Preoperative Diagnosis Of Malignancy Research Articles

O182: Tag localisation vs wire localisation: which is the more effective technique for localising non palpable breast lesions?

Abstract Introduction Following the expansion of breast screening programmes, non-palpable lesions comprise a challenge for accurate localisation. Placement of wires has been the historic gold standard of care. We aimed to compare wire-guided localisation (WGL) to radiofrequency identification system (RFID) LOCalizer(Hologic) with regards to resection margins and complications. Methods Data was collected retrospectively on patients who underwent breast conserving surgery for malignancy following localisation with LOCalizer RFID system or wire, in Beaumont Breast Centre, from January 2018 to March 2023. Lesion type, size, specimen weight, resection margins and complications were recorded and analysed. Results 690 were included in the study. 391 (57%) had a pre-operative diagnosis of malignancy: 88 in RFID tag guided localisation (TGL), 129 in mammogram wire guided localisation (MG-WGL) and 174 in ultrasound (US-WGL). The remaining had therapeutic excisional biopsy in which 18 (6%) were upgraded to in situ or invasive. Positive surgical margins were; US-WGL was 24% (43), MG-WGL was 23% (34) and TGL was 12% (11). Average tumour size was: 20.3mm US-WGL, 13.0mm MG-WGL, 18.3mm TGL. Average specimen weight for malignant cases were 33.8g US-WGL, 43.5g MG-WGL and 40.7g TGL. No significant complications were recorded in either group, however, a second localisation procedure was required for 14 patients in the TGL group and 10 patients in the WGL group. Conclusion TGL is a safe and effective alternative technique which allows greater flexibility in scheduling and increased efficiency. It has a learning curve which accounts for the slightly higher complication rate identified.

Thyroglobulin is a poor predictor of differentiated thyroid cancer in patients who undergo surgery for thyroid nodular diseases.

Thyroglobulin, produced exclusively by thyroid follicular cells, serves as a specific tumor marker for the follow-up of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) patients after thyroidectomy. However, its role as a predictor of malignancy in patients with thyroid nodules is controversial. We assessed the potential role of preoperative serum thyroglobulin concentration to predict DTC in patients without a preoperative diagnosis of malignancy who underwent partial or total thyroidectomy. This retrospective study included patients with a preoperative diagnosis of benign multinodular goiter (MNG) or a thyroid nodule with indeterminate cytology (INC) (Bethesda system categories III/IV) who underwent partial or total thyroidectomy between January 2014 and May 2019. We compared the patients' demographic, clinical, imaging, and biochemical data according to their final diagnosis: DTC or benign thyroid nodular disease. Further statistical analysis included odds ratio calculation and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Of 131 patients who met inclusion and exclusion criteria, the indication for surgery was benign MNG in 69 patients and a thyroid nodule with INC in 62 patients. A final diagnosis of DTC was reported in 18 of the 69 benign MNG patients (26%) and in 30 of the 62 thyroid nodule with INC patients (48%). The preoperative measurements of nodule diameter and serum thyroid-stimulating hormone and thyroglobulin concentrations did not significantly differ between patients with a final diagnosis of DTC and those with benign histology. Preoperative serum thyroglobulin alone is insufficient to differentiate between malignant and benign thyroid nodular disease.

The role of diffusion-weighted imaging in the evaluation of adnexal lesions.

PurposeMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been used as a problem-solving tool in the diagnosis of adnexal lesions. Both benign and malignant ovarian masses can present as complex adnexal lesions. Preoperative diagnosis of malignancy is essential for planning the surgical approach and appropriate treatment regimen. The aim of our study was to determine the role of diffusion-weighted MRI (DWI) in differentiating benign from malignant adnexal lesions.Material and methodsFifty-five patients (constituting 67 lesions) referred to MRI for evaluation of adnexal lesions were studied using 1.5 T MRI. The signal on DWI (qualitative) and ADC values (quantitative DWI) of the solid and cystic components of the lesions were analysed separately. Chi-square test, cross tabulation, and ROC curves were used to determine features on DWI that could distinguish benign from malignant lesions.ResultsOf the 67 lesions, 50 were benign and 17 were malignant. There was a significant association of hyperintense signal of solid components on T2W and DWI with malignancy, with a p-value of 0.003 and 0.001, respectively. Benign lesions showed hypointense signal on T2W and DWI. ADC values of the solid components could not distinguish benign from malignant lesions; p = 0.290. The signal intensity and ADC values of the cystic fluid in benign and malignant lesions showed a significant overlap.ConclusionsQualitative DWI acts as an adjunct to conventional MRI in differentiating benign from malignant adnexal lesions showing solid/mixed morphology. It plays no role in distinguishing lesions based on their cystic components. ADC values play no role in differentiating benign from malignant adnexal lesions irrespective of lesion morphology.

