Small Nodules Research Articles

Risk of Lung Cancer in Peripheral Pulmonary Nodules

PurposeTo determine the risk of lung cancer and inter-observer agreement for small pulmonary nodules either touching or near the pleura. MethodsNodules were derived from two cohorts: patients from the National Lung Screening Trial with a solid nodule measuring 6-9.5 mm; and patients with incidental pulmonary nodules in our healthcare system with a solid nodule measuring 1-8 mm. Only the dominant nodule was evaluated for each patient. All malignant nodules as well as a random sample of 200 benign nodules from each cohort were included. Two fellowship-trained thoracic radiologists independently reviewed each case to record nodule morphology (compatible with lymph node or not) and nodule location (pleural-based, septal connection to the pleura, or neither). One radiologist measured the distance to the pleura. ResultsAfter exclusion criteria were applied, a total of 434 nodules were included, of which 45 were lung cancers. Considering all pleural-based nodules with lymph node morphology as benign, 0-7% of cancers were misclassified as benign, specificity 33%, and κ = 0.69. Considering subpleural nodules and those with septal connection to the pleura, 7-11% of cancers were misclassified (p=0.16-0.25 versus pleural-based), specificity 40-52% (p<.0001), and κ = 0.60. Considering nodules with lymph node morphology ≤ 2 mm from the pleura, 2-7% of cancers were misclassified (p=1 versus pleural-based), specificity 41-36% (p<.0001), and κ = 0.78. ConclusionConsidering nodules with lymph node morphology with septal connection, or those ≤ 2 mm from the pleura, as benign does not lead to significant misclassification of lung cancers as benign.

Three-dimensional reconstruction computed tomography in thoracoscopic segmentectomy: a randomized controlled trial.

Thoracoscopic segmentectomy is the recommended treatment option for small peripheral pulmonary nodules. To assess the ability of preoperative three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction computed tomography (CT) to shorten the operative time and improve perioperative outcomes in thoracoscopic segmentectomy compared with standard chest CT, we conducted this randomized controlled trial. The DRIVATS study was a multicentre, randomized controlled trial conducted in 3 hospitals between July 2019 and November 2023. Patients with small peripheral pulmonary nodules not reaching segment borders were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either 3D reconstruction CT or standard chest CT before thoracoscopic segmentectomy. The primary end-point was operative time. The secondary end-points included incidence of postoperative complications, intraoperative blood loss and operative accident event. A total of 191 patients were enrolled in this study: 95 in the 3D reconstruction CT group and 96 in the standard chest CT group. All patients underwent thoracoscopic segmentectomy except for 1 patient in the standard chest CT group who received a wedge resection. There is no significant difference in operative time between the 3D reconstruction CT group (median, 100 min [interquartile range (IQR), 85-120]) and the standard chest CT group (median, 100 min [IQR, 81-140]) (P = 0.82). Only 1 intraoperative complication occurred in the standard chest CT group. No significant difference was observed in the incidence of postoperative complications between the 2 groups (P = 0.52). Other perioperative outcomes were also similar. In patients with small peripheral pulmonary nodules not reaching segment borders, the use of 3D reconstruction CT in thoracoscopic segmentectomy was feasible, but it did not result in significant differences in operative time or perioperative outcomes compared to standard chest CT.

First-in-human use of a new robotic electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopic platform with integrated Tool-in-Lesion Tomosynthesis (TiLT) technology for peripheral pulmonary lesions: The FRONTIER study.

As the presentation of pulmonary nodules increases, the importance of a safe and accurate method of sampling peripheral pulmonary nodules is highlighted. First-generation robotic bronchoscopy has successfully assisted navigation and improved peripheral reach during bronchoscopy. Integrating tool-in-lesion tomosynthesis (TiLT) may further improve yield. We performed a first-in-human clinical trial of a new robotic electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy system with integrated digital tomosynthesis technology (Galaxy System, Noah Medical). Patients with moderate-risk peripheral pulmonary nodules were enrolled in the study. Robotic bronchoscopy was performed using electromagnetic navigation with TiLT-assisted lesion guidance. Non-specific results were followed up until either a clear diagnosis was achieved or repeat radiology at 6 months demonstrated stability. Eighteen patients (19 nodules) were enrolled. The average lesion size was 20 mm, and the average distance from the pleura was 11.6 mm. The target was successfully reached in 100% of nodules, and the biopsy tool was visualized inside the target lesion in all cases. A confirmed specific diagnosis was achieved in 17 nodules, 13 of which were malignant. In one patient, radiological monitoring confirmed a true non-malignant result. This translates to a yield of 89.5% (strict) to 94.7% (intermediate). Complications included one pneumothorax requiring observation only and another requiring an overnight chest drain. There was one case of severe pneumonia following the procedure. In this first-in-human study, second-generation robotic bronchoscopy using electromagnetic navigation combined with integrated digital tomosynthesis was feasible with an acceptable safety profile and demonstrated a high diagnostic yield for small peripheral lung nodules.

