Independent Predictors Of Malignancy Research Articles

Utilization of Texture Analysis in Differentiating Benign and Malignant Breast Masses: Comparison of Grayscale Ultrasound, Shear Wave Elastography, and Radiomic Features.

This study aims to determine which qualitative and quantitative US features are independently associated with malignancy, including those derived from grayscale imaging morphology, shear wave elastography (SWE), and texture analysis. This single-center retrospective study was approved by the institutional research ethics board. Consecutive breast US studies performed between January and December 2020 were included. Images were acquired using a Canon Aplio i800 US unit (Canon Medical Systems, Inc., CA) and i18LX5 wideband linear matrix transducer. Grayscale US features, SWE mean, and median elasticity were obtained. Single representative grayscale images were analyzed using dedicated software (LIFEx, version 6.30). First-order and gray-level co-occurrence matrix second-order texture features were extracted. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to assess for predictors of malignancy (STATA v16.1). One hundred forty-seven cases with complete SWE data were selected for analysis (mean age 54.3, range 21-92). The following variables were found to be independently associated with malignancy: age (P <.001), family history (P = .013), irregular mass shape (P = .024), and stiffness on SWE (mean SWE ≥40 kPa; P <.001). Remaining variables (including texture features) were not found to be independently associated with malignancy (P >.05). US texture analysis features were not associated with malignancy independent of other qualitative and quantitative US characteristics currently utilized in clinical practice. This suggests texture analysis may not be warranted when differentiating benign and malignant breast masses on US. In contrast, irregular mass shape on grayscale imaging and increased stiffness on SWE were found to be independent predictors of malignancy.

Spectrum of electrocardiographic abnormalities in a large cohort of cardiac masses

BackgroundCardiac masses represent a heterogeneous clinical scenario. Potential electrocardiographic (ECG) red flags of malignancy remain to be investigated. ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to describe the spectrum of ECG abnormalities in a large cohort of cardiac masses and to evaluate potential red flags suggestive of malignancy. MethodsThis was an observational cohort study of 322 consecutive patients with a cardiac mass and available ECG at Bologna University Hospital. All masses were diagnosed by histologic examination or, in the case of cardiac thrombi, by radiologic resolution after proper anticoagulant therapy. Multivariable regression analysis was used to assess potential predictors of malignancy among ECG abnormalities. All-cause mortality at follow-up was evaluated. ResultsOf 322 patients, 98 (30.4%) had malignant tumors. Compared with patients with benign masses, those with malignant tumors exhibited a higher heart rate, right-axis deviation, greater depolarization, repolarization abnormalities, and bradyarrhythmia at presentation. Regarding specific ECG features, a higher heart rate on admission (P = .014), bradyarrhythmias (P = .009), ischemic-like repolarization abnormalities (ST-segment deviation, both depression and elevation, and negative T-wave; P <.001), low voltages (P = .001), and right-axis deviation (P = .025) were identified as independent predictors of malignancy. Considering these specific ECG alterations, a malignancy-oriented ECG was associated with higher mortality at follow-up (median 20.7 months). ConclusionECG frequently is abnormal in cases of malignant cardiac tumors. Some specific ECG changes are strongly suggestive for malignancy and type of infiltration.

The efficacy of clinicopathological and imaging features in differentiating benign from malignant parotid micro- and minitumors: a retrospective analysis

ObjectiveTo compare clinicopathological and imaging and features of micro- and minitumors of the parotid gland and provide a reference for preoperative prediction of benign vs. malignant status. Study DesignPatients with parotid gland tumors treated surgically were selected. Relevant clinicopathological and imaging data were collected for patients with maximum tumor diameters ≤ 20 mm on preoperative computed tomography (CT). The lesions were divided into two groups, microtumors and minitumors, based on maximum tumor diameter. CT imaging features of benign and malignant tumors were compared through binary logistic regression analysis. ResultsMicrotumors and minitumors were categorized by maximum diameters < 10 mm (n = 74) and 10-20 mm (n = 611), respectively. Benign and malignant minitumors exhibited significant differences in boundary, tumor density, margin morphology, spiculation margin, and CT values in the plain and arterial phase (P < 0.05), resembling those found in typical malignant parotid gland tumors. However, no significant differences were observed between benign and malignant microtumors. Logistic regression analysis identified boundary, margin morphology, and spiculation margin as independent predictors of malignancy. The prediction model excelled in identifying benign lesions but was less successful in identifying malignancies. ConclusionParotid gland minitumors had imaging features similar to typical larger malignant tumors. Active exclusion of the malignant risk and early surgical treatment is recommended for these tumors. Statement of Clinical RelevanceThis study analyzed the clinicopathological and imaging features of micro- and minitumors of the parotid gland to provide a reference for preoperative prediction and treatment. Active exclusion of malignant risk and early surgical treatment is recommended for small parotid tumors.