Is Histopathological Evaluation of Hernia Sacs Necessary?

Our aim was to investigate the pathologies in the hernia sac in adults, and the frequency of malignancy as well as to confirm the necessity of maintaining the current applications in histological examination of the hernia sac. Patients who were operated for hernia in our clinic from 2013 to 2019 were included in the study. Patient data were evaluated retrospectively. We divided the patients into four groups, according to the type of hernia. We evaluated the demographic characteristics of the patients, the pathologies within the hernia sac, histopathological examination outcomes of the hernia sac and clinical features of malignancy in patients with malignancy. A total number of 556 adult patients underwent inguinal, femoral, umbilical or incisional hernia repair in our hospital. Nine patients (0.61%) had malignancy in the hernia sac. Three out of nine patients (33%) had no preoperative diagnosis of malignancy. Six patients (67%) had a known history of malignancy. Two tumors were located in the inguinal (22.0%), six tumors in the incisional (67%), and one in the umbilical (11%) hernia sacs. Among these, 56% were of gastrointestinal, 22% of gynecological, 11% of breast and 11% of epididymis origin. Most of the other pathologies found in the hernia sac were herniated bowel segments, lipomas and omentum. Since the hernia sac might be the first clue for an underlying cancer, if abnormal pathological findings are detected during surgery, histopathological examination should be performed to exclude malignancy. The purpose of histological examination is to detect a hidden malignancy.

Predicting Patients Found to Have Malignancy at Nipple Duct Surgery

Introduction: The unexpected diagnosis of breast cancer following total duct excision is distressing for patients. Despite advances in radiology and the description of suspicious nipple discharge, pre-operative diagnosis of malignancy still evades us. The aim of this study was to review the pathological findings of total duct excision and microdochectomy with reference to pre-operative symptoms, ultrasound, or mammographic findings and identify features associated with increased likelihood of malignant disease. Methods: Data were collected retrospectively of all patients who underwent total duct excision surgery in a single centre (2011–2017). Pre-operative demographics, symptoms, and imaging findings were recorded and correlated with subsequent pathology. Results: 214 patients underwent total duct excision; data were available for 211. Median age was 53 years. 175/211 (82.9%) patients had benign pathology (duct ectasia, papilloma without atypia, fibrocystic change) on final histological examination, 21/211 (10%) had “risk” lesions (papilloma with atypia, atypical ductal hyperplasia), and 15/211 (7.1%) had malignancy (ductal carcinoma in situ). Of the 15 patients with malignant lesions, 6/15 (40%) had normal imaging (M1, U1). 71/211 (33.6%) had normal imaging (M1, U1): 60/71 (84.5%) had benign disease, 5/71 (7%) had “risk” lesions, and 6/71 (8.5%) had malignant lesions. 83/211 (39.3%) patients presented with bloody discharge: 64/83 (77.1%) had benign pathology, 9/83 (10.8%) risk, and 10/83 (12%) malignancy. 38/211 (18%) patients presented with non-bloody discharge: 32/38 (84.2%) had benign disease, 4/38 (10.5%) risk, and 2/38 (5.3%) malignant lesions. ­Conclusion: Neither imaging nor presenting symptoms correlate with the likelihood of malignant disease being present at final pathology. Even with advances in pre-operative diagnosis, total duct excision remains an essential diagnostic and therapeutic procedure.

