Minimally invasive esophageal sponge cytology sampling is feasible in a Tanzanian community setting

Esophageal sponge cytology is an endoscopy alternative well accepted by patients with extensive data for accuracy in the context of adenocarcinoma. Few studies have assessed its feasibility in asymptomatic community members, and fewer still in East Africa, where esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) rates are high. We aimed to assess the feasibility of a capsule-based diagnosis of esophageal squamous dysplasia (ESD), an ESCC precursor, which may benefit epidemiological and early detection research. We collected Cytosponge collections in 102 asymptomatic adults from Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. Uptake, acceptability and safety were assessed. Participants scored acceptability immediately following the procedure and 7 days later on a scale of 0 (least) to 10 (most acceptable). Slides from paraffin-embedded cell clots were read by two pathologists for ESD and other pathologies. All participants (52 men, 50 women, aged 30-77) swallowed the device at first attempt, 100 (98%) of which gave slides of adequate cellularity. Acceptability scores were 10 (53%), 9 (24%), 8 (21%), 7 (2%) and 6 (1%), with no differences by age, sex or time of asking. Cytological findings were esophageal inflammation (4%), atypical squamous cells of uncertain significance (1%), low-grade dysplasia (1%), gastritis (22%) and suspected intestinal metaplasia (6%). Setting-specific logistical and ethical considerations of study implementation are discussed. We demonstrate the safety, acceptability and feasibility of Cytosponge sampling in this setting, paving the way for innovative etiology and early-detection research. Targeted sampling strategies and biomarker development will underpin the success of such initiatives. The study protocol is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04090554).

Lymphoreticular malignancies in serous effusions: Cytomorphologic, flow cytometric and immunocytochemical analysis

INTRODUCTION

Involvement of body fluids by lymphoreticular malignancies (LRM) is rare and often associated with poor prognosis and decreased overall survival. The present study was conducted to analyze the characteristic cytomorphologic, flow cytometric and immunocytochemical features of LRMs in serous effusions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a three-year retrospective study. A total of 218 effusion samples, reported as involved by lymphoreticular malignancies, on cytology, were reviewed. All the cases wherein the cytological diagnosis was confirmed by flow cytometric (FCM) and/or immunocytochemical (ICC) studies were retrieved and studied in detail. FCM and/or ICC were performed in a total of 51/218(23.4%) samples, including 30 pleural (58.8%), 18 peritoneal (35.3%), and 3 pericardial fluid (5.9%) samples.

RESULTS

The cytomorphologic diagnoses included infiltration by non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL;n = 27), infiltration by LRM (n = 19), infiltration by chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL;n = 2), Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL;n = 1) and suggestive of infiltration by LRM (n = 2). FCM and/or ICC confirmed the diagnoses as infiltration by T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma in 18; mature B-cell NHL in 10; Burkitt lymphoma in 7; diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in 4; follicular lymphoma, T- cell NHL and CLL in 2 samples each and hairy cell leukemia, plasmablastic lymphoma and HL in 1 sample each. 94.1% concordance was noted between the initial and final cytologic diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Involvement of body fluids and effusions by LRMs, though rare, carries an immense prognostic significance and hence the prompt detection is crucial. Detection of these malignancies by cytologic examination of effusions is challenging yet potentially useful and the least invasive method available to establish an early diagnosis.

Food Intolerance of Unknown Origin: Caused by Mucosal Inflammation? A Pilot Study

INTRODUCTION

The prevalence of patients with food intolerance (FI) has increased significantly. Immunoglobulin (Ig)E-mediated food allergies (FAs) are detected by determining IgE antibodies and skin prick test. Carbohydrate malabsorptions are clarified with breath tests. However, these diagnostic measures cannot capture all intolerances and have limitations in case of gut-mediated FI. The aims of this pilot study were to evaluate different methods to determine intestinal mucosal IgE in patients with FA and to characterize the intestinal mucosa in patients with FI of unknown origin (FH).

METHODS

Patients with FA and FH were compared with healthy controls. To determine the IgE antibodies and the cytokines tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interferon (IFN)-γ of the intestinal mucosal, a lavage was performed as part of an ileocolonoscopy and samples were taken using the cytobrush and biopsy forceps. In a subgroup, mucosal samples were also taken from the duodenum.

RESULTS

Data in homogenates of intestinal mucosal samples yielded the highest sensitivity for IgE antibody titers compared with lavage and cytobrush. Patients with FA presented increased intestinal TNF-α and low IFN-γ values. This was in contrast to FH patients, who showed low intestinal IgE antibodies and TNF-α levels, but increased IFN-γ values.

DISCUSSION

The determination of IgE antibodies to diagnose intestinal IgE-mediated FA is most reliable in intestinal mucosal samples. Increased TNF-α and low IFN-γ levels in patients with FA characterize an allergic reaction. Decreased TNF-α and increased IFN-γ levels in patients with FH indicate an inflammation-related intolerance reaction (see Visual Abstract, Supplementary Digital Content 1, http://links.lww.com/CTG/A520).

Prevalence of cancer and the benign call rate of afirma gene classifier in 18 F-Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography positive cytologically indeterminate thyroid nodules

BACKGROUND

18 F-Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) positive (PET+) cytologically indeterminate thyroid nodules (ITNs) have variable cancer risk in the literature. The benign call rate (BCR) of Afirma Gene Classifier (Gene Expression Classifier, GEC, or Genome Sequence Classifier, GSC) in (PET +) ITNs is unknown.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study at our institution of all patients with (PET+) ITNs (Bethesda III/IV) from 1 January 2010 to 21 May 2019 who underwent Afirma testing and/or surgery or repeat FNA with benign cytology.

RESULTS

Forty-five (PET+) ITNs were identified: 31 Afirma-tested (GEC = 20, GSC = 11) and 14 either underwent surgery (n = 13) or repeat FNA (Benign cytology) (n = 1) without Afirma. The prevalence of cancer and noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features (NIFTP) including only resected nodules and ITN with repeat benign FNA (n = 33) was 36.4% (12/33). Excluding all Afirma "suspicious" non-resected ITNs and assuming all Afirma "benign" ITNs were truly benign, that prevalence was 28.6% (12/42). The BCR with GSC was 64% compared to 25% with GEC (p = 0.056). Combining GSC/GEC-tested ITNs, the BCR was higher in ITNs demonstrating low/very low-risk sonographic pattern by the American Thyroid Association (ATA) classification and ITNs scoring <4 by the American College of Radiology Thyroid Imaging, Reporting and Data System (ACR-TI-RADS) than ITNs with higher sonographic pattern/score (p = 0.025).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of cancer/NIFTP in (PET+) ITNs was 28.6-36.4% depending on the method of calculation. The BCR of Afirma GSC was 64%. Combining Afirma GEC/GSC-tested ITNs, BCR was higher in ITNs with a lower risk sonographic pattern.

Challenges in Cytology Specimens With Hürthle Cells

In fine-needle aspirations (FNA) of thyroid, Hürthle cells can be found in a broad spectrum of lesions, ranging from non-neoplastic conditions to aggressive malignant tumors. Recognize them morphologically, frequently represents a challenging for an adequately diagnosis and are associated with a significant interobserver variability. Although the limitations of the morphologic diagnosis still exist, the interpretation of the context where the cells appear and the recent advances in the molecular knowledge of Hürthle cells tumors are contributing for a more precise diagnosis. This review aims to describe the cytology aspects of all Hürthle cells neoplastic and non-neoplastic thyroid lesions, focusing on the differential diagnosis and reporting according to The Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytology (TBSRTC). New entities according to the latest World Health Organization (WHO) classification are included, as well as an update of the current molecular data.

Evaluating Mismatch Repair/Microsatellite Instability Status Using Cytology Effusion Specimens to Determine Eligibility for Immunotherapy

CONTEXT.—

The approval of pembrolizumab for treatment of patients with microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) or mismatch repair-deficient (dMMR) advanced cancers has led to increased requests for MSI and/or MMR immunoperoxidase (IPOX) testing. Diagnoses for patients with advanced-stage cancer are frequently made from cytology specimens.

OBJECTIVE.—

To investigate the feasibility of using cell block (CB) preparations of effusions for MMR IPOX evaluation.

DESIGN.—

Surgical pathology cases of colorectal and endometrial carcinomas with known MMR/MSI status and matched effusions with available CBs were identified. Cell block sections were evaluated for adequacy and stained with MMR IPOX (MSH2, MSH6, MLH1, and PMS2). The CBs were reviewed, the number of tumor cells quantified, and MMR IPOX was interpreted as retained, lost, suboptimal, or noncontributory.