High Malignancy Risk and Its Predictors in South Indian Patients With Bethesda II Thyroid Nodules.

Global data reports a low malignancy risk, whereas regional data report a variable risk of malignancy in Bethesda II thyroid nodules. The limited availability of surgical histopathology might have underestimated the risk of malignancy. Here, we report the prevalence of malignancy and its predictors in Bethesda II thyroid nodules for which the surgical histopathological diagnosis was available. This retrospective study was done at a tertiary healthcare center in South India between January 2008 and September 2015. Case records of adults with thyroid nodules who underwent surgery were collected. Patients with inadequate data were excluded from the study. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 21.0 and a p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. A total of 563 patients were included in the study with a mean age of 36±12 years. Serum thyrotropin (TSH) was low in 87 (15.4%) patients whereas 362 (64.2%) patients had multinodular goiter (MNG). Sonographic evidence of suspicious cervical lymph node and microcalcification was seen in four (0.7%) and 48 (8.5%) patients, respectively. A total of 48 (8.5%) patients had thyroid carcinoma in the final histopathology. Of these, 42 (87.5%) had papillary thyroid carcinoma, five (10.4%) had follicular thyroid carcinoma and one (4.1%) had anaplastic carcinoma. Age, gender, and maximum nodule size were not associated with malignancy. Thyrotoxicosis was negatively associated with malignancy whereas multi-nodularity, thyroid calcification, or suspicious cervical lymph node on ultrasound and total thyroidectomy were positively associated with malignancy on univariate analysis. On binary logistic regression, only the former four, but not total thyroidectomy, were independent predictors of malignancy. We report a high (8.5%) prevalence of malignancy among South Indian patients with Bethesda II thyroid nodules. Thyroid microcalcification, presence of suspicious cervical lymph node on ultrasound, and multinodularity were associated with high and suppressed TSH with low risk of malignancy. Further prospective studies are warranted to confirm the study observations.

Prediction model based on MRI morphological features for distinguishing benign and malignant thyroid nodules

BackgroundThe low specificity of Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TI-RADS) for preoperative benign-malignant diagnosis leads to a large number of unnecessary biopsies. This study developed and validated a predictive model based on MRI morphological features to improve the specificity.MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on 825 thyroid nodules pathologically confirmed postoperatively. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to obtain β coefficients, construct predictive models and nomogram incorporating MRI morphological features in the training cohort, and validated in the validation cohort. The discrimination, calibration, and decision curve analysis of the nomogram were performed. The diagnosis efficacy, area under the curve (AUC) and net reclassification index (NRI) were calculated and compared with TI-RADS.Results572 thyroid nodules were included (training cohort: n = 397, validation cohort: n = 175). Age, low signal intensity on T2WI, restricted diffusion, reversed halo sign in delay phase, cystic degeneration and wash-out pattern were independent predictors of malignancy. The nomogram demonstrated good discrimination and calibration both in the training cohort (AUC = 0.972) and the validation cohort (AUC = 0.968). The accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and AUC of MRI-based prediction were 94.4%, 96.0%, 93.4%, 89.9%, 96.5% and 0.947, respectively. The MRI-based prediction model exhibited enhanced accuracy (NRI>0) in comparison to TI-RADSs.ConclusionsThe prediction model for diagnosis of benign and malignant thyroid nodules demonstrated a more notable diagnostic efficacy than TI-RADS. Compared with the TI-RADSs, predictive model had better specificity along with a high sensitivity and can reduce overdiagnosis and unnecessary biopsies.

Evaluation of Malignancy Risk of Ampullary Tumors Detected by Endoscopy Using 2-[18F]FDG PET/CT.