Asbestos exposure and malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis: a systematic review and the experience of the Apulia (southern Italy) mesothelioma register

BackgroundMalignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis (MMTVT) is a rare disease with a poor prognosis. The diagnosis and management of these lesions are often difficult for pathologists, surgeons, oncologists and occupational physicians. A preoperative diagnosis of malignancy is rarely made, and there is no established effective therapy except orchidectomy.MethodsA systematic literature review was conducted among the articles published in the English literature on primary MMTVT. Moreover four cases from the Apulia mesothelioma register are reported here.ResultsTwo hundred eighty-nine cases of MMTVT have been reported from 1943 to 2018. Overall asbestos exposure has been investigated only for 58% of all cases reported in this review, while in 41.8% this data are not available. Noteworthy is the fact that in many reports there is not an anamnestic reconstruction of any asbestos exposure. A history of direct occupational, environmental or familial asbestos exposure is found in 27.6% of the cases. The four cases from the Apulia mesothelioma register are all with ascertained occupational exposure to asbestos.ConclusionsThe true incidence of asbestos exposure in MMTVT is underestimated because of insufficient information reported in older literature. To establish a broad consensus on the causal relationship between asbestos and MMTVT in the scientific community its necessary to analyze the same variables in the epidemiological studies. In general it should be recommended that a positive history of exposure to asbestos or to asbestos–containing materials are at risk for the development of a MMTVT and should be monitored.

Serum pre-albumin, a novel indicator of risk of anastomotic leak in bowel anastomosis

Background: Various preoperative and intraoperative risk factors associated with anastomotic leak have been extensively analyzed. Albumin is considered as the gold standard preoperative marker of nutrition, but recently pre-albumin is found to be a better indicator of nutrition. The main aim of this study was to analyze the preoperative risk factors including pre-albumin to predict anastomotic leak following small and large bowel anastomsois.Methods: This was a prospective observational, quality improvement study in a cohort of 100 patients undergoing small and large bowel resection in the Division of Surgery at Christian Medical College, Vellore. Univariate and multivariate analysis was done to show the significant variables associated with anastomotic leak.Results: In present study, leak rate was 21% (21/100). In univariate analysis, 6 factors had significant association with anastomotic leak, age >45 years, ASA score of II, hemoglobin ≤9.0 gm/dl, serum albumin ≤3.0 gm/dl, serum pre-albumin ≤20 mg/dl and preoperative diagnosis of malignancy. Age >45 years, ASA score of II, serum pre-albumin ≤20 mg/dl and malignancy were found to be independent risk factors of anastomotic leak. In present study prelbumin, was found to be a better indicator of anastomotic leak when compared to albumin and it was statistically significant (p=0.002).Conclusions: Serum pre-albumin is superior to albumin as an acute marker of malnutrition and help us to identify those at risk of anastomotic leak and adequately build nutrition preoperatively and decrease the morbidity.

12: The impact of surgeon volume on perioperative adverse events in women undergoing minimally invasive hysterectomy for large uteri

To evaluate the impact of surgeon volume on perioperative adverse events in women undergoing minimally invasive hysterectomy (MIH) for uteri >250 grams. This is a retrospective cohort study of all women who underwent vaginal (VH), laparoscopic (TLH), laparoscopic-assisted vaginal (LAVH), or robotic-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy (RH) between January 2014 and July 2016 at a tertiary care referral center. Hysterectomy was performed for the following indications: fibroids, pelvic pain, abnormal uterine bleeding, and prolapse. Women were excluded if there was a preoperative diagnosis of malignancy. Patients were identified by Current Procedural Terminology codes and the system-wide electronic medical record was queried for demographic and perioperative data. Perioperative adverse events were defined a priori and classified using the Clavien-Dindo scale. Surgeon volume was defined as the mean number of MIH cases performed per month by each surgeon during the study period. Seven hundred sixty-three patients met inclusion criteria: 416 (54.5%) TLH, 196 (25.7%) RH, 90 (11.8%) TVH, and 61 (8%) LAVH. Mean (±SD) age was 47 ± 6 years, and body mass index (BMI) was 31.1 ± 7.4 kg/m2. Sixty-six surgeons performed MIH for uteri >250 grams during the study period. The mean monthly case volume was 16.4 ± 7.2 cases, and the median MIH volume was 23 cases (range: 1–147 cases). The mean uterine weight was 522.8 ± 322.7 grams. The rate of postoperative adverse events >Dindo grade 2 was 17.8% (95% CI = 15.2-20.7); 2.2% (95% CI = 1.4-3.6) were grade 3 and 0.5% (95% CI = 0.7-1.4) grade 4; there were no grade 5 adverse events. The overall rate of intraoperative adverse events was 4.2% (95% CI = 2.9-5.9). The rate of conversion to laparotomy was 5.5% (95% CI = 4.0-7.4). There was no difference in adverse event rates between the routes of MIH cases (25.6% vs. 17.5% vs. 18.0% vs. 14.8%, p = 0.2). Women who experienced any adverse event compared to those who did not were more likely to be of Hispanic, Asian or “other” ethnicity, had higher intraoperative blood loss (EBL) and longer operating case time. In a logistic regression model controlling for age, BMI, uterine weight, operating time, history of laparotomy and parity, higher monthly MIH volume remained significantly associated with adverse events (adjOR = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.0-1.3, p = 0.01), as did higher EBL (adjOR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.1-1.8, p = 0.006). When controlling for the same variables, higher monthly MIH case volume remained significantly associated with intraoperative complications (adjOR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.0-1.6, p = 0.02) as well as higher EBL (adjOR = 3.1, 95% CI = 2.0-4.9, p < 0.001). Conversion from a minimally invasive approach to laparotomy was not associated with monthly MIH case volume; however, conversion was associated with higher EBL (adjOR = 2.9, 95% CI = 1.8-4.9) and heavier uteri (adjOR = 9.7, 95% CI = 3.9-23). The overall rate of serious adverse events associated with MIH for uteri >250 grams was low. Higher EBL and longer operative times were associated with higher perioperative adverse event rates. Higher monthly MIH case volume was associated with a higher rate of intra- and postoperative adverse events but was not associated with conversion to laparotomy.

