MRI Biopsy Research Articles

Surveillance after Focal Therapy - a Comprehensive Review.

to date, no standardized, evidence-based follow-up schemes exist for the monitoring of patients who underwent focal therapy (FT) and expert centers rely mainly on their own experience and/or institutional protocols. We aimed to perform a comprehensive review of the most advantageous follow-up strategies and their rationale after FT for prostate cancer (PCa). a narrative review of the literature was conducted to investigate different follow-up protocols of FT for PCa. Outcomes of interest were post-ablation oncological and functional outcomes and complications. Oncological success after FT was generally defined as the biopsy-confirmed absence of clinically significant PCa in the treated zone. De novo PCa in the untreated area usually reflects an inaccurate patient selection and should be treated as primary PCa. During follow-up, oncological outcomes should be evaluated with periodic PSA, multiparametric MRI and prostate biopsy. The use of PSA derivatives and new biomarkers is still controversial and therefore not recommended. The first MRI after FT should be performed between 6-12 months to avoid ablation-related artifacts and diagnostic delay in case of FT failure. Other imaging modalities, such as PSMA PET/CT scan, are promising but still need to be validated in the post-FT setting. A 12-month "for-protocol" prostate biopsy, including targeted and systematic biopsy, was generally considered the preferred biopsy method to rule out tumor persistence/recurrence. Subsequent mpMRIs and biopsies should follow a risk-adapted approach depending on the clinical scenario. Functional outcomes should be periodically assessed using validated questionnaires within the first year, when typically recover to a new baseline. Complications, despite uncommon, should be strictly monitored mainly in the first month. FT follow-up is a multifaceted process involving clinical, radiological, and histological assessment. Studies evaluating the impact of different follow-up strategies and ideal timings are needed to produce standardized protocols following FT.

Detection of Apical Cancer with Novel Imaging Modalities to Predict Apical Margin Positivity in Robotic Assisted Radical Prostatectomy

ObjectivesTo evaluate margin positivity at apex utilizing preoperative magnetic resonance imaging [MRI], micro-ultrasound [MUS], prostate specific membrane antigen positron emission tomography PSMA PET] scan, biopsy location and intraoperative timing of deep venous complex [DVC] ligation during robot assisted radical prostatectomy [RARP]. MethodsInstitution review board approved retrospective study underwent RARP between November 2022 to March 2024. All patients underwent preoperative MRI, MUS and PSMA PET scan. Patients underwent RARP using either standard DVC [done prior apical dissection] ligation or delayed DVC [after prostate removal] technique. All patients underwent intra operative frozen section analysis by an experienced genitourinary pathologist. Descriptive statistics were performed. Data analyzed using R software version 4.3.3. ResultsTotal 619 prostate cancer patients underwent RARP. Of these, 365 men underwent RARP using delayed DVC ligation technique and 254 men using standard DVC ligation technique. There was no statically significant difference in two groups on demographic parameters, MRI, MUS and PSMA-PET scan features. Sensitivity of MRI, MUS, PSMA-PET and prostate biopsy for detection of apical positive margin were 66%, 81%, 81% and 73% respectively. Specificity of MRI, MUS, PSMA-PET and prostate biopsy for detection of apical positive margin were 45%, 14%, 16% and 30% respectively. When all modalities are used accumulatively, apical cancer was missed only in 1% of cases. ConclusionsWith proper preoperative understanding of apical lesion location, timing of DVC ligation [standard vs delayed] doesn't impact apical positive surgical margins. Combination of MRI, MUS, PSMA-PET and prostate biopsy reduce apical positive surgical margin rates significantly.

Can we rely on magnetic resonance imaging for prostate cancer detection and surgical planning? Comprehensive analysis of a large cohort of patients undergoing transperineal mapped biopsies.

To evaluate MRI and histological concordance in prostate cancer (PCa) identification via mapped transperineal biopsies. Retrospective per-lesion analysis of patients undergoing MRI and transperineal biopsy at the Valencian Institute of Oncology (2016-2024) using CAPROSIVO PCa data. Patients underwent MRI, with or without regions of interest (ROI), followed by transperineal biopsies (3-5 cores/ROI, 20-30 systematic). Sensitivity (Se), specificity (Sp), negative predictive value (NPV), positive predictive value (PPV), and area under the curve (AUC) were calculated, considering PI-RADS 3 lesions as positive or negative. Gleason Grade Group (GG) > 1 defined clinically significant PCa (csPCa). 1817 lesions were analyzed from 1325 patients (median age 67, median PSA 6.3 ng/ml). 53% MRI were negative, GG > 1 prevalence was 38.4%. MRI-negative cases showed varying PCa rates: 57.4% negative, 30.2% GG 1, and 12.4% GG > 1. PI-RADS 3 lesions had mixed outcomes: 45.6% benign, 13.1% GG 1, and 41.3% GG > 1. 9.2% PI-RADS 4-5 lesions were negative, 9% GG 1, and 81.7% GG > 1. For PI-RADS 3 lesions considered positive, Se, Sp, NPV, PPV, and AUC were 82.9%, 75%, 87.6%, 67.4%, and 0.79 respectively. Considering PI-RADS 3 as negative yielded 64.8% Se, 91% Sp, 80.6% NPV, 81.7% PPV, and 0.78 AUC. MRI and mapped prostate biopsies exhibited moderate concordance. MRI could miss up to one in five csPCa foci and misinterpret one in three ROIs. Careful MRI interpretation is crucial for optimizing patient care.

