ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Staging of Renal Cell Carcinoma: 2022 Update

Renal cell carcinoma is a complex group of highly heterogenous renal tumors demonstrating variable biological behavior. Pretreatment imaging of renal cell carcinoma involves accurate assessment of the primary tumor, presence of nodal, and distant metastases. CT and MRI are the key imaging modalities used in the staging of renal cell carcinoma. Important imaging features that impact treatment include tumor extension into renal sinus and perinephric fat, involvement of pelvicalyceal system, infiltration into adrenal gland, involvement of renal vein and inferior vena cava, as well as the presence of metastatic adenopathy and distant metastases. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision process support the systematic analysis of the medical literature from peer reviewed journals. Established methodology principles such as Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE are adapted to evaluate the evidence. The RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method User Manual provides the methodology to determine the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where peer reviewed literature is lacking or equivocal, experts may be the primary evidentiary source available to formulate a recommendation.

Mimics and Pitfalls of Primary Ovarian Malignancy Imaging

The complex anatomy and similarity of imaging features of various pathologies in the pelvis can make accurate radiology interpretation difficult. While prompt recognition of ovarian cancer remains essential, awareness of processes that mimic ovarian tumors can avoid potential misdiagnosis and unnecessary surgery. This article details the female pelvic anatomy and highlights relevant imaging features that mimic extra-ovarian tumors, to help the radiologists accurately build a differential diagnosis of a lesion occupying the adnexa.

Current update on molecular cytogenetics, diagnosis and management of gastrointestinal stromal tumors

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and are thought to arise from precursors of the interstitial cells of Cajal. GISTs can arise anywhere in the GI tract, but most commonly originate from the stomach and small intestine. The majority of GISTs occur as a result of activating mutations in two receptor protein tyrosine kinases: KIT and/or platelet-derived growth factor receptor-α. Mutational analyses allow for predicting patient prognosis and treatment response. Clinical presentations can vary from no symptoms, typical in the case of small incidentally found tumors, to GI bleeding, abdominal discomfort, and ulcer-related symptoms when the tumor is enlarged. Imaging plays a critical role in the diagnosis and management of these tumors with multiphasic computed tomography serving as the imaging modality of choice. Magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography-computed tomography can serve as imaging adjuncts in lesion characterization, especially with liver metastases, and subsequent staging and assessment for treatment response or recurrence. Surgical resection is the preferred management for small GISTs, while tyrosine kinase inhibitors − imatinib mesylate and sunitinib malate − serve as crucial molecular-targeted therapies for locally advanced and metastatic GISTs. This review article highlights the clinical presentation, pathology and molecular cytogenetics, imaging features, and current management of GISTs.

Current update on IVC leiomyosarcoma

Primary leiomyosarcoma of the inferior vena cava (IVC) is a rare soft tissue sarcoma associated with poor prognosis. Patients are often asymptomatic or present with nonspecific abdominal symptoms, which delays initial diagnosis and contributes to poor oncologic outcome. Key imaging modalities include ultrasonography (US), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Characteristic imaging features include imperceptible caval lumen, dilation of the IVC, heterogeneous enhancement of the tumor, and development of extensive collateral circulation. Surgical resection is the mainstay of treatment, while chemotherapy and/or radiation may serve as therapy adjuncts. This article reviews the pathology, clinical findings, imaging features and management of IVC leiomyosarcoma.

Current update on imaging for pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms

Pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (panNEN) are a heterogeneous group of tumors with differing pathological, genetic, and clinical features. Based on clinical findings, they may be categorized into functioning and nonfunctioning tumors. Adoption of the 2017 World Health Organization classification system, particularly its differentiation between grade 3, well-differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (panNET) and grade 3, poorly-differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinomas (panNEC) has emphasized the role imaging plays in characterizing these lesions. Endoscopic ultrasound can help obtain biopsy specimen and assess tumor margins and local spread. Enhancement patterns on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to classify panNEN. Contrast enhanced MRI and diffusion-weighted imaging have been reported to be useful for characterization of panNEN and quantifying metastatic burden. Current and emerging radiotracers have broadened the utility of functional imaging in evaluating panNEN. Fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (PET)/CT and somatostatin receptor imaging such as Gallium-68 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid–octreotate PET/CT may be useful for improved identification of panNEN in comparison to anatomic modalities. These new techniques can also play a direct role in optimizing the selection of treatment for individuals and predicting tumor response based on somatostatin receptor expression. In addition, emerging methods of radiomics such as texture analysis may be a potential tool for staging and outcome prediction in panNEN, however further investigation is required before clinical implementation.