We aimed to investigate whether 2-[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (2-[18F]FDG PET/CT) can aid in evaluating the risk of malignancy in ampullary tumors detected by endoscopy. This single-center retrospective cohort study analyzed 155 patients (79 male, 76 female; mean age, 65.7 ± 12.7 years) receiving 2-[18F]FDG PET/CT for endoscopy-detected ampullary tumors 5-87 days (median, 7 days) after the diagnostic endoscopy between June 2007 and December 2020. The final diagnosis was made based on histopathological findings. The PET imaging parameters were compared with clinical data and endoscopic features. A model to predict the risk of malignancy, based on PET, endoscopy, and clinical findings, was generated and validated using multivariable logistic regression analysis and an additional bootstrapping method. The final model was compared with standard endoscopy for the diagnosis of ampullary cancer using the DeLong test. The mean tumor size was 17.1 ± 7.7 mm. Sixty-four (41.3%) tumors were benign, and 91 (58.7%) were malignant. Univariable analysis found that ampullary neoplasms with a blood-pool corrected peak standardized uptake value in early-phase scan (SUVe) ≥ 1.7 were more likely to be malignant (odds ratio [OR], 16.06; 95% confidence interval [CI], 7.13-36.18; P < 0.001). Multivariable analysis identified the presence of jaundice (adjusted OR [aOR], 4.89; 95% CI, 1.80-13.33; P = 0.002), malignant traits in endoscopy (aOR, 6.80; 95% CI, 2.41-19.20; P < 0.001), SUVe ≥ 1.7 in PET (aOR, 5.43; 95% CI, 2.00-14.72; P < 0.001), and PET-detected nodal disease (aOR, 5.03; 95% CI, 1.16-21.86; P = 0.041) as independent predictors of malignancy. The model combining these four factors predicted ampullary cancers better than endoscopic diagnosis alone (area under the curve [AUC] and 95% CI: 0.925 [0.874-0.956] vs. 0.815 [0.732-0.873], P < 0.001). The model demonstrated an AUC of 0.921 (95% CI, 0.816-0.967) in candidates for endoscopic papillectomy. Adding 2-[18F]FDG PET/CT to endoscopy can improve the diagnosis of ampullary cancer and may help refine therapeutic decision-making, particularly when contemplating endoscopic papillectomy.

A clinical–radiological predictive model for solitary pulmonary nodules and the relationship between radiological features and pathological subtype

To develop a clinical-radiological model to predict the malignancy of solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs) and to evaluate the accuracy of chest computed tomography imaging characteristics of SPN in diagnosing pathological type. The predictive model was developed using a retrospective cohort of 601 SPN patients (Group A) between July 2015 and July 2020. The established model was tested using a second retrospective cohort of 124 patients between August 2020 and August 2021 (Group B). The radiological characteristics of all adenocarcinomas in two groups were analysed to determine the correlation between radiological and pathological characteristics. Malignant nodules were found in 78.87% of cases and benign in 21.13%. Two clinical characteristics (age and gender) and four radiological characteristics (calcification, vascular convergence, pleural retraction sign, and density) were identified as independent predictors of malignancy in patients with SPN using logistic regression analysis. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (0.748) of the present model was greater than the other two reported models. Diameter, spiculation, lobulation, vascular convergence, and pleural retraction signs differed significantly among pre-invasive lesions, minimally invasive adenocarcinoma, and invasive adenocarcinoma. Only diameter and density were significantly different among invasive adenocarcinoma subtypes. Older age, male gender, no calcification, vascular convergence, pleural contraction sign, and lower density were independent malignancy predictors of SPNs. Furthermore, the pathological classification can be clarified based on the radiological characteristics of SPN, providing a new option for the prevention and treatment of early lung cancer.

Echocardiographic markers in the diagnosis of cardiac masses

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background The echocardiographic parameters required for a comprehensive assessment of cardiac mass (CMs) are still largely unknown. Objectives To identify and integrate the echocardiographic features of CMs that can accurately predict malignancy. Methods Observational cohort study of 286 consecutive patients who underwent a standard echocardiographic assessment for suspected cardiac mass between 2004 and 2022. A definitive diagnosis was achieved by histological examination or, in case of cardiac thrombi, with radiological evidence of thrombus resolution after an appropriate anticoagulant treatment. Logistic and multivariable regression analysis was performed to confirm the ability of 6 echocardiographic parameters to discriminate malignant from benign masses. The unweighted count of these parameters was used as a numerical score, ranging from 0 to 6, with a cut-off of &amp;gt;3 balancing sensitivity and specificity with respect to the histological diagnosis of malignancy. Classification tree analysis (CTA) was used to determine the ability of echocardiographic parameters to discriminate sub-groups of patients with a differential risk of malignancy. Results Benign masses were more frequently pedunculated, mobile, and adhered to the interatrial septum (p&amp;lt;0.001). Malignant masses showed a greater diameter and exhibited a higher frequency of irregular margins, an inhomogeneous appearance, sessile implantation, polylobate shape, and pericardial effusion (p&amp;lt;0.001). Infiltration, moderate-severe pericardial effusion, non-left localization, sessile, polylobate, and inhomogeneity were confirmed to be independent predictors of malignancy in both univariate and multivariable models. The predictive ability of the unweighted count of &amp;gt;3 was very high (&amp;gt;0.90) and similar to that of the previously published weighted score. The CTA generated an algorithm in which infiltration was the best discriminator of malignancy, followed by non-left localization and sessile shape. The percentage correctly classified by the CTA as malignant was 87.5%. Agreement between observer readings and cardiac mass histology ranged between 85.1–91.5%. The presence of at least 3 echocardiographic parameters was associated with a lower survival. Conclusions In the approach to CM, some echocardiographic parameters can serve as markers to accurately predict malignancy, thereby informing the need for second-level investigations and minimizing the diagnostic delay in such a complex clinical scenario.