RESULTS.—

We identified 748 cases with MMR/MSI testing on surgical specimens having matched effusions. Of these, 131 cases (17.5%) had an available CB and 53 were deemed adequate for MMR IPOX staining. MMR IPOX results between effusion CBs and surgical pathology specimens were concordant in 45 of 53 (85%), inconclusive in 6 of 53 (11%), and discordant in 2 of 53 (4%) cases.

CONCLUSIONS.—

There was high concordance of MMR IPOX testing between cytologic and surgical specimens, with no false-positive and 2 false-negative CB results. Limited tumor cells, staining in cells indefinite as tumor, tumor staining heterogeneity, and lack of internal control staining were problematic in some cases. Our findings indicate that cytologic effusion specimens may be suitable substrates for MMR IPOX biomarker testing; however, inconclusive cases need to be interpreted with caution.

International Histopathology Consensus for Unilateral Primary Aldosteronism

OBJECTIVE

Develop a consensus for the nomenclature and definition of adrenal histopathologic features in unilateral primary aldosteronism (PA).

CONTEXT

Unilateral PA is the most common surgically treated form of hypertension. Morphologic examination combined with CYP11B2 (aldosterone synthase) immunostaining reveals diverse histopathologic features of lesions in the resected adrenals.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Surgically removed adrenals (n = 37) from 90 patients operated from 2015 to 2018 in Munich, Germany, were selected to represent the broad histologic spectrum of unilateral PA. Five pathologists (Group 1 from Germany, Italy, and Japan) evaluated the histopathology of hematoxylin-eosin (HE) and CYP11B2 immunostained sections, and a consensus was established to define the identifiable features. The consensus was subsequently used by 6 additional pathologists (Group 2 from Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, United Kingdom, United States) for the assessment of all adrenals with disagreement for histopathologic diagnoses among group 1 pathologists.

RESULTS

Consensus was achieved to define histopathologic features associated with PA. Use of CYP11B2 immunostaining resulted in a change of the original HE morphology-driven diagnosis in 5 (14%) of 37 cases. Using the consensus criteria, group 2 pathologists agreed for the evaluation of 11 of the 12 cases of disagreement among group 1 pathologists.

CONCLUSION

The HISTALDO (histopathology of primary aldosteronism) consensus is useful to standardize nomenclature and achieve consistency among pathologists for the histopathologic diagnosis of unilateral PA. CYP11B2 immunohistochemistry should be incorporated into the routine clinical diagnostic workup to localize the likely source of aldosterone production.

Embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma of breast, pleura, and retroperitoneum diagnosed from pleural fluid cytology

Embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS) is a malignant small blue round cell tumor which is commonly seen in head and neck region. Breast and pleural involvement are uncommon. Rhabdomyosarcoma has been rarely reported in the body fluids like ascitic, pleural, and cerebrospinal fluid. In this article, we report an interesting case of ERMS which had deceptive small blue round cells in pleural fluid. The cytomorphological features along with a panel of immunocytochemical markers helped in arriving at the definite diagnosis. Later, biopsy from the breast lump and retroperitoneal mass also revealed the same tumor. This case is reported since it is rare to find sarcoma cells in pleural fluid and highlight the diagnostic difficulties faced during interpretation.

Amelanotic melanoma recurrence diagnosed by fine-needle aspiration cytology: A case report

Amelanotic melanoma is a variant of malignant melanoma. Amelanotic melanoma has similar morphology of a wide variety of epithelial and non-epithelial malignant tumours, variable cytomorphology of melanoma has been described on exfoliative and fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC). Aim of index study to describe FNAC of a rare case of recurrent amelanotic melanoma of right lateral knee swelling. Case: A 37-year-old male presented right lateral knee multi-nodular swelling last for 1 month with history of similar swelling 6 months back and operated. Histologically it was reported amelanotic malignant melanoma. FNAC revealed mordantly pleomorphic malignant cells predominantly plasmacytoid, plump shaped, prominent single to multiple nucleoli along with bi-nucleated and multi-nucleated tumour giant cells were also noted. Histology and immunohistochemistry (IHC) slides were reviewed and confirm the diagnosis. Concluded amelanotic melanoma has highly varied cytomorphology with multiple differential diagnosis and IHC markers are of great value for final diagnosis of it.

Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology in Preoperative Diagnosis of Bone Lesions: A Three-Year Study in a Tertiary Care Hospital

AIM

The aim is to study the utility of fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in preoperative diagnosis of bone lesions in correlation with radiological and histopathological findings and to determine the spectrum and morphological features of various bone lesions on FNAC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 275 cases of bone lesions were studied by FNAC over a period of 3 years. 196 procedures were performed by pathologists, and 107 procedures were guided. Cytology findings were correlated with that of histology on cellblocks or on subsequent surgical biopsies. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was done wherever necessary.

RESULTS

Of the 275 cases, 49 lesions were inflammatory/infectious (granulomatous inflammation-19, nonspecific osteomyelitis-26, and fungal etiology-4), 16 were tumors of undefined neoplastic nature (aneurysmal bone cysts-12, and Langerhans cell histiocytosis-4), 99 lesions were benign (osteoblastoma-6, enchondroma-3, chondroblastoma-14, chondromyxoid fibroma-2, and Giant cell tumor-74), and 111 lesions were malignant (Osteosarcoma-36, chondrosarcoma-7, Ewing's sarcoma-28, lymphomas-4, plasma cell neoplasm-6, adamantinoma of long bone-1, and metastasis-29). Male to female ratio was 2:1, and the age range was between 4 and 84 years. Correlation with histology/cellblock was available in 149 tumors. Metastasis and round cell tumors such as Ewing's sarcoma and lymphoma were differentiated by IHC. The accuracy rate in cytological diagnosis of all bone lesions was 87.9% and for neoplasms was 93%. The discordance in the rest of the cases was due to inadequate cell material, and there were no false positives.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that FNAC is a simple and accurate preoperative diagnostic technique for assessment of bone tumors.

Cost-effectiveness of fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and watchful observation for incidental thyroid nodules

OBJECTIVES

A trial-based comparison of the use of resources, costs and health utility outcomes of fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC), and watchful observation for incidental small (< 2 cm) thyroid nodules was performed using data from the randomized controlled trial (RCT).

METHODS

Using data from 314 patients, healthcare-related use of resources, costs, health utility, and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) were estimated at 12 months after first presentation of incidental thyroid nodule(s) on an intention-to-treat basis with adjustment for covariates. Uncertainty about the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for FNAC versus watchful management at 12 months of follow-up was incorporated using bootstrapping. Multiple imputation methods were used to deal with missing data.

RESULTS

FNAC management was associated with greater use of healthcare resources and mean direct healthcare costs per patient (US$542.47 vs US$411.55). Lower mean 12-month QALYs per patient in FNAC was observed in comparison to watchful observation (0.752 versus 0.758). The probability that FNAC management was cost-effective compared with watchful management at a willingness-to-pay threshold of US50,000 per QALY gained was 26.5%.

CONCLUSION

Based on 12-month data from RCT, watchful observation appeared cost-saving compared to FNAC in patients with incidental thyroid nodules that have a low-suspicion sonographic pattern and measure between 1.0 and 2.0 cm from healthcare provider perspective. CLINICALTRIALS.

GOV IDENTIFIER

NCT02398721.

Neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase (NTRK) fusions and their role in cancer

Neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase (NTRK) fusions are rare, therapeutically actionable, and, in some cases, diagnostic oncogenic events that can occur in a variety of adult and pediatric cancers. Cytopathologists need to be a familiar with the types of tumors that can harbor NTRK fusions to triage specimens accordingly for testing.

TzanckNet: a convolutional neural network to identify cells in the cytology of erosive-vesiculobullous diseases

Tzanck smear test is a low-cost, rapid and reliable tool which can be used for the diagnosis of many erosive-vesiculobullous, tumoral and granulomatous diseases. Currently its use is limited mainly due to lack of experience in interpretation of the smears. We developed a deep learning model, TzanckNet, that can identify cells in Tzanck smear test findings. TzanckNet was trained on a retrospective development dataset of 2260 Tzanck smear images collected between December 2006 and December 2019. The finalized model was evaluated using a prospective validation dataset of 359 Tzanck smear images collected from 15 patients during January 2020. It is designed to recognize six cell types (acantholytic cells, eosinophils, hypha, multinucleated giant cells, normal keratinocytes and tadpole cells). For 359 images and 6 cell types, TzanckNet made 2154 predictions. The accuracy was 94.3% (95% CI 93.4-95.3), the sensitivity was 83.7% (95% CI 80.3-87.0) and the specificity was 97.3% (95% CI 96.5-98.1). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.974. Our results show that TzanckNet has the potential to lower the experience barrier needed to use this test, broadening its user base, and hence improving patient well-being.

The Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytopathology: Assessment of Cytohistological Concordance and Risk of Malignancy

INTRODUCTION

The Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytopathology (MSRSGC) was proposed by the American Society of Cytopathology and the International Academy of Cytology to bring uniformity in the reporting system and the treatment protocol. A wide range of risk of malignancy for each category has been reported by various authors by applying the system.

AIM

We intend to study the cytohistological concordance and the ROM for each of the diagnostic categories of the Milan system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included 292 cases of fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) of salivary gland lesions over a period of 3 years. The diagnosis of these cases was reclassified into the 6 categories of the Milan system. The cytohistological concordance and ROM for each category of the Milan system were calculated based on the clinical and histopathological follow-up.

RESULTS

The patients' age ranged from 3 to 81 years with the mean of 42.65 ± 16.3 years. The cases included 189 (64.7%) parotid, 82 (28.1%) submandibular, and 21 (7.2%) cases of minor salivary gland swellings. Follow-up histopathological diagnosis for 102 cases was available. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy were calculated to be 64.28, 97.01, 90, 86.67, and 87.37%, respectively. After reclassification, the number of cases in each category was as follows: category I: 31 (10.62%), category II: 80 (27.4%), category III: 2 (0.68%), category IVA: 143 (48.97%), category IVB: 1 (0.34%), category V: 13 (4.45%), and category VI: 22 (7.53%). The calculated ROM was as follows: category I: 42.86%, category II: 26.67%, category III: 100% category IVA: 10.17%, category IVB: 0%, category V: 71.42%, category VI: 100%.

CONCLUSION

FNAC is an excellent procedure to differentiate benign from malignant tumors, and MSRSGC is a useful system for risk assessment and deciding the further treatment protocol. Our findings also suggest that in addition to the surgical follow-up, inclusion of the clinical and radiological follow-up may be a better strategy for calculation of ROM, especially for categories I and II.

ThyroSeq v2 Testing: Impact on Cytologic Diagnosis, Management, and Cost of Care in Patients with Thyroid Nodule

Background: Novel molecular tests (MTs), such as ThyroSeq, may improve the management of thyroid nodules with indeterminate cytologic diagnoses; however, the impact of these tests on cost and outcome of management is unknown. Here, we evaluated the impact of ThyroSeq testing on the cytopathologic diagnosis, management, and cost of care in patients with thyroid nodules. Methods: In a retrospective study, using actual patient cohorts, the outcome and cost of management of patients with thyroid nodules seen before the introduction of ThyroSeq v2 at our institution (standard of care [StC] cohort) were compared with those seen after the introduction of this test (MT cohort). Results: A total of 773 consecutive patients entered the study (393 StC, 380 MT). The incidence of cytologically benign nodules decreased from 71.0% (StC) to 53.2% (MT) and those of atypia of undetermined significance/follicular lesion of undetermined significance (AUS/FLUS) and follicular neoplasm/suspicious for follicular neoplasm (FN/SFN) increased from 8.9% (StC) to 21.3% (MT) and from 3.1% (StC) to 6.3% (MT), respectively. The overall rate of surgery did not change significantly (23.4% in StC vs. 23.2% in MT). Among patients who underwent surgery, the rate of overtreatment (surgeries performed on histologic benign nodules without clinical indication: compressive symptoms, hyperthyroidism resistant to medication, and nodule size >4 cm) slightly decreased from 18.8% (StC) to 16.7% (MT). The rate of malignancy decreased from 45.5% (StC) to 37.9% (MT) in AUS/FLUS and increased from 40.0% to 53.8% in FN/SFN. However, the overall rate of malignancy remained equal (47.8% in StC vs. 47.7% in MT). The average cost of care per patient in the AUS/FLUS and FN/SFN categories increased from $6,566 (StC) to $8,444 (MT) and from $9,313 (StC) to $10,253 (MT), respectively. Similarly, the overall average cost of care of a patient who underwent thyroid fine-needle aspiration increased from $3,088 (StC) to $4,282 (MT). Finally, the average cost per thyroid cancer detected increased from $26,312 (StC) to $38,746 (MT). Conclusions: Introduction of ThyroSeq v2 resulted in a shift toward indeterminate cytology results. The institutional rate of surgery, overtreatment, and malignancy did not change significantly. Lack of decrease in the rate of surgery along with the additional cost of ThyroSeq v2 increased the overall cost of care of patients including those with indeterminate cytology results.

Benefit of double-reading cytology smears as a triage strategy among high-risk human papillomavirus-positive women in Mexico

BACKGROUND

The goal of this study was to determine whether the detection of histologically confirmed cases of cervical high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions or worse (HSIL+) can be increased by having each liquid-based cytology (LBC) slide read by 2 cytotechnologists as part of routine screening.

METHODS

Over 36,212 women aged 30 to 64 years participated in the Forwarding Research for Improved Detection and Access for Cervical Cancer Screening and Triage (FRIDA) Study in Mexico between 2013 and 2016. For each participant, 2 cervical samples were collected at the same clinic visit, one to test for high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) and the other for LBC, which was used to triage those with a hrHPV positive result. LBC slides were evaluated by 7 cytotechnologists, with each slide read independently by 2 blinded cytotechnologists. All women with atypical cells of undetermined significance or a worse result were referred to colposcopy for further evaluation and diagnosis. Three pathologists evaluated the biopsy specimens to confirm the final HSIL+ diagnosis. The HSIL+ detection rates for the single versus double reading were estimated and compared.

RESULTS

A total of 3,914 women with a positive hrHPV result were triaged with LBC. The first and second cytology readings resulted in 43 HSIL+ cases detected; the double-reading strategy detected 9 additional HSIL+ cases, resulting in a total of 52 HSIL+ cases. The HSIL+ detection rate increased from 10.99/1000 with a single reading to 13.29/1000 with the double-reading strategy (P = .004).

CONCLUSION

A 20.9% increase in HSIL+ cases detected was achieved with a double reading of the LBC slides in this sample of hrHPV-positive women.

Tiny but mighty: use of next generation sequencing on discarded cytocentrifuged bile duct brushing specimens to increase sensitivity of cytological diagnosis

Bile duct brushing (BDB) is used to evaluate pancreatobiliary lesions as it widely samples lesions with a low complication rate. Cytological evaluation of BDB is a specific but insensitive test. There is limited literature on the use of post-cytocentrifuged (PCC) samples, which are usually discarded, for next-generation sequencing (NGS) as an adjunct to cytological diagnosis of BDB. In this study we investigate whether molecular analysis by NGS of PCC specimens improves the sensitivity of diagnosis. PCC samples from 100 consecutive BDB specimens spanning 93 unique patients were retained. DNA was extracted and mutational analysis was performed agnostic of morphologic or clinical findings. Each BDB specimen was characterized as negative, atypical or positive based on morphological analysis by trained cytopathologists. Performance characteristics for mutational profiling and morphological analysis were calculated on the basis of clinicopathologic follow-up. There was sufficient clinicopathologic follow-up to classify 94 of 100 cases as either malignant (n = 43) or benign (n = 51). Based on morphologic analysis of cytology, these 94 cases were classified as either benign (n = 55), atypical (n = 18), or as at least suspicious or positive for malignancy (n = 21). Morphologic analysis of cytology showed a sensitivity of 49% and a specificity of 100% if atypical cases were considered negative. NGS revealed oncogenic alterations in 40/43 (93%) of malignant cases based on clinicopathologic follow-up. The most common alterations were in KRAS and TP53, observed in 77% and 49% of malignant cases respectively. No alterations were observed in the 51 benign cases classified based on clinicopathologic follow-up. Supplementing cytomorphologic analysis with molecular profiling of PCC by targeted NGS analysis increased the sensitivity to 93% and maintained specificity at 100%. This study provides evidence for the utility of NGS molecular profiling of PCC specimens to increase the sensitivity of BDB cytology samples, although studies with larger cohorts are needed to verify these findings.

