinoma (10%), two had NSCLC favor squamous cell cancer (4%), and four had NSCLC not otherwise specified (NOS) (8%). Size of the lymph nodes or lesion sampled ranged from 10 to 50 mm. Four (8%) patients had insufficient number of tumor cells in the cell block for any of the ancillary molecular testing. Forty-one (82%) patients had an adequate sample for all three ancillary tests. Satisfactory results for PD-L1 expression for all cases was 86% with 14 (32%) patients having levels of PD-L1 expression >50%.

CONCLUSION

EBUS TBNA is effective and has a high proportion of satisfactory results for testing PD-L1 expression on tumor cells in addition to NGS and ALK FISH.

Cancer Risk Stratification of Indeterminate Thyroid Nodules: A Cytological Approach

BACKGROUND

Management recommendations for thyroid nodules rely primarily on the cytological diagnosis. However, 25% of biopsies render an indeterminate cytology for which management decision is more challenging due to heterogeneity of the specimens. This study aimed to stratify the cancer risk through subcategorization of indeterminate cytology.

METHODS

The indeterminate cytological specimens (Bethesda-III or IV) of 518 thyroid nodules consecutively evaluated at our academic cancer center between October 2008 and September 2015, blinded to the histological outcome, were retrospectively reviewed. Cytological specimens were subclassified into four groups: aspirates exhibiting nuclear atypia (n = 158; 31%); architectural atypia (n = 222; 43%); oncocytic features (n = 120; 23%); or other types of atypia (n = 18; 3%). The prevalence of malignancy and odds ratio for malignancy were calculated in 323 nodules with histological confirmation.

RESULTS

The prevalence of malignancy was 26% overall (20% in Bethesda-III and 29% in Bethesda-IV; p = 0.07), and 47%, 12%, 24%, and 25% for aspirates with nuclear atypia, architectural atypia, oncocytic features, or other types of atypia, respectively. The OR of nuclear atypia over architectural atypia was 6.4 (3.4-12.2; p < 0.001), and 2.7 over oncocytic features (1.4-5.1; p = 0.01), whereas the OR of architectural atypia over oncocytic features was 0.4 (0.2-0.9; p = 0.03). Results were similar for Bethesda-III and IV aspirates when analyzed independently. Furthermore, cytological subcategories improved cytology-histology correlation, as they were associated with distinct profiles of histological diagnoses (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Cytological subcategories can effectively stratify the risk of malignancy of thyroid nodules with indeterminate cytology and improve cytology-histology correlation.

A rare case of Epstein-Barr virus-related plasmacytoma involving maxillary sinus mucosa

Extramedullary plasmacytomas, Epstein–Bar virus (EBV) associated, are rarely encountered and usually have a fairly good clinical outcome. EBV+ plasmacytoma may cause a diagnostic dilemma as it phenotypically resembles an aggressive plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL). Herein, we report a unique case with maxillary EBV+ plasmacytoma from a 76‐year‐old immunocompetent individual.

Evaluation of ThyroSeq v2 performance in thyroid nodules with indeterminate cytology

ThyroSeq v2 claims high positive (PPV) and negative (NPV) predictive values in a wide range of pretest risks of malignancy in indeterminate thyroid nodules (ITNs) (categories B-III and B-IV of the Bethesda system). We evaluated ThyroSeq v2 performance in a cohort of patients with ITNs seen at our Academic Cancer Center from September 2014 to April 2016, in light of the new diagnostic criteria for non-invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features (NIFTP). Our study included 182 patients (76% female) with 190 ITNs consecutively tested with ThyroSeq v2. Patient treatment followed our institutional thyroid nodule clinical pathway. Histologies of nodules with follicular variant papillary thyroid carcinoma or NIFTP diagnoses were reviewed, with reviewers blinded to molecular results. ThyroSeq v2 performance was calculated in nodules with histological confirmation. We identified a mutation in 24% (n = 45) of the nodules. Mutations in RAS were the most prevalent (n = 21), but the positive predictive value of this mutation was much lower (31%) than that in prior reports. In 102 resected ITNs, ThyroSeq v2 performance was as follows: sensitivity 70% (46-88), specificity 77% (66-85), PPV 42% (25-61) and NPV 91% (82-97). The performance in B-IV nodules was significantly better than that in B-III nodules (area under the curve 0.84 vs 0.57, respectively; P = 0.03), where it was uninformative. Further studies evaluating ThyroSeq v2 performance are needed, particularly in B-III.

Multicentre validation of a microRNA-based assay for diagnosing indeterminate thyroid nodules utilising fine needle aspirate smears

AIMS

The distinction between benign and malignant thyroid nodules has important therapeutic implications. Our objective was to develop an assay that could classify indeterminate thyroid nodules as benign or suspicious, using routinely prepared fine needle aspirate (FNA) cytology smears.

METHODS

A training set of 375 FNA smears was used to develop the microRNA-based assay, which was validated using a blinded, multicentre, retrospective cohort of 201 smears. Final diagnosis of the validation samples was determined based on corresponding surgical specimens, reviewed by the contributing institute pathologist and two independent pathologists. Validation samples were from adult patients (≥18 years) with nodule size >0.5 cm, and a final diagnosis confirmed by at least one of the two blinded, independent pathologists. The developed assay, RosettaGX Reveal, differentiates benign from malignant thyroid nodules, using quantitative RT-PCR.