A PROSPECTIVE CLINICAL STUDY OF THYROID MALIGNANCIES AND THE ROLE OF SERUM TSH IN PREDICTING MALIGNANCY

Introduction: Serum TSH is an independent predictor of malignancy in thyroid nodules according to the recent publications. Thyroid malignancies could be screened by using this biochemical marker (TSH) as a preliminary step. In this study, we looked into the usefulness of TSH in predicting cancer as well as the typical clinical presentation of thyroid cancers. Aims And Objectives: To assess the value of serum TSH measurement as a biochemical predictor of malignancy in suspicious thyroid nodules and to study the clinical manifestations and management of different thyroid malignancies. Place of Study: NRI Medical College Materials And Methods: and General Hospital, chinnakakani. Study population: All patients presented to General Surgery Department of NRI medical college and hospital, chinnakakani with clinically suspicious thyroid swellings of malignancy during the study period. Duration of Study: This was done over period Of one year from August 2021 to August 2022. It has a follow up of 6 months. Most of the Results: patients were females.40 years is the mean age of malignancy.mean age in male is 59 years and the mean age in females is 38 years. It commonly manifested as a rapidly growing swelling in the thyroid with shorter duration or development of secondary symptoms in a long standing goiter. Most of the patients are presented with STN. Malignancy occurred more frequently in SNT (36%) than MNG (19%).%. Mean preoperative TSH values of benign illness is less compared to those with malignancy. Higher TSH readings were associated with an increased risk of cancer. Higher TSH levels are Conclusion: denitely used as a predictor. The FNAC can be reexamined in these circumstances where the TSH result is high to correlated with malignancy. In cases with clinically suspected malignant thyroid swelling with a benign FNAC report, TSH values may be conrm the diagnosis

A Reappraisal of Suspicious Sonographic Features of Thyroid Nodules: Shape Is Not an Independent Predictor of Malignancy.

For the correct clinical application of the sonographic risk-stratification systems, the definition of independent risk features that are foundational to each system is crucial. The aim of this study was to identify the gray-scale sonographic features independently associated with malignancy, and to compare different definitions. This prospective, diagnostic accuracy study took place in a single thyroid nodule referral center. All patients consecutively referred to our center for fine-needle aspiration cytology of a thyroid nodule between November 1, 2015 and March 30, 2020, were enrolled before cytology. Each nodule was examined by 2 experienced clinicians to record the sonographic features on a rating form. Histologic (when available) or cytologic diagnosis was used as the reference standard. For each single sonographic feature and definition, the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and diagnostic odds ratios (DOR) were calculated. The significant predictors were then included in a multivariable regression model. The final study cohort consisted of 903 nodules in 852 patients. A total of 76 nodules (8.4%) were malignant. Six features were independent predictors of malignancy: suspicious lymph node (DOR 16.23), extrathyroidal extension (DOR 6.60), irregular or infiltrative margins (DOR 7.13), marked hypoechogenicity (DOR 3.16), solid composition (DOR 3.61), and punctate hyperechoic foci (including microcalcifications and indeterminate foci; DOI 2.69). Taller-than-wide shape was not confirmed as an independent predictor. We identified the key suspicious features of thyroid nodules and provided a simplified definition of some debated ones. Malignancy rate increases with number of features.