Cytologic and molecular correlates of SARS-CoV-2 infection of the nasopharynx

Infection by SARS-CoV-2 commonly begins in the nasopharynx, and the cytologic and molecular correlates are not characterized. Fifty-eight cytologic preps (20 oral and 38 from the nasopharynx) were obtained from ten patients and analyzed in a blinded fashion for SARS-CoV-2 spike and envelope protein by immunohistochemistry and viral RNA by in situ hybridization. qRTPCR identified three positive cases and seven controls; the three cases reported mild symptoms that resolved in 2-3 days. Blinded analyses confirmed the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 spike and envelope proteins and viral RNA in the three cases and viral absence in the seven controls. A signal for the positive cases was evident in each nasopharyngeal and none of the oral samples. Viral RNA/proteins localized exclusively to glandular cells and was present in high copy number. Blinded analysis of the cytology documented that the glandular cells infected by SARS-CoV-2 showed marked degeneration with ciliocytophthoria; viral inclusions were not evident. Co-expression analysis showed viral infected cells had increased apoptosis, marked by strong expression of activated caspase 3. Weekly serial testing of two of the cases showed persistence of productive viral infection for up to 2 weeks after symptom onset. It is concluded that the target cell of SARS-CoV-2 in the head and neck region is the glandular cell of the nasal passages, that viral infection is lytic and associated with high copy number that facilitates viral spread. The method outlines a simple, rapid test for productive SARS-CoV-2 based on immunohistochemistry or in situ hybridization of the glandular cells from the nasopharynx.

Histopathological imaging features- versus molecular measurements-based cancer prognosis modeling

For lung and many other cancers, prognosis is essentially important, and extensive modeling has been carried out. Cancer is a genetic disease. In the past 2 decades, diverse molecular data (such as gene expressions and DNA mutations) have been analyzed in prognosis modeling. More recently, histopathological imaging data, which is a "byproduct" of biopsy, has been suggested as informative for prognosis. In this article, with the TCGA LUAD and LUSC data, we examine and directly compare modeling lung cancer overall survival using gene expressions versus histopathological imaging features. High-dimensional penalization methods are adopted for estimation and variable selection. Our findings include that gene expressions have slightly better prognostic performance, and that most of the gene expressions are weakly correlated imaging features. This study may provide additional insight into utilizing the two types of important data in cancer prognosis modeling and into lung cancer overall survival.

Diagnostic Considerations in the Evaluation of Large B-Cells on Lymph Node Cytology Specimens

Fine needle aspiration (FNA) has become increasingly popular in the evaluation of lymph nodes for lymphoproliferative disorders, but there are limitations to accurate subclassification of lymphoma using morphology alone. This case aims to expand diagnostic considerations of large B-cell populations identified on FNA material. We also address the significance of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA in the workup of patients with suspected lymphoma by FNA.

Bethesda System Categories of Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology Are Not Associated with Thyroid Nodule Location: A Single Institution Experience

INTRODUCTION

Thyroid isthmus is defined as the thin band connecting thyroid tissue between both lateral thyroid lobes. Recently, a possible association between thyroid nodules located in the isthmus and malignancy was proposed. The aim of this study was to compare the frequency of The Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology (TBSRTC) categories between nodules from the isthmus and nodules from both thyroid lobes.

METHODS

All fine needle aspiration cytology procedures performed between January 2016 and December 2019 at the Pathology Institute of Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil, were analyzed. For each nodule, at least 2 conventional slides were produced (1 stained by Giemsa and the other by hematoxylin and eosin). All cases were reported according to the TBSRTC. Clinical information (gender, age, and localization) and ultrasound data (size of nodules) were collected from medical requisition forms. To assess the association between the frequency of TBSRTC categories and nodule location, univariate analysis was performed using the χ2 test or Fisher's exact test, as appropriate. A p value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Nodules located in transition between the isthmus and a right or left lobe were included in the isthmus group.

RESULTS

Considering the p value between the TBSRTC categories and thyroid nodule location, statistic association was not observed: nondiagnostic or unsatisfactory (p = 0.1442), atypia of undetermined significance or follicular lesion of undetermined significance (p = 0.3296), follicular neoplasm or suspicious for a follicular neoplasm (p = 0.0817), suspicious for malignancy (p = 0.8464), and malignant (p = 0.1082).

CONCLUSION

In the studied population, nodules located in the isthmus were not related to any Bethesda System category.

Exploring the Inter-observer Agreement Among the Members of the Italian Consensus for the Classification and Reporting of Thyroid Cytology

Classification schemes for reporting thyroid cytology of fine needle aspiration (FNA) of thyroid nodules are largely used in clinical practice, but the level of inter-observer agreement among cytopathologists is poorly acknowledged. The present study aimed to explore the inter-observer agreement among the experienced authors of the 2014 Italian Consensus for Classification and Reporting of Thyroid Cytology (ICCRTC). A stratified randomization was performed in order to obtain a sample homogeneously distributed and representative of all ICCRTC classes. Four high-experience raters were randomly selected among the extensors of the Italian consensus. They independently reviewed 60 FNA samples blindly of the initial cytological report and clinical features. Their overall agreement was evaluated according to Fleiss' kappa. The overall inter-observer agreement was moderate (κ 0.46). Specifically, a good agreement was found when the samples were consistent for malignancy (TIR5) or were not adequate for diagnosis (TIR1) (κ 0.67 and κ 0.73, respectively). A moderate agreement was present for suspicious-for-malignant category (TIR4), and a fair agreement was recorded in the two intermediate ones (TIR3A and TIR3B) (κ 0.36 and κ 0.35, respectively). For clinical purposes, the agreement was good (κ 0.74) in differentiating cases with surgical indication (TIR4/TIR5) from those in which surgery is not essential or requires limited extension (TIR3B/TIR3A/TIR2). In conclusion, the present study confirms the reliability of ICCRTC. These data represent a reference for cytopathologists using this system and are useful for the practice of clinicians and surgeons.

Cytology of SMARCA4-Deficient Thoracic Neoplasms: Comparative Analysis of SMARCA4-Deficient Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinomas and SMARCA4-Deficient Thoracic Sarcomas

INTRODUCTION

Inactivating mutations of the SMARCA4 (SWI/SNF-related, matrix-associated, actin-dependent regulator of chromatin, subfamily A, member 4) gene and/or loss of the BRG1 (brahma-related gene 1) protein defines SMARCA4-deficient thoracic sarcoma (SMARCA4-dTS), an aggressive neoplasm with a usually fatal outcome. Similar SMARCA4 mutations/BRG1 loss is also seen in a subset of non-small cell lung carcinomas (NSCLCs; SMARCA4-dNSCLCs) that lack alterations in currently targetable oncogenic drivers, that is, EGFR, ALK, and ROS1. There is limited knowledge on the cytomorphological features of these SMARCA4-deficient thoracic neoplasms.

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed the cytology of 2 cases each of SMARCA4-dNSCLC and SMARCA4-dTS to understand their cytomorphological overlap, if any, and identify features that would prompt testing for BRG1 loss.

RESULTS

All 4 patients were males presenting with advanced disease, with a mean age of 41.5 years (SMARCA4-dTS) and 58.5 years (SMARCA4-dNSCLC) at presentation. The cytology of the 2 SMARCA4-dTSs was strikingly similar, showing predominantly singly dispersed rhabdoid phenotype tumour cells with perinuclear cytoplasmic condensations in an inflammatory or necrotic background. The cytology raised suspicion for a wide range of differentials, including melanoma, high-grade lymphoma, germ cell tumour, undifferentiated carcinoma, and undifferentiated sarcoma. SMARCA4-dNSCLCs, on the other hand, were recognizable as poorly differentiated (adeno)carcinomas and were easily distinguished from SMARCA4-dTSs, with both cases showing cohesive clusters of frequently large tumour cells with abundant pale cytoplasm.

CONCLUSION

A diagnosis of SMARCA4-dTS is possible on cytology with appropriate ancillary testing and a high index of suspicion. The cytology of SMARCA4-dNSCLCs does not overlap with SMARCA4-dTS; rather, it resembles that of any poorly differentiated (adeno)carcinoma in the limited numbers analysed in this study.

The Value of Cellblock in Diagnosing Pancreatic Lymphomas

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) is the diagnostic tool of choice for pancreatic solid mass lesions. Pancreatic lymphomas represent an infrequent and challenging cytologic diagnosis. Our aim was to determine the diagnostic value of cellblock (CB) in the diagnosis of pancreatic lymphomas.