Features of primary pancreatic lymphoma: A bi-institutional review with an emphasis on typical and atypical imaging features

BACKGROUND

Primary pancreatic lymphoma (PPL) is a rare neoplasm. Being able to distinguish it from other pancreatic malignancies such as pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is important for appropriate management. Unlike PDAC, PPL is highly sensitive to chemotherapy and usually does not require surgery. Therefore, being able to identify PPL preoperatively will not only direct physicians towards the correct avenue of treatment, it will also avoid unnecessary surgical intervention.

AIM

To evaluate the typical and atypical multi-phasic computed tomography (CT) imaging features of PPL.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted of the clinical, radiological, and pathological records of all subjects with pathologically proven PPL who presented to our institutions between January 2000 and December 2020. Institutional review board approval was obtained for this investigation. The collected data were analyzed for subject demographics, clinical presentation, laboratory values, CT imaging features, and the treatment received. Presence of all CT imaging findings including size, site, morphology and imaging characteristics of PPL such as the presence or absence of nodal, vascular and ductal involvement in these subjects were recorded. Only those subjects who had a pre-treatment multiphasic CT of the abdomen were included in the study.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine cases of PPL were diagnosed between January 2000 and December 2020 (mean age 66 years; 13 males/16 females). All twenty-nine subjects were symptomatic but only 4 of the 29 subjects (14%) had B symptoms. Obstructive jaundice occurred in 24% of subjects. Elevated lactate dehydrogenase was seen in 81% of cases, whereas elevated cancer antigen 19-9 levels were present in only 10% of cases for which levels were recorded. The vast majority (90%) of tumors involved the pancreatic head and uncinate process. Mean tumor size was 7.8 cm (range, 4.0-13.8 cm). PPL presented homogenous hypoenhancement on CT in 72% of cases. Small volume peripancreatic lymphadenopathy was seen in 28% of subjects. Tumors demonstrated encasement of superior mesenteric vessels in 69% of cases but vascular stenosis or occlusion only manifested in 5 out of the twenty-nine individuals (17%). Mild pancreatic duct dilatation was also infrequent and seen in only 17% of cases, whereas common bile duct (CBD) dilation was seen in 41% of subjects. Necrosis occurred in 10% of cases. Size did not impact the prevalence of pancreatic and CBD dilation, necrosis, or mesenteric root infiltration (P = 0.525, P = 0.294, P = 0.543, and P = 0.097, respectively). Pancreatic atrophy was not present in any of the subjects.

CONCLUSION

PPL is an uncommon diagnosis best made preoperatively to avoid unnecessary surgery and ensure adequate treatment. In addition to the typical CT findings of PPL, such as homogeneous hypoenhancement, absence of vascular stenosis and occlusion despite encasement, and peripancreatic lymphadenopathy, this study highlighted many less typical findings, including small volume necrosis and pancreatic and bile duct dilation.

Current update on the molecular genetics and management of hereditary ovarian cancers: a primer for radiologists

More than one-fifth of ovarian cancers are hereditary, with most of them caused by BRCA genes. Malignant ovarian neoplasms are primarily epithelial tumors, a heterogeneous group of tumors with variable genetic backgrounds that translate into different biologic behaviors and morphologic features. Radiologists play an increasingly important role in the diagnosis and management of oncology patients. Familiarity with hereditary ovarian cancers will have a positive impact on patient management and radiologists' involvement in the multidisciplinary approach needed for this delicate patient population. In this paper, we review the basic histologic and genetic backgrounds of ovarian tumors with an emphasis on hereditary ovarian cancers, as well as the effects that these factors have on patient workup, primarily with regard to imaging studies.

Ovarian teratomas: clinical features, imaging findings and management

Ovarian teratomas are the most common type of germ cell tumors. There are three major subtypes of ovarian teratomas including mature, immature, and monodermal teratomas. Ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging can demonstrate specific imaging findings for mature teratoma. Imaging features of immature and monodermal teratomas are less specific, but a combination of clinical features and imaging findings can help in the diagnosis. Imaging is also very helpful in guiding management. In this article, we review the epidemiology, histopathology, clinical presentation, imaging features and management of ovarian teratomas.