RESULTS

Test performance on the 189 samples that passed quality control: negative predictive value: 91% (95% CI 84% to 96%); sensitivity: 85% (CI 74% to 93%); specificity: 72% (CI 63% to 79%). Performance for cases in which all three reviewing pathologists were in agreement regarding the final diagnosis (n=150): negative predictive value: 99% (CI 94% to 100%); sensitivity: 98% (CI 87% to 100%); specificity: 78% (CI 69% to 85%).

CONCLUSIONS

A novel assay utilising microRNA expression in cytology smears was developed. The assay distinguishes benign from malignant thyroid nodules using a single FNA stained smear, and does not require fresh tissue or special collection and shipment conditions. This assay offers a valuable tool for the preoperative classification of thyroid samples with indeterminate cytology.

Mammary Analog Secretory Carcinoma (MASC) Involving the Thyroid Gland: A Report of the First 3 Cases

Salivary gland-type tumors have been rarely described in the thyroid gland. Mammary Analog Secretory Carcinoma (MASC) is a recently defined type of salivary gland carcinoma characterized by a t(12;15)(p13;q25) resulting in an ETV6-NTRK3 fusion gene. We report 3 cases of MASC involving the thyroid gland without clinical evidence of a salivary gland or breast primary; the clinico-pathologic characteristics are reviewed. Assessment for rearrangement of the ETV6 (12p13) locus was conducted by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) on representative FFPE sections using an ETV6 break apart probe (Abbott Molecular, Des Plaines, IL, USA). The patients were two females (52 and 55 years-old) and 1 male (74 years-old). The tumors were poorly circumscribed solid white tan nodules involving the thyroid. Histologically, they were invasive and showed solid, microcystic, cribriform, and tubular growth patterns composed of variably bland polygonal eosinophilic cells with vesicular nuclear chromatin and conspicuous nucleoli. All three cases showed metastasis to lymph nodes; one case showed lateral neck involvement. The tumor cells were positive for S100 and mammaglobin. GATA-3 and PAX-8 were positive in 2 cases, one of which only focally so. All three cases were negative for TTF-1 and thyroglobulin. Rearrangement of the ETV6 locus was confirmed in all cases and a diagnosis of MASC rendered for each case. A site of origin distinct from the thyroid gland was not identified, with a median follow up of 24 months. MASC may rarely involve the thyroid gland. The origin of these lesions is unknown; while an origin from ectopic salivary gland-type cells is entertained, a metastatic origin from an occult primary cannot be definitively excluded at this time. Given the histologic (follicular-like microcystic pattern with colloid-like secretions and papillary pattern), immunophenotypic (PAX-8), and even molecular overlap, MASC can be mistaken for papillary thyroid carcinoma and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a thyroid mass.

Institutional prevalence of malignancy of indeterminate thyroid cytology is necessary but insufficient to accurately interpret molecular marker tests

OBJECTIVE

Several molecular marker tests are available to refine the diagnosis of thyroid nodules. Knowing the true prevalence of malignancy (PoM) within each cytological category is considered necessary to select the most appropriate test and to interpret results accurately. We describe our institutional PoM among cytological categories and report our experience with molecular markers.

DESIGN

Single-center retrospective study.

METHODS

We calculated the institutional PoM for each category of the Bethesda system (Bethesda) on all thyroid nodules with cytological evaluation from October 2008 to May 2014. We estimated the predictive values for Afirma, miRInform, and ThyroSeq v2, based on published sensitivity and specificity. Finally, we assessed our own experience with miRInform.

RESULTS

The PoMs for Bethesda III and IV categories were 21 and 28%, respectively. ThyroSeq v2 achieves the highest theoretical negative and positive predictive values (NPV and PPV) in Bethesda III (98 and 75%) and Bethesda IV categories (96 and 83%). At our institution, miRInform detected a mutation in 16% of 109 indeterminate nodules tested, all in Bethesda IV specimens. Histology was available in 56 (51%) nodules. The observed sensitivity and specificity in Bethesda IV specimens were 63 and 86%, yielding an NPV and a PPV of 75 and 77%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

For our current Bethesda III and IV PoM, the actual performance of miRInform was worse than expected. Theoretically ThyroSeq v2 should have the best performance, but it could be affected in the same way as miRInform, given the similarities between the tests. Assessing the institutional performance of each test is necessary along with PoM individualization.

Assessment of cholecystokinin 2 receptor (CCK2R) in neoplastic tissue

The expression of cholecystokinin 2 receptor (CCK2R, CCKBR or gastrin receptor) has been reported on a diverse range of cancers such as colorectal, liver, lung, pancreatic, ovarian, stomach, thyroid and numerous neuroendocrine/carcinoid tumors. Some cancers of the colorectum, lung, pancreas and thyroid have been shown to overexpress CCK2R in relation to normal matched tissues of the same organ. This reported overexpression has led to the development of a number of CCK2R-ligand targeted imaging and therapeutic agents. However, no comprehensive study comparing the expression of CCK2R in multiple cancers to multiple normal tissues has been performed. Herein, we report the immunohistochemical analysis of cancer samples from gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), pancreatic adenocarcinoma, and thyroid cancer against multiple normal tissue samples from esophagus, liver, lung, pancreas, stomach, spleen and thyroid. These results show that CCK2R expression is present in nearly all cancer and normal samples tested and that none of the cancer samples had expression that was statistically greater than that of all of the normal samples.

