ALK rearrangement and overexpression in epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma

Superficial ALK-rearranged myxoid spindle cell neoplasms: Clinicopathologic and molecular analysis of two cases and a review of the literature

Superficial anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-rearranged myxoid spindle cell neoplasms are a recently identified subtype of cutaneous soft tissue tumors, distinct for their co-expression of CD34 and S100 and characterized by ALK gene rearrangements. Although 72 cases have been reported primarily as isolated case reports, this tumor subtype has yet to be included in the WHO classification of soft tissue tumors, underscoring the need for further study. In this study, we diagnosed two additional cases, both arising in the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. These tumors exhibited characteristic pathological features, including linear or concentric whorl patterns, prominent myxoid and collagenized stroma, mild cellular atypia, and rare mitotic activity. The presence of infiltrative margins and the potential for recurrence after surgery suggest at least locally aggressive clinical behavior. Immunohistochemically, the tumors diffusely expressed S100 and CD34, with strong ALK-D5F3 positivity, confirmed by ALK gene rearrangement. These findings further expand the clinical and pathological spectrum of ALK-rearranged neoplasms and highlight the need for continued research on their biological behavior and classification.

An ALK Immunohistochemical Pitfall: ALK-Positive Histiocytosis Versus Angiomatoid Fibrous Histiocytoma

The proliferation of recognized neoplasms related to related to rearrangements involving kinase genes, arising in diverse somatic tissue lineages, poses an increasing challenge in surgical pathology. For instance, ALK rearrangements have been observed in diverse neoplasms of epithelial, connective tissue, and hematolymphoid lineages, many of which are associated with overexpression of ALK by immunohistochemistry as a useful biomarker. An even higher order challenge and pitfall would be the scenario where a tumor without an ALK rearrangement nonetheless overexpresses the protein, thereby simulating an ALK-defined neoplasm. Herein, we present this exact scenario, where an angiomatoid fibrous histiocytoma, exhibiting the recently-described phenomenon of its overexpression of ALK, clinically, histologically, and immunophenotypically simulated ALK-positive histiocytosis.

Clinicopathologic and molecular study of superficial CD34-positive fibroblastic tumours mimicking atypical fibrous histiocytoma (dermatofibroma)

AIMS

Superficial CD34-positive fibroblastic tumour (SCD34FT) is an uncommon but distinctive low-grade neoplasm of the skin and subcutis that shows frequent CADM3 expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC). In this study, prompted by an index case resembling 'atypical fibrous histiocytoma (FH)' that was positive for CADM3 IHC, we systematically examined a cohort of tumours previously diagnosed as 'atypical FH' by applying CADM3 and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) for PRDM10 rearrangement, to investigate the overlap between these tumour types.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Forty cases of atypical FH were retrieved, including CD34-positive tumours (n = 20) and CD34-negative tumours (n = 20). All tumours were stained for CADM3. All CADM3-positive tumours were evaluated by FISH to assess for PRDM10 rearrangement. Eleven CD34-positive tumours (11/20, 55%) coexpressed CADM3 and were reclassified as SCD34FT. None (0/20) of the CD34-negative atypical FH were CADM3-positive. Reclassified SCD34FT (10/11) arose on the lower extremity, with frequent involvement of the thigh (n = 8). Features suggestive of atypical FH were observed in many reclassified cases including variable cellularity, spindled morphology, infiltrative tumour margins, collagen entrapment, epidermal hyperpigmentation, and acanthosis. Variably prominent multinucleate giant cells, including Touton-like forms, were also present. An informative FISH result was obtained in 10/11 reclassified tumours, with 60% (6/10) demonstrating PRDM10 rearrangement.

CONCLUSION

A significant subset of tumours that histologically resemble atypical FH, and are positive for CD34, coexpress CADM3 and harbour PRDM10 rearrangement, supporting their reclassification as SCD34FT. Awareness of this morphologic overlap and the application of CADM3 IHC can aid the distinction between SCD34FT and atypical FH.

ALK-Rearranged Epithelioid and Spindle Cell Neoplasm of the Sinonasal Tract

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-rearranged mesenchymal neoplasms (non-inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor and non-epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma) have been recently described which tend to occur in the superficial and deep soft tissues. Occurrence as a primary sinonasal neoplasm has not been reported thus far. Herein, we describe the first case of sinonasal ALK-rearranged mesenchymal tumor that harbored remarkable epithelioid and spindle cell morphology. The tumor affected a 40-year-old man who presented with flu-like symptoms and was thought to have influenza A. However, computed tomography demonstrated a nasal polypoid lesion causing curvature of the nasal septum. Histological examination revealed a heterogeneous tumor composed of round to epithelioid cells with foci of spindle cells. The tumor cells exhibited moderate pleomorphism and mitotic activity. By immunohistochemistry, they showed diffuse staining of CD34, S100, ALK (D5F3) and CD30. Fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis demonstrated ALK rearrangement. Subsequent next-generation sequencing (RNA-seq) identified a rare PLEKHH2exon6::ALKexon20 fusion. This study further demonstrates the importance of molecular profiling in identifying kinase fusion-positive soft tissue tumors, particularly for those that arise at unusual sites and display atypical cytomorphology.

ALK-rearranged, CD34-positive spindle cell neoplasms resembling dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans: a study of seven cases

AIMS

The majority of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) harbour PDGFB or PDGFD rearrangements. We encountered ALK expression/rearrangement in a PDGFB/D-negative CD34-positive spindle cell neoplasm with features similar to DFSP, prompting evaluation of ALK-rearrangements in DFSP and plaque-like CD34-positive dermal fibroma (P-LDF).

METHODS AND RESULTS

We searched the archives of academic institutions for cases previously coded as DFSP and P-LDF. NGS-naïve or PDGFB-negative DFSP were screened for ALK (clone D5F3) expression by immunohistochemistry. NGS or ALK FISH was performed on ALK-positive cases. Methylome profiling studies were performed and compared with conventional DFSP. One case of "DFSP" and two "P-LDF" with ALK expression were identified from the archives, while four cases were detected prospectively. These seven cases (6F:1M; 8 months to 76 years) arose in the dermis of the arm (two), scalp, eyelid, thigh, abdomen, and shoulder and ranged from 0.4 to 4.2 cm. Tumours were composed of spindled cells and displayed a storiform growth pattern. Cytologic atypia was absent, and mitotic figures were scarce (0-2/10 HPFs, high power fields). The lesional cells were diffusely positive for CD34 and ALK and negative for S100 protein. By NGS (n = 5), ALK fusion partners included DCTN1 (2), PLEKHH2, and CLIP2 in DFSP-like cases and FLNA in P-LDF-like lesions. ALK FISH was positive in one (of two) cases previously labelled P-LDF. Methylome profiling of two (of three) ALK-rearranged DFSP-like tumours showed clustering with conventional DFSP in the UMAP dimension reduction plot. To date, no tumour has recurred (n = 2; 26, 27 months).

CONCLUSION

We describe a cohort of novel ALK-rearranged tumours with morphologic features similar to DFSP.