Evaluating Prostate Cancer: The Diagnostic Impact of MRI and Its Relationship With Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS)-Guided Biopsy.

Background Prostate disorders, including benign enlargement and malignancy, are commonly evaluated through imaging techniques. Historically, transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) has been used for prostate imaging and biopsy. However, multiparametric MRI (mpMRI), which integrates structural and functional imaging methods, offers enhanced diagnostic capabilities. This study evaluates the effectiveness of mpMRI, including its grading via Prostate Imaging - Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) or Likert scoring, in distinguishing between benign and malignant prostatic conditionsand compares these findings with TRUS outcomes. Methodology This prospective study enrolled 30 male patients aged 45 to 75 years (mean age 60 years), selected based on prostatic abnormalities, elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels (>4 ng/dL), or palpable nodules detected via digital rectal examination. MRI, including PI-RADS or Likert scoring, was utilized to assess prostatic lesions, and results were compared with histopathological data obtained from TRUS-guided biopsies. Results Among the 30 patients, common symptoms included urinary retention (60%) and painful urination (53.3%). Malignant tumors were diagnosed in 12 patients (40%). MRI identified eight cases with enlarged transitional zones and irregular signals in peripheral zones (benign prostatic hyperplasia with tumor)and four cases with irregular signals in both zones (sarcoma). Concordance between MRI T2-weighted (T2W) observations and biopsy results showed 60% malignancy detection. Sensitivity assessments revealed MRI detected 15 true-positives (50%), TRUS detected six true positives (20%), and multivoxel spectroscopic analysis (MVS) identified 14 true-positives (46.7%). PI-RADS or Likert scoring of mpMRI was correlated with TRUS outcomes, highlighting its enhanced diagnostic accuracy compared to TRUS alone. Conclusion While TRUS remains a standard diagnostic tool, it is limited by significant sampling errors and complications. The integration of mpMRI, with its grading system, significantly improves diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning. Although mpMRI alone has limitations, its combination with contrast-enhanced MRI, diffusion-weighted imaging, and MR spectroscopy offers a comprehensive approach to enhanced prostate cancer detection.

Using MRI Texture Analysis Machine Learning Models to Assess Graft Interstitial Fibrosis and Tubular Atrophy in Patients with Transplanted Kidneys

Objective: Interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy (IFTA) is a common, irreversible, and progressive form of chronic kidney allograft injury, and it is considered a critical predictor of kidney allograft outcomes. The extent of IFTA is estimated through a graft biopsy, while a non-invasive test is lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and accuracy of an MRI radiomic-based machine learning (ML) algorithm to estimate the degree of IFTA in a cohort of transplanted patients. Approach: Patients who underwent MRI and renal biopsy within a 6-month interval from 1 January 2012 to 1 March 2021 were included. Stable MRI sequences were selected, and renal parenchyma, renal cortex and medulla were segmented. After image filtering and pre-processing, we computed radiomic features that were subsequently selected through a LASSO algorithm for their highest correlation with the outcome and lowest intercorrelation. Selected features and relevant patients’ clinical data were used to produce ML algorithms using 70% of the study cases for feature selection, model training and validation with a 10-fold cross-validation, and 30% for model testing. Performances were evaluated using AUC with 95% confidence interval. Main results: A total of 70 coupled tests (63 patients, 35.4% females, mean age 52.2 years) were included and subdivided into a wider cohort of 50 for training and a smaller cohort of 20 for testing. For IFTA ≥ 25%, the AUCs in test cohort were 0.60, 0.59, and 0.54 for radiomic features only, clinical variables only, and a combined radiomic–clinical model, respectively. For IFTA ≥ 50%, the AUCs in training cohort were 0.89, 0.84, and 0.96, and in the test cohort, they were 0.82, 0.83, and 0.86, for radiomic features only, clinical variables only, and the combined radiomic–clinical model, respectively. Significance: An ML-based MRI radiomic algorithm showed promising discrimination capacity for IFTA > 50%, especially when combined with clinical variables. These results need to be confirmed in larger cohorts.