Echocardiographic Markers in the Diagnosis of Cardiac Masses

The echocardiographic parameters required for a comprehensive assessment of cardiac masses (CMs) are still largely unknown. To identify and integrate the echocardiographic features of CMs that can accurately predict malignancy. Observational cohort study of 286 consecutive patients who underwent a standard echocardiographic assessment for suspected cardiac mass in Bologna University Hospital between 2004 and 2022. A definitive diagnosis was achieved by histological examination or, in case of cardiac thrombi, with radiological evidence of thrombus resolution after an appropriate anticoagulant treatment. Logistic and multivariable regression analysis was performed to confirm the ability of 6 echocardiographic parameters to discriminate malignant from benign masses. The unweighted count of these parameters was used as a numerical score, ranging from 0 to 6, with a cut-off of >3 balancing sensitivity and specificity with respect to the histological diagnosis of malignancy. Classification tree analysis (CTA) was used to determine the ability of echocardiographic parameters to discriminate sub-groups of patients with a differential risk of malignancy. Benign masses were more frequently pedunculated, mobile, and adherent to the interatrial septum (p<0.001). Malignant masses showed a greater diameter and exhibited a higher frequency of irregular margins, an inhomogeneous appearance, sessile implantation, polylobate shape, and pericardial effusion (p<0.001). Infiltration, moderate-severe pericardial effusion, non-left localization, sessile, polylobate, and inhomogeneity were confirmed to be independent predictors of malignancy in both univariate and multivariable models. The predictive ability of the unweighted count of >3 was very high (>0.90) and similar to that of the previously published weighted score. The CTA generated an algorithm in which infiltration was the best discriminator of malignancy, followed by non-left localization and sessile shape. The percentage correctly classified by the CTA as malignant was 87.5%. Agreement between observer readings and cardiac mass histology ranged between 85.1-91.5%. The presence of at least 3 echocardiographic parameters was associated with a lower survival. In the approach to CM, some echocardiographic parameters can serve as markers to accurately predict malignancy, thereby informing the need for second-level investigations and minimizing the diagnostic delay in such a complex clinical scenario.

Coexisting Molecular Alterations Increase the Risk of Malignancy in Thyroid Nodules with Copy Number Alterations.

Molecular mutations and alterations play a role in thyroid tumorigenesis. Different alterations are associated with different clinical and pathological characteristics. Copy number alterations (CNAs) are known to be present in some thyroid tumors; however, their idiosyncratic clinicopathological implications are not yet well elucidated. A retrospective chart review was performed to identify patients with CNAs on pre-operative molecular testing results who subsequently underwent surgical treatment between January 2016 and April 2022 at McGill University teaching hospitals. Of the 316 patients with thyroid nodules who opted for molecular testing with ThyroSeqV3 followed by surgery, 67 (21.2%) nodules were positive for CNAs, including 23 Bethesda III, 31 Bethesda IV, 12 Bethesda V and 1 Bethesda VI nodules. On surgical pathology, 29.9% were benign and 70.1% were malignant or non-invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features (NIFTP). Among those that were malignant/NIFTP, 17.02% were considered to be aggressive cancers. The presence of other molecular alterations was found to be an independent predictor of malignancy in multivariate analysis (OR = 5.087, 95% C.I. = 1.12-23.04, p = 0.035). No unique factor was correlated with aggressiveness; however, CNA-positive thyroid nodules that were associated with high-risk mutations such as BRAF V600E, TP53, NTRK1/3 fusion, or PTEN mutation with high allele frequency (AF) ended up being aggressive cancers. Most of the CNA-positive thyroid nodules resulted in follicular patterned tumors in 41 (65.2%) cases and oncocytic tumors in 20 (29.9%) cases. This study demonstrates that 70.1% of surgically resected thyroid nodules with CNAs were malignant/NIFTP. Most CNA-positive thyroid nodules were either oncocytic patterned tumors or follicular patterned tumors. Furthermore, CNA-positive thyroid nodules were more likely to be malignant if they were associated with other molecular alterations or mutations.

Small (≤5 cm) soft tissue tumors of the extremity and superficial trunk: MRI features and demographic characteristics associated with malignancy.

Although a substantial proportion of small soft tissue tumors are malignant, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features and demographic characteristics associated with these tumors have not been well described. To investigate the MRI features and demographic characteristics associated with small (≤5 cm) malignant soft tissue tumors, and to identify independent predictors that allow differentiation of small benign and malignant soft tissue tumors. This retrospective study evaluated patients who underwent surgical excision of small soft tissue tumors of the extremities and superficial trunk, and preoperative contrast-enhanced MRI. Seven MRI findings (tumor depth, tumor-fascia relationship, heterogeneity of signal intensity, necrosis, peritumoral edema, peritumoral enhancement, and margin) and two demographic parameters (age and sex) were included in univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to identify independent predictors of small malignant soft tissue tumors. A total of 221 patients (102 men; mean age=45.6 ± 17.6 years) with 72 malignant and 149 benign tumors were included. In the univariate analysis, peritumoral edema (odds ratio [OR] = 3.854; P < 0.001) and peritumoral enhancement (OR = 3.966; P < 0.001) and patient age (≥46 years) (OR = 2.154; P = 0.009) were significantly associated with malignancy. Multivariate analysis showed that peritumoral enhancement on MRI (OR = 3.728; P < 0.001) and patient age (≥46 years) (OR = 1.907; P = 0.036) were independent predictors of malignancy. The combination of these two parameters showed accuracy of 75.1%, sensitivity of 55.6%, and specificity of 84.6% to predict malignancy. Among several MRI and demographic features, the presence of peritumoral enhancement on MRI and patient age (≥46 years) were independent predictors of malignancy in small soft tissue tumors.