Epithelioid Fibrous Histiocytoma Is on a Continuum With Superficial ALK-rearranged Myxoid Spindle Cell Neoplasm: A Clinicopathologic Series of 35 Cases Including Alternate RET and NTRK3 Fusions

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) rearrangements drive most examples of epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma (EFH) and have been reported in an emerging family of receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) fusion-positive mesenchymal neoplasms, including superficial ones described under the rubric of "superficial ALK-rearranged myxoid spindle cell neoplasm" (SAMS). Here, we describe 35 superficial tumors with SAMS morphology, which occurred in 18 females (51%) and 17 males at a median age at presentation of 39 years (range: 6 to 82 y). Most tumors occurred on the lower extremity (25 tumors; 71%), followed by upper extremity (5; 14%), trunk (3; 9%), and face (2; 6%). Nine tumors were reported to have grown slowly before presentation, including >10 years in 2 cases. Tumors occurred primarily in the dermis (32 tumors; 91%) or subcutis (3; 9%); 8 dermal tumors extended into the subcutis. Median tumor size was 1.3 cm (range: 0.5 to 8.0 cm). Clinical follow-up was available for 12 patients (34%; range: 2 mo to 21 y; median: 2.7 y), none of whom experienced metastasis. One incompletely resected tumor recurred locally at 19 months, and no other patients experienced recurrence. Histologically, tumors were characterized by bland spindle-to-ovoid cells showing whorled growth and myxoid-to-collagenous stroma. Recurrent features included an epidermal collarette (19/30; 63%), perivascular hyalinization (20/35; 57%), amianthoid collagen (14/35; 40%), and metaplastic ossification (2/35; 6%). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) demonstrated expression of ALK (24/31; 77%), CD34 (15/21; 71%), EMA (17/28; 61%), and S-100 (9/32; 28%). Eleven tumors showed hybrid morphologic features between EFH and SAMS; 9 of them (82%) showed cytomorphology typical of EFH but with whorled growth, myxoid stroma, and/or regions of spindle cell morphology. Two hybrid tumors showed sharp transitions between a region characteristic of EFH and a region characteristic of SAMS, with a concomitant sharp transition in EMA, CD34, and S-100 expression by IHC. Sequencing revealed ALK fusions in 15 of 19 tumors: 2 each with fusion partners FLNA, SQSTM1, and VCL, and 1 each with COL1A2, DCTN1, EML4, FXR1, MPRIP, PLEKHH2, PRKAR1A, SPECC1L, and TLN2. Thirteen of 14 ALK-rearranged tumors expressed ALK by IHC. Three tumors negative for ALK fusions instead harbored alternate RTK fusions (NCOA4::RET, TRIM27::RET, and VIM::NTRK3), and 1 tumor was negative for RTK alterations. CDKN2A/B deletions were found in 2 tumors with ALK fusions and both tumors with RET fusions. SAMS is on a morphologic and molecular genetic spectrum with EFH, with a similar body site distribution, frequent clinical presentation as an exophytic skin tumor, and invariably benign outcomes; we conclude that SAMS should be considered a histologic variant of EFH. Some morphologically typical examples harbor alternate RET and NTRK3 fusions, such that SAMS is not an appropriate designation for this morphologic class; instead, to highlight the clinicopathologic similarities to EFH, we propose the diagnostic term "myxoid spindle cell variant of epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma."

ALK-Rearranged Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Multi-Institutional Study of 9 Cases With Expanding the Morphologic and Molecular Genetic Spectrum

ALK-rearranged renal cell carcinoma (ALK-RCC) is rare, molecularly defined RCC subtype in the recently published fifth edition of World Health Organization classification of tumors. In this study, we described 9 ALK-RCCs from a clinicopathologic, immunohistochemical, and molecular genetic aspect, supporting and extending upon the observations by previous studies regarding this rare subgroup of RCC. There were 6 male and 3 female patients with ages ranging from 14 to 59 years (mean, 34.4 years). None of the patients had sickle cell trait. The diagnosis was based on radical or partial nephrectomy specimen for 8 patients and on biopsy specimen for 1. Tumor size ranged from 2.5 to 7.2 cm (mean, 2.8 cm). Follow-up was available for 6 of 9 patients (6-36 months); 5 had no tumor recurrence or metastasis and 1 developed lung metastasis at 24 months. The patient was subsequently treated with resection of the metastatic tumor followed by crizotinib-targeted therapy, and he was alive without tumor 12 months later. Histologically, the tumors showed a mixed growth of multiple patterns, including papillary, solid, tubular, tubulocystic, cribriform, and corded, often set in a mucinous background. The neoplastic cells had predominantly eosinophilic cytoplasm. Focally, clear cytoplasm with polarized nuclei and subnuclear vacuoles (n = 1), and pale foamy cytoplasm (n = 1) were observed on the tumor cells. The biopsied tumor showed solid growth of elongated tubules merging with bland spindle cells. Other common and uncommon features included psammomatous microcalcifications (n = 5), rhabdoid cells (n = 4), prominent intracytoplasmic vacuoles (n = 4), prominent chronic inflammatory infiltrate (n = 3), signet ring cell morphology (n = 2), and pleomorphic cells (n = 2). By immunohistochemistry, all 9 tumors were diffusely positive for ALK(5A4) and 4 of 8 tested cases showed reactivity for TFE3 protein. By fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis, ALK rearrangement was identified in all the 9 tumors; none of the tested tumors harbored TFE3 rearrangement (0/4) or gains of chromosomes 7 and 17 (0/3). ALK fusion partners were identified by RNA-sequencing in all 8 cases analyzed, including EML4 (n = 2), STRN (n = 1), TPM3 (n = 1), KIF5B (n = 1), HOOK1 (n = 1), SLIT1 (n = 1), and TPM1(3' UTR) (n = 1). Our study further expands the morphologic and molecular genetic spectrum of ALK-RCC.

An Unusual Case of an ALK-Negative Epithelioid Fibrous Histiocytoma in the External Auditory Canal

This article represents the first reported case in the external auditory canal of epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma (EFH), a rare benign cutaneous epithelioid neoplasm. Immunostaining revealed uncommon negative staining for anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) expression. This case and literature review outline the diagnostic strategy for this highly unusual neoplasm. Laryngoscope, 134:3371-3373, 2024.

ALK-rearranged mesenchymal neoplasms: a clinicopathological and molecular study of eight additional cases of an emerging group of tyrosine kinase fusion mesenchymal tumours

AIMS

Mesenchymal neoplasms characterised by ALK fusions mainly include inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour (IMT) and epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma (EFH). Most recently, ALK-rearranged mesenchymal tumours that are not IMT or EFH have been reported. Our aim is to further characterise eight such neoplasms, with a detailed clinicopathological, immunohistochemical and molecular analysis.

METHODS

Clinicopathological features were assessed and partner agnostic targeted RNA-sequencing on clinically validated platforms was performed.