Contrast of muscle magnetic resonance imaging and pathological findings of muscle tissue in patients with anti-aminoacyl transfer RNA synthetase antibodies.

Methods: Patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) diagnosed using the 2017 EULAR/ACR classification criteria in our university between 2005 and 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. IIMs were subclassified into the anti-ARS syndrome (ASSD), immune-mediated necrotizing myositis (IMNM), Dermatomyositis DM and others. Fat-suppressed T2-weighted MRI and muscle biopsy specimens were assessed in IIMs followed by the comparison among the four subgroups. MRI findings were available for 62 patients and histopathological findings were available for 27 patients. Perifascicular atrophy or necrosis in the muscle tissues from the patients with IIM was more frequently observed in patients with subcutaneous and fascial high signal intensity (HSI) on MRI than those without. Four-group comparison among ASSD, IMNM, DM and others revealed HSI in fasciae on MRI was more frequently observed in patients with ASSD and DM than others. Perifascicular atrophy or necrosis in muscle tissues was more frequently observed in patients with ASSD than in others. Patients with ASSD had distinct MRI features compared with anti-ARS negative patients. The fascial high signal intensity on MRI may reflect distinctive pathological features of muscles.

Development and validation of MRI PDFF Cut-offs for living liver donor eligibility assessment.

Hepatic steatosis (HS) criteria for living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) donor eligibility should be based on large droplet fat as per Banff consensus recommendations. We aimed to establish MRI PDFF cut-offs for HS assessment in potential LDLT donors. This retrospective study included consecutive potential LDLT donors who underwent MRI and liver biopsy between 2013 and 2023 at two tertiary institutions, each as development (n=3062; 2015 men; median [interquartile range] age of 32 [25-38] years) and external validation (n=472; 287 men; 35 [26-44] years) datasets. PDFF was measured using dedicated MRI sequences. Histologic HS defined as large droplet fat fraction was used as the reference standard. Dual PDFF cut-offs aimed at 95% sensitivity or 95% specificity, for diagnosing histologic HS of ≥10%, ≥20%, ≥30%, and ≥40%, were determined in the development dataset using ten-fold cross validation. The cut-offs were then validated in the external validation dataset. Equation for estimating histologic HS from PDFF was also derived using linear regression. The PDFF cut-offs for histologic HS of ≥10%, ≥20%, ≥30%, and ≥40%, targeting 95% sensitivity, were 3.7%, 5.5%, 8.0%, and 10.0%, respectively. External validation demonstrated high sensitivities ≥ 97.9% with specificities ranging from 60.9% to 95.1%. The PDFF cut-offs targeting 95% specificity were 6.3%, 8.0%, 9.1%, and 10.1%, respectively. External validation rendered high specificities ranging from 88.5% to 95.3% with sensitivities ranging from 76.6% to 100%. For diagnosing histologic HS ≥30%, which is the most prevalently used threshold for LDLT donor eligibility assessment, the PDFF cut-offs achieved sensitivities and specificities of both over 90%. The equation of (Histologic HS=-2.95 + 1.93 * PDFF) was derived.

Contribution of canine olfaction in the diagnostic strategy of intermediate and high-risk prostate cancer: a double-blind validation study.

Prostate cancer diagnosis is confirmed with a prostate biopsy, which is invasive and unpleasant. Adding canine olfaction into the diagnostic protocol could help avoid unnecessary biopsies. This study aims to determine whether dogs can identify ISUP (International Society of Urological Pathology) > 2 prostate cancer. This double-blind, prospective, validation study included men with suspected prostate cancer between November 2022 and April 2023 in France. They were classified into two groups according to their prostate biopsy results; cases (ISUP > 2) and controls (ISUP < 1 or negative). Seven dogs analyzed their urine. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) for canine olfactory detection of ISUP ≥ 2 prostate cancer were measured and compared with that of prostate MRI versus prostate biopsy. The seven dogs analyzed 151 urine samples, 78 from the case group and 73 from the control group. The minimal and maximal observed values were 54% and 86% for sensitivity, and 69% and 88% for specificity. Five dogs had a sensitivity above 73% and six dogs had a specificity above 75%. The kappa coefficient quantifying agreement between the biopsy result and the MRI PI-RADS ≥ 3 was 0.17 [-0.14; 0.17], 0.20 [0.02-0.33] for PI-RADS ≥ 4 and 0.64 [0.5-0.75] for canine olfaction meaning there is a substantial agreement between the biopsy result and canine olfaction. Based on this study, the non-invasive and safe canine olfaction technique seems reliable for diagnosing ISUP ≥ 2 prostate cancer. Combined with prostate MRI, it may improve the decision-making process when choosing to perform prostate biopsies.