Patterns of Use and Short-Term Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Surgery for Malignant Pheochromocytoma: A Population-Level Study.

Malignant pheochromocytoma is rare, and there is a scarcity of data on the use of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for treatment. The aims of this study were to analyze patterns of use of MIS for malignant pheochromocytoma in the U.S. and compare short-term outcomes to those of open adrenalectomy. Patients with malignant pheochromocytoma undergoing MIS, including laparoscopy, robotic assisted, laparoscopy converted to open, or open adrenalectomy, were culled from the National Cancer Database, from 1998 to 2011. Data were examined using simple summary statistics, Χ2 and student's t tests, Mann-Whitney test, and logistic regression. A total of 36 MIS and 67 open adrenalectomies were identified in 2010-2011. No significant differences were observed between the two treatment groups in demographic characteristics or comorbidities. Preoperative diagnosis of malignancy was made in 52.8% of MIS and 48.5% of open patients (p=NS). MIS and open adrenalectomies did not differ with respect to lymph node metastases, vascular invasion, extra-adrenal-extension, and distant metastases (all p=NS). MIS tended to more often be used to perform partial adrenalectomy (38.9 vs. 20.4% open, p=0.061); surgical margins, 30-day readmission and mortality rates were similar to open adrenalectomy (all p=NS). Tumors removed via MIS were smaller (48.7 vs. 73.3 mm open, p=0.003) and associated with a shorter length of stay. A significant proportion of patients with malignant pheochromocytomas underwent MIS, with short-term outcomes which are comparable to those of open surgery. Further studies focused on long-term survival and recurrence are needed to assess the role of MIS in the management of these rare tumors.

Role of fine needle aspiration cytology in the preoperative diagnosis of malignancy in parotid and submandibular gland neoplasm

Objective: To evaluate the role of Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology in the preoperative diagnosis of malignancy in parotid and submandibular gland neoplasm. Methods: This cross sectional study on 50 cases was conducted in the Department of Otolaryngology and Head-Neck Surgery of Sir Salimullah Medical College Mitford Hospital and Dhaka Medical College Hospital from January’2009 to June 2010. Results: Fine needle aspiration cytology findings of our all 50 cases were compared with postoperative histopathological reports. Out of the 50 cases, in 36(72%) cases of benign neoplasm and 7(14%) cases of malignant neoplasm, pre-operative FNAC findings and post operative histopathological findings were same. In 7 cases, FNAC and post operative histopathological findings did not matched. These were 2 (4%) false positive and 5 (10%) false negative result.In our study sensitivity of FNAC for reporting malignancy was 58.33%, specificity to rule out malignancy was 94.73% and overall accuracy in detecting malignant tumour was 86%. Positive predictive value and negative value were 77.77% and 87.80% respectively. It can be concluded that fine needle aspiration cytology is a safe, cheap and useful preoperative diagnostic tool in the diagnosis of malignancy in parotid and submandibular gland, but as fine needle aspiration cytology partly depends on operator skill, it may give false negative and false positive result. Conclusion: FNAC is a useful preoperative diagnostic tool for malignant parotid and submandibular glands with high specificity and sensitivity. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjo.v19i2.17634 Bangladesh J Otorhinolaryngol 2013; 19(2): 110-118