Characterizing the accuracy of robotic bronchoscopy in localization & targeting of small pulmonary lesions.

Considering the recent implementation of lung cancer screening guidelines, it is crucial that small pulmonary nodules are accurately diagnosed. There is a significant need for quick, precise, and minimally invasive biopsy methods, especially for patients with small lung lesions in the outer periphery. Robotic bronchoscopy (RB) has recently emerged as a novel solution. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of RB compared to the existing standard, electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy (EM-NB). A prospective, single-blinded, and randomized-controlled study was performed to compare the accuracy of RB to EM-NB in localizing and targeting pulmonary lesions in a porcine lung model. Four operators were tasked with navigating to four pulmonary targets in the outer periphery of a porcine lung, to which they were blinded, using both the RB and EM-NB systems. The dependent variable was accuracy. Accuracy was measured as a rate of success in lesion localization and targeting, the distance from the center of the pulmonary target, and by anatomic location. The independent variable was the navigation system, RB was compared to EM-NB using 1:1 randomization. Of 75 attempts, 72 were successful in lesion localization and 60 were successful in lesion targeting. The success rate for lesion localization was 100% with RB and 91% with EM- NB. The success rate for lesion targeting was 93% with RB and 80% for EM-NB. RB demonstrated superior accuracy in reaching the distance from the center of the lesion, at 0.62mm compared to EM-NB at 1.28mm (p = 0.001). Accuracy was improved using RB compared to EM- NB for lesions in the LLL (p = 0.025), LUL (p < 0.001), and RUL (p < 0.001). Our findings support RB as a more accurate method of navigating and localizing small peripheral pulmonary targets when compared to standard EM-NB in a porcine lung model. This may be attributed to the ability of RB to reduce substantial tissue displacement seen with standard EM-NB navigation. As the development and application of RB advances, so will the ability to accurately diagnose small peripheral lung cancer nodules, providing patients with early-stage lung cancer the best possible outcomes.

Double CYP11B1/CYP11B2 Immunohistochemistry and Detection of KCNJ5 Mutations in Primary Aldosteronism.

The search for somatic mutations in adrenals resected from patients with primary aldosteronism (PA) is performed by Sanger sequencing, often implemented with immunohistochemistry (IHC)-guidance focused on aldosterone-producing (CYP11B2-positive) areas. To investigate the impact of double IHC for CYP11B1 and CYP11B2 on Sanger and next-generation sequencing (NGS). We investigated 127 consecutive adrenal aldosterone-producing adenomas from consenting surgically cured PA patients using double IHC for CYP11B1 and CYP11B2, by Sanger sequencing and NGS. Double IHC for CYP11B2 and CYP11B1 revealed 3 distinct patterns: CYP11B2-positive adenoma (pattern 1), mixed CYP11B1/CYP11B2-positive adenoma (pattern 2), and adrenals with multiple small CYP11B2-positive nodules (pattern 3). Sanger sequencing allowed detection of KCNJ5 mutations in 44% of the adrenals; NGS revealed such mutations in 10% of those negative at Sanger and additional mutations in 61% of the cases. Importantly the rate of KCNJ5 mutations differed across patterns: 17.8% in pattern 1, 71.4% in pattern 2, and 10.7% in pattern 3 (χ2 = 22.492, P < .001). NGS allowed detection of mutations in many adrenals that tested negative at Sanger sequencing. Moreover, the different distribution of KCNJ5 mutations across IHC patterns indicates that IHC-guided sequencing protocols selecting CYP11B2-positive areas could furnish results that might not be representative of the entire mutational status of the excised adrenal, which is important at a time when KCNJ5 mutations are suggested to drive management of patients with aldosterone-producing adenomas.