Modern predictors and management of incidental prostate cancer at holmium enucleation of prostate.

To evaluate contemporary preoperative risk factors and subsequent postoperative management of incidental prostate cancer (iPCa) and incidental clinically significant prostate cancer (icsPCa, Grade Group [GG] ≥ 2 PCa). A retrospective cohort of 811 men undergoing Holmium enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) (January 2021-July 2022) were identified. Advanced preoperative testing was defined as prostate health index (PHI), prostate MRI, and/or negative preoperative biopsy. Descriptive statistics (Whitney-Mann U test, Chi-squared test) and multivariable logistic regression were performed. iPCa and icsPCa detection rates were 12.8% (104/811) and 4.4% (36/811), respectively. Advanced preoperative testing (406/811, 50%) was associated with younger age and higher (prostate specific antigen) PSA, prostate volume, and PSA density. On multivariable analysis, PHI ≥ 55 was associated with iPCa (OR 6.91, 95% CI 1.85-26.3, p = 0.004), and % free PSA (%fPSA) was associated with icsPCa (OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.67, 0.94, p = 0.01). GG1 disease comprised the majority of iPCa (65%, 68/104) with median 1% involvement. iPCa patients were followed with active surveillance (median follow up 9.3 months), with higher risk patients receiving prostate MRI and confirmatory biopsy. Three patients proceeded to radical prostatectomy or radiation. In the era of MRI and advanced biomarkers, the majority of iPCa following HoLEP is low volume GG1 suitable for active surveillance. A tentative follow-up strategy is proposed. Patients with PHI ≥ 55 or low %fPSA, even with negative prostate MRI, can consider preoperative prostate biopsy before HoLEP.

Harlequin syndrome in a patient with probable hemicrania continua and exertional headache – is there a link? a case report

BackgroundThe harlequin syndrome is a rare disorder of the autonomic nervous system characterized by unilateral diminished flushing and sweating of the face following exposure to heat or physical activity. It results from sympathetic dysfunction and most commonly occurs idiopathically. A secondary development due to an underlying pathology (e.g., carotid artery dissection, tumors) must be excluded at first appearance. There is evidence that the cranial autonomic system is involved in the pathophysiology of trigeminal autonomic headaches like hemicrania continua. Therefore, an overlap in the pathophysiology of harlequin syndrome and trigeminal autonomic headache disorders seems plausible. However, the association of a harlequin syndrome with hemicrania continua was never reported.Case presentationThis work describes the case of a 42‐year‐old female patient presenting to our headache unit. The patient reported persisting unilateral headache of the right side of dragging or squeezing character accompanied by trigeminal autonomic symptoms, including lacrimation, nasal congestion, conjunctival injection and Horner’s syndrome, and was responsive to treatment with 75mg/d indomethacin. Five months after the initial consultation, the patient noted that the upper right quadrant of her face was pale after jogging. A harlequin syndrome was diagnosed. Further, she developed a short-lasting, bilateral headache of pulsatile character during strenuous exercise consistent with exertional headache. Comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, encompassing cranial and cervical MRI scans, laboratory tests, and biopsies, culminated in the diagnosis of Sjögren’s syndrome. This finding suggests that the trigemino-autonomic dysfunction may either be idiopathic or a direct manifestation of Sjögren’s syndrome.ConclusionsThis report documents the case of a rare combination of a headache resembling probable hemicrania continua and the harlequin syndrome (and even exertional headache). It illustrates the underlying anatomy of the autonomic nervous system in a clinical context and emphasizes the hypothesis of a pathophysiological link between abnormal sympathetic activity and trigeminal autonomic headaches.

Effect of cancer screening with multi-cancer early detection testing and whole body MRI on cancer worry in a high-risk population.