Severe Duodenal Involvement in Familial Adenomatous Polyposis Treated by Pylorus-Preserving Pancreaticoduodenectomy

Pancreaticoduodenectomy is an alternative to pancreas-sparing duodenectomy for radical treatment of duodenal lesions. The aims of this study were to assess the results of pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy (PPPD) for severe duodenal polyposis in familial adenomatous polyposis in terms of morbidity, long-term influence on functional results, the recurrence rate of cancer or jejunal polyps, and survival. All patients operated on for a PPPD between 1992 and 2009 were included. Clinical data, endoscopic findings, and pathologic examinations were evaluated. A total of 19 patients underwent PPPD for severe duodenal polyposis (17 Spigelman IV, 1 Spigelman III, and 1 invasive carcinoma). Postoperative mortality was nil. The postoperative morbidity rate was 42%, including 4 pancreatic fistulae (21%) and 2 delayed gastric emptying (11%). Pathologic examination found 7 invasive carcinomas, of which only 1 was known before resection. One third of patients operated on without a preoperative diagnosis of malignancy already had an invasive duodenal carcinoma. After a mean follow-up of 58 months, 16 patients were alive. Thirteen patients underwent endoscopic follow-up, and new adenomas were found in 4 (31%). All were treated successfully during the same endoscopic procedure. PPPD did not modify the functional result after coloproctectomy. PPPD remains a safe and efficient therapeutic option for severe duodenal polyposis in familial adenomatous polyposis patients.

Are There Predictors Of Malignancy In Patients With Multinodular Goiter?

Introduction: Historically multinodular goiters (MNG) have been thought to be benign condition with a low risk of associated malignancy. However recent data has suggested that the incidence of cancer in MNG is similar to that of solitary thyroid nodules. Pre-operative diagnosis of malignancy is usually done through fine-needle aspiration (FNA). However, FNA has low predictive value in MNG, and the presence of multiple nodules can make it difficult to adequately evaluate the entire thyroid. Therefore, the purpose of this retrospective study is to identify risk factors for malignancy in patients with MNG. Methods: 1791consecutive patients underwent thyroid surgery at a single academic institution between May 1994 and December 2009. 838patientshada MNG, which we defined as 2 or more nodules on pre-operativeultrasound, and were considered to be the study population. The medical records of these patients were reviewed and then analyzed with statistical software (SPSS, Inc.). Results: A final pathologic diagnosis of malignancy was found in 260 of 838 (31%) of MNG patients. The cancer was in the largest nodule in only 37% (n=95) of cases. Of the 260 patients with malignancy, 113 (44%) had a foci of cancer <1 cm. Pre-operative FNA was performed on 204 patients with malignancy on final pathology, and malignancy was suspected or confirmed by FNA in only 60% (n=123). Of the 137 cancers not recognized pre-operatively, 61 (45%) were>1 cm in size. Risk factors for malignancy were younger age and male gender. Patients with malignant nodules also had smaller nodules, smaller thyroids, and fewer nodules than those patients with benign findings on pathology. Conclusions: Malignancy was present in nearly a third of patients with a MNG undergoing surgical intervention. Malignancy was usually not in the largest nodule, and was only identified pre-operatively in 60% of patients. Risk factors for malignancy included male gender, younger age, fewer nodules, smaller gland weight, and smaller nodule size. The low predictive value of FNA in our population suggests the need for a more comprehensive evaluation of patients with MNG including a risk factor analysis and FNA of more than just the dominant nodule. TableIntra-Abdominal Fat Predicts Longer Operative Time, but Neither BMI Nor Intra-Abdominal Fat Predict Blood Loss, Length of Stay, or Risk of Complications N % Female Mean Age Mean Gland Weight (gm) % 5+ Nodules Largest Nodule Size (cm) No Malignancy 578 83 53±0.6 50±2.8 42.6 3.05±0.09 Malignancy 260 72 47±0.9 31±2.5 20.9 2.32±0.09 P- Value <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 Open table in a new tab