Diagnostic Challenges in the Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy of Chronic Sclerosing Sialadenitis (Küttner's Tumor) in the Context of Head and Neck Malignancy: A Series of 4 Cases

Chronic sclerosing sialadenitis (CSS) is a benign chronic inflammatory condition of the salivary gland. Clinically, CSS patients may present with a neck mass, often suggesting a neoplastic process. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) is frequently used to evaluate these lesions. We present a series of 4 patients with CSS, in whom all but one had history of squamous cell carcinoma. The previous diagnosis of malignancy appeared to influence the interpretation of the cytologic preparations. Four patients who had undergone resection of a neck nodule that eventually was diagnosed as CSS were identified. FNA was performed in all 4 cases, and the final cytologic diagnosis in these cases included squamous cell carcinoma, basaloid neoplasm, and salivary gland neoplasm. During intraoperative consultation, the lesions were identified as benign, atrophic salivary gland with chronic inflammation, or sialadenitis with atypical glands. All resected specimens were submitted for histopathological examination and were considered diagnostic for CSS. CSS is a potential pitfall in the FNA interpretation of salivary gland lesions, especially if there is a previous history of head and neck malignancy. Awareness of this entity, adherence to strict cytologic criteria, and careful clinicopathologic correlation are helpful in preventing misinterpretation and unnecessary surgical intervention.

Surgical management of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma: Survival and functional outcomes

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to further define the impact of primary surgery in the management of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

METHODS

Two hundred ninety-six patients with oropharyngeal SCC treated with primary surgery were included. Multivariable analysis and recursive partitioning analysis (RPA) identified predictors of survival and gastrostomy tube presence.

RESULTS

Multivariable analysis identified that HPV negativity (p = .0002), presence of extranodal extension (p = .0025), and advanced T classification (p = .0081) were independent predictors of survival. For HPV-positive patients, surgical approach (p = .0111) and margin status (p = .0287) were significant predictors of survival. For HPV-negative patients, extranodal extension (p = .0021) and advanced T classification (p = .0342) were significant predictors of survival. Smoking status and advanced neck disease did not impact survival, and the addition of adjuvant chemotherapy did not confer survival benefit in HPV-positive or HPV-negative subgroups.

CONCLUSION

Independent predictors of survival are unique in patients with oropharyngeal SCC treated with primary surgery. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E1794-E1802, 2016.

Sinonasal small round blue cell tumors: An approach to diagnosis

The differential diagnosis for small round cell tumors in the sinonasal tract is diverse and as the body of literature documenting not only uncommon presentations but also availability of ancillary studies grows, so does the need for a reminder to take a conservative and thorough approach before rendering a diagnosis. Small tissue samples are particularly problematic, with limitations that include volume of tumor cells available for studies, lack of architectural context and a non-specific gross description. Incorporation of patient history and presentation, radiologic findings, clinical impression and concurrent studies often guide the course of studies performed by the pathologist. If these are non-specific, the pathologist may need to perform ancillary studies, including a broad panel of immunohistochemical stains and molecular studies. If tissue is limited, a precise classification may not be achievable. Although the expectation to render a definitive diagnosis is high, the pathologist should never feel compelled to go further with a diagnosis than the tissue itself supports.

Inter- and intra-observer variability in the classification of extracapsular extension in p16 positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma nodal metastases

OBJECTIVE

Discern inter- and intra-observer variability in the classification of extracapsular extension (ECE) in p16+ oropharyngeal (OP) SCC comparing pathologists' own criteria versus those of a well-defined classification system.

METHODS

Five pathologists reviewed 50 digitally scanned nodal metastasis slides in three Rounds. Round One was by their own criteria as ECE present or absent, and Rounds Two and Three were with a defined ECE system: Grade 0 (no ECE), 0c (no ECE - thick capsule; no infiltration), 1 (ECE - cells beyond capsule), and 2 (soft tissue metastasis - cells in soft tissue without residual node). Round Three assessed intra-observer variability after an 8 month washout period.

RESULTS

In Round One, all five agreed on only 48% of cases (n=24). Fleiss's Kappa value was 0.508 (95% CI: 0.357-0.644). For Rounds Two and Three, Grades 0 and 0c and Grades 1 and 2 were separately grouped as ECE absent or present. In Round Two, all five agreed on 68% of cases (n=34). Fleiss' Kappa was 0.635 (95% CI: 0.472-0.783), indicating statistically significantly better agreement. In Round Three, all five agreed on 64% of cases (n=32) giving a Fleiss's Kappa of 0.639. Pathologists agreed with their prior reads in approximately 90% of cases (average n=45.4, range n=42-49), an average intra-observer Cohen's Kappa of 0.8 (range: 0.68-0.95). Inter- and intra-observer variability rates for classification of soft tissue metastasis (ECE2) were substantially worse.

CONCLUSION

There is substantial inter-, and modest intra-, observer variability among head and neck pathologists for ECE in p16+ OPSCC, which is modestly improved by a defined system.