Current update on gallbladder carcinoma

Gallbladder (GB) carcinoma is a relatively rare malignancy and is associated with poor prognosis. Numerous risk factors have been associated with the development of GB carcinoma. GB carcinomas may present as mass lesions replacing the GB, focal or diffuse thickening of the GB wall, and intraluminal mass in the GB. Various benign conditions can mimic GB carcinoma. This article reviews the epidemiology, pathology, clinical findings, imaging features, and management of GB carcinomas.

A review of anatomy, pathology, and disease spread in the perisplenic region

The perisplenic region is a complex anatomical area involving multiple peritoneal and subperitoneal structures, which influence the presentation and behavior of various pathologic processes. This review is a comprehensive resource for perisplenic anatomy and pathology with associated clinical presentations and imaging findings. Understanding the pathophysiologic intricacies of the perisplenic region assists the radiologist in building a helpful differential diagnosis and recognizing predictable disease patterns.

Burnout in Academic Radiologists in the United States

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES

To assess the prevalence and associated factors of burnout among U.S. academic radiologists.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An online survey was sent to the radiologists who were full members of the Association of University Radiologists in December 2018. Burnout was measured using the abbreviated Maslach Burnout Inventory Human Services Survey. Survey respondents were also requested to complete questions on demographics, potential professional stressors, sense of calling, and career satisfaction. Associations between survey participants' characteristics and burnout were tested using logistic regression model.

RESULTS

The survey response rate was 27% (228/831). Twenty-nine percent met all three criteria for high burnout, including high emotional exhaustion, high depersonalization, and low personal accomplishment. Seventy-nine percent had one or more symptoms of burnout. Numerous factors including work overload, inability to balance personal and professional life, lack of autonomy, lack of appreciation from patients and other medical staff were significantly associated (p < 0.05) with high burnout. Older age (OR, 0.95; 95%CI 0.92-0.98; p < 0.05), higher number of years of experience practicing as radiologists (OR, 0.95; 95%CI 0.92-0.98; p < 0.05), and holding academic rank of professor (OR, 0.25; 95%CI 0.11-0.56; p < 0.05) were factors associated with lower odds of experiencing burnout. Radiologists with high burnout were more likely to be dissatisfied with their career (OR, 2.28; 95%CI 1.70-3.07; p < 0.0001) and less likely to identify medicine as a calling.

CONCLUSION

Multiple factors contribute to high burnout in academic radiologists. Familiarity with these factors may help academic radiology departments to develop strategies to promote health and wellness of their faculty.

Hepatic hemangioendothelioma: CT, MR, and FDG-PET-CT in 67 patients-a bi-institutional comprehensive cancer center review

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the imaging features of hepatic epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (HEH) on multiphasic CT, MR, and FDG-PET-CT.

METHODS

Bi-institutional review identified 67 adults (mean age, 47 years; 23 M/44 F) with pathologically proven HEH and pretreatment multiphasic CT (n = 67) and/or MR (n = 30) and/or FDG-PET-CT (n = 13).

RESULTS

HEHs were multifocal in 88% (59/67). Mean size of the dominant mass was 4.1 cm (range, 1.4-19 cm). The tumors were located in the peripheral, subcapsular regions of the liver in 96% (64/67). Capsular retraction was present in 81% (54/67 cases) and tumors were coalescent in 61% (41/67). HEH demonstrated peripheral ring enhancement on arterial phase imaging in 33% (21/64) and target appearance on the portal venous phase in 69% (46/67). Persistent peripheral enhancement on the delayed phase was seen in 49% (31/63). On MR, multilayered target appearance was seen on the T2-weighted sequences in 67% (20/30) and on the diffusion-weighted sequences in 61% (11/18). Target appearance on hepatobiliary phase of MRI was seen in 57% (4/7). On pre-therapy FDG-PET-CT, increased FDG uptake above the background liver parenchyma was seen in 62% (8/13).

CONCLUSION

HEHs typically manifest as multifocal, coalescent hepatic nodules in peripheral subcapsular location, with associated capsular retraction. Peripheral arterial ring enhancement and target appearance on portal venous phase are commonly seen on CT. Similarly, multilayered target appearance correlating with its histopathological composition is typically seen on multiple sequences of MR including T2-weighted, diffusion-weighted, and dynamic contrast-enhanced multiphasic MR.