10520 Background: Multi-cancer Early Detection tests (MCED) and whole-body imaging are being increasingly utilized for early cancer detection but are not included in cancer screening guidelines. Our aims were to 1) determine the feasibility of MCED testing and whole-body MRI (WBM) to screen people at high-risk for cancer after germline testing and cancer genetics evaluation and 2) understand the impact of MCED and WBM on cancer worry and anxiety. Methods: We conducted a feasibility trial of people &gt;50 years old with a strong family history of cancer and/or a pathogenic/likely pathogenic germline variant in a cancer susceptibility gene for which WBM is not part of standard risk management. Participants completed a baseline survey including the SF12, State Trait Anxiety Index (STAI), and modified cancer worry scale (CWS). They then underwent non-contrast whole body 3T MRI and liquid biopsy using DEEPGEN, a mutational-based MCED. Results were reported to participants and additional imaging studies or consultations were obtained as needed. Participants were surveyed 6 months after testing using SF12, STAI, CWS, and a questionnaire on acceptability of the intervention. Results: 100 participants were enrolled; 73 have completed 6-month follow-up. Median age was 62 years (IQR 57-66) and 64% of participants were women. MCED was positive in 4 participants, none of which had suspicious findings on WBM. 27 (27%) underwent additional imaging to further evaluate findings identified on WBM. 4 (4%) had cancer diagnosed based on WBM findings and subsequent work up (lung adenocarcinoma, prostate cancer, duodenal neuroendocrine carcinoma, and ovarian Brenner tumor); all 4 underwent surgical resection. One participant underwent bone marrow biopsy due to JAK2 mutation and thrombocytosis (evaluation ongoing) and one participant had a thyroid biopsy for a benign nodule. 62 (85%) somewhat/strongly agreed that study participation reduced cancer worry. Composite CWS scores showed decreased worry at 6 months compared with baseline (12.7 vs 13.7, p=0.003). At baseline, 30 (41%) reported that they somewhat/very often worry about getting cancer, compared with 14 (18%) at 6 months (p&lt;0.001). 8 (11%) reported at baseline that cancer worry affected their mood somewhat/very often, compared with 2 (3%) at 6 months (p&lt;0.001). There were no significant differences in STAI or SF12 composite scores between baseline and 6 months. 69 (95%) somewhat/strongly agreed that they would like to participate in future testing with WBM and MCED. Conclusions: MCED and WBM testing is feasible and was associated with decreased cancer worry at 6 months. In this high-risk cohort, cancer was detected in 4% of patients. Further evaluation of cancer screening in high-risk populations using WBM and MCED testing is warranted particularly with respect to patient-centered outcomes, cancer outcomes, and healthcare resource utilization. Clinical trial information: NCT05868486 .

Effect of polygenic risk score for clinically significant prostate cancer in a screening program: The BARCODE 1 study results.

10500 Background: Incidence of prostate cancer (PCa) is increasing, but there is no internationally agreed population screening program. Studies using an age-based PSA approach show a high rate of false-positive results as well as over-diagnosis of indolent PCa. Genome wide association studies identify common germline variants to calculate a polygenic risk score (PRS) associated with PCa risk. The BARCODE1 study used PRS to target PCa screening to those at higher risk based on genotype. Methods: European men aged 55-69yrs were recruited via Primary Care in the UK. PRS was constructed by summing weighted risk alleles for 130 PCa risk variants using germline DNA from saliva samples via mailed kits. Men with a PRS &gt; 90th centile were invited for PCa screening using MRI and 12-core transperineal biopsy (including MRI fusion to target additional lesions where identified) irrespective of PSA result. Results: Invitation letters were sent to 40,292 men. 8,953 (22%) expressed an interest; 8,014 were eligible and sent a saliva kit. 6,644 consented; 6,393 were genotyped; 251 failed QC. A total of 6,142 participants had PRS calculated: 745 (12.1%) had a PRS &gt; 90th centile and were invited to screening. 558/745 participants attended screening (121 declined, 66 excluded on health grounds). 551 underwent MRI and 468 had prostate biopsy resulting in 187 (40.0%) diagnoses of PCa, overall PCa detection rate 2.8%. Mean age at diagnosis 64.1yrs (range 57-73; median 64). Using NCCN criteria (2023) 103/187 (55.1%) of cancers were Intermediate or High Risk; 40/187 (21.4%) were Intermediate Unfavourable/High/Very High Risk. 119/187 (63.6%) men had a PSA &lt;3.0ug/L; PPV of biopsy for PSA &gt; 3.0ug/L was 49.6%. PPV of MRI (presence of PI-RADS 3-5 lesion) 60.4%. PPV of PRS alone 40%. 103/187 (55.1%) had Gleason &gt;7; compared with 360/1014 (35.5%) p &lt; 0.001 in the PSA directed ERSPC study. Conclusions: A population PCa screening program using PRS risk-stratification enriches for clinically significant PCa requiring treatment. It detects a high proportion of clinically significant disease compared with PSA or MRI based screening programs and MRI missed a significant proportion (17-67%) of cancers found on biopsy. This is the first study to assess if this approach will be useful in population screening programs. Clinical trial information: NCT03857477 . [Table: see text]

C.2 An in-depth analysis of pediatric inflammatory myopathies: findings from a comprehensive tertiary care hospital