Nontraumatic intraoperative pulmonary nodule localization with laser guide stamping in a hybrid operating room.

Lung nodule localization using conventional image-guided video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery involves lung puncture, which increases the risk of needle-related complications. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of a single-stage non-invasive laser-guided stamping localization technique followed by resection under general anesthesia in a hybrid operating room. We retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients who underwent thoracoscopic surgery for small pulmonary nodules using laser-guided dye-stamping localization methods in a hybrid operating room between June 2023 and October 2023. During the study period, 18 patients with 20 lesions underwent single-stage intraoperative image-guided stamping video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery in the hybrid operating room. The median size of the nodules was 7.4 mm (interquartile range [IQR] 5.7-9.8 mm), and median distance from the pleural surface was 9.8 mm (IQR 7.7-14.6 mm). The median localization time was 26 min (IQR 23-34 min), whereas median operation time was 69 min (IQR 62-87 min). The total median operating room time was 146 min (IQR 136-157 min). Twelve patients underwent less than two cone-beam computed tomography scans, while 6 underwent more than two scans. The total median dose area product, including cone-beam computed tomography scans, was 5731.4 uGym2. No localization-related complications were observed, and the postoperative length of stay was 1 day (IQR 1-2 days). The single-stage image-guided pleural stamping technique for localizing small pulmonary nodules in a hybrid operating room is feasible and safe. Future research with larger cohorts is required to further explore the benefits of this workflow.

Proficiency in performing radiofrequency ablation procedure for non-functioning benign thyroid nodules: a qualitative rather than quantitative matter.

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an emerging non-surgical treatment for benign thyroid nodules (BTN). Despite its proven safety profile, data on the learning curve (LC) required to achieve proficiency are still lacking. The first 179 RFA procedures performed by a single operator in patients with non-functioning BTN were retrospectively analyzed. Six-month nodule volume reduction rate (VRR) ≥ 50% was regarded as reflection of proficiency. Multiple linear regression analysis has been performed to determine the relationship between the VRR and clinical variables. Cumulative sum (CUSUM) charts were plotted to assess LCs for all consecutive procedures and in relation to basal nodule size. In details, Group 1 (G1): 57 patients with small nodules (<10 ml); Group 2 (G2): 87 patients with intermediate nodules (10 - 25 ml); Group 3 (G3): 35 patients with large size (> 25 ml). LC of all 179 procedures showed 3 phases: initial learning (1-39 procedures); consolidation (40-145 procedures); and experienced period (146-179 procedures). For G1 and G2 proficiency is achieved starting from the 10th procedure within the group (or 37th considering consecutively all procedures) and from the 59th procedure within the group (or 116th considering consecutively all procedures), respectively. LC of G3 did not detect operator proficiency. Specific LCs exist concerning the basal size of the nodule treated with RFA. In nodules with baseline volume > 25 ml suboptimal VRR has to be expected. Previously achieved experience on small-intermediate nodules does not seem to provide advantages in terms of higher VRR in the treatment of large nodules. Other potential and non-modifiable factors likely play a key role in the final volume reduction independently from the increased skill of the operator.

Feasibility of endoscopic techniques in assessing the radicality of chemoradiotherapy in patients with rectal cancer

Introduction. The standard of treatment of rectal cancer is a combined or complex technique in the form of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT) followed by surgery or observation, with proven radicalization of CRT. Currently, the most adequate methods of evaluating the results of CRT are endoscopic diagnostics. The most reliable visual criteria for endoscopic examination of absence or presence of residual tumor are: complete response (flat white scar, telangiectasia), partially complete response (uneven mucosa, small nodules on mucosa, superficial ulceration, slight persistent erythema of scar) and incomplete response (visible tumor).Aim. The study is to assess sensitivity and specificity of endoscopic method in assessment of radicality of neoadjuvant CRT in patients with rectal cancer.Materials and methods. A retrospective study of 75 patients with verified rectal cancer after CRT was carried out. Inclusion criteria: histologically verified rectal cancer (adenocarcinoma); endoscopic picture of clinical response of rectal cancer to CRT; absence of established distant metastases at the moment of examination. Exclusion criteria: morphological types of tumors other than adenocarcinoma of the colorectal type; patients with primary-multiple diseases.Results. A retrospective study was conducted in 75 patients with a verified diagnosis of rectal cancer who underwent CRT at the first stage of treatment. All patients underwent endoscopic examination with evaluation of the degree of tumor regression, taking material for cytological and histological examination. In 57 (76,4 %) out of 75 patients on the basis of visual endoscopic picture the absence of residual tumor was stated, in 18 patients visual endoscopic signs were considered as presence of residual tumor. The results of morphological study in the first group of patients confirmed the absence of tumor in 51 cases (92.7 %). In the second group, in the presence of visual signs of residual tumor, morphological confirmation was obtained in 14 out of 18 patients (77.8 %). Morphological verification of residual tumor was obtained in 26.6 % of patients in the total group.Conclusion. Endoscopic and histologic data can be decisive in the evaluation of the degree of radicality of neoadjuvant CRT.