KEY POINTS

• Hepatic epithelioid hemangioendotheliomas manifest on CT and MR as multifocal, coalescent hepatic nodules in peripheral subcapsular location, with associated capsular retraction. • Enhancement pattern on contrast-enhanced CT and MR can vary but peripheral ring enhancement on arterial phase and target appearance on portal venous phase are commonly seen. • Retrospective two-center study showed that cross-sectional imaging may help in the diagnosis.

Burnout in Chairs of Academic Radiology Departments in the United States

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to estimate the self-reported prevalence of burnout in chairs of academic radiology departments in the United States and identify factors associated with high burnout in chairs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An anonymous cross-sectional online survey was conducted of members of the Society of Chairs of Academic Radiology Departments. Burnout was measured using the abbreviated Maslach Burnout Inventory Human Services Survey. Associations between survey participants' characteristics and burnout were tested using Fisher's exact test and Wilcoxon rank sum test.

RESULTS

Of the 123 chairs invited to complete the survey, 87 responded (response rate, 71%). The mean age of the participants was 58 years. The survey respondents had an average of 9 years of experience as department chair. The average number of work hours per week was 62 hours. Four participants (5%) of the academic chairs met all three criteria for high burnout including high emotional exhaustion, high depersonalization, and low personal accomplishment. Thirty-three participants (38%) had high emotional exhaustion and/or high depersonalization score. Low professional satisfaction score, low work-life balance satisfaction score, and low chair effectiveness score were significantly associated with high burnout. High emotional exhaustion and/or high depersonalization were significantly associated with numerous professional stressors. Lack of an institutional support group for chairs and lower number of faculty members in the department were significantly associated with burnout.

CONCLUSION

A significant proportion of chairs of academic radiology departments are experiencing 1 or more symptoms of burnout. Efforts to address burnout in radiology chairs should be initiated promptly at the national, institutional, and departmental levels.

Fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma: multiphasic CT features of the primary tumor on pre-therapy CT and pattern of distant metastases

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our study is to describe the multiphasic CT features of fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinomas (FLHCCs) and pattern of distant metastases.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

33 patients (mean age 28 years: 17M/16F) with pathologically confirmed FLHCC and pre-treatment multiphasic CT were included in the study. Two abdominal radiologists evaluated the multiphasic CT imaging features of these 33 FLHCC patients in consensus.

RESULTS

Solitary hepatic mass was seen in 67% (22/33). Mean tumor size was 11.3 cm (range 4.6-22 cm). Tumor was well-defined in 64% (21/33). In the pre-contrast CT, 91% (30/33) were hypoattenuating. Central stellate scar was present in 73% (24/33). In FLHCC having central stellate scar, calcification within the central scar was seen in 88% (21/24). In the hepatic arterial phase, 82% (27/33) were hyperattenuating relative to liver. In the portal venous phase, 36% (12/33) were hyperattenuating, 46% (15/33) were isoattenuating, and 18% (6/33) were hypoattenuating. In the delayed phase images, 24% (8/23) were hyperattenuating, 67% (22/33) were isoattenuating, and 9% (3/33) were hypoattenuating. Delayed enhancement of the central stellate scar was seen in 12% (4/33). Distant metastases were seen in 54% (18/33). The most common site of metastases was lungs and was seen in 89% (16/18) of the patients with metastatic disease.

CONCLUSION

FLHCC typically manifests as a large, solitary mass demonstrating heterogeneous hypervascular enhancement in the arterial phase. Most tend to be isoattenuating in delayed phase. Central stellate scar with internal calcification is a useful imaging feature that can help in the diagnosis of FLHCC. Lungs are the most common site of distant metastases in FLHCC.

Sarcoidosis from Head to Toe: What the Radiologist Needs to Know

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disorder characterized by development of noncaseating granulomas in various organs. Although the etiology of this condition is unclear, environmental and genetic factors may be substantial in its pathogenesis. Clinical features are often nonspecific, and imaging is essential to diagnosis. Abnormalities may be seen on chest radiographs in more than 90% of patients with thoracic sarcoidosis. Symmetric hilar and mediastinal adenopathy and pulmonary micronodules in a perilymphatic distribution are characteristic features of sarcoidosis. Irreversible pulmonary fibrosis may be seen in 25% of patients with the disease. Although sarcoidosis commonly involves the lungs, it can affect virtually any organ in the body. Computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography/CT are useful in the diagnosis of extrapulmonary sarcoidosis, but imaging features may overlap with those of other conditions. Familiarity with the spectrum of multimodality imaging findings of sarcoidosis can help to suggest the diagnosis and guide appropriate management. ^©RSNA, 2018.