Low-Grade Fibromyxoid Sarcoma of the Head and Neck: A Clinicopathologic Series and Review of the Literature

Low-grade fibromyxoid sarcoma (LGFMS) is a deceptively bland malignancy with potential for late recurrence and metastasis, which usually occurs in the deep soft tissues of the extremities and trunk. Most LGFMSs harbor a characteristic gene fusion of FUS-CREB3L2, and recently MUC4 immunostaining has been found to be highly sensitive and specific for the diagnosis. We present a dedicated series of head and neck LGFMS, including the first reported laryngeal case, as well as a review of reported head and neck cases. The surgical pathology archives of our three institutions were searched for cases of LGFMS arising within the head and neck, and four cases were identified. The H&E slides were reviewed, and immunohistochemistry were performed for pancytokeratin, p63, p40, EMA, S100 protein, β-catenin, actin, CD34, and MUC4. The patients were 6, 43, 45, and 73 years old (mean 41.8 years) and included three males and one female. The tumors were located in the posterior cervical spine, facial skin, mandible, and larynx. The tumors were treated with surgical excision, and all four had histologic features typical for LGFMS including alternating myxoid and fibrous areas with prominent curvilinear vasculature. All tumors were MUC4 positive (100%), 2/4 (50%) were p63 positive, 1/4 (25%) showed focal EMA positivity; all 4 were negative for pancytokeratin, p40, S100 protein, β-catenin, actin, and CD34. LGFMS is a low grade sarcoma that rarely develops in the head and neck. Due to its rarity, a pathologist may not consider LGFMS in the differential diagnosis of spindle cell neoplasms within the head and neck. Immunohistochemical staining is helpful, but stains should be selected carefully to avoid misdiagnosis.

Qat Chewing and Risk of Potentially Malignant and Malignant Oral Disorders: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Qat (also known as Khat, Kat and Miraa) is a green-leaved plant (Catha edulis). It is a shrub indigenous to Yemen and certain parts of eastern Africa. Chewing the leaves, which have sympathomimetic and euphoric effects, has been documented in many countries and increased with worldwide migration. The effect of long-term chewing Qat on the oral cavity is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

A systematic review was performed to identify any associations between Qat chewing and the occurrence of potentially malignant and malignant oral disorders.

METHODS

Medline and the Web of Science were searched for articles published before May 2014 without limits with regard to publication date and language.

RESULTS

From a total of 890 papers identified, 17 English papers reported potentially malignant or malignant oral disorders and Qat chewing. One additional paper in Arabic language was identified from reviewing the list of references of eligible papers. It was found that exposure to Qat may be associated with potentially malignant and malignant oral disorders, but methodological issues, such as inadequate study design, sample size, selection of study subjects, clinical evaluations of outcome and limited adjustment for confounders, limit the strength of the evidence base in this area.

CONCLUSION

The association between Qat chewing and potentially malignant and malignant oral disorders remains debatable and requires further investigations.

Human papillomavirus-related squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal with papillary features

Human papillomavirus (HPV) related squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) involving the anal canal is a well-known carcinoma associated with high-risk types of HPV. HPV-related SCC with papillary morphology (papillary SCC) has been described in the oropharynx. We describe, for the first time, a case of anal HPV-related squamous carcinoma with papillary morphology. The tumor arose from the anal mucosa. The biopsies revealed a superficially invasive SCC with prominent papillary features and associated in situ carcinoma. The tumor cells were positive for p16 and were also positive for high-risk types of HPV using chromogenic in situ hybridization. The findings are consistent with a HPV-related SCC of the anal canal with papillary features. This tumor shows histologic features similar to a papillary HPV-related SCC of the oropharynx. Additional studies are needed to characterize these lesions.

A randomized phase II efficacy and correlative studies of cetuximab with or without sorafenib in recurrent and/or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

INTRODUCTION

A combination of cetuximab and sorafenib in patients with recurrent and/or metastatic (R/M) head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) were assessed for potential benefit.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In a randomized phase II study, R/M HNSCC patients were treated with cetuximab 400mg/m(2) IV on day 1 followed by 250mg/m(2) IV weekly (Arm A), or cetuximab at the same dose/schedule plus sorafenib 400mg PO twice-a-day (Arm B). Each cycle was 21days. Tumor p16 and HPV status, and plasma immunomodulatory cytokine levels were assessed.

RESULTS

Of 55 patients enrolled (Arm A-27, Arm B-28), 52 patients received assigned treatments and 43 were evaluable for response. Overall response rate was 8% for both arms. Median overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were 9.0 and 3.0months in Arm A, and 5.7 and 3.2months in Arm B, respectively. Forty-four patients had tumors available for p16 staining (35-negative, 9-positive). Three of nine p16-positive tumors were also HPV positive. The p16-negative patients had significantly better PFS compared to the p16-positive patients (3.7 vs. 1.6months; p-value: 0.03), regardless of study arms. Twenty-four plasma samples were tested for 12 cytokine levels and patients with higher TGFβ1 levels had inferior PFS compared to lower levels (1.9 vs. 4.7months; adjusted p-value: 0.015), regardless of study arms.

CONCLUSIONS

A subset of R/M patients with p16-negative tumors or lower plasma TGFβ1 levels had longer PFS given the cetuximab-based therapy. However, both arms showed only modest response and sorafenib given with cetuximab did not demonstrate clinical benefit.

High-Grade Salivary Duct Carcinoma of the Parotid Gland: Clinicopathologic Features and Treatment Outcomes

Objectives:

(1) Analyze the treatment approach for these rare salivary gland neoplasms at our institution. (2) Demonstrate observed patterns of failure and survival for high-grade salivary duct carcinoma (HGSDC) involving the parotid glands.