Background: Pediatric inflammatory myopathies (PIM) are a rare, heterogenous group of disorders requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment to reduce complications and improve long-term outcome. This study reviews the clinical characteristics, management, and outcomes in PIM. Methods: A retrospective analysis of pediatric patients diagnosed with PIM at CHEO from January 2009 to December 2023 was performed. Patient data, including age at symptom onset, diagnostic testing performed, treatment, and follow-up durations, were evaluated. Results: A total of 25 patients with juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM), overlap syndromes, and necrotizing myopathy (HMG-CoA reductase and anti-SRP myositis) were identified. Symptoms began at an average age of 8.37 years (1.10-14.11), with formal diagnosis occurring at 8.57 years (2.02-16.11). Initial symptoms included skin changes, muscle weakness, joint pain, and fatigue. Diagnosis involved laboratory testing (CK, myositis antibodies), muscle MRI, electromyography, and/or muscle biopsy. Treatments included corticosteroids, IVIG, and steroid-sparing agents (methotrexate, mycophenolate mofetil, rituximab, hydroxychloroquine). Follow-up averaged 4.23 years (range: 0.5 to 13). Most patients displayed only mild residual symptoms with the exception of an anti-SRP myositis patient who became wheelchair-dependent, requiring ventilatory support. Conclusions: Inflammatory myopathies require prompt treatment to prevent complications. Most patients require multiple treatment modalities, however with early diagnosis and treatment the majority of patients’ symptoms resolve.

Tumor thickness and depth of invasion in squamous cell carcinoma of tongue as indicators of the loco-regional spread of the disease: A preliminary study

BackgroundMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a routinely used imaging modality for pre-treatment radiologic evaluation of tongue carcinoma, providing accurate information regarding the extent of the disease. Aims and objectivesTo investigate the role of MRI-derived depth of invasion and tumor thickness evaluation in squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue, and to assess if any correlation exists between depth of invasion, tumor thickness, nodal metastasis, muscles, and space involved. Materials and methodsThirty-three patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue who had undergone pre-treatment MRI and excisional biopsy were included. The tumor thickness (TT) and depth of invasion (DOI) were evaluated on MRI and histopathologic images. ResultThe relation between different methodologies for assessing showed a very high correlation for the tumor tissue thickness (r = 0.99, p < 0.05) and depth of invasion (r = 0.82, p < 0.05). The tumor thickness and the depth of invasion increased with the loss of differentiation in the carcinoma histopathologically. As the depth of invasion increases, the extent of the spread of the carcinoma to tongue musculature, lingual septum, and spaces also increases. ConclusionThe present study has depicted a high correlation between the tumor thickness and the depth of invasion between MRI and histopathological findings and is the first of its kind to correlate DOI to the invasiveness of the disease.

Prevalence of non pulmonary vein triggers and pulmonary pressure change in atrial fibrillation ablation for cardiac amyloidosis patients

Abstract Background Cardiac amyloidosis (CA) has been associated with an increased risk of atrial arrhythmias and high risk to develop pulmonary hypertension due to infiltration of the amyloid protein in the atrial wall. Though non-PV triggers are commonly seen in left atrium, they are also seen in the right side of the heart, so identifying them at the time of ablation is essential. Objective The study evaluates the prevalence of non-PV triggers during catheter ablation in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients affected by cardiac amyloidosis and how restoration of sinus rhythm affects pulmonary pressures. Methods This is a study including 74 consecutive patients with an established diagnosis of amyloidosis ATTR diagnosed with cardiac MRI or myocardial biopsy that underwent their first AF catheter ablation. All have a transthoracic echocardiogram before ablation. They underwent pulmonary vein (PV) isolation + isolation of left atrial posterior wall and superior vena cava. Additionally, extrapulmonary triggers, which are defined as ectopic triggers originating from sites other than PVs including left atrial appendage (LAA), coronary sinus (CS), interatrial septum, crista terminalis, mitral valve anulus were identified. Post procedure, patients were followed up routinely with ECG during office visits, echocardiogram, 7-day Holter monitor and event recorders during the first year followed by biannual checkups during the remaining part of the follow-up period. Student’s t-test was used to compare pulmonary pressure between the groups. Results Isoproterenol-challenge revealed non-PV triggers in 51 (68.9%) patients. These triggers were mostly mapped to LAA (39, 52.7%), CS (30, 40,5%), and crista terminalis (35, 47.3%). Besides, ectopic beats were seen originating from inter-atrial septum (19, 25.6%), mitral valve annulus (10, 13.5%). More than one trigger was found in (68%) patients. At 1-year after the ablation, 65 (87.8%) were arrhythmia-free off antiarrhythmic drugs. Moreover, in patients who maintained sinus rhythm post-ablation, there was either a non progression or a reduction in pulmonary pressures (PAPm before ablation: 44.8 ± 8.9 mmHg vs PAPm after ablation 45.1 ± 11.1 mmHg, P value =0.87). Conversely, those experiencing arrhythmic recurrences demonstrated an increase in pulmonary pressures (PAPm before ablation: 41.9 ± 7.7 mmHg vs PAPm after ablation 47.8 ± 10.2 mmHg, P value =0.019). Fig.1 Conclusion Our findings suggest that non-PV triggers are highly prevalent in cardiac amyloidosis AF patients including a high rate crista terminalis firing. Notably, restoration of sinus rhythm post-ablation was linked to stable or reduced pulmonary arterial pressures, whereas patients with arrhythmic recurrences experienced a significant increase.