RESULTS

The patients consisted of seven males and one female with a median age of 47 years (28 -59 years). The tumours ranged in size from 2.0 to 10.0 cm (mean=3.0 cm) and involved superficial and deep soft tissue (n=6) and visceral locations (n=2). Of the seven patients with follow-up (9-130 months), two developed distant metastases and five had no disease recurrence or metastasis. The tumours demonstrated diverse architectures and variable cellularity and cellular morphologies. The main constitutive cells appeared in elongated spindled in three, primitive to ovoid in two and round to epithelioid in three cases. We expanded the histopathological spectrum to include mildly to moderately cellular spindled to stellate cells in a multinodular growth in a prominent myxoid and vascularised stroma (n=2). All tumours expressed ALK(D5F3); seven were positive for S100 protein and six were positive for CD34. By fluorescence in situ hybridisation, ALK rearrangement was identified in all eight tumours. ALK fusion partners were identified by RNA-sequencing in all cases, including previously reported: EML4 (n=3), DCTN (n=1), CLIP1 (n=1) and PLEKHH2 (n=1), and also two novel fusion partners: TKT (n=1) and MMP2 (n=1).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study expands the clinicopathological and molecular spectrum of ALK-rearranged mesenchymal neoplasms.

ALK-Rearranged Epithelioid Mesenchymal Neoplasm: Expanding the Spectrum of Tyrosine Kinase-Altered Mesenchymal Tumors

The anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene encodes a receptor tyrosine kinase, and fusions involving this gene have been reported in a variety of mesenchymal neoplasms. ALK-altered tumors with epithelioid morphology have been described in epithelioid inflammatory myofibroblastic sarcoma and epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma. Herein, we describe the clinicopathologic features of 7 ALK-rearranged mesenchymal tumors with epithelioid morphology occurring predominately in the pediatric population. Tumors occurred in 4 females and 3 males with an age ranging from 1 month to 28 years. Five tumors were superficial and solitary, while 1 presented with multiple peritoneal/omental nodules, and 1 presented as a large mediastinal mass. Morphologically, all tumors comprised epithelioid cells arranged in sheets, anastomosing cords, or small clusters embedded in a myxohyaline stroma. The cells had slightly variably sized ovoid nuclei with moderately prominent nucleoli and abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm. Four cases had sparse mitotic figures without necrosis. The remaining 3 tumors (2 deep and 1 superficial) had more than 10 mitoses per 10 high-power fields as well as foci of necrosis. ALK fusions were identified in all cases. The fusion partners included HMBOX1 (n = 1), VCL (n = 1), PRRC2B (n = 1), MYH10 (n = 1), STRN (n = 1), and EML4 (n = 2). One tumor recurred locally 2 years after initial resection; 1 patient had widely metastatic disease (mediastinal tumor). At the time of last follow-up (n = 6), 4 patients were alive without evidence of disease, 1 died due to complications of therapy (peritoneal tumor), and 1 was alive with disease. Our findings expand the spectrum of ALK-rearranged mesenchymal tumors. Our cases predominately occurred in older children and mainly exhibited epithelioid to round cell morphology, as opposed to spindle cell morphology. We also show that tumors in a deep location with higher-grade features follow a more aggressive clinical course.

Non-cutaneous syncytial myoepitheliomas are identical to cutaneous counterparts: a clinicopathologic study of 24 tumors occurring at diverse locations

AIMS

Cutaneous syncytial myoepithelioma (CSM) is a rare myoepithelioma variant of skin, characterized by intradermal syncytial growth of spindle cells with a distinct immunophenotype of EMA and S100 positivity and infrequent keratin expression. While CSM was first described as a cutaneous tumor, singular non-cutaneous cases have since been reported in bone. We aimed to investigate the clinicopathological features of this variant across all anatomic sites through a large multi-institutional study.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We complied a total of 24 myoepitheliomas with syncytial growth from our files. The tumors occurred in 12 male and 12 female patients (M:F = 1:1), with a median age of 31 years (range, 9-69 years). While the majority of tumors (75%, n = 18) occurred in skin, a significant subset (25%, n = 6) arose in non-cutaneous sites, including bone (n = 3), bronchus/trachea (n = 2), and interosseous membrane of tibia/fibula (n = 1). Tumor size ranged from 0.4 to 5.9 cm. Clinical follow-up (7 patients; range 14-202 months; median 56.5 months) showed a single local recurrence 8 years after incomplete skin excision but no metastases; all patients were alive at the time of last follow-up without evidence of disease. Histologically, all tumors were pink at low-power and characterized by a syncytial growth of bland ovoid, spindled, or histiocytoid cells with eosinophilic cytoplasm and prominent perivascular lymphoplasmacytic inflammation. One-third displayed adipocytic metaplasia (8/24). Rare cytologic atypia was seen but was not associated with increased mitotic activity. All tumors expressed S100, SMA, and/or EMA. Keratin expression was absent in most cases. Molecular analysis was performed in 16 cases, all showing EWSR1-rearrangments. In total, 15/15 (100%) harbored an EWSR1::PBX3 fusion, whereas 1 case EWSR1 FISH was the only molecular study performed.

CONCLUSION

Syncytial myoepithelioma is a rare but recognizable morphologic variant of myoepithelioma which may have a predilection for skin but also occurs in diverse non-cutaneous sites. Our series provides evidence supporting a reappraisal of the term "cutaneous syncytial myoepithelioma," as 25% of patients in our series presented with non-cutaneous tumors; thus, we propose the term "syncytial myoepithelioma" to aid pathologist recognition and avoidance of potentially confusing terminology when referring to non-cutaneous examples. The behavior of syncytial myoepithelioma, whether it arises in cutaneous or non-cutaneous sites, is indolent and perhaps benign with a small capacity for local recurrence.

Malakoplakia with aberrant ALK expression by immunohistochemistry: a case report

BACKGROUND

Malakoplakia is a rare inflammatory disease of the urogenital tract. There have been no reports of malakoplakia expressing anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) to date. Here, we present one case of malakoplakia with aberrant ALK expression by immunohistochemistry and discuss the clinical significance.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 65-year-old Chinese woman with a history of diabetes presented with solid masses in the liver and kidney and elevated lesions on the mucosal surface of the colon. Right nephrectomy and partial liver resection were performed. Microscopically, sheets of histiocytes with poor intercellular adhesion were seen, with Michaelis-Gutmann bodies present in both the intracellular and extracellular interstitium. CD10-, CD68-, and CD163-positive cells were present, with Michaelis-Gutmann bodies confirmed by staining with Alcian blue, periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), periodic acid-Schiff with diastase, Von Kossa, and Prussian blue. Aberrant ALK1 and ALK (D5F3) expression was observed in the cytoplasm and nucleus of cells. However, ALK gene mutation was not detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization or whole exome next-generation sequencing. NGS revealed nine individual somatic gene mutations: GOT1L1, GLIS2, SPOUT1, TMEM97, MUC3A, NSD2, SFXN5, ADAD1 and RAD50. The significance of the somatic gene mutations detected in this study is not clear, and the relationship between them and malakoplakia cannot be clarified by existing scientific studies. The pathological diagnosis was malakoplakia with aberrant ALK expression by immunohistochemistry. The antibiotics imipenem and vancomycin were started based on the results of drug sensitivity analysis and the patient was subsequently discharged. She experienced no discomfort during 30 months of follow-up.

CONCLUSION

This is the first reported case of malakoplakia with aberrant ALK expression, it should be differentiated from ALK-positive histiocytosis to avoid misdiagnosis.