Methods:

Clinical data on 17 patients with nonmetastatic HGSDC involving parotid salivary glands from 1998 to 2012 were abstracted from our institutional database. Inclusion required surgical resection with postoperative radiotherapy (n = 8) or concurrent chemoradiotherapy (n = 9). Demographics, histopathologic features, treatment course, and clinical outcomes were recorded. Specimens were re-reviewed by a dedicated head and neck pathologist. Overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were estimated via Kaplan-Meier method, and comparisons were made with the log-rank test.

Results:

Median patient age was 65 years (range, 52-83 years) with a male:female ratio of 7.5:1 and median follow-up of 37 months. Most commonly, these cases presented as pT4a (n = 14) with adverse clinical features, including perineural invasion (76.5%), positive lymph nodes (76.5%), and vascular invasion (58.8%). Three-year DFS and OS were 35.7% and 61.4%, respectively. The pattern of treatment failure was predominately distant (n = 11) versus locoregional (n = 3). Univariate analysis of demographic, histopathologic, and treatment characteristics did not reveal a significant association with OS or DFS. Median survival after metastasis was 13 months, with only a single patient having a sustained treatment response >2 years after disease dissemination.

Conclusions:

In this series, we highlight the aggressive nature of high-grade salivary duct carcinoma, which has a significant risk of distant recurrence and poor overall survival.

Altruism in terminal cancer patients and rapid tissue donation program: does the theory apply?

Rapid tissue donation (RTD) is an advancing oncology research procedure for collecting tumors, metastases, and unaffected tissue 2-6 h after death. Researchers can better determine rates of progression, response to treatment, and polymorphic differences among patients. Cancer patients may inquire about posthumous body donation for research to offer a personal contribution to research; however, there are barriers to recruiting for an RTD program. Physicians must reassure the patient that their treatment options and quality of care will not be compromised due to participating in RTD. In this commentary we discuss how theories of altruism may explain cancer patients' desire to participate in an RTD program, the ethical concerns of health care professionals and patients and the use of altruism as a recruitment strategy. We offer recommendations for examining the cultural and ethical climate of the institution prior to initiating such a program such as examining the relationship of healthcare professionals and patients, identifying ethical concerns, and examining ways to promote acceptance and buy-in across professionals, patients, and families.

Diagnostic digital cytopathology: Are we ready yet?

Background:

The cytology literature relating to diagnostic accuracy using whole slide imaging is scarce. We studied the diagnostic concordance between glass and digital slides among diagnosticians with different profiles to assess the readiness of adopting digital cytology in routine practice.

Materials and Methods:

This cohort consisted of 22 de-identified previously screened and diagnosed cases, including non-gynecological and gynecological slides using standard preparations. Glass slides were digitalized using Aperio ScanScope XT (×20 and ×40). Cytopathologists with (3) and without (3) digital experience, cytotechnologists (4) and senior pathology residents (2) diagnosed the digital slides independently first and recorded the results. Glass slides were read and recorded separately 1-3 days later. Accuracy of diagnosis, time to diagnosis and diagnostician's profile were analyzed.

Results:

Among 22 case pairs and four study groups, correct diagnosis (93% vs. 86%) was established using glass versus digital slides. Both methods more (>95%) accurately diagnosed positive cases than negatives. Cytopathologists with no digital experience were the most accurate in digital diagnosis, even the senior members. Cytotechnologists had the fastest diagnosis time (3 min/digital vs. 1.7 min/glass), but not the best accuracy. Digital time was 1.5 min longer than glass-slide time/per case for cytopathologists and cytotechnologists. Senior pathology residents were slower and less accurate with both methods. Cytopathologists with digital experience ranked 2^nd fastest in time, yet last in accuracy for digital slides.

Conclusions:

There was good overall diagnostic agreement between the digital whole-slide images and glass slides. Although glass slide diagnosis was more accurate and faster, the results of technologists and pathologists with no digital cytology experience suggest that solid diagnostic ability is a strong indicator for readiness of digital adoption.

Chondrosarcoma of the subglottic larynx: submucosal microdissection with the operating microscope

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Chondrosarcoma is a rare malignancy of the head and neck with fewer than 600 cases described in the literature. Treatment typically consists of conservation surgery with preservation of airway and preoperative voice quality. We describe five patients treated with a conservative transcervical approach utilizing the operating microscope for submucosal microdissection.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective case series at a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center.

METHODS

A retrospective case series from February 2004 to February 2011 was performed for all consecutive patients with laryngeal chondrosarcoma treated by the senior author with transcervical submucosal microdissection utilizing the operating microscope.

RESULTS

Five patients with laryngeal chondrosarcoma were treated between February 2004 and February 2011. There were three male and two female patients who ranged in age from 56 to 87 years (mean, 72 years) at presentation. All five tumors were located at the level of the cricoid cartilage. Hoarseness was the most common presenting symptom (60%). Eighty percent of patients had limited vocal cord mobility. No patients required neck dissection or received radiation or chemotherapy. None of the five patients had recurrence after this approach.

CONCLUSIONS

Laryngeal chondrosarcoma is a rare tumor. Conservative surgical resection remains the mainstay of treatment. The use of an operating microscope can aid in successful resection of laryngeal chondrosarcoma while preserving laryngeal mucosa and function.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4.