Role of EUS-FNA-Based Cytology in the Diagnosis of Mucinous Pancreatic Cystic Lesions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Preoperative diagnosis of malignancy in pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) remains challenging. Most non-mucinous cystic lesions (NMCLs) are benign, but mucinous cystic lesions (MCLs) are more likely to be premalignant or malignant. The aim of this study was to assess the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative likelihood ratios (LRs) of EUS-FNA-based cytology in differentiating MCLs from non-mucinous PCLs. We conducted a comprehensive search of MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Cochrane, and "CINAHL Plus" databases to identify studies, in which the results of EUS-FNA-based cytology of PCLs were compared with those of surgical biopsy or surgical excision histopathology. A DerSimonian-Laird random effect model was used to estimate the pooled sensitivity, specificity, and LRs, and a summary receiver-operating characteristic (SROC) curve was constructed. We included 376 patients from 11 distinct studies who underwent EUS-FNA-based cytology and also had histopathological diagnosis. The pooled sensitivity and specificity in diagnosing MCLs were 0.63 (95% CI, 0.56-0.70) and 0.88 (95% CI, 0.83-0.93), respectively. The positive and negative LRs in diagnosing MCLs were 4.46 (95% CI, 1.21-16.43) and 0.46 (95% CI, 0.25-0.86), respectively. The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.89. EUS-FNA-based cytology has overall low sensitivity but good specificity in differentiating MCLs from NMCLs. Further research is required to improve the overall sensitivity of EUS-FNA-based cytology to diagnose MCLs while evaluating PCL.

Clinical and Cytological Features Predictive of Malignancy in Thyroid Follicular Neoplasms

The preoperative diagnosis of malignancy in nodules suspicious for a follicular neoplasm remains challenging. A number of clinical and cytological parameters have been previously studied; however, none have significantly impacted clinical practice. The aim of this study was to determine predictive characteristics of follicular neoplasms useful for clinical application. Four clinical (age, sex, nodule size, solitary nodule) and 17 cytological variables were retrospectively reviewed for 144 patients with a nodule suspicious for follicular neoplasm, diagnosed preoperatively by fine-needle aspiration (FNA), from a single institution over a 2-year period (January 2006 to December 2007). The FNAs were examined by a single, blinded pathologist and compared with final surgical pathology. Significance of clinical and cytological variables was determined by univariate analysis and backward stepwise logistic regression. Odds ratios (ORs) for malignancy, a receiver operating characteristic curve, and predicted probabilities of combined features were determined. There was an 11% incidence of malignancy (16/144). On univariate analysis, nodule size >OR=4.0 cm nears significance (p = 0.054) and 9 of 17 cytological features examined were significantly associated with malignancy. Three variables stay in the final model after performing backward stepwise selection in logistic regression: nodule size (OR = 0.25, p = 0.05), presence of a transgressing vessel (OR = 23, p < 0.0001), and nuclear grooves (OR = 4.3, p = 0.03). The predicted probability of malignancy was 88.4% with the presence of all three variables on preoperative FNA. When the two papillary carcinomas were excluded from the analysis, the presence of nuclear grooves was no longer significant, and anisokaryosis (OR = 12.74, p = 0.005) and presence of nucleolus (OR = 0.11, p = 0.04) were significantly associated with malignancy. Excluding the two papillary thyroid carcinomas, a nodule size >or=4 cm, with a transgressing vessel and anisokaryosis and lacking a nucleolus, has a predicted probability of malignancy of 96.5%. A combination of larger nodule size, transgressing vessels, and specific nuclear features are predictive of malignancy in patients with follicular neoplasms. These findings enhance our current limited predictive armamentarium and can be used to guide surgical decision making. Further study may result in the inclusion of these variables to the systematic evaluation of follicular neoplasms.

Clinical Presentation Can Predict Disease Course in Patients with Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm of the Pancreas