Novel NONO::TFE3 fusion and ALK co-expression identified in a subset of cutaneous microcystic/reticular schwannoma

Microcystic/reticular schwannoma (MRS) is a benign variant of schwannoma with a predilection for the gastrointestinal tract and skin. To date, genetic characterization of this tumor is limited. Prompted by the identification of TFE3::NONO fusion and ALK overexpression in an index case of MRS, a cohort of tumors was collected from institutional and consultation archives of two institutions. Next-generation sequencing (NGS), TFE3 fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and TFE3 and ALK immunohistochemistry were performed, while clinicopathologic variables were documented. Eighteen MRS cases were identified (35 to 85 years) arising in the skin (n=8), gastrointestinal tract (n=5), adrenal gland (n=3), abdominal wall (n=1), and unknown site (n=1). Tumors showed a circumscribed to multinodular to plexiform low-power architecture with variable amounts of microcystic/reticular and solid schwannian components. Mitotic figures were scarce (0-1/10 HPFs), and atypia was absent. S100 protein and/or SOX10 immunoreactivity was noted in the microcystic/reticular and schwannian areas of all cases. NGS performed on two cutaneous tumors yielded NONO exon 12 fusion with TFE3 exon 4, and these lesions also showed HMB45 and ALK expression. Two additional cases showed ALK expression (1 weak), while a third was positive for TFE3, but these cases failed to show ALK or TFE3 rearrangement by FISH/NGS. There were no morphologic variables that correlated with the presence of NONO::TFE3. We identified a subset of microcystic/reticular schwannomas with NONO::TFE3 fusions and ALK co-expression, adding to the cohort of mesenchymal neoplasms that show ALK overexpression without rearrangement of the ALK gene.

Cutaneous Syncytial Myoepithelioma: A Unique Variant Worth Recognizing

Cutaneous syncytial myoepithelioma is a recently characterized variant of cutaneous myoepithelioma with a distinct histopathological and immunohistochemical profile. It is more common in men and predominately involves upper and lower extremities. Microscopically, it is a dermal tumor with a characteristic solid syncytial growth pattern displaying positivity with EMA and S100 immunohistochemical stains. Lately, EWSR1-PBX3 fusion has been documented in a vast majority. Although it follows a benign clinical course, its histopathological differential diagnosis includes clinically aggressive neoplasia. This contribution summarizes the derivation, clinical presentation, histopathological and immunohistochemical features, molecular genetics, pertinent differential diagnosis, and behavior of this unique cutaneous appendageal tumor.

A Novel Fusion Partner, SP100, Drives Nuclear Dot Localization of ALK in Epithelioid Fibrous Histiocytoma

ABSTRACT

Epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma (EFH) is a distinctive benign cutaneous neoplasm composed of uniform epithelioid cells, often with binucleated cells. EFH are characterized by the presence of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene rearrangements with a variety of binding partners. These rearrangements result in the overexpression of ALK, which can be detected using immunohistochemistry. Cytoplasmic ALK expression is by far the most common pattern encountered. Here, we describe a case of EFH with a distinctive intranuclear dot-like ALK expression pattern. Subsequent next-generation DNA sequencing revealed a novel SP100::ALK gene fusion. Speckled protein-100 (SP100) is a constituent of nuclear dots, also known as promyelocytic leukemia bodies, which are still poorly understood membraneless subnuclear structures. Thus, this novel ALK fusion partner seems to explain this distinctive pattern of ALK localization. We examined ALK expression patterns in 11 other cases of EFH, but all showed typical cytoplasmic localization. This study expands the morphologic and molecular spectrum of EFH, provides a dramatic illustration of the ability of fusion partners to control protein localization, and implies that tumorigenic ALK signaling may occur at a variety of subcellular locations.

Application of immunohistochemical studies in diagnosing emerging superficial mesenchymal neoplasms

Molecular diagnostics, with the subsequent development of novel immunohistochemical markers, continues to advance and expand the field of soft tissue pathology. As such, the ever-evolving molecular diagnostic landscape will continue to shape and refine our understanding and classification of neoplasms. This article reviews the current literature on various tumors of mesenchymal origin, including fibroblastic/fibrohistiocytic, adipocytic, vascular, and tumors of uncertain origin. We aim to give the reader a detailed understanding and pragmatic approach to various new and established immunohistochemical stains in diagnosing these neoplasms and also discuss various pitfalls with significant repercussions.

Gene fusions in superficial mesenchymal neoplasms: Emerging entities and useful diagnostic adjuncts

Cutaneous mesenchymal neoplasms are diagnostically challenging because of their overlapping morphology, and, often, the limited tissue in skin biopsy specimens. Molecular and cytogenetic techniques have identified characteristic gene fusions in many of these tumor types, findings that have expanded our understanding of disease pathogenesis and motivated development of useful ancillary diagnostic tools. Here, we provide an update of new findings in tumor types that can occur in the skin and superficial subcutis, including dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, benign fibrous histiocytoma, epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma, angiomatoid fibrous histiocytoma, glomus tumor, myopericytoma/myofibroma, non-neural granular cell tumor, CIC-rearranged sarcoma, hybrid schwannoma/perineurioma, and clear cell sarcoma. We also discuss recently described and emerging tumor types that can occur in superficial locations and that harbor gene fusions, including nested glomoid neoplasm with GLI1 alterations, clear cell tumor with melanocytic differentiation and ACTIN::MITF translocation, melanocytic tumor with CRTC1::TRIM11 fusion, EWSR1::SMAD3-rearranged fibroblastic tumor, PLAG1-rearranged fibroblastic tumor, and superficial ALK-rearranged myxoid spindle cell neoplasm. When possible, we discuss how fusion events mediate the pathogenesis of these tumor types, and we also discuss the related diagnostic and therapeutic implications of these events.

An update on genomic aberrations in Spitz naevi and tumours

Spitz neoplasms continue to be a diagnostic challenge for dermatopathologists and are defined by distinctive morphological and genetic features. With the recent advancements in genomic sequencing, the classification, diagnosis, and prognostication of these tumours have greatly improved. Several subtypes of Spitz neoplasms have been identified based on their specific genomic aberrations, which often correlate with distinctive morphologies and biological behaviour. These genetic driver events can be classified into four major groups, including: (1) mutations [HRAS mutations (with or without 11p amplification) and 6q23 deletions]; (2) tyrosine kinase fusions (ROS1, ALK, NTRK1-3, MET and RET); (3) serine/threonine kinase fusions and mutations (BRAF, MAP3K8, and MAP2K1); and (4) other rare genomic aberrations. These driver genomic events are hypothesised to enable the initial proliferation of melanocytes and are often accompanied by additional genomic aberrations that affect biological behaviour. The discovery of theses genomic fusions has allowed for a more objective definition of a Spitz neoplasm. Further studies have shown that the majority of morphologically Spitzoid appearing melanocytic neoplasms with aggressive behaviour are in fact BRAF or NRAS mutated tumours mimicking Spitz. Truly malignant fusion driven Spitz neoplasms may occur but are relatively uncommon, and biomarkers such as homozygous 9p21 (CDKN2A) deletions or TERT-p mutations can have some prognostic value in such cases. In this review, we discuss the importance and various methods of identifying Spitz associated genomic fusions to help provide more definitive classification. We also discuss characteristic features of the various fusion subtypes as well as prognostic biomarkers.