Abstract 2843: Tumor macrophages utilize ATF3 to promote breast cancer metastasis

Objective: Cancer progression is facilitated by a complex network of interactions between cancer cells and host-derived components, such as stromal cells and extracellular matrix in the tumor microenvironment. We sought to identify the factors that mediate these dynamic cancer-host interplays. Specifically, we asked how the host responds to signals from the cancer cells. To this end, we investigated the role of ATF3, an adaptive-response gene in the cellular stress response network. Overwhelming evidence indicates that ATF3 is induced by a broad spectrum of extra- and intra-cellular signals in a variety of cell types. As such, it is as an excellent candidate for mediating host responses to cancer cells.

Methods: We injected breast cancer cells (MMTV-PyMT cells) into syngeneic wild type (WT) or ATF3 knockout (KO) mice, performed survival surgery to remove the primary tumors, and examined metastasis two months after tumor removal.

Results: We found that ATF3 deficiency in the host did not affect primary tumor formation; excitingly, though, it dramatically decreased lung metastasis. Analyses of the circulating tumor cells and lung colonization indicated that both early and late steps in the metastatic cascade were defective in the KO host. Since soluble factors are an integral part of the mechanisms by which the host transmits systemic responses, we analyzed the plasma of normal and tumor-bearing mice by an antibody array. Intriguingly, plasma from tumor-bearing KO mice demonstrated a marked impairment in the abundance of various molecules that are known to play important roles in metastasis, suggesting that ATF3 in the host promotes a systemic environment that enhances cancer metastasis. Since the KO mice are whole body KO, the results above do not indicate the cell type(s) in which ATF3 is playing this critical role. We will present evidence that ATF3 plays an important role, at least in part, in the tumor associated macrophages (TAMs), where it up-regulates MMP9 as a functionally important target gene. Two lines of evidence indicated that our findings on ATF3 have clinical relevance. First, analyses of human tumor microarrays by immunohistochemistry revealed that ATF3 expression in monocytic cells correlated with poor outcome. Second, analyses of the mouse TAMs from the WT and KO host identified ∼400 ATF3-regulated genes. Among these genes, a 60-gene signature was identified that could distinguish the human breast tumor stroma from the normal breast stroma (McGill Breast Stroma dataset). Significantly, this signature predicted outcome in two independent patient cohorts.

Conclusion and Significance: We uncovered a previously unknown role for ATF3: it is induced in the host during cancer development and its expression in the host cells, specifically the TAMs, promotes metastasis. This finding is significant because it not only links host stress response to cancer metastasis, it also identified a new gene signature that predicts outcome.

Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2843. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-2843

Aggressive osteoblastoma of the maxilla: a case report and review of the literature

Aggressive osteoblastoma is a rare primary bone neoplasm with the potential for local invasion and recurrence. While the vertebrae or long bones are most commonly affected, few well-documented cases have been reported in the jaws. A 25-year-old man presented with a palatal mass of several months' duration. He reported the lesion had undergone gradual enlargement and, while generally asymptomatic, had recently become increasingly painful. An incisional biopsy was interpreted as "osteoblastic neoplasm" most suggestive of osteoblastoma. However, final diagnosis was deferred until the resection specimen could be evaluated. Following partial maxillectomy, histopathologic examination revealed a proliferation of large epithelioid cells with eccentric nuclei and prominent nucleoli associated with broad, irregular deposits of osteoid and trabeculae of bone. The lesional cells exhibited minimal pleomorphism with infrequent, normal-appearing mitotic figures and numerous osteoclast-like giant cells were observed within an associated loose fibrovascular stroma. Transformation of "blue bone" to more organized eosinophilic trabeculae of woven bone was noted at the periphery of the lesion and there was no evidence of invasion. A diagnosis of aggressive osteoblastoma was made. Previous reports of gnathic aggressive osteoblastoma are reviewed and the features that distinguish this process from conventional osteoblastoma or osteoblastoma-like osteosarcoma are presented.

Idiopathic hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in an adult, a potential mimic of gastric carcinoma

Primary or idiopathic hypertrophy of the pyloric muscle (IHPM) is a rare entity with uncertain pathogenesis which both clinically and pathologically mimics gastric cancer. We present a rare late-occurring case of IHPM in a 71-year-old Caucasian man with no apparent predisposing factor. Imaging studies demonstrated gastric distension with air fluid levels and no evidence of extrinsic compression. At upper endoscopy, massive gastric distension and no evidence of any ulcer or other mucosal defects were observed. Microscopically, marked hypertrophy of muscularis mucosa with smooth muscle cells arranged in whorls and fascicles was present which gradually transitioned to normal areas. The muscle fibers stained with smooth muscle actin and trichrome stain highlighted fibrosis between the muscle fibers. Although uncommon, IHPM can clinically and histologically mimic other proliferations in the gastric wall, such as gastrointestinal stromal tumor or a spindle cell neoplasm. The recent advances in understanding the pathogenesis of IHPM are discussed.

Trabecular and psammomatoid juvenile ossifying fibroma of the skull base mimicking psammomatoid meningioma

Ossifying fibroma (OF) is a fibro-osseous tumor that usually occurs in young people and arises in the craniofacial bones. We report a case of a 15-year-old boy who developed progressive proptosis and hypertelorism and was found to have a mid-face and skull base tumor, initially diagnosed as psammomatoid meningioma. The tumor recurred and the resected specimen revealed a unique OF having trabecular and psammomatoid features. The clinical, radiographic, histopathologic findings and differential diagnoses of the case are presented.