MRI-Ultrasound Fused Approach for Prostate Biopsy-How It Is Performed.

The use of MRI-ultrasound image fusion targeted biopsy of the prostate in the face of an elevated serum PSA is now recommended by multiple societies, and results in improved detection of clinically significant cancer and, potentially, decreased detection of indolent disease. This combines the excellent sensitivity of MRI for clinically significant prostate cancer and the real-time biopsy guidance and confirmation of ultrasound. Both transperineal and transrectal approaches can be implemented using cognitive fusion, mechanical fusion with an articulated arm and electromagnetic registration, or pure software registration. The performance has been shown comparable to in-bore MRI biopsy performance. However, a number of factors influence the performance of this technique, including the quality and interpretation of the MRI, the approach used for biopsy, and experience of the practitioner, with most studies showing comparable performance of MRI-ultrasound fusion to in-bore targeted biopsy. Future improvements including artificial intelligence promise to refine the performance of all approaches.

Hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance among people living with hepatitis B in Senegal (SEN-B): insights from a prospective cohort study

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the predominant cause of hepatocellular carcinoma in west Africa, yet data on the incidence of HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma remain scarce. We aimed to describe the uptake and early outcomes of systematic ultrasound-based hepatocellular carcinoma screening in SEN-B, which is a prospective HBV cohort in Senegal. In this prospective cohort study, we included treatment-naive, HBsAg-positive individuals who were referred to the two infectious diseases clinics (the Department of Tropical and Infectious Diseases and Ambulatory Treatment Center) at Fann University Hospital of Dakar, Senegal, between Oct 1, 2019, and Oct 31, 2022. All participants resided within the Dakar region. Participants underwent abdominal ultrasound, transient elastography, and clinical and virological assessments at inclusion and every 6 months. Liver lesions at least 1 cm in diameter on ultrasound were assessed using four-phase CT, MRI, or liver biopsy. Adherence to hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance was measured using the proportion of time covered, calculated by dividing the cumulative months covered by abdominal ultrasound examinations by the overall follow-up time, defined as the number of months from the date of cohort entry until the last recorded visit, hepatocellular carcinoma diagnosis, or death. Optimal adherence was defined as a proportion of time covered of 100%. Overall, 755 (99·6%) of 758 participants had at least one abdominal ultrasound performed. The median age of the enrolled participants was 31 years (IQR 25-39), 355 (47·0%) of 755 participants were women, and 82 (10·9%) had a family history of hepatocellular carcinoma. 15 (2·0%) of 755 individuals were HBeAg positive, 206 (27·3%) of 755 individuals had HBV DNA of more than 2000 IU/mL, and 27 (3·6%) of 755 had elastography-defined liver cirrhosis. Of ten (1·3%) participants with a focal lesion at least 1 cm at initial assessment, CT or MRI ruled out hepatocellular carcinoma in nine, whereas imaging and subsequent liver biopsy confirmed one patient with hepatocellular carcinoma. Two further patients with hepatocellular carcinoma were diagnosed at study presentation due to the presence of portal thrombosis on ultrasound. Excluding the three participants with hepatocellular carcinoma identified at baseline, 752 participants were eligible for screening every 6 months. Median follow-up time was 12 months (IQR 6-18) and the median number of ultrasounds per patient was 3 (2-4). During 809·5 person-years of follow-up, one incident hepatocellular carcinoma was reported, resulting in an incidence rate of 1·24 cases per 1000 person-years (95% CI 0·18-8·80). Overall, 702 (93·0%) of 755 participants showed optimal hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance, but this proportion decreased to 77·8% (42 of 54 participants) after 24 months. Hepatocellular carcinoma screening is feasible in HBV research cohorts in west Africa, but its longer-term acceptability needs to be evaluated. Long-term hepatocellular carcinoma incidence data are crucial for shaping tailored screening recommendations. Swiss National Science Foundation, the Swiss Cancer Research Foundation, the National Cancer Institute, and Roche Diagnostics. For the French translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