METHODS

We retrieved pancreatic EUS-FNAs performed over 10-years from our institution's database. We correlated the cytologic and CB diagnosis with the histologic diagnosis as a gold standard.

RESULTS

We found 5 cases (2 women and 3 men; age range, 37-66 years [average age, 52 years]) of pancreatic lymphomas with histologic follow-up biopsies. They included 1 case of T-cell lymphoma (TCL), 1 case of plasma cell neoplasm (multiple myeloma [MM]), 1 case of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), 1 case of classic Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), and 1 case of high-grade B-cell lymphoma (HGBCL). Cytologically, the cases of HL and DLBCL were suspected, the cases of TCL and MM were confused with undifferentiated carcinoma and neuroendocrine carcinoma, and the case of HGBCL was inconclusive. CB samples were of value in highlighting the morphologic details of lymphomas and allowed confirmation, proper classification, and grading of the lymphomas using immunohistochemistry that matched tissue biopsies.

CONCLUSIONS

EUS-FNA smears with CBs are helpful diagnostic tools, differentiating lymphomas from other malignancies and from nonneoplastic lymphocyte-rich lesions. CBs allow proper classification and grading of cases of pancreatic lymphomas.

Fractal Analysis Method for the Complexity of Cell Cluster Staining on Breast FNAB

OBJECTIVE

Because of the increased precision of ultrasound breast cancer screening, early cancer cases with no clear mass or extraction of microcysts on imaging have recently increased, and improvement of the accuracy of breast fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) cytology is needed. The objective of this study was to investigate the usefulness of cluster gray image-fractal analysis evaluating the darkness of clusters, cluster unevenness, and complexity of hyperchromicity (cluster density) of deep-stained cell clusters, known as hyperchromatic crowded cell groups (HCG), on FNAB as a cytology assistance system for breast FNAB.

STUDY DESIGN

One hundred clusters collected from 10 patients with fibroadenoma (FA), 90 clusters from 9 patients with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), and 122 clusters from 11 patients with invasive breast carcinoma of no special type (IBC-NST) were used. (1) Cluster size classification: clusters were classified into small, middle, and large clusters (small cluster: smaller than 40 × 102 μm2; large cluster: 100 × 102 μm2 or larger; middle cluster: intermediate), and their frequency was calculated. (2) Cluster gray image-fractal analysis: (a) the darkness of clusters (luminance), (b) cluster unevenness (complexity), and (c) complexity of cluster density (roundness-corrected fractal value) were assessed. For statistical analysis, the multiple comparison Steel-Dwass test was used, with a significance level of p < 0.05.

RESULTS

(1) Cluster size classification: in FA, small, middle, and large clusters appeared at a similar frequency, and the frequency (30%) of large clusters was significantly higher than that in other diseases. In IBC-NST, many small clusters (61%) appeared and their frequency was significantly higher than that in other diseases, whereas the frequency of large clusters was significantly lower. (2) Cluster gray image-fractal analysis: in IBC-NST, the luminance of small clusters was low (dark), the cluster unevenness was high, and the complexity of cluster density was high, whereas the luminance of large clusters was high (bright), the cluster unevenness was high, and complexity of cluster density was high compared with those in FA.

CONCLUSION

Cluster gray image-fractal analysis evaluating the darkness of clusters, cluster unevenness, and complexity of cluster density in breast FNAB HCG is a useful cytology assistance system for breast FNA.

Role of bronchoalveolar lavage in diagnosing pulmonary infections and malignancies: Experience from a tertiary care center

BACKGROUND

Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), is a safe, minimally invasive procedure to sample the terminal airways and the lung parenchyma. Although frequently used, there is lack of contemporary literature regarding the diagnostic utility of BAL for various pulmonary diseases. This study was conducted to evaluate the utility of BAL in diagnosis of various pulmonary pathologies, both infectious and neoplastic.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study performed over a period of 2 years. All the BAL samples reported on cytology were studied, their clinical details were retrieved, and the corresponding smears were reviewed. Cyto-histopathologic correlation was done, wherever possible.

RESULTS

There were a total of 1835 cases (1153 men, 682 women; age, 8 months to 78 years). Of these, 19 (1%) cases were assessed as inadequate for opinion. In 348 (19%) cases, specific infective cause could be identified on BAL cytology alone. Tuberculosis and fungal infections could be diagnosed in 165 (9%) and 178 (9.7%) cases respectively. There were 46 (2.5%) neoplasms, including adenocarcinoma (n = 20), squamous cell carcinoma (n = 5), small cell carcinoma (n = 2), Langerhans cell histiocytosis (n = 1), suspicious for malignancy (n = 15) and metastatic carcinoma (n = 3). Some rare diagnoses were also reported on BAL cytology, including sarcoidosis, actinomycosis, leishmaniasis, pulmonary alveolar proteinosis and metastatic papillary carcinoma of the thyroid.

CONCLUSION

BAL is a safe and useful procedure for primary diagnosis of infections such as tuberculosis and fungal infections, which has special significance in developing nations where prevalence of such infections is high. In addition, BAL has the potential to diagnose both primary as well as secondary malignant lung lesions.

Predictors of malignancy in high-risk indeterminate (TIR3B) cytopathology thyroid nodules

PURPOSE

The classification of indeterminate cytopathology at thyroid fine-needle-aspiration (FNA) has been updated to reduce the number of unnecessary surgery; the 2014 Italian classification introduced the low-risk (TIR3A) and high-risk (TIR3B) subcategories. Aim of this study was to identify the ultrasonographic (US), clinical and cytological predictors of malignancy among TIR3B nodules from a single institution.

METHODS

A prospective observational study including 1844 patients who underwent thyroid FNA from June 2014 to January 2019. Ultrasonographic, clinical and cytological features were recorded. All TIR3B diagnoses were referred to surgery. According to final histology, patients were divided into thyroid cancer (TC) or benign nodules. Chi-square test, or Fisher exact test when appropriate, were used to compare groups and logistic regression analyses were used to determine independent predictors of malignancy.

RESULTS

Of 1844 FNAs, 96 (5.2%) were TIR3B. Histology report was available in 65. Among them, 25 (38.5%) were TC. Predictors of TC were nodule size < 20 mm [Odds Ratio (OR) = 5.88, 95% CI 1.91-18.11, p = 0.002], absence or weak intralesional flow [OR = 0.3, 95% CI 0.09-0.77, p = 0.015], microcalcifications [OR = 6.5, 95% CI 1.90-21.93, p = 0.003] at US; nuclear inclusions [OR = 25.3, 95% CI 1.34-476.07, p = 0.031] and chromatin clearing [OR = 3.7, 95% CI 1.27-10.99, p = 0.017] at cytopathology. Patients aged < 55 years had a significantly higher risk of TC [OR = 9.7, 95% CI 2.79-34.07, p < 0.001]. In multivariate analysis, age < 55 and nodule size < 20 mm resulted as independent risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients < 55 years receiving a diagnosis TIR3B on nodules < 20 mm, with microcalcifications, showing specific nuclear atypia at cytopathology are more likely to have TC. Combining US, cytological and clinical features could help determining which patients with a TIR3B diagnosis should be referred to surgery.

Disseminated Histoplasmosis Diagnosed by "Touch Prep"

Disseminated histoplasmosis is a rare but serious complication of infection with the dimorphic fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. We report a case of disseminated histoplasmosis with cutaneous involvement diagnosed by touch wet preparation and confirmed with histopathology and culture. "Touch prep" performed from a lesional punch biopsy, prepared with Wright-Giemsa followed by chlorazol black containing KOH, revealed abundant yeast organisms localized within multinucleated giant cells, and a rapid diagnosis of disseminated histoplasmosis with cutaneous involvement was achieved. This report demonstrates the utility of wet prep techniques as an invaluable and rapid beside diagnostic tool in the setting of cutaneous histoplasmosis. In addition, we compare the distinguishing histopathologic features of the infectious organisms within the differential diagnosis of parasitized histiocytes.

Clinical and Morphological Spectrum of Histoplasmosis on Cytology Along with the Review of Literature

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to study the clinical and morphological spectrum of histoplasmosis diagnosed by fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC).

STUDY DESIGN

A total of 17 patients diagnosed with histoplasmosis on FNAC were studied over a period of 5 years. The cytology smears were studied and analysed for the cytomorphological spectrum of histoplasmosis.