Threshold of main pancreatic duct for malignancy in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm at head-neck and body-tail

BackgroundMain pancreatic duct (MPD) dilation is a high-risk stigmata/worrisome feature of malignancy in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs). The threshold of MPD diameter in predicting malignancy may be related to the lesion location. This study aimed to separately identify the thresholds of MPD for malignancy of IPMNs separately for the head-neck and body-tail.Materials and methodsA total of 185 patients with pathologically confirmed IPMNs were included. Patient demographic information, clinical data, and pathological features were obtained from the medical records. Those IPMNs with high-grade dysplasia or with associated invasive carcinoma were considered as malignant tumor. Radiological data including lesion location, tumor size, diameter of the MPD, mural nodule, and IPMN types (main duct, MD; branch duct, BD; and mixed type, MT), were collected on computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Serum carbohydrate antigen 19-9 levels, serum carcinoembryonic antigen levels, and the medical history of diabetes mellitus, chronic cholecystitis, and pancreatitis were also collected.ResultsMalignant IPMNs were detected in 31.6% of 117 patients with lesions in the pancreatic head-neck and 20.9% of 67 patients with lesions in the pancreatic body-tail. In MPD-involved IPMNs, malignancy was observed in 54.1% of patients with lesions in the pancreatic head-neck and 30.8% of patients with lesions in the pancreatic body-tail (p < 0.05). The cutoff value of MPD diameter for malignancy was 6.5 mm for lesions in the head-neck and 7.7 mm for lesions in the body-tail in all type of IPMNs. In MPD-involved IPMNs, the threshold was 8.2 mm for lesion in pancreatic head-neck and 7.7 mm for lesions in the body-tail. Multivariate analysis confirmed that MPD diameter ≥ 6.5 mm (pancreatic head-neck) and MPD diameter ≥ 7.7 mm (pancreatic body-tail) were independent predictors of malignancy (p < 0.05). Similar results were observed in MPD-involved IPMNs using 8.2 mm as a threshold.ConclusionThe thresholds of the dilated MPD may be associated with IPMNs locations. Thresholds of 6.5 mm for lesions in the head-neck and 7.7 mm for lesions in the body-tail were observed. For MPD-involved IPMNs alone, threshold for lesions in the head-neck was close to that in the body-tail.

Comparison of Outcomes for One-View Asymmetries Recalled From Digital Breast Tomosynthesis Versus Full-Field Digital Mammography Screening Examinations.

BACKGROUND. Recall rates are lower for digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) than for full-field digital mammography (FFDM). This difference could have important implications with respect to one-view asymmetries given that missed cancers are often visible on one view. OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study is to compare the outcomes of one-view asymmetries recalled from DBT versus FFDM screening examinations and to determine predictors of malignancy among recalled asymmetries. METHODS. This retrospective study first determined recall rates associated with one-view asymmetries for screening mammography performed using DBT and FFDM from July 14, 2016, through July 14, 2020. Further analyses included patients recalled for a one-view asymmetry who completed subsequent diagnostic workup and all recommended follow-up. Patient and cancer characteristics were extracted from the electronic health record. RESULTS. The recall rate associated with asymmetries was lower for DBT screening (2.5% [3169/128,755]) than for FFDM screening (3.4% [815/23,898]) (p < .001). Further analyses of patients who completed diagnostic workup and subsequent follow-up included 3119 patients (mean age, 57 years) for DBT screening and 811 patients (mean age, 56 years) for FFDM screening. Distribution of final BI-RADS categories from subsequent diagnostic workup was not different between the two modalities (p > .99). The frequency of malignancy was not different between asymmetries recalled from DBT (1.7% [54/3119]) and FFDM (1.7% [14/811]) (p > .99). Malignant asymmetries identified on FFDM versus DBT were more frequently associated with architectural distortion on diagnostic workup (35.7% [5/14] vs 9.3% [5/54]) (p < .001) and were more commonly invasive ductal carcinoma (92.9% vs 57.4%) and less commonly invasive lobular carcinoma (0.0% vs 24.1%) (p = .05). In multivariable analysis, independent predictors of malignancy among recalled asymmetries from DBT were age (for 55-69 years, odds ratio [OR] = 2.40 [p = .04]; for ≥ 70 years, OR = 7.93 [p < .001]; reference, < 55 years) and breast density (not dense, OR = 2.47 [p = .001]; reference, dense breasts). CONCLUSION. Recalled asymmetries were less frequent for DBT than for FFDM. The malignancy rate was low for both modalities (1.7%). Age 55 years old and older and lower breast density predicted malignancy for DBT-recalled asymmetries. CLINICAL IMPACT. Our results support the use of DBT to reduce unnecessary recalls without altering PPV for asymmetry-associated malignancies. Patient factors should be considered when assessing whether a potential asymmetry on DBT screening represents overlapping fibroglandular tissue or a suspicious finding that requires diagnostic workup.

