Optimizing Immunohistochemistry Reporting in Endometrial Cancer.

Abstract

The management of endometrial cancer involves a multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach, with immunohistochemistry playing an important role in management and prognosis. Markers investigated include estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), tumor protein 53 (p53), and mismatch repair(MMR)protein. Additionally, polymerase epsilon (POLE) mutations indicate treatment-responsive tumors, often with excellent prognosis. We aimed to improve the reporting of immunohistochemistry and introduce POLE testing, with a sustainable change in the long-term management of endometrial cancer at Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust (RCHT). An initial sample of 53 patients with endometrial cancer from 2022 was analyzed. Endometrial biopsy reports were reviewed for immunohistochemistry reporting, with delays of reporting over 10 days documented. In initial results, a mean of 15.5% of cases failed to report p53 (12/53), ER (9/53), PR (10/53), and MMR (2/53). The interventions implemented in February 2023 were an immunohistochemistry proforma, the introduction of POLE testing, and departmental presentations. Data was re-collected between March and September 2023. After the project, there was a 100% (39/39) rate of reporting immunohistochemistry correctly. POLE testing was introduced to the department. In addition, the proforma developed is now standard practice in the reporting of endometrial cancer cases and is utilized in the gynae-oncology MDT meetings.