Structured Reporting in Radiology

Radiology reports are vital for patient care as referring physicians depend upon them for deciding appropriate patient management. Traditional narrative reports are associated with excessive variability in the language, length, and style, which can minimize report clarity and make it difficult for referring clinicians to identify key information needed for patient care. Structured reporting has been advocated as a potential solution for improving the quality of radiology reports. The Association of University Radiologists-Radiology Research Alliance Structured Reporting Task Force convened to explore the current and future role of structured reporting in radiology and summarized its finding in this article. We review the advantages and disadvantages of structured radiology reports and discuss the current prevailing sentiments among radiologists regarding structured reports. We also discuss the obstacles to the use of structured reports and highlight ways to overcome some of those challenges. We also discuss the future directions in radiology reporting in the era of personalized medicine.

Pattern and Distribution of Distant Metastases in Anaplastic Prostate Carcinoma: A Single-Institute Experience With 101 Patients

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the sites and frequencies of distant metastases in patients with anaplastic prostate carcinoma and to correlate those findings with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with anaplastic prostate carcinoma (n = 101) underwent CT and bone scans before platinum-based chemotherapy. CT findings were retrospectively reviewed to identify the sites of metastases. CT findings were correlated with baseline PSA levels. The Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to correlate PSA levels between patients with metastases at osseous and nonosseous sites. The Wilcoxon rank sum test was also used to correlate the type of bone metastases (blastic vs lytic) and the PSA levels.

RESULTS

Eighty-three of 101 patients (82%) had osseous metastases. PSA levels were significantly higher in patients with bone metastases than in patients without osseous metastases. However, 23 of the 83 patients (28%) with bone metastases had PSA levels in the normal range (i.e., < 4 ng/mL). The type of bone metastases (blastic vs lytic) did not show any statistically significant correlation to the PSA levels. Overall, 63 of 101 patients (62%) had nonosseous distant metastases at one or more sites, including the liver (n = 34), lung (n = 24), mediastinum (n = 31), pleura (n = 7), brain (n = 9), adrenal glands (n = 6), peritoneum (n = 4), and spleen (n = 1). PSA levels were not significantly elevated in patients with nonosseous distant metastases. Twenty-six of the 63 patients (41%) with nonosseous metastases had PSA levels in the normal range (< 4 ng/mL).

CONCLUSION

Patients with the anaplastic clinical variant of prostate cancer have a high frequency of typical and atypical sites of metastases. Common sites of nonosseous distant metastases include the liver, lung, mediastinum, pleura, brain, and adrenal glands. PSA levels are unreliable and may be disproportionately low, despite the presence of multifocal large-volume metastases. CT of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis should be considered in routine staging and follow-up of patients with anaplastic prostate carcinoma regardless of their PSA levels.

Increase in post-therapy tumor calcification on CT scan is not an indicator of response to therapy in low-grade serous ovarian cancer

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to determine if increasing post-therapy calcification in peritoneal metastases in recurrent low-grade serous ovarian carcinomas indicated response to therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective analysis of patients with histologically confirmed, recurrent low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma who received treatment at our institution between 2000 and 2014 was performed. Only patients who had calcified tumor implants and showed either interval increase or decrease in tumor calcification following therapy were included in the study. Pre- and post-therapy CT scans of these patients were reviewed by 2 radiologists independently. Changes in the tumor calcification status and tumor deposits size were correlated with serum CA-125 levels. Fisher's exact test was used to assess the association between peritoneal deposit and calcification status with serum CA-125 status.

RESULTS

35 Patients were included in the study. Based on serial serum CA 125 levels, 22 patients (63%) had progressive disease, 12 (34%) had partial response and 1 (3%) had stable disease. Using RECIST 1.1, 16 had progressive disease, 3 had partial response and 16 had stable disease. In the patients with progressive disease, post-therapy tumor calcification increased in 77% and decreased in 23%. Fischer's exact test showed that serum CA 125 change was significantly associated with change in size of peritoneal deposits and calcification change.

CONCLUSIONS

This preliminary study shows that post-therapy increase in peritoneal implant calcification in low-grade serous ovarian carcinomas is not an indicator of response to therapy.

Current update on primary pancreatic lymphoma

OBJECTIVE

This article reviews the computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) CT findings of primary and secondary pancreatic lymphomas and discusses the role of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration in diagnosis and management.