Challenging Patterns of Atypical Dermatofibromas and Promising Diagnostic Tools for Differential Diagnosis of Malignant Lesions

Dermatofibroma (DF) or fibrous histiocytoma is one of the most frequent benign cutaneous soft-tissue lesions, characterized by a post-inflammatory tissue reaction associated with fibrosis of the dermis. Clinically DFs have a polymorphous clinical aspect from the solitary, firm, single nodules to multiple papules with a relatively smooth surface. However, multiple atypical clinicopathological variants of DFs have been reported and, therefore, clinical recognition may become challenging, leading to a more burdensome identification and sometimes to misdiagnosis. Dermoscopy is considered an important tool in DFs diagnosis, as it improves diagnostic accuracy for clinically amelanotic nodules. Although typical dermoscopic patterns are most frequently seen in clinical practice, there have also been some atypical variants described, mimicking some underlying recurrent and sometimes harmful skin afflictions. Usually, no treatment is required, although an appropriate work-up may be necessary in specific cases, such as in the presence of atypical variants or a history of recent changes. This narrative review's aim is to summarize current evidence regarding clinical presentation, positive and differential diagnosis of atypical dermatofibromas and also to raise awareness about the importance of specific characteristics of atypical variants to better differentiate them from malignant conditions.

ALK-rearranged Mesenchymal Neoplasms: A Report of 9 cases Further Expanding the Clinicopathologic Spectrum of Emerging Kinase Fusion Positive Group of Tumors

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) fusions are oncogenic drivers in diverse cancer types. Although well established in inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) and epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma (EFH), ALK rearrangements also occur in the emerging family of kinase fusion-positive mesenchymal neoplasms. We investigated 9 ALK-rearranged mesenchymal neoplasms (exclusive of IMT and EFH) arising in 6 males and 3 females with a wide age range of 10 to 78 years old (median 42 years). Tumors involved superficial and deep soft tissue (6) and viscera (3). Three were myxoid or collagenous low-grade paucicellular tumors with haphazardly arranged spindled cells. Three were cellular tumors with spindled cells in intersecting short fascicles or solid sheets. Three cases consisted of uniform epithelioid cells arranged in nests or solid sheets, with prominent mitotic activity and necrosis. Band-like stromal hyalinization was present in 6 cases. All tumors expressed ALK; four were positive for S100 and five were positive for CD34, while all were negative for SOX10. By targeted RNA sequencing, the breakpoints involved ALK exon 20; the 5' partners included KLC1, EML4, DCTN1, PLEKHH2, TIMP3, HMBOX1, and FMR1. All but two patients presented with localized disease. One patient had distant lung metastases; another had diffuse pleural involvement. Of the six cases with treatment information, five were surgically excised [one also received neoadjuvant radiation therapy (RT)], and one received RT and an ALK inhibitor. Of the four patients with follow-up (median 5.5 months), one remained alive with stable disease and three were alive without disease. We expand the clinicopathologic spectrum of ALK-fused mesenchymal neoplasms, including a low-grade malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor-like subset and another subset characterized by epithelioid and high-grade morphology.

Epithelioid Fibrous Histiocytoma with CARS-ALK Fusion: First Case Report

Epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma (EFH) is a type of uncommon skin tumor mostly harboring Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (ALK) gene rearrangement, with different fusion partners reported. Whether this tumor is a separate entity or has a relationship with conventional fibrous histiocytomas is still a matter of debate. Benign course is the rule after complete surgical excision. A rare subtype of EFH with fusiform cells has been described, with specific fusion partners. Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) is a type of soft tissue tumor rarer than EFH, and it can display distant metastases. Some cases of primary cutaneous IMT included two with Cysteinyl-tRNA Synthetase 1 (CARS)-ALK rearrangement. IMT can have the same fusion partners as EFH, such as DCTN1, TMP3 or EML4 genes. We report the case of a 42-year-old woman presenting EFH with fusiform morphology harboring CARS-ALK fusion and discuss similarities and differences with IMT.

Keloidal dermatofibroma: Clinicopathological comparison of 52 cases with a series of 2077 other dermatofibromas

Dermatofibroma is a common benign skin lesion with a contested etiology: some believe it is a neoplasm while others propose minor injuries initiate it. Many dermatofibroma variants have been described, including keloidal dermatofibroma, which is unusual by bearing keloidal collagen. Keloidal dermatofibroma was first described in 1998 and only 15 cases have been reported. Since keloids are driven by skin injuries, the existence of keloidal dermatofibroma has been suggested to support the injury hypothesis of dermatofibroma etiology. To better understand keloidal dermatofibroma characteristics and gain clues regarding dermatofibroma etiology, consecutive keloidal dermatofibroma cases (n = 52) and dermatofibroma without keloidal collagen (n = 2077) that were histopathologically diagnosed in 2016-2019 were identified from the records of a Japanese dermatopathology laboratory and compared in terms of demographic, clinical, and histopathological characteristics by univariate analyses. Compared to other dermatofibromas, keloidal dermatofibromas occurred more frequently on the forearm and hand (P < 0.0001 and 0.0019), especially the wrist dorsum, and in the superficial skin layer (P < 0.0001). Keloidal dermatofibromas also demonstrated more cellularity and hemorrhage (both P < 0.0001). Correlation analyses between keloidal collagen amount and keloidal dermatofibroma size (a proxy of time-since-onset) did not support the notion that keloidal collagen deposition and keloidal dermatofibroma formation are triggered simultaneously. Recent injury, as indicated by fresh hemorrhage, was equally common in putatively older and younger keloidal dermatofibromas. Thus, keloidal collagen in keloidal dermatofibromas could be due to injury to preexisting dermatofibromas, which suggests that the keloidal dermatofibroma entity does not prove the injury hypothesis. Commonalities between keloids and keloidal dermatofibromas suggest a link between genetics, provocative events that induce myofibroblast differentiation, and keloidal collagen production.

Epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma: three diagnostically challenging cases with novel ALK gene fusions, unusual storiform growth pattern, and a prominent spindled morphology

Epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma (EFH) is a distinctive cutaneous neoplasm with a relatively variable morphological appearance. Recently, it has been shown that this tumor is molecularly characterized by ALK gene fusions. We report three EFHs with unusual histological presentation represented by a prominent/predominant spindle cell proliferation arranged in a variably storiform/whirling architectural pattern with or without stromal sclerosis. One of the cases closely resembled cellular fibrous histiocytoma. All three cases were immunohistochemically ALK-positive and were analyzed for ALK gene rearrangements using a next-generation sequencing-based assay (FusionPlex Sarcoma Kit, ArcherDx). Three novel fusions, namely AP3D1::ALK, COL1A::ALK, and LRRFIP2::ALK, were detected and further confirmed by FISH in all 3 cases and RT-PCR in 1 case. All patients were elderly (62-63 years) and presented with a solitary polypoid lesion on the extremities. The awareness of these morphological variants is important since it entertains a wide and slightly different differential diagnosis than conventional EFH. We also presented evidence that a clear separation of EFH from BFH in all cases may not be as straightforward as previously thought. The consistent ALK immunoexpression and the continually expanding scale of ALK gene rearrangements provide a useful tool to distinguish EFH from its histologic mimics.