Unraveling marine phosphogenesis along the Miocene coast of Peru: Origin and sedimentological significance of the Pisco Formation phosphorites

Phosphorite deposits form through phosphogenesis, a mechanism of diffusion and concentration of interstitial phosphate in sediments leading to Ca-phosphate mineral precipitation in a favorable sedimentary regime at the seafloor. Stretching along the Peruvian coast, the East Pisco Basin is known to host phosphorite beds of Miocene age. In this study, we investigate the petrographic, mineralogical and chemical composition of the Miocene phosphorite layers of the East Pisco Basin, and discuss the phosphogenetic mechanism(s) and sedimentary dynamics that led to the genesis and accumulation of P-rich deposits. Phosphorite samples were collected from layers overlaying stratigraphic unconformities within the Pisco Formation and subsequently analyzed through multiple methods: optical microscopy, XRD, XRF, SEM-EDS, EPMA, ICP-MS and LA-ICP-MS. Our results indicate that these layers consist of phosphatic clasts and nodules along with dolomite clasts, basement boulders, shark teeth, mollusk molds and vertebrate bone fragments. The P-rich clasts are mainly composed of phosphatic intraclasts and small phosphatic nodules. They occur associated with minor amounts of dolomite clasts coated by Fe-oxyhydroxides and laminites. Clasts and nodules are cemented by both early and late diagenetic cements, such as dolomite, calcite, silica, gypsum/anhydrite and baryte. Our observations suggest that the Pisco phosphorite deposits are transgressive lags laying on ravinement surfaces. They formed just below the sediment-water boundary during the early transgression phases, when the porewaters were enriched in phosphorus due to the abundance of organic-rich sediments and the microbial activity, as typical of upwelling settings. These deposits formed in shallow marine conditions, characterized by high biological productivity and low net sedimentation rates, with suboxic conditions at and beneath the sediment-water interface. The concentration of phosphate-coated clasts was then favored by a sedimentary condensation mechanism of dynamic bypassing. Overall, this study provides new insights into the genesis of phosphorite layers in the East Pisco Basin and highlights the importance of understanding the complex interplay between authigenic and sedimentological processes in the formation of these economically and geologically relevant sedimentary rocks.

Mutational Characteristics and Clinical Outcomes for Lung Adenocarcinoma With EGFR Germline Mutations

IntroductionGermline mutations driving lung cancer have been infrequently reported in the literature, with EGFR T790M being a known germline mutation identified in 1% of NSCLCs. Typically, a somatic EGFR mutation is acquired to develop lung adenocarcinoma. Osimertinib has become a standard-of-care treatment for EGFR T790M-positive lung cancer. MethodsWe perform a retrospective analysis through the Lung Cancer Moon Shot GEMINI database at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Of the patients that underwent cell-free DNA analysis, germline mutations were identified by those with high variant allelic fraction approximating 50%, followed by further confirmation on genetic testing. ResultsWe identified 22 patients with germline EGFR mutations, with the majority harboring an EGFR T790M mutation (95.5%) and an EGFR L858R somatic mutation (50%). Notably, most patients were female (86.4%), non-smokers (81.8%), white (86.4%), had a family history of lung cancer (59.1%), and stage IV at diagnosis (72.7%). A distinct radiographic pattern of small multifocal ground-glass pulmonary nodules was observed in the majority of our cohort (72.7%).Among the 18 with advanced-stage NSCLC, 12 patients (66.7%) were treated with first-line osimertinib, demonstrating a median progression-free survival (PFS) of 16.9 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.3–not reached [NR]). Others were treated with first-line afatinib (11.1%) or chemotherapy (22.2%). Among the 17 patients treated with osimertinib (in first or second-line), median PFS was 20.4 months (95% CI: 6.3–NR) and median overall survival was 82.0 months (95% CI: 28.4–NR). ConclusionsBased on our institutional cohort, NSCLC driven by EGFR germline mutations occurs more frequently in non-smoking, white females with multi-focal pulmonary nodules radiographically. Osimertinib for advanced germline EGFR-mutated NSCLC renders similar PFS compared to somatic T790M EGFR-mutated NSCLC.