Preoperative diagnosis of malignancy within intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm of the pancreas (IPMN) solely by clinical or radiological findings is not always possible. We sought a correlation between preoperative clinico-radiological findings and outcome. A prospective database of pancreatic resections for IPMN (2002-2008) and a retrospective pathological revision of all pancreatic cancer specimens (1995-2001) were analyzed. The patients were grouped into asymptomatic with preoperative diagnosis of IPMN (group 1), symptomatic with a preoperative diagnosis of IPMN (group 2), and those with a preoperative diagnosis of pancreatic cancer whose specimen revealed a background of IPMN (group 3). The groups were compared for demographics, clinical presentation, pathological findings, and outcome. Of the 62 patients with IPMN, 19 were in group 1, 23 in group 2, and 20 in group 3. Their median age (range) was 65.6 (46-80), 67 (50-84), and 73.4 (57-86) years, respectively. The clinical presentation for groups 2 and 3 included abdominal pain (56% vs. 32 %), weight loss (8% vs. 52%), obstructive jaundice (4% vs. 57%), pancreatitis (22% and 5%), and new onset of diabetes (14% and 44%). Invasive cancer was found in one patient in group 1 (5.2%), two patients in group 2 (8.7%), and all patients in group 3. IPMN was present in 23 of 217 (10.6%) of all resected pancreatic cancer specimens. Five year survival for patients with invasive disease was 47% and 92% for patients with noninvasive disease (mean follow-up 37.6 months). Benign IPMN can usually be differentiated from adenocarcinoma preoperatively. The clinical presentation is highly indicative of disease course.

Perforated Gastric Cancer - A Rare Diagnosis for Abdominal Discomfort

Purpose: Introduction: Oncologic emergencies in patients with gastric cancer include perforation and major bleeding. These complications require emergency treatment and have a high mortality rate. The majority of patients are admitted with acute abdomen and preoperative diagnosis of perforated peptic ulcer (PPU). Case: A 65 year-old Hispanic man complaining of abdominal discomfort, pressure type, radiating to the back and distension for 2 weeks, was admitted for evaluation. Associated symptoms included nausea/vomiting and 10 pounds weight loss in 2 months. Patient had no significant past medical or social history and he denied use of medication, alcohol or tobacco. Physical examination and laboratorial tests were unremarkable. CT scan of the abdomen showed gastric distension, thickness of gastric wall in the antrum and free air adjacent to the liver. Endoscopy found a large ulcerated lesion with perforation in the antrum allowing visualization of peritoneal space. Multiple biopsies were collected and pathology results demonstrated signet ring cells adenocarcinoma. Subsequently, an endoscopic guided Duo-tube was placed for better nutritional support prior to surgery. Patient had no complications or pain from the procedure allowing delayed surgery. During the surgical procedure a large antral mass fixated to the retroperitoneum and pancreas was found. Diffuse studding of the peritoneum, mesentery and omentum were also visualized. A decision for palliative gastrojejunostomy was made. Discussion: Perforated gastric cancer (PGC) is a rare condition with a reported incidence of less than 1%. Preoperative diagnosis of malignancy is unusual, accounting for about 30% of cases. The only preoperative feature that could guide the surgeon towards a malignancy condition in this case was the age of the patient (65 y/o for carcinoma versus 51 y/o for PPU). Conclusion: 1) The lack of major signs and symptoms cannot exclude rare and life-threatening diagnosis; 2) Even with the suspicion of gastric perforation, a detailed and careful endoscopic evaluation in this case contributed for accurate diagnosis and patient's preparation for optimal surgical planning.Figure

Outcome predictors and impact of central node dissection and radiometabolic treatments in papillary thyroid cancers ≤2 cm

The incidence of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is rapidly growing, the recorded increase being mainly related to tumors < or =2 cm. The re-classification of tumors >1 and < or =2 cm limited to the thyroid from the T2 to the T1 category triggered some concerns about their best management. In order to identify possible predictors of disease outcome, several clinico-pathological features were analyzed by uni- and multivariate analyses in a retrospective consecutive series of 251 PTCs < or =2 cm. Moreover, since 37% of cases were submitted to prophylactic central compartment node dissection (CLND, VI-VII levels) and radioiodine ablation was performed only when the tumor had an extrathyroidal extension, the impact of these therapeutic tools on the final outcome was evaluated. Among all outcome predictors analyzed, only lymph node metastases and extracapsular invasion were strongly associated with persistence/recurrence. It is worth noting that neither age nor tumor size was a significant indicator of the outcome. Interestingly, as far as the therapeutic interventions are concerned, CLND was strongly associated with remission, whereas radioiodine ablation did not influence the outcome. In conclusion, present results confirm the prognostic influence of node metastases and extra-thyroidal invasion, indicating the need for aggressive treatment in tumors extending beyond the capsule. On the contrary, all pT1N0 tumors, regardless of the diameter, the number of intrathyroidal foci, and the age can be effectively treated only by surgery. The major impact of prophylactic CLND on prognosis suggests to routinely associate it to total thyroidectomy in cases with a preoperative diagnosis of malignancy.