Cutaneous Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumor with CARS-ALK Fusion: Case Report and Literature Review

Cutaneous inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors (IMT) constitute a rare entity, generating a diagnostic pitfall when diagnosing spindle cell proliferation within the dermis. Raising awareness of this tumor among dermatopathologists remains vital in differentiating it from common cutaneous tumors such as fibrous histiocytoma, atypical fibroxanthoma, melanoma, poorly differentiated carcinoma, and other more aggressive tumors. Accurate diagnosis of IMT aid in ensuring appropriate management and follow-up for patients while preventing unnecessary harm and overtreatment. Here we report a case of a 38-year-old female with a painless, slow-growing nodule of the left posterior scalp initially diagnosed as a dermatofibroma. The histological examination revealed an ill-defined dermal nodule of spindled cells without connection or infiltration of the epidermis. At high power, the cells were arranged in fascicles with a prominent background of lymphocytic infiltrate. Immunohistochemical analysis showed strong diffuse immunoreactivity for anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), targeted RNA sequencing identified a CARS-ALK fusion ultimately confirming the accurate diagnosis of a cutaneous IMT. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Cutaneous Myoepithelial Neoplasms on Acral Sites Show Distinctive and Reproducible Histopathologic and Immunohistochemical Features

Cutaneous myoepithelial neoplasms are a heterogenous group of neoplasms with mixed tumors typically affecting the head and myoepitheliomas showing a predilection for the extremities. Their malignant counterparts, myoepithelial carcinoma, and malignant mixed tumor are exceptionally rare in the skin, and the morphologic criteria for malignancy are only poorly defined. The aim of the present study was to characterize the clinicopathologic features of myoepithelial neoplasms presenting on acral skin. The clinical and histopathologic features of 11 tumors were recorded, and follow-up was obtained. Immunohistochemistry was performed for S100, SOX10, glial fibrillary acidic protein, keratins, epithelial membrane antigen, p63, p40, smooth muscle actin, desmin, and PLAG1. The tumors mainly affected the feet of adults (range: 26 to 78 y; median: 47 y) with a predilection for the great toe and a male predominance of 1.8:1. Most tumors (91%) displayed a lobular architecture composed of solid and nested growth of epithelioid cells with plasmacytoid features in a myxoid or angiomatous stroma. Scattered cytologic atypia and rare duct differentiation were frequently noted. Three tumors with confluent cytologic atypia, infiltrative growth, and lymphovascular invasion were classified as malignant. By immunohistochemistry, the tumors were positive for S100, SOX10, keratins AE1/AE3, CK5/6 and CK7, and PLAG1. Local recurrence and bilateral pulmonary metastasis were observed in a patient presenting with a histopathologically benign-appearing tumor. Two patients with malignant tumors experienced local recurrences, and 1 developed metastasis to soft tissue, lung, and mediastinal lymph nodes. All patients are currently alive, all but 1 with no evidence of disease after a median follow-up interval of 96 months (range: 2 to 360 mo). In conclusion, acral myoepithelial neoplasms show distinctive and reproducible histopathologic and immunohistochemical features. They are best regarded as a distinctive subset of mixed tumors with features reminiscent of their salivary gland counterparts. While most tumors pursue a benign disease course, histopathologic features appear to be a poor indicator of prognosis.

ALK-positive histiocytosis: a new clinicopathologic spectrum highlighting neurologic involvement and responses to ALK inhibition

ALK-positive histiocytosis is a rare subtype of histiocytic neoplasm first described in 2008 in 3 infants with multisystemic disease involving the liver and hematopoietic system. This entity has subsequently been documented in case reports and series to occupy a wider clinicopathologic spectrum with recurrent KIF5B-ALK fusions. The full clinicopathologic and molecular spectra of ALK-positive histiocytosis remain, however, poorly characterized. Here, we describe the largest study of ALK-positive histiocytosis to date, with detailed clinicopathologic data of 39 cases, including 37 cases with confirmed ALK rearrangements. The clinical spectrum comprised distinct clinical phenotypic groups: infants with multisystemic disease with liver and hematopoietic involvement, as originally described (Group 1A: 6/39), other patients with multisystemic disease (Group 1B: 10/39), and patients with single-system disease (Group 2: 23/39). Nineteen patients of the entire cohort (49%) had neurologic involvement (7 and 12 from Groups 1B and 2, respectively). Histology included classic xanthogranuloma features in almost one-third of cases, whereas the majority displayed a more densely cellular, monomorphic appearance without lipidized histiocytes but sometimes more spindled or epithelioid morphology. Neoplastic histiocytes were positive for macrophage markers and often conferred strong expression of phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase, confirming MAPK pathway activation. KIF5B-ALK fusions were detected in 27 patients, whereas CLTC-ALK, TPM3-ALK, TFG-ALK, EML4-ALK, and DCTN1-ALK fusions were identified in single cases. Robust and durable responses were observed in 11/11 patients treated with ALK inhibition, 10 with neurologic involvement. This study presents the existing clinicopathologic and molecular landscape of ALK-positive histiocytosis and provides guidance for the clinical management of this emerging histiocytic entity.

Epithelioid Fibrous Histiocytoma With Chondroblastoma-Like Features: A Report of a Rare Entity and Discussion of Related Diagnostic Challenges

ABSTRACT

Epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma (EFH) is an uncommon benign skin lesion. It is distinct from FH by virtue of its recurrent anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene rearrangements and immunohistochemical expression of ALK protein. It often poses a challenge in interpretation. Clinically, it is characterized by a flesh-colored papule/nodule on an extremity of a young to middle-aged individual. Microscopically, it is represented by a circumscribed dermal papule/nodule composed of sheets of plump epithelioid cells, forming whorled aggregates around numerous intralesional vessels. Immunohistochemistry, notably ALK positivity and relevant negative stains, serves to distinguish EFH from its morphological mimics. Rare examples of chondroblastoma-like EFH and EFH with osseous metaplasia are recorded in the literature. Our case is of a 58-year-old man who attended an oculoplastic surgeon because of an exophytic cutaneous nodule on the right upper eyelid. The lesion was excised. Microscopically, it displayed morphological and immunohistochemical features of EFH. Of interest, discrete foci of chondro-osseous change, including chondroblastoma-like pericellular calcification, osteoid formation, and osteoclast-like giant cells, were noted throughout the lesion. A diagnosis of EFH with chondroblastoma-like features was made. Of interest, the changes observed in this EFH serve to link the previously reported examples of pure chondroblastoma-like EFH and EFH with osseous metaplasia. This morphological variant of EFH adds to the existing diagnostic challenge presented by these lesions, particularly in the distinction from other calcifying tumors of the skin.