Papillary thyroid carcinoma: ≤ 10mm does not always mean pN0. A multicentric real-world study.

The incidence of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is increasing and PTC ≤ 10mm (PTMC) accounts for most new diagnoses. PTMCs are not always low risk, as detection of lymph nodes metastasis (LNM) may occur. The purpose of the study was to analyze the clinical pattern, frequency, and independent risk factors of patients with PTMC and LNM. From January 2022 to June 2023, PTCs managed at CTO Hospital, Rome; Policlinico Vanvitelli, Naples; and Garibaldi Nesima Hospital, Catania were included. PTC management followed the same diagnostic-therapeutic procedures according to the ATA guidelines. Variables such as age, sex, maximum diameter, histologic evidence of LNM (HELNM +), Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT), multifocality, capsule invasion, and histological subtype were considered. PTCs were divided according to HELNM and size. Two hundred ninety-eight PTCs were included. PTMCs were 136 (45.6%) and LNM occurred in 27.2% of them. In the HELNM + group, analysis of PTMC vs 'MacroPTC' (PTC > 10mm) did not show any statistical difference. Multivariate regression revealed that young age (OR 0.93; CI 95% 0.90-0.96; p < 0.01) and male sex (male OR 3.44; CI 95% 1.16-10.20; p = 0.03) were the only independent risk factors for HELNM + in PTMC. The risk of LNM in PTMC is not negligible; therefore, a careful evaluation by an expert thyroidologist is mandatory for patients with small thyroid nodule, especially in younger and male patients before excluding surgery. In the future, new tools are needed to detect early PTMC with LNM before surgery.

China Anti-Cancer Association Guidelines for the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of thymic epithelial tumors (2023).

Thymic epithelial tumors (TETs) are a relatively rare type of thoracic tumors with higher incidence in Asians. The diagnosis and treatment pattern has long been based mainly on clinical experience and expert consensus. In recent years, with an increasing number of TETs detected in physical examinations, there is an urgent need to develop the guidelines that apply to the Chinese population. Thus, we intend to develop a holistic integrative guideline for TETs. Under the leadership of the Chinese Anti-Cancer Association (CACA) Mediastinal Tumor Committee, a multidisciplinary guideline development group was established. Systemic literature review and two rounds of questionnaires regarding key clinical issues were carried out. The grading of recommendations assessment, development and evaluation (GRADE) approach was used to rate the quality of evidence and the strength of recommendations. The CACA guideline provides recommendations for the clinical differential diagnosis of anterior mediastinal lesions, management of asymptomatic small anterior mediastinal nodules, pathological classification and staging systems of TETs, as well as principles of surgery, neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies, systemic therapies for advanced TETs, and follow-up strategies after surgical resection. This guideline provides holistic integrative management strategies for TETs and would be a useful tool for clinicians on decision-making.

Solitary pulmonary capillary hemangioma – An underrecognized rare tumor. Report of 32 new cases with literature review