RESULTS

Among the 17 patients studied, the mean age was 51.3 years (range 6-84 years). Male-to-female ratio was 3.25:1 with 4 females and 13 males. The frequent sites of involvement were the lung (5), lymph node (4), adrenal gland (4), and skin (4). The most common cytological patterns were histiocytic collection, followed by granulomas and multinucleated giant cells. Necrosis was noted in only 4 cases.

CONCLUSION

Fine needle aspiration is a highly accurate, rapid, and cheap technique for the diagnosis of histoplasmosis due to its distinct morphological features.

The diagnostic utility of next-generation sequencing on FNA biopsies of melanocytic uveal lesions

BACKGROUND

Uveal melanoma is highly aggressive, and overall prognosis depends on mutation status. Fine-needle aspiration biopsies (FNABs) play an important role in obtaining fresh tissue for cytologic diagnosis and molecular studies. It has been suggested that, although FNAB usually provides high diagnostic accuracy, there may be limited cellularity, which may compromise diagnostic potential for molecular studies. FNABs of uveal melanocytic lesions were evaluated to assess sample adequacy for both cytologic evaluation and next-generation sequencing (NGS).

METHODS

The authors retrospectively evaluated 36 cases of melanocytic uveal lesions from 2015 to 2018. Samples were obtained by ophthalmologist-performed FNAB and aliquoted for cytology and NGS. Various combinations of direct smears, liquid-based cytology slides, cell blocks, and immunohistochemical stains for melanocytic markers were performed. All samples were tested for molecular alterations using hybrid-capture-based NGS.

RESULTS

There was sufficient material for cytologic diagnosis in 33 of 36 cases (92%), for NGS testing in 30 of 36 cases (83%), and for both cytologic diagnosis and NGS testing in 28 of 36 cases (78%). Of 7 cases that were cytologically categorized as indeterminate or diagnosed as "atypical" or "nondiagnostic," NGS testing was sufficient and diagnostic for melanoma in 5 cases. Of the cases diagnosed as melanoma on pathology, 20 cases (87%) had concordant NGS testing results, 2 lacked molecular alterations, and 1 was insufficient for testing.

CONCLUSIONS

FNA sampling of melanocytic uveal lesions is adequate for both cytologic diagnosis and NGS testing. In a subset of cases in which pathologic findings were indeterminate, NGS testing results were clarifying for diagnosis. In addition, specific molecular alterations identified can aid in evaluating prognosis and guide further management.

Lamellar Inclusions within Hyperplastic Endoplasmic Reticulum in Benign Mesothelial Cells

INTRODUCTION

In effusion cytology, mesothelial cells can occasionally present with striking intracytoplasmic accumulation of rod- and crystal-like cytoplasmic lamellar inclusions (LIs). Their nature and function are poorly understood, and their diagnostic relevance is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore the nature of LIs in mesothelial cells and determine their prevalence and diagnostic utility in routine practice.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

We reviewed a consecutive series of cytological specimens of reactive (n = 102) and malignant effusions (n = 90), respectively. Malignant effusions included malignant mesotheliomas (n = 63) and carcinomas (n = 27). LIs of one effusion were analyzed by electron microscopy (EM).

RESULTS

LIs were found exclusively in benign mesothelial cells in 14% (14/102) of reactive and in 4% (1/27) of malignant effusions with carcinomatosis. They were absent in effusions of malignant mesothelioma. EM revealed mainly straight lamellar, less tubular, structures in cisternae of the hyperplasic rough endoplasmic reticulum (rER).

CONCLUSION

Cytoplasmic LIs located within hyperplastic rER can be found in up to 14% of effusions restricted to benign mesothelial cells. They can be used as an indirect morphological clue favoring the diagnosis of benign effusion and helping the cytologist to differentiate between reactive and malignant mesothelial cells in daily practice.

Comparison of ThinPrep Integrated Imager-Assisted Screening versus Manual Screening of ThinPrep Liquid-Based Cytology Specimens

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to find out whether ThinPrep Integrated Imager (Hologic Inc.) screening is non-inferior to manual screening in the detection of cervical lesion.

STUDY DESIGN

For a total of 4,011 ThinPrep Pap test specimens stained by ThinPrep staining, manual screening (Manual arm) and ThinPrep Integrated Imager screening (Imager arm) were performed so as not to be screened by the same cytotechnologist, and the sensitivity and specificity in the detection of cervical lesion were compared using McNemar's test.

RESULTS

The sensitivity to detect CIN1 or more squamous cell abnormalities or glandular abnormalities was 91.67% (= 374/408, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 88.44-94.08%) for the Manual arm and 92.40% (= 377/408, 95% CI: 89.28-94.70%) for the Imager arm, and the specificity was 88.87% (= 3,113/3,503, 95% CI: 87.77-89.88%) for the Manual arm and 89.55% (= 3,137/3,503, 95% CI: 88.48-90.54%) for the Imager arm. The differences in sensitivity and in specificity, respectively, were 0.74% (95% CI: -3.14-4.61%, McNemar's test, p = 0.8041) and 0.69% (95% CI: -0.13-1.50%, McNemar's test, p = 0.1125). About the equality of sensitivity and specificity between the 2 methods, 95% CIs of the difference between sensitivity and specificity are in the clinical equivalence range of ±5%, so the Imager arm is non-inferior to the Manual arm.

CONCLUSION

The Imager arm was confirmed to have an equivalent and non-inferior capacity in the detection of cervical lesions compared with the Manual arm, suggesting that its practical application in cervical cytology tests is highly possible.

Comparison between Conventional Cytology and Liquid-Based Cytology in the Tertiary Brazilian Navy Hospital in Rio de Janeiro

INTRODUCTION

Cervical cancer screening is an important tool in public health. Liquid-based cytology (LBC) has been performed at the studied hospital for 7 years. The present study compares the performance of 2 LBC techniques with conventional cytology.

OBJECTIVE

Our objective is to verify the sensitivity for the detection of neoplastic and preneoplastic epithelial atypia, as well as the positive predictive value of the 3 methodologies.

METHODS

We analyzed retrospectively 24,529 cases and evaluated the conventional cytology, ThinPrep®, and BD SurePath® performance categorizing the results according to the Bethesda system. We also compared the level of unsatisfactory samples, the presence of elements from the squamocolumnar junction, and the detection of pathogenic microorganisms.

RESULTS

ThinPrep® (1.43%) showed superior sensitivity over BD SurePath® (0.91%) and conventional cytology (0.71%) in terms of the detection of high-grade lesions; however, in terms of squamous atypia as a whole (ASC-US+), BD SurePath® (6.44%) proved to be more sensitive than conventional cytology (5.28%) and ThinPrep® (3.73%).

CONCLUSIONS

The results show the advantage of implementing LBC in routine screening for cervical lesions. In this study, BD SurePath® achieved the overall best performance considering the studied variables.

The Diagnostic Accuracy of an Intraoperative Frozen Section Analysis and Imprint Cytology of Sentinel Node Biopsy Specimens from Patients with Uterine Cervical and Endometrial Cancer: a Retrospective Observational Study

Sentinel node biopsy (SNB) may be a decision-making tool for function preservation surgery, including radical trachelectomy and ovary preservation in the treatment of cervical and endometrial cancer. The intraoperative diagnosis is important for guiding treatment decisions for patients with these conditions. Three hundred seventy-one patients with cervical and endometrial cancer received SNB with an intraoperative frozen section analysis and imprint cytology. The sentinel node was cut in half, parallel to the longest axis, to obtain the maximum section area. After performing imprint cytology, one half was used to create a frozen section. The specimen was cut at 2-mm intervals into 5-μm-thick sections, which were subjected to hematoxylin and eosin staining. The diagnostic accuracy of intraoperative frozen section analyses and imprint cytology was compared to the final pathological diagnosis. Among 951 detected sentinel nodes, 51 nodes were found to be positive in the final pathological diagnosis. The sensitivity of a frozen section analysis, imprint cytology and the combination of the two modalities was 76.5%, 72.6%, and 92.2%, respectively. The specificity of a frozen section analysis and imprint cytology was 100%. The negative predictive value of a frozen section analysis and imprint cytology was 98.7% and 98.5%, respectively. In these settings, the accuracy of the frozen section analysis and imprint cytology in the evaluation of SNB specimens was considered acceptable; however, the sensitivity of the combined approach was higher in comparison to when a frozen section analysis or imprint cytology was performed alone.

A Proposal for the Performance, Classification, and Reporting of Lymph Node Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytopathology: The Sydney System

BACKGROUND

The evaluation of lymph nodes (LN) by fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is routinely used in many institutions but it is not uniformly accepted mainly because of the lack of guidelines and a cytopathological diagnostic classification. A committee of cytopathologists has developed a system of performance, classification, and reporting for LN-FNAC.