The diagnostic value of a nomogram based on multimodal ultrasonography for thyroid-nodule differentiation: A multicenter study.

To establish and verify a nomogram based on multimodal ultrasonography (US) for the assessment of the malignancy risk of thyroid nodules and to explore its value in distinguishing benign from malignant thyroid nodules. From September 2020 to December 2021, the data of 447 individuals with thyroid nodules were retrieved from the multicenter database of medical images of the National Health Commission's Capacity Building and Continuing Education Center, which includes data from more than 20 hospitals. All patients underwent contrast-enhanced US (CEUS) and elastography before surgery or fine needle aspiration. The training set consisted of three hundred datasets from the multicenter database (excluding Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), and the external validation set consisted of 147 datasets from Zhejiang Cancer Hospital. As per the pathological results, the training set was separated into benign and malignant groups. The characteristics of the lesions in the two groups were analyzed and compared using conventional US, CEUS, and elastography score. Using multivariate logistic regression to screen independent predictive risk indicators, then a nomogram for risk assessment of malignant thyroid nodules was created. The diagnostic performance of the nomogram was assessed utilizing calibration curves and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) from the training and validation cohorts. The nomogram and The American College of Radiology Thyroid Imaging, Reporting and Data System were assessed clinically using decision curve analysis (DCA). Multivariate regression showed that irregular shape, elastography score (≥ 3), lack of ring enhancement, and unclear margin after enhancement were independent predictors of malignancy. During the training (area under the ROC [AUC]: 0.936; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.902-0.961) and validation (AUC: 0.902; 95% CI: 0.842-0.945) sets, the multimodal US nomogram with these four variables demonstrated good calibration and discrimination. The DCA results confirmed the good clinical applicability of the multimodal US nomogram for predicting thyroid cancer. As a preoperative prediction tool, our multimodal US-based nomogram showed good ability to distinguish benign from malignant thyroid nodules.

Evaluation of Tissue Stiffness Around Lesions by Sound Touch Shear Wave Elastography in Breast Malignancy Diagnosis.

The aim of the study described here was to assess the evaluation of tissue stiffness around lesions by sound touch shear wave elastography (STE) in breast malignancy diagnosis. This was an institutional ethics committee-approved, single-center study. A total of 90 women with breast masses examined with conventional ultrasound and STE were eligible for enrollment from December 2020 to July 2021. The maximum and mean elastic values of masses, Emax and Emean, were determined. Shell function was used to measure the maximum and mean elastic values of tissues around masses in annular shells 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 mm wide, recorded as corresponding Emax-shell and Emean-shell. All parameters were analyzed and compared with histopathologic results. Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed to assess diagnostic performance. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the best diagnostic model. Collagen fiber content of tissues around breast lesions was evaluated using Masson staining and ImageJ software. Ninety women with breast masses were included in this study; 50 had benign (mean diameter 15.84 ± 4.39 mm) and 40 had malignant (mean diameter 17.40 ± 5.42 mm) masses. The diagnostic value of Emax-shell-2.0 was the highest (area under the curve=0.930) with a sensitivity of 87.5% and specificity of 88%. According to stepwise logistic regression analysis, Emax-shell-2.0 and age were independent predictors of malignancy. Emax-shell-2.0 was also found to be highly correlated with the collagen fiber content of tissue in the malignant group (r=0.877). Tissue stiffness around lesions measured by STE is a useful metric in identifying malignant breast masses by reflecting collagen fiber content, and Emax-shell-2.0 performs best.