Abstract CT029: Chemotherapy-free neoadjuvant regimen with durvalumab, trastuzumab and pertuzumab (DTP) in HER2-enriched early breast cancer: A prospective, open-label phase II trial

Abstract Background: High risk HER2-positive early breast cancer (EBC) patients are traditionally treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy in combination with HER2-directed therapy. De-escalation approaches are being studied as benefits of chemotherapy in the HER2-enriched subset of EBC, but they have been inconclusive thus far. Preclinical studies suggest synergistic effect of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) and HER2-directed therapy. This study hypothesizes that biologically directed HER-2 targeted therapy with Trastuzumab (T) and Pertuzumab (P) together with ICB (Durvalumab, D) will obviate the need of chemotherapy in HER2-enriched EBC patients. Methods: In this single arm, open-label phase II study, previously untreated, stage I-III, ER/PR negative, HER2-enriched breast cancer (BluePrint®, Agendia) patients were treated with D (1120mg IV, q3w), T (8mg/kg IV loading dose, 6 mg/kg IV q3w), and P (840 mg IV loading dose, 420 mg IV q3w) for 6 cycles. Response was assessed at end of 6 cycles with breast MRI and possible biopsy if residual disease was present. Responders (MRI and/or biopsy negative for residual cancer) proceeded to surgery, while patients with biopsy-proven residual disease were offered salvage standard chemotherapy (TCHP) before surgery. Primary end-point was pathological response rate defined as residual cancer burden (RCB)-0 and RCB-1. Patients who achieved RCB 0/1 received adjuvant DTP for 1 year. Results: A total of 51 patients were screened; 39 patients have been enrolled and received at least one cycle of treatment. Of these, 35 patients are evaluable for pathologic response, and 2 patients are still receiving treatment. One patient died of unrelated myocardial infarction, and one patient was lost to follow-up. The median age was 55 years (range 29-85). Thirty-one (79.5%) patients were white; 4 (10.3%) African American, and 4 (10.3%) Asian. Twenty-nine (74.3%) patients had &amp;gt;=T2 tumors; 21 (53.8%) patients had N1/N2/N3 disease. Six patients (15.3%) had biopsy-proven residual disease after DTP therapy, and they received salvage standard neoadjuvant TCHP chemotherapy. The combination was well tolerated; 5 (18.8%) patients had G3-4 adverse events. Twenty-seven of thirty-five patients (77.1%) had pathologic RCB 0/1 (RCB0, 20/35; RCB1 7/35), of whom only 3 patients had received salvage chemotherapy. Correlative studies, including tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, immune-related gene signatures and PD-L1 expression are underway. Conclusions: Chemotherapy-free neoadjuvant regimen with DTP in HER2-enriched EBC showed high pathologic response rates comparable to that with chemotherapy. This DTP regimen may provide an effective, relatively non-toxic, and biologically driven alternative to standard of care chemotherapy in this HER2-enriched subset of EBC. Citation Format: Jian Guan, Kai Sun, Dharamvir Jain, Sunil Mathur, Hanh Mai, Polly Niravath, Jenny Chang. Chemotherapy-free neoadjuvant regimen with durvalumab, trastuzumab and pertuzumab (DTP) in HER2-enriched early breast cancer: A prospective, open-label phase II trial [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 2 (Late-Breaking, Clinical Trial, and Invited Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(7_Suppl):Abstract nr CT029.

Intractable painful great toe – A diagnostic enigma

ABSTRACT Glomus bodies are highly specialized arteriovenous anastomoses that are responsible for thermoregulation by regulating the blood flow. Glomus tumor consists of vascular channels and glomus piles separated by connective tissue stroma. Approximately, 75% of all tumors occur in subungual tissues of fingers. Glomus tumors in foot are uncommon. We report a case of glomus tumor in a young male who is having pain in the left great toe since 5 years duration. For diagnosis, MRI and excisional biopsy were done. After excision of tumor, the complaints of the patient were relieved.

Ancient schwannoma in posterior triangle of neck: a rare tumor case report and literature review

Ancient Schwannoma is a rare variant of Schwannomas, a type of benign nerve sheath tumor arising from Schwann cells, hence giving it its name Schwannoma. The term ancient represents the tumor undergoing degenerative changes such as calcification, hyalinization, hemorrhage, cystic degeneration and necrosis and characteristically the loss of Antoni type A tissue. This case report describes a patient having an ancient schwannoma and the management done. Detailed management and findings starting from history and extending to USG, FNAC, CT scan, MRI and excisional biopsy have been described with positive findings supporting the diagnosis like presence of degenerative material in FNAC, peripheral enhancement on CT with the classical Target sign also visible on MRI. The following case reports helps to show how to connect the dots of different findings that may start from the patient’s basic history to eventual confirmation by biopsy.