A case of cutaneous syncytial myoepithelioma with extensive adipocytic metaplasia: Usefulness of EWSR1-PBX3 gene fusion analysis

Cutaneous syncytial myoepithelioma (CSM) is a recently recognized variant of myoepithelial neoplasms. CSM is characterized by an intradermal syncytial proliferation of spindled, ovoid, and histiocytoid cells. Immunohistochemically, tumor cells usually show strong positivity for S-100 and EMA. Here, we report a case of CSM in the thigh of a 51-year-old Japanese woman. Histopathological findings showed a sheet-like growth of ovoid cells and histiocytoid cells with an eosinophilic syncytial cytoplasm, and adipocytic metaplasia was widely observed in the tumor. Immunohistochemical staining revealed a diffuse strong pattern for EMA, smooth muscle actin (SMA), and HHF35 and variable positivity for S-100 protein and p63 in ovoid and histiocytoid cells without significant mitotic figures or pleomorphism. In addition, EWSR1-PBX3 gene fusion, which is characteristic of CSM, was observed in the tumor. Based on these findings, we diagnosed the patient as having CSM. Our case suggests that CSM could show extensive adipocytic metaplasia, which could make its histopathological diagnosis challenging. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

ALK rearrangements in infantile fibrosarcoma-like spindle cell tumours of soft tissue and kidney

AIMS

Recurrent alterations in receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) and downstream effectors are described in infantile fibrosarcoma (IFS)/cellular congenital mesoblastic nephroma (cCMN) and a subset of spindle cell sarcomas, provisionally designated 'NTRK-rearranged' spindle cell neoplasms. These two groups of tumours demonstrate overlapping morphologies and harbour alterations in NTRK1/2/3, RET, MET, ABL1, ROS1, RAF1 and BRAF, although their relationship is not fully elucidated. We describe herein a cohort of paediatric tumours with clinicopathological features not typical for inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour, but rather with similarities to cCMN/IFS harbouring ALK fusions.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Clinicopathological features were assessed and partner agnostic targeted RNA sequencing on clinically validated platforms were performed. Tumours occurred in patients aged from 2 to 10 years (median age 2 years) with a 2:2 male to female ratio and an average size of 8.4 cm. Two tumours arose in soft tissues and two in the kidney. Morphological features included spindle to ovoid cells arranged in long fascicles or haphazardly within a myxoid to collagenised stroma; a subset of cases had either dilated, ectatic vessels or focal perivascular hyalinosis. By immunohistochemistry, all cases tested showed cytoplasmic expression of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) and one case demonstrated co-expression of CD34 and S100.

CONCLUSIONS

This series of ALK-rearranged IFS-like tumours expands the spectrum of targetable kinases altered in these tumours and reinforces the potential overlap between IFS/cCMN-like tumours and the provisional entity of 'NTRK-rearranged' spindle cell neoplasms.

Superficial ALK-rearranged myxoid spindle cell neoplasm: a cutaneous soft tissue tumor with distinctive morphology and immunophenotypic profile

Gene rearrangements involving the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) receptor tyrosine kinase gene have been identified in various neoplasms, including inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor and epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma. We present an ALK-rearranged cutaneous soft tissue tumor with unique morphologic and immunophenotypic features that are not shared by other entities with ALK rearrangements. The six cases involved two females and four males, aged 18-84 (mean 51) years old. Three tumors were on the back and three on the lower extremities (thigh, knee, shin); ranging from 0.5 to 5.6 (mean 2.1) cm. Four were confined to the dermis; two involved the subcutis. All six cases were characterized by the presence of spindled to ovoid cells arranged in concentric whorls and cords against a myxoid to myxohyaline stroma and relatively cellular aggregates of plump ovoid to epithelioid cells. Four cases showed distinct hyalinized blood vessels. Both cases that involved the subcutis showed peripheral lipofibromatosis-like areas. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes were absent to moderate. Severe cytologic atypia or conspicuous mitotic activity was not identified. Immunohistochemically, all tumors diffusely expressed ALK (D5F3) and CD34. All but one tumor was diffusely positive for S100 protein. All tumors were negative for EMA, AE1/AE3, SMA, and SOX10. Next-generation sequencing revealed ALK fusions with FLNA (3 cases), MYH10 (2 cases), and HMBOX1 (1 case) as the partner genes. In all six cases, the breakpoints involved exon 20 of ALK, which preserves the receptor tyrosine kinase domains of ALK in the fusion product. Of the four cases with limited follow-up information (2-18 months), none recurred. In conclusion, we report an ALK-rearranged cutaneous soft tissue tumor characterized by the presence of myxoid spindle cell whorls and cords, and co-expression of ALK, CD34, and frequently S100 protein, we term "superficial ALK-rearranged myxoid spindle cell neoplasm".

Epithelioid Fibrous Histiocytoma With Dot-Like Perinuclear ALK Expression and PRKAR2A-ALK Fusion

Epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma (EFH) is a rare, benign, cutaneous neoplasm. This fibrohistiocytic tumor was once believed to be a variant of fibrous histiocytoma, but EFH is now known to be a distinct entity based on the presence of ALK gene rearrangements in most cases. The pattern of immunohistochemical expression of ALK in EFH in the literature thus far describes both granular cytoplasmic staining and nuclear staining. We present a case of EFH with dot-like Golgi pattern perinuclear ALK expression, a previously undescribed staining pattern. We surmised this unique staining pattern could be due to a novel fusion partner, and using FISH, we confirmed a rearrangement of the ALK (2p23) locus. Further investigation with whole transcriptome sequencing led to the discovery of PRKAR2A-ALK fusion, and the function of this fusion partner reflects a Golgi-predominant localization of the protein. Attention to the distinct immunohistochemical pattern of ALK expression may provide clues to the function of the fusion partner.

Update on Cutaneous Soft Tissue Tumors

This article focuses on various recently described or emerging cutaneous soft tissue neoplasms. These entities encompass a wide range of clinical and histologic characteristics. Emphasis is placed on their distinguishing morphologic and immunophenotypic features compared with entities that enter into their differential diagnosis, as well as novel immunophenotypic and molecular tests that are often necessary for accurate diagnosis of these entities. Entities discussed include EWSR1-SMAD3-rearranged fibroblastic tumor, superficial CD34-positive fibroblastic tumor, epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma, CIC-rearranged sarcomas, and NTRK-rearranged spindle cell tumors.

Pediatric Mesothelioma With ALK Fusions: A Molecular and Pathologic Study of 5 Cases

Pediatric mesotheliomas are rare and their pathogenesis remains undefined. In this study, we report 5 cases of malignant mesothelioma in children, characterized by fusions involving the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene. Four cases occurred in females involving the abdominal cavity and were characterized by a pure epithelioid morphology. The fifth arose in the tunica vaginalis of a 15-year-old male and displayed a biphasic epithelioid-sarcomatoid phenotype. All cases demonstrated the classic morphologic and immunohistochemical features of malignant mesothelioma, including tubulopapillary architecture and cuboidal epithelioid cells with eosinophilic cytoplasm and uniform nuclei with vesicular chromatin. Immunohistochemically, all cases showed labeling for ALK, cytokeratins, WT1, and calretinin, while lacking expression of adenocarcinoma immunomarkers. Four cases demonstrated weak-moderate labeling for PAX8 protein, which resulted in diagnostic challenges with primary peritoneal serous carcinoma. The ALK genetic abnormalities were investigated by a combination of molecular methods. Archer FusionPlex was performed in 2 cases, showing fusions between ALK with either STRN or TPM1 genes, resulting in a transcript that retained the ALK kinase domain. One case was further studied by DNA targeted sequencing, but no additional genetic alterations were observed. In 1 case, cytogenetic analysis showed the presence of a t(2;15)(p23;q22) and fluorescence in situ hybridization confirmed the ALK gene break-apart. In the remaining 2 cases, ALK gene rearrangements were demonstrated by fluorescence in situ hybridization. Unlike adult mesotheliomas, which are tightly linked to asbestos exposure, often show loss of BAP1 expression and have complex karyotypes, ALK-rearranged mesothelioma appears to be similar to other fusion-positive mesotheliomas, such as those harboring EWSR1/FUS-ATF1 fusions, sharing significant morphologic overlap, occurring in young patients and displaying a simple, translocation-driven genetic profile.