ObjectiveTo explore the clinical, imaging, pathologic characteristics and differential diagnosis of solitary pulmonary capillary hemangioma (SPCH). MethodsThirty two cases of SPCH were collected and studied, with literature review. ResultsThis study included 13 males and 19 females, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1.5. The age ranged from 26 to 70 years (median age of 43 years). All patients were asymptomatic at presentation. Lung nodules were incidentally discovered during chest computed tomography (CT). Imaging features included 21 cases with partial solid nodules (PSN), 7 cases with ground-glass nodules (GGN), and 4 cases with solid nodules (SN). Eleven cases were in the left lung lower basal segment, 11 cases in the right lung lower basal segment, 6 cases in the right lung upper anterior segment, and 4 cases in the right lung middle lateral segment. The lower basal segments of the lungs were involved in 22 (11 in each lung) cases (22/32, 68 %). The tumors ranged from 6 to 18 mm (average 10 mm). Macroscopically, 16 cases had clear boundaries, while 16 cases had unclear boundaries, and gray-red or dark brown on cut surfaces. Intraoperative frozen section was performed in 27 cases, with diagnosis of SPCH in 12 and pneumonia or inflammatory lesion in 15. Microscopically, the nodules were composed of densely proliferated and dilated capillaries. The capillary walls were lined with a single layer of flat endothelial cells, without atypical features. Collapsed alveolar septa were replaced by a large number of capillaries. All cases showed proliferating capillaries spreading into the walls of small veins/arteries and bronchi, with 3 cases showing dilated capillaries protruding into the bronchiolar lumens as polyp-like structures. Twenty-six cases (26/32, 81 %) showed proliferating capillaries passed over the interlobular septa. Twenty-six cases (26/32, 81 %) showed irregular intimal thickening of small muscular arteries in the peripheral areas of the lesions, with the thickened intima being cellular or fibrous. In twenty-seven cases (27/32, 84 %) the lesions were located in the subpleura, with 6 cases involving the pleura. ConclusionSPCH is a rare benign lung tumor that mostly occurs in the lung lower basal segments with predominance in females. It usually appears as a ground-glass nodule on CT and is very similar to early-stage lung cancer. Accurate diagnosis requires collaboration of radiologists, surgeons, and pathologists. SPCH should be regarded as an important differential diagnosis of small incidental lung nodules.

Clinical application of two types of Hook-Wire needle localization procedures for pulmonary small nodule biopsy.

With the widespread use of low-dose spiral computed tomography (LDCT) and increasing awareness of personal health, the detection rate of pulmonary nodules is steadily rising. To evaluate the success rate and safety of two different models of Hook-Wire needle localization procedures for pulmonary small nodule biopsy. Ninety-four cases with a total of 97 pulmonary small nodules undergoing needle localization biopsy were retrospectively analyzed. The cases were divided into two groups: Group A, using breast localization needle steel wire (Bard Healthcare Science Co., Ltd.); Group B, using disposable pulmonary nodule puncture needle (SensCure Biotechnology Co., Ltd.). All patients underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for nodule removal on the same day after localization and biopsy. The puncture localization operation time, success rate, complications such as pulmonary hemorrhage, pneumothorax, hemoptysis, and postoperative comfort were observed and compared. In Group A, the average localization operation time for 97 nodules was 15.47 ± 5.31 minutes, with a success rate of 94.34%. The complication rate was 71.69% (12 cases of pneumothorax, 35 cases of pulmonary hemorrhage, 2 cases of hemoptysis), and 40 cases of post-localization discomfort were reported. In Group B, the average localization operation time was 25.32 ± 7.83 minutes, with a 100% success rate. The complication rate was 29.55% (3 cases of pneumothorax, 15 cases of pulmonary hemorrhage, 0 cases of hemoptysis), and 3 cases reported postoperative discomfort. According to the data analysis in this study, Group B had a lower incidence of puncture-related complications than Group A, along with a higher success rate and significantly greater postoperative comfort. The disposable pulmonary nodule puncture needle is safer and more effective in pulmonary small nodule localization biopsy, exhibiting increased comfort compared to the breast localization needle. Additionally, the incidence of complications is significantly lower.

Comparison between one-stage and two-stage CT-guided localization of lung nodules with surgical resection: a single medical center experience

BackgroundThis retrospective study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of one-stage computed tomography (OSCT)- to that of two-stage computed tomography (TSCT)-guided localization for the surgical removal of small lung nodules.MethodsWe collected data from patients with ipsilateral pulmonary nodules who underwent localization before surgical removal at Veteran General Hospital Kaohsiung between October 2017 and January 2022. The patients were divided into the OSCT and TSCT groups.ResultsWe found that OSCT significantly reduced the localization time and risky time compared to TSCT, and the success rate of localization and incidence of pneumothorax were similar in both groups. However, the time spent under general anesthesia was longer in the OSCT group than in the TSCT group.ConclusionsThe OSCT-guided approach to localize pulmonary nodules in hybrid operation room is a safe and effective technique for the surgical removal of small lung nodules.