METHODS

The committee members prepared a document that has circulated among them five times; the final text has been approved by all the participants. It is based on a review of the international literature and on the expertise of the members. The system integrates clinical and imaging data with cytopathological features and ancillary techniques. The project has received the endorsement and patronage of the International Academy of Cytology and the European Federation of the Cytology Societies.

RESULTS

Clinical, imaging, and serological data of lymphadenopathies, indications for LN-FNAC, technical procedures, and ancillary techniques are evaluated with specific recommendations. The reporting system includes two diagnostic levels. The first should provide basic diagnostic information and includes five categories: inadequate/insufficient, benign, atypical lymphoid cells of undetermined/uncertain significance, suspicious, and malignant. For each category, specific recommendations are provided. The second diagnostic level, when achievable, should produce the identification of specific benign or malignant entities and additional information by utilizing ancillary testing.

CONCLUSION

The authors believe that the introduction of this system for performing and reporting LN-FNAC may improve the quality of the procedure, the report, and the communication between cytopathologists and the clinicians. This system may lead to a greater acceptance and utilization of LN-FNAC and to a better interdisciplinary understanding of the results of this procedure.

Prospective Comparison of Intraoperative Touch Imprint Cytology and Frozen Section Histology on Axillary Sentinel Lymph Nodes in Early Breast Cancer Patients

INTRODUCTION

Since the late 1970s, sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) has been used for several solid malignancies to identify lymph node metastases. This procedure is associated with less surgical morbidity than complete lymphadenectomy. Recent evidence suggests that axillary lymphadenectomy is not required for breast sentinel nodes with micrometastases (≤2 mm). Current clinical management of sentinel nodes indicates that only macrometastases (>2 mm) should be detected intraoperatively. In Japan, an intraoperative histopathological frozen section (FS) method is used to identify lymph node metastases, but this method takes more than 30 min and requires complex techniques and expensive equipment. Touch imprint cytology (TIC) is an easier, less expensive, and faster method, but its sensitivity has been shown to be low.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine if TIC is more useful than FS in identifying macrometastases in sentinel lymph nodes in preoperative node-negative breast cancer operations.

METHODS

A prospective review of 49 consecutive patients with node-negative breast cancer treated with SLNB and intraoperative TIC and FS between November 2017 and June 2019 was performed. TIC samples were stained using Papanicolaou and Diff-Quick stains. Results were compared with routine postoperative paraffin sections.

RESULTS

With TIC, the Papanicolaou stain took a mean of 12 min, and the Diff-Quick stain took a mean of 10 min. Results of both TIC stain methods were the same. In contrast, the FS method took a mean of 80 min (including the transfer of specimens to a different hospital with the necessary equipment). TIC confirmed macrometastases in 5 cases. All macrometastases were diagnosed equally by the 2 techniques. Both the sensitivity and specificity of TIC were 100% for detection of macrometastases.

CONCLUSION

TIC of SLNB for breast cancer is an easy and useful method for the detection of macrometastases of breast sentinel nodes.

Interobserver Agreement for the International Academy of Cytology Yokohama System for Reporting Breast Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy Cytopathology

BACKGROUND

A number of guidelines have been developed to improve standardization of the terminology and criteria for cytologic specimens obtained from the thyroid, pancreas, lung, and salivary glands. A major goal of these guidelines is to improve reproducibility and understanding of the reporting of diagnostic results among cytopathologists and between cytopathologists and clinicians. The International Academy of Cytology Yokohama System for Reporting Breast Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy Cytopathology (IAC YSRB) is the most recent of these guidelines. The value of this system is, in part, dependent upon interobserver reproducibility.

DESIGN

Ninety consecutive fine-needle aspiration biopsies (FNAB) of the breast, performed over a 6-year period, were independently evaluated by 4 board-certified pathologists blinded to the original diagnoses. The 5 diagnostic categories used were those of the IAC YSRB according to published criteria for these categories. Observed agreement and chance corrected agreement (Fliess κ) were calculated. Differences in κ values were evaluated using the T statistic of Gwent. Statistical calculations were performed using STATA v16.0 (STATA Corp., College Station, TX, USA).

RESULTS

Overall agreement between observers was good. Observed unweighted agreement was 69% and weighted agreement was 91%. The majority of diagnoses were concordant (68.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

Interobserver agreement of 4 cytopathologists was good using the 5 categories of the IAC YRSB (69%). Agreement was greater among pathologists with more years of experience. The IAC YSRB system appears to provide greater agreement among viewers than guidelines for cytologic specimens obtained from some other body sites (salivary gland and lung). Most discrepancies were only by a single category, with only 22/113 (19%) differing by more than one category.

Application of the International System for Reporting Serous Fluid Cytopathology (ISRSFC) on Reporting Pericardial Effusion Cytology

INTRODUCTION

The International System for Reporting Serous Fluid Cytopathology (ISRSFC) has recently been announced. Pericardial effusion (PE) is a clinical manifestation of a large variety of both neoplastic and non-neoplastic conditions. Herein, we have applied the ISRSFC on reporting PE cytopathology and report our experience in a large academic institution.

METHOD AND MATERIALS

After the Institutional Research Board approval, the electronic pathology database of a large academic institution was queried for PEs collected from January 2014 to January 2019. The diagnosis, patient demographics, and specimen volume were recorded for each case. The ISRSFC was applied and the cases were divided into 5 categories: nondiagnostic (ND), negative for malignancy (NFM), atypia of uncertain significance (AUS), suspicious for malignancy (SFM), and malignant (MAL). Each category was evaluated separately.

RESULTS

A total of 299 cases were identified, 162 females and 137 males. The age of the subjects ranged from less than a year to 89 years (average 51.25 years). The volume ranged from 3 to 1,700 mL (average 298 mL). There were 252 NFM (84.3%), 13 AUS (4.3%), 4 SFM (1.3%), and 30 MAL (10%) cases. Metastatic lung cancer followed by metastatic breast cancer were the most common malignancies involving pericardial fluid (PF). No cases were diagnosed as ND. However, no mesothelial cells were seen in 97 specimens (38% of the negative cases). None of these patients developed malignant PE in at least 6 months of follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The ISRSFC is a user-friendly reporting system which is easily applicable on serous fluid including PF. The vast majority of PEs was benign (84.3%). Our study shows that the presence of mesothelial cells is not necessary for specimen adequacy in serous effusions as no mesothelial cells were identified in 38% of the negative cases. Metastatic lung carcinoma was the most common diagnosis of malignant effusions.

Reliable cerebrospinal fluid cytology reporting over an extended period: Is it possible by adding formol saline and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid as cell preservative?

BACKGROUND

Reporting cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cytology within a narrow time frame is crucial as it is often indicated in critically ill patients and moreover, the cells in CSF are highly labile and tend to decline rapidly on standing. However, due to various logistic issues, delay in reporting is inevitable at times, especially if ancillary tools are required. In this study, we examine the effect of using formol saline and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) as a preservative on the cellular composition of CSF at 18, 24, and 48 hours of preservation.

METHODS

Thirty CSF specimens were examined within 2 hours of collection and this reading was recorded as time zero reading. The CSF specimens were then divided in three tubes with: (a) preservative:CSF ratio of 1:1; (b) preservative:CSF ratio of 1:5; and (c) no preservative. Total and differential leucocyte counts and immunocytochemistry were performed on the three specimens at 18, 24, and 48 hours and were compared with the readings at 0 hour.

RESULTS

Preserved CSF (in the ratio of 1:5) showed no significant decrease in the number of cells at 18 hours (P = .4), 24 hours (P = .3), and 48 hours (P = .1). Cellularity decreased by 8.5%, 22%, and 40% at 18, 24, and 48 hours, respectively. Cell morphology and antigenicity were well preserved at all the three time intervals.

CONCLUSION

Formol saline and EDTA, when mixed with the CSF in the ratio of 1:5, can preserve significant cellularity for up to 24 hours.

Comparison Study of Self-Sampled and Physician-Sampled Specimens for High-Risk Human Papillomavirus Test and Cytology

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to calculate the positive rate and overall concordance rate of high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) test and cytology using self-sampled and physician-sampled cervicovaginal tests and to compare both specimens.