Diagnostic Immunohistochemistry of Soft Tissue and Bone Tumors: An Update on Biomarkers That Correlate with Molecular Alterations

The diagnosis of benign and malignant soft tissue and bone neoplasms is a challenging area of surgical pathology, due to the large number, rarity, and histologic diversity of tumor types. In recent years, diagnosis and classification has been aided substantially by our growing understanding of recurrent molecular alterations in these neoplasms. Concurrently, the role of diagnostic immunohistochemistry has also expanded, with the development of numerous biomarkers based on underlying molecular events. Such biomarkers allow us to infer the presence of these events and can therefore substitute for other ancillary molecular genetic techniques (e.g., fluorescence in situ hybridization, polymerase chain reaction, and next-generation sequencing). In this review, we discuss a range of biomarkers currently available for these neoplasms, highlighting the accuracy, staining characteristics, and interpretation pitfalls of each antibody. These include immunohistochemical antibodies that represent reliable surrogates for the detection of gene fusions (e.g., STAT6, CAMTA1, FOSB, DDIT3) and more recently described breakpoint-specific antibodies (e.g., SS18-SSX, PAX3/7-FOXO1). Additionally, discussed are markers that correlate with the presence of gene amplifications (e.g., MDM2, CDK4), deletions (e.g., SMARCB1, SMARCA4), single nucleotide variants (e.g., G34W, K36M), aberrant methylation (H3K27me3), and increased expression as discovered through gene expression profiling (e.g., MUC4, DOG1, ETV4, NKX2.2, NKX3.1).

Spindle cell variant of epithelioid cell histiocytoma (spindle cell histiocytoma) with ALK gene fusions: Cases series and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma (EFH) is an uncommon dermal neoplasm expressing anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) protein. Rarely a histopathological variant of this entity exhibits exclusively spindle cells. We report three cases of EFH that do not completely fulfill phenotypic criteria featuring spindle cell morphology and expressing ALK protein. We also analyze the fusion partner genes rearranged with ALK in these cases.

METHODS

ALK expression and rearrangement status were evaluated by immunohistochemistry (IHC), fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and next generation sequencing based gene fusion analysis.

RESULTS

Three cases, all from females between 25 and 55 years old, have been biopsied from back, left arm, and thumb. All three cases showed tumor with exclusively spindle cell morphology without any epithelioid cells. The tumor cells exhibited strong ALK expression by IHC and FISH study confirmed ALK gene rearrangement in all three cases. DCTN1-ALK fusion was identified in two cases.

CONCLUSION

EFH is not always purely epithelioid and its spindled cell variant, spindle cell histiocytoma, should be included in the differential diagnosis of superficial dermal spindled cell neoplasms. ALK immunostain is a useful diagnostic marker for this entity and further studies may be useful to investigate whether DCTN1-ALK fusion mutations are specific to EFH with spindled cell features.

Epithelioid Cutaneous Mesenchymal Neoplasms: A Practical Diagnostic Approach

Epithelioid cells are rounded or polygonal cells with abundant eosinophilic or clear cytoplasm and ovoid to round nuclei, superficially resembling epithelial cells. Cutaneous mesenchymal neoplasms composed predominantly or exclusively of epithelioid cells are relatively uncommon and can cause considerable diagnostic difficulties due to overlapping histologic features among heterogeneous groups of tumors. Familiarity with practical diagnostic approaches and recognition of key histopathologic features are important for correct diagnosis and management. This review summarizes the histologic features of epithelioid cutaneous mesenchymal neoplasms and discusses their differential diagnoses from malignant melanomas and carcinomas.

Cutaneous Syncytial Myoepithelioma Is Characterized by Recurrent EWSR1-PBX3 Fusions

Cutaneous syncytial myoepithelioma (CSM) is a rare but distinctive benign variant in the family of myoepithelial neoplasms of skin and soft tissue. CSM has unique morphologic and immunohistochemical features, characterized by intradermal syncytial growth of spindled, ovoid, and histiocytoid cells and consistent staining for S-100 protein and EMA, and differs from other myoepithelial tumors by showing only infrequent keratin staining. Rearrangement of the EWSR1 gene is now known to occur in up to half of all skin and soft tissue myoepithelial tumors, with a wide family of documented fusion partners. In 2013, we reported frequent (80%) EWSR1 rearrangements in CSM, but were unable to identify the fusion partner using available studies at that time. After recent identification of an index case of CSM harboring an EWSR1-PBX3 fusion, we used a combination of targeted RNA sequencing and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) studies to investigate the genetic features of a cohort of CSM. An EWSR1-PBX3 fusion was identified in all 13 cases successfully tested. RNA sequencing was successful in 8/13 cases, all of which were found to have identical breakpoints fusing exon 8 of EWSR1 to exon 5 of PBX3. FISH confirmed both EWSR1 and PBX3 rearrangements in 9/9 cases tested, which included 4 confirmed to have EWSR1-PBX3 fusion by RNA-Seq, 3 cases that failed RNA-Seq, and 2 cases examined by FISH alone. Two cases failed RNA sequencing but had no additional tissue remaining for FISH studies. Our findings demonstrate that EWSR1-PBX3 fusions occur in most (and possibly all) cases of CSM.

Cutaneous soft tissue tumors: how do we make sense of fibrous and "fibrohistiocytic" tumors with confusing names and similar appearances?

In the 2018 World Health Organization Classification of Skin Tumors, a wide range of predominantly benign mesenchymal neoplasms are included in the fibroblastic, myofibroblastic, and "fibrohistiocytic" categories. By far the most common of these tumors is dermatofibroma (fibrous histiocytoma). There are many histologic variants of dermatofibroma, some of which (cellular, aneurysmal, and atypical) are associated with a higher risk of local recurrence; these variants may be mistaken for more aggressive tumor types, including sarcomas. Furthermore, distinguishing among the fibrous and "fibrohistiocytic" tumors can be a diagnostic challenge, given their sometimes-similar histologic appearances and confusing nomenclature. Immunohistochemistry and molecular genetic assays play a relatively limited role in the diagnosis of these tumor types, with notable exceptions (i.e., epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans). Proper recognition of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans is critical, since this tumor type is associated with locally aggressive behavior; transformation to the fibrosarcomatous variant brings metastatic potential. In recent years, understanding of the molecular pathogenetic basis for cutaneous mesenchymal neoplasms has increased dramatically, with the discovery of gene rearrangements in some of these tumor types. In this review, the histologic features of the most common fibrous and "fibrohistiocytic" cutaneous mesenchymal neoplasms will be discussed, as well as recently identified molecular genetic alterations.