Xanthogranulomatous Inflammatory Strictures of Extrahepatic Biliary Tract: Presentation and Surgical Management

BackgroundXanthogranulomatous cholecystitis (XGC) is a benign, invasive variant of chronic cholecystitis. Invasion of common bile duct (CBD), termed as xanthogranulomatous choledochitis, may mimic malignancy. We describe clinico-pathological features and management of xanthogranulomatous inflammatory biliary strictures. MethodsA review of a prospectively maintained database for XGC was performed. ResultsOut of 6,150 cholecystectomies performed, 620 patients had XGC (10% incidence). Four patients had biliary strictures with xanthogranulomatous choledochitis on final histology. All four patients presented with jaundice and history of cholangitis. Ultrasonography revealed gallstones and thick-walled gallbladder in all. Two patients had hilar strictures: one had mid-CBD stricture and one had a lower-CBD stricture with a dilated pancreatic duct. In all four patients, preoperative diagnosis of malignancy was entertained. Three patients underwent resection—CBD excision for mid-CBD stricture, pancreaticoduodenectomy for lower-end stricture, and right hepatectomy for hilar stricture with atrophy-hypertrophy complex. One patient with unresectable hilar stricture underwent hepaticojejunostomy. ConclusionXanthogranulomatous choledochitis may be considered as one of the differential diagnosis in patients with biliary stricture especially in a geographical area with a high incidence of XGC, when a patient harbors gall stones and had thick-walled gall bladder on imaging. This stricture can be found anywhere in the biliary tree from hepatic hilum to the lower end. However, preoperative imaging and cytology are unreliable both in confirming the diagnosis or ruling out malignancy. Therefore, resection of the stricture should be attempted wherever feasible.

Intestinal obstruction secondary to endometriosis: A rare case of synchronous bowel localization

Although endometriosis is a common disease in women of childbearing age, intestinal endometriosis is unusual and may cause clinically significant complications. We report a 35-year-old woman with endometriosis involving the ileocaecal junction and rectum who presented with intestinal obstruction. She was operated with a preoperative diagnosis of malignancy. The diagnosis of endometriosis was made only after histological examination of the resected specimen. Intestinal endometriosis has a diverse clinical spectrum, with nonspecific features in many patients. In female patients who have unexplained digestive complaints, endometriosis should also be considered in the differential diagnosis.

Contribution of SLN investigation with 99mTc-nanocolloid in clinical staging of thyroid cancer: technical feasibility

It is a matter of controversy whether prophylactic lymph node dissection improves prognosis and survival in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) patients without suspicion of lymph node metastases either clinically or on ultrasonography. It is possible that in such patients the use of lymphatic mapping and sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy, as are employed for other tumours, will be of assistance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of preoperative 99mTc-nanocolloid lymphoscintigraphy and an intra-operative SLN procedure in the management of PTC patients. Twenty-five consecutive patients were entered in the study between April 2005 and October 2005. All had a preoperative diagnosis of malignancy obtained by fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC), without clinical or ultrasonographic evidence of loco-regional lymph node involvement. Patients underwent preoperative lymphoscintigraphy after the injection of 99mTc-nanocolloid [median 6 MBq (range 4-9 MBq) in 0.1-0.2 ml saline injected intratumorally under ultrasound guidance] and an intra-operative SLN procedure using a hand-held gamma probe. Surgery was performed by the same surgeon in all patients. Preoperative lymphoscintigraphy identified at least one SLN in all patients. During surgery, using the gamma probe, the surgeon was able to find at least one SLN in all cases. A good correlation was found between preoperative imaging and probe results. Metastasis was found in at least one SLN in 12 (48%) patients. In seven (28%) patients the involved SLN was the most radioactive SLN, while in five (20%) patients a less radioactive SLN was involved by malignancy. Ten of these 12 patients had only micrometastases (<2 mm). Micrometastases were found in the most radioactive SLN in six cases and in less radioactive SLNs in four cases, while in two patients more lymph nodes visualised at lymphoscintigraphy ipsilateral to the primary tumour were sites of metastasis. The rate of nodal involvement was very high in our series: in 48% of patients at least one metastatic lymph node was found. From a technical point of view the intra-operative SLN procedure in PTC patients was easy to perform, without major intra-operative complications. Our promising preliminary experience needs to be confirmed in larger series of patients series with longer follow-up.