Experimental Study of Interference in Calcitonin Testing: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Calcitonin (CT) is a sensitive serum marker of medullary thyroid carcinoma usually detected via immunoassays; however, its levels are easily disturbed by several endogenous factors. The study aimed to discuss a case of suspected interference resulting in aberrant CT values and review previous reports of CT interference. A female patient visited our clinic with a physical ultrasound examination showing a slightly enlarged thyroid gland with small nodules. She had elevated CT levels, inconsistent with the clinical presentation and other findings. We evaluated the results by retesting using the same platform, platform validation, multiplex dilution, Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) precipitation, heterophilic blocking tubes, and RET gene analysis. Retesting CT using the same platform confirmed the high value obtained. However, serial dilution of the sample produced nonlinear results, suggesting some interference. While PEG precipitation did not significantly reduce the CT level, incubating the sample in HBTs normalized the CT value, indicating interference from heterophilic antibodies. Gene sequencing revealed no RET mutations. In cases where elevated CT levels are inconsistent with clinical presentations and other findings, the laboratory technicians should communicate with clinicians, analyze the reasons for the inconsistent results, and use different methods to verify the results. Accurate testing provides realistic and reliable data for doctors and patients and helps to avoid unnecessary procedures.

Assessing the accuracy of a multisection robotic bronchoscope prototype in localization and targeting of small pulmonary lesions

ObjectivesRobotic bronchoscopy (RB) has emerged as a novel technique to address issues with the biopsy of small peripheral lung lesions. The objective of this study was to quantitatively assess the accuracy of a novel multisection robotic bronchoscope compared with current standards of care. MethodsThis is a prospective, single-blind, comparative study where the accuracy of a multisection RB was compared against the accuracy of standard electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy (EM-NB) during lesion localization and targeting. Five blinded subjects of varying bronchoscopy experience were recruited to use both RB and EM-NB in a swine lung model. Accuracy of localization and targeting success was measured as the distance from the center of pulmonary targets at each anatomic location. Subjects used both RB and EM-NB to navigate to 4 pulmonary targets assigned using 1:1 block randomization. Differences in accuracy and time between navigation systems were assessed using Wilcoxon rank-sum test. ResultsOf the 40 total attempts per modality, successful targeting was achieved on 90% and 85% of attempts utilizing RB and EM-NB, respectively. Furthermore, RB demonstrated significantly lower median distance to the real-time EM target (1.1 mm; interquartile range [IQR], 0.6-2.0 mm) compared with EM-NB (2.6 mm; IQR, 1.6-3.8) (P < .001). Median target displacement resulting from lung and bronchus deformation during bronchoscopy was found to be significantly lower using RB (0.8 mm; IQR, 0.5-1.2 mm) compared with EM-NB (2.6 mm; IQR, 1.4-6.4 mm) (P < .001). ConclusionsThe results of this study demonstrate that the multi-section RB prototype allows for improved localization and targeting of small peripheral lung nodules compared with current nonrobot bronchoscopy modalities.

Multiple anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive primary inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors with spontaneously expanding and shrinking nodules in both lungs: a case report

BackgroundInflammatory myofibroblastic tumors (IMTs) are uncommon neoplasms most prevalent in individuals under 40 years old and predominantly in the lungs. Despite their rarity, multiple anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive IMTs, especially those of various sizes, have not been widely reported. This report describes a case of multiple ALK-positive IMTs in the lungs, aiming to further our understanding of their behavior and management.Case presentationHerein, we present the case of a 64-year-old woman who presented with an abnormal shadow on chest examination. Chest computed tomography revealed a main tumor in the right middle lobe and multiple irregularly shaped small nodules in both lungs. Thus, thoracoscopic wedge resection of the left lower lobe was performed for diagnosis. Pathological findings indicated smooth muscle proliferation without malignancy. IMT was diagnosed following thoracoscopic right middle lobectomy. Twenty months postoperatively, one residual nodule shrank, but another grew.ConclusionsThis is the first report of multiple ALK-positive IMTs in both lungs, highlighting the need for definitive diagnosis and treatment of IMTs based on surgical resection. Although caution is required in patients with lymph node metastases or distant metastases, careful follow-up is acceptable unless there is a tendency for nodules to increase in size on imaging.