Tumor-to-tumor metastasis: Renal cell carcinoma metastatic to papillary carcinoma of thyroid-report of a case and review of the literature

Metastatic disease to thyroid gland is a rare event. Although renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has been reported to metastasize the thyroid gland, metastatic RCC to a thyroid neoplasm is very unusual. We report a case of a 68-year-old man with history of RCC who presented with a 2.5-cm thyroid nodule. Histologic examination demonstrates a renal cell carcinoma metastatic to a papillary carcinoma of the thyroid. The clinicopathologic features of metastatic disease into a thyroid gland neoplasm are shown, and a review of the literature is presented.

Prospective evaluation of DNA mismatch repair protein expression in primary endometrial cancer

OBJECTIVES

Immunohistochemical (IHC) stains for mismatch repair (MMR) proteins help screen for Lynch syndrome and identify microsatellite unstable colorectal carcinomas, providing prognostic information. It has been suggested that colorectal and endometrial carcinomas should be screened routinely for a MMR defect, but data are lacking on the practical application of this policy. We report our experience with the prospective evaluation of MMR protein expression in endometrial cancer.

METHODS

All cases of primary endometrial cancer at a single institution regardless of age, family history or histologic features were prospectively stained for the MMR proteins MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 and PMS2. Clinical and pathologic correlates were collected from the medical record.

RESULTS

A total of 140 endometrial cancer cases were studied. Over 90% of cases were of endometrioid histology. 119 patients had stage I/II disease, and 21 stage III/IV. Nineteen percent of patients were < age 50. Overall, there was loss of 1 or more MMR proteins in 30 patients (21%), including MLH1 and PMS2 in 24, MSH2 and MSH6 in 4, and MSH6 in 2 patients. None of the patients met clinical criteria for Lynch syndrome. However, using MMR protein expression, age and family history, 11% of patients were referred for genetic counseling. Of these patients, three (20%) scheduled an appointment: one canceled and two tested negative.

CONCLUSIONS

Prospective staining for MMR proteins is feasible and allows for primary triage for the evaluation of Lynch syndrome in women with endometrial cancer. However, acceptance of genetic consultation and testing is surprisingly low and deserves further investigation.

COPD-related morbidity and mortality after smoking cessation: status of the evidence

The evidence base for the benefit of quitting smoking as regards morbidity and mortality outcomes in patients with moderate-to-severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is limited. The present article is a review of the existing literature. A systematic literature search in medical databases was performed until March 2006, and subsequently until September 1, 2007. The outcomes examined were COPD-related morbidity and mortality (including all-cause mortality) in COPD patients in connection with smoking cessation. A total of 21 and 27 published articles on morbidity and mortality, respectively, were identified and reviewed. For both outcomes, only a few of the studies included patients with severe COPD. Most of the studies reported a beneficial effect of smoking cessation compared with continued smoking, whereas a few found no improvement. Methodological problems, including small study sizes, poor data quality, possibility of reverse causality and incomplete ascertainment of cause of death, limit interpretation of some of the studies. The evidence as a whole supports the conclusion that, even in severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, smoking cessation slows the accelerated rate of lung function decline and improves survival compared with continued smoking.

Multiple neuroenteric cysts at cerebello-pontine angle and foramen magnum: a case report and review of the literature

Neuroenteric cysts of the CNS are uncommon benign lesions usually involving the spinal cord or rarely the cerebellopontine angle (CPA). We report a rare example of multiple neuroenteric cysts arising from the CPA and foramen magnum in a 20-year-old Caucasian woman who presented with headaches and dizziness. An MRI showed three separate lesions, not communicating with each other. The first lesion, within the left posterior lateral aspect of the CPA, demonstrated isointensity to gray matter on the fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) sequence. The second lesion, within the left foramen of Luschka at the level of the CPA, demonstrated hyperintensity on the T(2)-weighted sequences, intermediate to slightly hyperintense on T(1)-weighted sequence and hyperintensity on FLAIR. The third lesion, within the anterior/inferior left cerebellum at the level of the foramen magnum, followed CSF signal intensity throughout. None of the lesions demonstrated significant enhancement or bone lesions. Due to compression effect, surgery was performed. Pathologic examination revealed cystic structures lined by a single layer of non-ciliated well-differentiated mucin-producing columnar epithelium with eosinophilic to amphophilic cytoplasm and round to oval nuclei with focal pseudostratification. Immunohistochemical studies showed focal positivity for cytokeratin 7, CK 5/6, synaptophysin, and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), diffuse positive staining for epithelial membrane antigen (EMA) and BerEP4; and negative staining for cytokeratin 20, TTF-1, and GFAP. The MIB-1 proliferation index was < 1%. One-year follow-up has shown no recurrence. The differential diagnosis and a brief review of the literature are also presented.

Pathobiology of small invasive breast cancers without metastases (T1a/b, N0, M0): National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP) protocol B-21

BACKGROUND

Uncertainties continue to exist concerning the outcomes and management of small (T1a/b N0 M0) invasive breast cancers.

METHODS

A central pathology review was performed of 638 such lesions from National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP) clinical trial B-21.