METHODS

In collaboration with 3 private hospitals in Sapporo city, 300 women visiting these organizations were enrolled in the study by previously signing an informed consent. From these women, both types of samples (self-obtained and physician-sampled) were obtained at the same time. HrHPV test and cytology were performed on both specimens, and the positive rate and overall concordance rate were calculated to compare both specimens.

RESULTS

HrHPV-positive women were 13.7% in physician-sampled specimens and 14.7% in self-sampled specimens, with an overall concordance rate of 96.3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 94-98%). On the other hand, the positive rate of the cases higher than or equal to atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) on cytology was different between both groups, that is, 12.3% in physician-obtained and 5.3% in self-sampled specimens; the overall concordance rate was 90.7% (95% CI: 87-94%), indicating an apparent decrease in the positive rate of cytology in self-obtained specimens.

CONCLUSION

HrHPV test and cytology were performed on parallel samples obtained by the patients with a self-sampling tool and by the physician. The positive rate of cytology was considerably different between these specimens, while almost equivalent results were obtained for hrHPV test in both specimens. It was concluded that hrHPV test may be safely and accurately performed on self-obtained cervicovaginal samples by the help of a self-sampling device in the Japanese population as a first screening tool, with equivalent results to physician-obtained specimens.

Sputum Cell-Free DNA: Valued Surrogate Sample for Detection of EGFR Mutation in Patients with Advanced Lung Adenocarcinoma

Sputum is a common cytologic sample type, but its potential use in EGFR mutation detection in patients with lung cancer is not fully evaluated. This study established an improved sputum cell-free DNA (cfDNA) extraction method study and applied a super-amplification refractory mutation system to detect the EGFR mutation status in sputum cfDNA. The sputum sediments were used for cytology evaluation. The study included 102 lung adenocarcinoma patients; 65 patients (63.7%) were positive for EGFR mutations in tumor samples. EGFR mutation status was positive in 30 patients (29.4%) by sputum cfDNA testing, achieving an overall sensitivity and specificity of 46.2% and 100%, respectively. Comparison of EGFR mutation status in tumor samples revealed that the sensitivity of testing sputum cfDNA in 40 patients with stage I to IIIA versus 62 patients with stage IIIB to IV was 24% (6/25) versus 65.0% (26/40). Through cytology evaluation, the sputum specimens from 62 advanced patients were classified into three categories: 10 were unsatisfactory; 34 were satisfactory but had no malignant cells; and 18 had malignant cells. The sensitivities of these three categories were 0% (0/8), 71.4% (15/21), and 100% (11/11), respectively. These findings revealed that with the improved cfDNA extraction method and sputum cytology evaluation, sputum cfDNA is a valuable surrogate sample type for detecting clinical EGFR mutations in advanced lung adenocarcinoma patients.

Fine needle biopsy of malignant tumors of the liver: a retrospective study of 624 cases from a single institution experience

BACKGROUND

Liver is one of the most common organs involved by metastatic neoplasms. In addition, a number of primary tumors can arise in the liver. Fine needle biopsy (FNB) is the most commonly used method for diagnosis of liver masses. Not much literature is available during the past 10 years about FNB of liver tumors. All large studies were performed more than 15 years ago. With the introduction of new disease entities, new tumor classification systems, and new diagnostic methods, updated documentation of FNB of liver neoplasms is much needed.

METHODS

Liver FNB cases that were diagnosed as "Positive for Malignancy" between 2010 and 2018 were retrieved from the cytopathology database in our institution. Patient medical records, cytopathology and surgical pathology reports, and slides from selected cases were retrieved and reviewed.

RESULTS

Over 30 different types of malignant tumors were identified in 624 malignant FNB cases, with the most common tumors being metastatic colorectal and pancreatic adenocarcinomas. Rare tumors include EBV-positive leiomyosarcoma, mesothelioma, and paraganglioma, among others. A subset of patients presented with widespread metastases involving liver with no known history. Identifying the primary sites in those cases can be challenging. We also found that in our practice, a significant number of hepatocellular carcinoma were diagnosed by FNB in recent years.

CONCLUSIONS

A tremendous variety of neoplasms can occur in liver. Accurate diagnosis is essential for proper patient management. Familiarization with morphological features and judicious usage of ancillary studies are essential for accurate diagnosis.

Performance of Five Ultrasound Risk Stratification Systems in Selecting Thyroid Nodules for FNA

CONTEXT

Ultrasound (US) risk stratification systems (RSSs) have been developed to reduce the number of unnecessary fine-needle aspiration procedures (FNA) in patients with thyroid nodules.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the ability of the 5 most common US RSSs for the appropriate selection of thyroid nodules for FNA.

DATA SOURCES

This systematic review and meta-analysis was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42019131771). PubMed, CENTRAL, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched until March 2019.

STUDY SELECTION

Original articles reporting data on the performance of AACE/ACE/AME, ACR TI-RADS, ATA, EU-TIRADS, and K-TIRADS were included.

DATA EXTRACTION

The number of nodules classified as true negative, true positive, false negative, and false positive was extracted. Summary operating points were estimated using a random-effects model. Interobserver agreement was also assessed.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Twelve studies evaluating 18 750 thyroid nodules were included. Participants were adult outpatients with thyroid nodules submitted to either FNA or core-needle biopsy or surgery and with available US images. The final diagnosis for malignant nodules was generally based on histology, while cytology was used for benign nodules. Diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) ranged from 2.2 to 4.9. A head-to-head comparison showed a higher relative DOR for ACR-TIRADS versus ATA (P = .002) or K-TIRADS (P = .002), due to a higher relative likelihood ratio for positive results.

CONCLUSIONS

The present meta-analysis found a higher performance of ACR TI-RADS in selecting thyroid nodules for FNA. However, the comparison across the most common US RSSs was limited by the data available. Further studies are needed to confirm this finding.

Malignancy rates for Bethesda III and IV thyroid nodules: a retrospective study of the correlation between fine-needle aspiration cytology and histopathology

BACKGROUND

Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) has become a well-established modality in the diagnosis, staging and follow-up of thyroid nodules. FNAC outcomes are routinely classified using the Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology (BSRTC), facilitating appropriate clinical management. Bethesda categories III and IV encompass varying risks of malignancy. This retrospective study established a possible association between these cytological categories and malignancy rates in patients treated at a single institution.

METHODS

Over a 6-year period, 11,627 FNAC procedures were performed on thyroid nodules. Of these, 814 (59.63%) patients were submitted to thyroidectomy. The nodules of 108 patients were classified as Bethesda category III and 47 patients as Bethesda category IV. Patient data were reviewed to establish a correlation between the FNAC results and the final histopathological analyses.

RESULTS

The rates of malignancy among patients who underwent surgery were 25% for category III and 27.6% for category IV, with no significant differences between categories (p = 0.67). The pathological parameters of malignant nodules, namely tumour type, size, encapsulation, invasion into the thyroid capsule, extrathyroidal extension and lymphovascular invasion did not significantly differ between the groups (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This paper provides a more precise correlation of malignancy rates with thyroid nodules classified as Bethesda categories III and IV, as our findings are comparable to the literature, giving malignancy rates ranging from 10 to 30% for category III and 25-40% for category IV. Use of the BSRTC is heterogeneous across institutions, and there is some degree of subjectivity in the distinction between categories III and IV; therefore, it is crucial to estimate the rates of malignancy at each institution. Molecular assays are of increasing importance in determining the need for surgical intervention for thyroid lesions. Gene expression assays using FNAC material may demonstrate a high predictive value for cytologically indeterminate thyroid nodules diagnosed as Bethesda classes III and IV.

Current Topics and Practical Considerations of Cytology Practice in Lung Cancer: Reflexions from the Lung Symposium at the 42nd European Congress of Cytology, Malmö, 2019

In June 2019, a lung symposium was held at the 42nd European Congress of Cytology in Malmö, Sweden. Due to the current importance of cytological samples in the diagnoses and molecular analysis to set up the utmost management of lung cancer patients, cytologists from different countries shared the experience of their institutions. The place of the cytological samples gains more and more importance on the potential long-term survival gain through personalized medicine and this harbors the improvement of the guidelines both in pathology and cytology field. In this symposium, the new 6-tiered reporting system for pulmonary cytology proposed by the Papanicolaou Society of Cytopathology and detailed cytomorphological approach to lung carcinoma including lookalike lesions and DNA- and RNA-based analysis of cytology material have been discussed. The cytopathologist plays a pivotal role in ensuring success of a correct triage for the cytology material to be sure of the adequacy and quality of the yield from the rapid on-site evaluation till the report which should encompass molecular profile in rational patient management.