A Blood Hepatocellular Carcinoma Signature Recognizes Very Small Tumor Nodules with Metastatic Traits.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cases with small nodules are commonly treated with radiofrequency ablation (RFA), but the recurrence rate remains high. This study aimed to establish a blood signature for identifying HCC with metastatic traits pre-RFA. Data from HCC patients treated between 2010 and 2017 were retrospectively collected. A blood signature for metastatic HCC was established based on blood levels of alpha-fetoprotein and des-γ-carboxy-prothrombin, cell-free DNA (cfDNA) mutations, and methylation changes in target genes in frozen-stored plasma samples that were collected before RFA performance. The HCC blood signature was validated in patients prospectively enrolled in 2021. Of 251 HCC patients in the retrospective study, 33.9% experienced recurrence within 1 year post-RFA. The HCC blood signature identified from these patients included des-γ-carboxy-prothrombin ≥40 mAU/mL with cfDNA mutation score, where cfDNA mutations occurred in the genes of TP53, CTNNB1, and TERT promoter. This signature effectively predicted 1-year post-RFA recurrence of HCC with 92% specificity and 91% sensitivity in the retrospective dataset, and with 87% specificity and 76% sensitivity in the prospective dataset (n=32 patients). Among 14 cases in the prospective study with biopsy tissues available, positivity for the HCC blood signature was associated with a higher HCC tissue score and shorter distance between HCC cells and microvasculature. This study established an HCC blood signature in pre-RFA blood that potentially reflects HCC with metastatic traits and may be valuable for predicting the disease's early recurrence post-RFA.

Study on evaluation method of circular small shadow profusion in chest CT reconstruction images of pneumoconiosis

Objective: To select chest CT image patterns for the diagnosis of pneumoconiosis and establish a method for determining the profusion of circular small shadows in chest CT. Methods: In April 2021, 66 cases of occupational pneumoconiosis patients with digital radiography (DR) chest radiographs and chest CT imaging data with circular small shadow as the main manifestations were selected as the study objects. 1.5 mm and 5 mm chest CT axial images, 1 mm and 5 mm chest CT coronal multi-plane recombination (MPR) images, and 5 mm chest CT coronal maximum intensity projection (MIP) images were used to observe the different characteristics of pneumoconiosis patients, and were compared and analyzed with DR chest radiographs to establish the experimental chest CT standards. The consistency of the profusion results between the experimental chest CT standards and GBZ 70-2015 Diagnosis of Occupational Pneumoconiosis was verified. Results: All the 66 objects were male, including 33 cases of stage Ⅰ pneumoconiosis, 17 cases of stage Ⅱ pneumoconiosis and 16 cases of stage Ⅲ pneumoconiosis. By observing five chest CT images of 66 objects, we found that chest CT images of different modes could clearly display and identify abnormal images such as small circular shadow, large shadow, small shadow aggregation, honeycomb glass shadow, flake glass shadow, uniform low-profusion glass shadow, mesh glass shadow, cable shadow, linear shadow, subpleural spinous shadow, subpleural nodules, various kinds of emphysema and lung texture distortion and fracture. Small shadow aggregation was usually accompanied by the appearance of large shadow. The vascular shadows in 5 mm CT images had good ductility, and small nodules were easy to distinguish. The coronal MIP image of 5 mm chest CT used edge enhancement technology, which was prone to small shadow fusion and fibrotic shadow fusion. The coronal MPR image of 5 mm chest CT was highly consistent with the DR chest radiographs in terms of the integrity of film reading. GBZ 70-2015 standard was used to compare the profusion of DR chest radiographs and 5 mm chest CT coronal MPR images of 66 objects, and the consistency test Kappa=0.64. GBZ 70-2015 standard and experimental chest CT standard were used to compare the profusion results of DR chest radiographs and 5 mm chest CT coronal MPR images of 66 objects, respectively, and the consistency test Kappa=0.80, with high consistency. Conclusion: 5 mm coronal MPR image is suitable for chest CT imaging in the diagnosis of pneumoconiosis. Following the selection path and method of GBZ 70-2015 profusion criterion, the established experimental chest CT standard in determining the profusion of small circular shadows in 5 mm coronal MPR images of chest CT with pneumoconiosis has a high consistency with GBZ 70-2015 standard.