Complementary Thyroid Elastography on Conventional Ultrasound in Diagnosis of Malignant Thyroid Nodules

INTRODUCTION: Ultrasound has been widely used to assess thyroid nodules. Although ultrasound elastography has been developed to improve detection of thyroid malignancy, it has received mixed responses. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of ultrasound elastography in detecting malignant thyroid nodules. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with thyroid nodules were assessed using conventional ultrasound and elastography followed by fine-needle aspiration and or hemithyroidectomy. The ultrasound findings were compared with the cytology or histopathology for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Out of 156 nodules from 92 patients included in the study, 12 (7.7%) were malignant and 144 (88.8%) were benign. The elastography was found to be an independent predictor of malignancy (OR 10.35, 95% CI [1.31, 81.6], p = 0.03). Other independent predictors were taller shape and central Doppler pattern obtained using conventional ultrasound. A combination of the three independent predictors was shown to improve the sensitivity of detecting malignant thyroid nodules up to 100%, 95% CI [73.5,100] with NPV of 100%. A new scoring system incorporating the three variables was developed and an algorithm using the scoring system was proposed. CONCLUSION: Thyroid elastography is an independent predictor of thyroid malignancy. Its performance is comparable to conventional ultrasound when used alone and improved when used in combination with conventional ultrasound. It is valuable as screening and risk-stratification tools for patients with thyroid nodules.

Clinical significance of pancreatic calcifications: a 15-year single-center observational study

ObjectivesPancreatic calcifications (PC) are considered specific for chronic pancreatitis (CP), but PC may also be present in non-CP diseases. The aims are to understand the pattern of calcifications in different diseases and to determine they were related to malignant diseases.MethodsA retrospective study was performed including patients with PC or CP undergoing surgery in the Department of General Surgery of Ruijin Hospital from January 2003 to June 2018.ResultsPC were observed in 168 (4.5%) of the 3755 patients with pancreatic lesions treated during the study period. The majority of patients with PC had three kinds of CP (73.2%) while 26.8% had other five kinds of non-CP diseases. In patients with non-CP diseases, the incidence of PC in malignant intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) was significantly higher than benign IPMN (8.3% vs. 0.7%, p = 0.004). In patients of CP with pancreatic mass (n = 81), PC (Odds ratio = 28.6, p = 0.000), advanced age (> 55 years) and parenchymal atrophy were independent predictors for malignancy. In patients of CP without pancreatic mass (n = 110), there were 82 cases (74.5%) with PC and 5 cases (4.5%) with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. The regression model of risk factors was not successful.ConclusionsThe disease spectrum with PC was very diverse. PC may be related to malignant IPMN in non-CP diseases and is related to malignancy in the patients of CP with pancreatic mass and indications for resection.

Role of endoscopic ultrasound and cyst fluid tumor markers in diagnosis of pancreatic cystic lesions.

BACKGROUNDPancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) are common in clinical practice. The accurate classification and diagnosis of these lesions are crucial to avoid unnecessary treatment of benign lesions and missed opportunities for early treatment of potentially malignant lesions. AIMTo evaluate the role of cyst fluid analysis of different tumor markers such as cancer antigens [e.g., cancer antigen (CA)19-9, CA72-4], carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), serine protease inhibitor Kazal-type 1 (SPINK1), interleukin 1 beta (IL1-β), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2)], amylase, and mucin stain in diagnosing pancreatic cysts and differentiating malignant from benign lesions. METHODSThis study included 76 patients diagnosed with PCLs using different imaging modalities. All patients underwent endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and EUS-fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) for characterization and sampling of different PCLs. RESULTSThe mean age of studied patients was 47.4 ± 11.4 years, with a slight female predominance (59.2%). Mucin stain showed high statistical significance in predicting malignancy with a sensitivity of 87.1% and specificity of 95.56%. It also showed a positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 93.1% and 91.49%, respectively (P < 0.001). We found that positive mucin stain, cyst fluid glucose, SPINK1, amylase, and CEA levels had high statistical significance (P < 0.0001). In contrast, IL-1β, CA 72-4, VEGF-A, VEGFR2, and PGE2 did not show any statistical significance. Univariate regression analysis for prediction of malignancy in PCLs showed a statistically significant positive correlation with mural nodules, lymph nodes, cyst diameter, mucin stain, and cyst fluid CEA. Meanwhile, logistic multivariable regression analysis proved that mural nodules, mucin stain, and SPINK1 were independent predictors of malignancy in cystic pancreatic lesions. CONCLUSIONEUS examination of cyst morphology with cytopathological analysis and cyst fluid analysis could improve the differentiation between malignant and benign pancreatic cysts. Also, CEA, glucose, and SPINK1 could be used as promising markers to predict malignant pancreatic cysts.