RESULTS

Univariate analysis revealed a high risk for ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence with tumors exhibiting a ductal carcinoma in situ component or poor nuclear grade. The converse (protective effect) was found with tumors arising in radial scars, those of tubular histologic type, and those with moderate/marked tumor stroma. The correlations were generally similar for disease-free survival. However, only nuclear grade was found to be independently significant for both of these outcomes. Only lymphatic tumor extension was univariately and multivariately significant for overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS

The long-term results of follow-up (median, 11.2 years) from the current trial continue to support the need for local breast irradiation and adjuvant therapy in the management of patients with these small cancers.

Cancer control in women. Update 2003

The global cancer burden in women appeared to be increasing quickly at the end of the twentieth century with notable increases in the absolute numbers of cases of breast, cervix, lung and colorectal cancer of concern. However, prospects for cancer control in women appear to be good within our current knowledge and deserve close attention. Rates of lung cancer in women are increasing substantially in many countries and seem set to overtake breast cancer as the commonest form of cancer death in women in many parts of the world. These changes are due to the effects of cigarette smoking, a habit which women widely embraced during the second half of the last century. The high levels of smoking current in young women, which have yet to have their full inpact on death rates, constitute an important hazard not only for future cancer risks but for several other important causes of death. Although the breast is the commonest form of cancer in women in most western countries, the etiology of this disease remains elusive and preventable causes remain to be identified. Endogenous hormones also appear to have a role in cancer risk in women: oral contraceptives seem to increase slightly the risk of breast cancer in users in the use, and in the immediate post-use, period, but ten years after cessation the risk returns to that of never users. Oral contraceptive usage also appears to be protective against ovarian and endometrial cancer. The use of Hormonal Replacement Therapy (HRT) appears to increase the risk of endometrial cancer and a positive association with breast cancer risk appears to exist. Within the current knowledge of the epidemiology of cancer in women, the most important Cancer Control strategy is the prevention of cigarette smoking and the increase in the prevalence of adult women quitting smoking. Screening has also shown to be effective in reducing incidence and mortality of cervix cancer and mortality from breast and colorectal cancer. Although more work is needed, it is becoming clear that there could be an important role of HPV testing to further enhance cervix cancer screening.

Fine-needle aspiration of adult small-round-cell tumors studied with flow cytometry

Immunophenotypic study is critical for the diagnosis of adult small-round-cell tumors (SRCTs). We describe three patients with Ewing's sarcoma/primitive neuroectodermal tumor (ES/PNET) and one patient with neuroblastoma in which flow cytometry immunophenotyping (FCI) on the fine-needle aspirate (FNA) and bone marrow aspirate (BMA) demonstrated an abnormal population of cells that were CD45(-) and CD16/CD56(+). Four patients with mean age of 30 years, three male and one female, clinically suspicious for a lymphoma or SRCT are described. FNA, BMA, and biopsy specimens were obtained for routine cytologic and histologic evaluation. Fresh tissue was studied by FCI. In all cases, the cytology smears showed small cells with round nuclei, slightly irregular nuclear membranes, fine chromatin, and scant cytoplasm. FCI showed CD16/56(+) and CD45(-) neoplastic cells in all cases. In one case, 76% of these cells were CD99(+). The diagnoses of ES/PNET were confirmed by immunohistochemical, ultrastructural, and cytogenetic studies. ES/PNET in FNA and BMA can be efficiently and rapidly diagnosed by combining cytologic examination with FCI using a panel including CD45, CD16/56, and CD99.

Carcinoembryonic antigen elevation due to bowel sequestration with mucocele formation following colonic resection

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is recommended as a serologic marker to monitor colorectal carcinoma recurrence. Elevations of CEA due to causes other than carcinoma exist and may lead to a misdiagnosis of recurrent carcinoma. We report a case of bowel sequestration with mucocele formation at the site of previous colo-colic anastomosis causing a mild elevation in CEA. The patient exhibited increasing CEA levels 6 years after resection of a sigmoid colon carcinoma with end-to-end anastomosis. Subsequently, computed tomographic and positron emission tomographic scans documented the presence of a cystic mass showing increased uptake at the anastomotic site. At exploratory laparotomy a mass lesion with mucus-filled protrusions was resected. Pathologic examination documented the presence of sequestration of a segment of the bowel wall with a mucocele and no overlying defect at the mucosal anastomotic site by demonstrating the presence of all bowel layers. After resection of the lesion, the CEA level normalized.

Nodular myofibroblastic stromal hyperplasia of the mammary gland as an accurate name for pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia of the mammary gland

Pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia (PASH) of the mammary gland is a well-known benign localized form of stromal overgrowth with probable hormonal etiology. We describe the histologic findings and immunohistochemistry of two cases. Two women, 16 and 58 years old, presented with a breast mass and underwent surgical excision. Grossly, they consisted of a well-circumscribed, rubbery tissue with a solid white-tan homogeneous cut surface. One of the cases showed focal cystic areas. Histologically the lesion showed a proliferation of the collagenous stroma with varying degrees of density, and hyalinization with many pseudovascular slit-like anastomosing spaces lined by spindle cells with scant cytoplasm and bland chromatin. The spindle cells lining the spaces were strongly reactive for vimentin and weakly reactive for CD34, actin, and desmin. They were negative for factor VIII, S-100, and pankeratin. In PASH, the "pseudoangiomatous" term describes a recognizable pattern but does not describe the tumor's histologic nature. We propose the name nodular myofibroblastic hyperplasia of the mammary stroma as a more accurate name.