CONCLUSION

Pancreatic lymphoma has certain characteristic imaging features which may help distinguish it from the more common pancreatic adenocarcinoma. It is critical to make an accurate diagnosis, as the management of these two conditions is vastly different.

Multimodality imaging of diseases of the duodenum

The duodenum is a unique segment of intestine, occupying both intra and extra-peritoneal locations. There is a wide spectrum of abnormalities of the duodenum that range from congenital anomalies to traumatic, inflammatory, and neoplastic entities. The duodenum may be overlooked on cross-sectional imaging due to its location and small size. Duodenal pathologies may, therefore, be missed or wrongly diagnosed. Knowledge about duodenal pathologies and optimal imaging techniques can increase diagnostic yield and permit optimal patient management. Conventionally, the duodenum was evaluated with upper GI studies on fluoroscopy; however, endoluminal evaluation is better performed with endoscopy. Additionally, a broad array of cross-sectional imaging modalities permits comprehensive assessment of the duodenum and surrounding viscera. While endoscopic sonography is increasingly used to locally stage duodenal malignancies, MDCT remains the primary modality widely used in the detection and characterization of duodenal abnormalities. MRI is used as a "problem solving" modality in select conditions. We present a comprehensive review of duodenal abnormalities with an emphasis on accurate diagnosis and management.

STUMP un"stumped": anti-tumor response to anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitor based targeted therapy in uterine inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor with myxoid features harboring DCTN1-ALK fusion

BACKGROUND

Recurrent, metastatic mesenchymal myxoid tumors of the gynecologic tract present a management challenge as there is minimal evidence to guide systemic therapy. Such tumors also present a diagnostic dilemma, as myxoid features are observed in leiomyosarcomas, inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors (IMT), and mesenchymal myxoid tumors. Comprehensive genomic profiling was performed in the course of clinical care on a case of a recurrent, metastatic myxoid uterine malignancy (initially diagnosed as smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP)), to guide identify targeted therapeutic options. To our knowledge, this case represents the first report of clinical response to targeted therapy in a tumor harboring a DCTN1-ALK fusion protein.

METHODS

Hybridization capture of 315 cancer-related genes plus introns from 28 genes often rearranged or altered in cancer was applied to >50 ng of DNA extracted from this sample and sequenced to high, uniform coverage. Therapy was given in the context of a phase I clinical trial ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: ( NCT01548144 ).

RESULTS

Immunostains showed diffuse positivity for ALK1 expression and comprehensive genomic profiling identified an in frame DCTN1-ALK gene fusion. The diagnosis of STUMP was revised to that of an IMT with myxoid features. The patient was enrolled in a clinical trial and treated with an anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitor (crizotinib/Xalkori®) and a multikinase VEGF inhibitor (pazopanib/Votrient®). The patient experienced an ongoing partial response (6+ months) by response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (RECIST) 1.1 criteria.

CONCLUSIONS

For myxoid tumors of the gynecologic tract, comprehensive genomic profiling can identify clinical relevant genomic alterations that both direct treatment targeted therapy and help discriminate between similar diagnostic entities.

Imaging features of carcinoid tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2013;201:773-786. [PMID: 24059366 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.12.9758]

OBJECTIVE

Recent studies have provided a better understanding of the biologic behavior of gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors. This article focusing on imaging of gastrointestinal carcinoids will emphasize epidemiology, molecular biology, taxonomy, histopathology, and management.

CONCLUSION

Gastrointestinal carcinoids are a biologically heterogeneous group of tumors, with variable clinical presentation and biologic behavior. Imaging can play an important role in multidisciplinary identification and management of this disease.

Virtual colonoscopy: Utility, impact and overview

Computed tomography (CT) colonoscopy is a well-established technique for evaluation of colorectal cancer. Significant advances have been made in the technique of CT colonoscopy since its inception. Excellent results can be achieved in detecting both colorectal cancer and significant sized polyps as long as a meticulous technique is adopted while performing CT colonoscopy. Furthermore, it is important to realize that there is a learning curve involved in interpreting these studies and adequate experience is essential to achieve high sensitivity and specificity with this technique. Indications, contraindications, technique and interpretation, including potential pitfalls in CT colonoscopy imaging, are reviewed in this article. Recent advances and the current role of CT colonoscopy in colorectal cancer screening are also discussed.