Sinonasal Undifferentiated Carcinoma

Nasal Cavity and Paranasal Sinus Cancer: Diagnosis and Treatment

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review is to analyze the diagnosis and treatments of the sinonasal malignant tumors throw systematic reviewed literature. The systematic review of the literature was performed according to PRISMA guidelines.

RECENT FINDINGS

Total 11,653 cases of five article were analyzed. The cohort of 3824 cases received appropriate treatment. The most frequent histotype of the group of sinonasal malignancies was squamous cell carcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma was represented by 54%. The other histopathological subtypes were esthesioneuroblastoma with 9,9%, melanoma 9,8%, adenocarcinoma 7,5%, sarcoma 7,3%, adeno cystic carcinoma 7,1%, sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma 3,9%, sinonasal neuroendocrine carcinoma 2,8% respectively. All 772 cases of total 3824 were treated only surgically. All 62 cases of total 3824 were treated without surgery, 20 cases with proton technique and SFUD, and 42 cases with proton technique and IMRT. The other 2990 cases of total 3824 were treated with multimodality treatment. The diagnosis and treatment of sinonasal cancers require a interdisciplinary approach and multimodality treatment.

Targeting sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma with a combinatory immunotherapy approach

PURPOSE

Sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma (SNUC) is a rare, aggressive malignancy of the sinonasal cavity with poor prognosis and limited treatment options. To investigate the potential for SNUC sensitivity to combinatory immunotherapy, we performed in vitro studies with SNUC cell lines and used multi-spectral immunofluorescence to characterize the in vivo patient SNUC tumor immune microenvironment (TIME).

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

Human-derived SNUC cell lines were used for in vitro studies of tumor cell susceptibility to natural killer (NK) cell-based immunotherapeutic strategies. Tumor samples from 14 treatment naïve SNUC patients were examined via multi-spectral immunofluorescence and clinical correlations assessed.

RESULTS

Anti-PD-L1 blockade enhanced NK cell lysis of SNUC cell lines ∼5.4 fold (P ≤ 0.0001). This effect was blocked by a CD16 neutralizing antibody demonstrating activity through an antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) mediated pathway. ADCC-dependent lysis of SNUC cells was further enhanced by upregulation of PD-L1 on tumor cells by exogenous interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) administration or interleukin-15 (IL-15) stimulated IFN-γ release from NK cells. Combination treatment with anti-PD-L1 blockade and IL-15 superagonism enhanced NK-cell killing of SNUC cells 9.6-fold (P ≤ 0.0001). Untreated SNUC patient tumor samples were found to have an NK cell infiltrate and PD-L1+ tumor cells at a median of 5.4 cells per mm2. A striking 55.7-fold increase in CKlow tumor cell/NK cell interactions was observed in patients without disease recurrence after treatment (P = 0.022). Patients with higher CD3+CD8+ in the stroma had a significantly improved 5-year overall survival (P = 0.0029) and a significant increase in CKlow tumor cell/CD8+ cytotoxic T cell interactions was noted in long-term survivors (P = 0.0225).

CONCLUSION

These data provide the pre-clinical rationale for ongoing investigation into combinatory immunotherapy approaches for SNUC.

[Interdisciplinary Management of Orbital Diseases]

Diagnosis and therapy of orbital diseases is an interdisciplinary challenge, in which i.e. otorhinolaryngologists, ophthalmologists, radiologists, radiation therapists, maxillo-facial surgeons, endocrinologists, and pediatricians are involved. This review article describes frequent diseases which both, otolaryngologists and ophthalmologists are concerned with in interdisciplinary settings. In particular the inflammatory diseases of the orbit including orbital complications, autoimmunological diseases of the orbit including Grave´s orbitopathy, and primary and secondary tumors of the orbit are discussed. Beside describing the clinical characteristics and diagnostic steps the article focusses on the interdisciplinary therapy. The review is completed by the presentation of most important surgical approaches to the orbit, their indications and possible complications. The authors tried to highlight the relevant facts despite the shortness of the text.

Top IHC/ISH Hacks for and Molecular Surrogates of Poorly Differentiated Sinonasal Small Round Cell Tumors

BACKGROUND

Poorly differentiated sinonasal small round cell tumors (SRCTs) are rare and heterogeneous, posing challenges in diagnosis and treatment.

METHODS

Recent advances in molecular findings and diagnostic refinement have promoted better understanding and management of these tumors.

RESULTS

The newly defined and emerging sinonasal entities demonstrate diverse morphologies, specific genomic signatures, and clinical behavior from conventional counterparts. In this review of SRCTs, emphasis is placed on the diagnostic approach with the employment of a pertinent panel of immunohistochemistry studies and/or molecular tests, fine-tuned to the latest WHO 5 classification of sinonasal/paranasal tumors and personalized treatment.

CONCLUSION

Specifically, this review focuses on tumors with epithelial and neuroectodermal derivation.

Endoscopic management of sinonasal tumours in the Nordic university hospitals: a survey

PURPOSE

The Nordic countries (27 M) all have comparable, publicly funded healthcare systems, and the management of sinonasal tumours is centralised to the 21 university hospitals. We sought to assess and compare the treatment practice of sinonasal tumours across the Nordic countries.

METHODS

A web-based questionnaire was sent to all university hospital departments of otorhinolaryngology-head and neck surgery in the Nordic countries.

RESULTS

Answers were obtained from all 21 Nordic university hospitals. The endoscopic approach was widely utilised by all, with most (62%) centres reporting 3-4 surgeons performing endoscopic sinonasal tumour surgery. Finland reported the lowest rates of centralisation among university hospitals despite having the highest number of 0.1-1 M catchment population hospitals. Most centres (88%) opted for the endoscopic approach in a patient case warranting medial maxillectomy. In a case of a Kadish C esthesioneuroblastoma, most (52%) of the centres preferred an endoscopic approach. Most centres (62%) reported favouring the endoscopic approach in a case describing a juvenile angiofibroma. Regarding a case describing a sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma, consensus was tied (38% vs. 38%) between endoscopic resection followed by postoperative (chemo)radiotherapy (RT/CRT) and induction chemotherapy followed by RT/CRT or surgery followed by RT/CRT.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic approach was widely utilised in the Nordic countries. The case-based replies showed differences in treatment practice, both internationally and nationally. The rate of centralisation among university hospitals remains relatively low, despite the rarity of these tumours.

Meta-analysis of multi-modality therapies in sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma-A timely update

OBJECTIVES

Sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma (SNUC) is a rare but aggressive tumour with very poor prognosis. There are currently no well-established clinical trials to guide therapy and the impact of various treatment modalities on survival is not well defined. We aim to provide an updated systematic review on current treatment modalities on survival outcomes.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Individual patient data were extracted, and survival data pooled in a one-stage meta-analysis. Descriptive statistics were analysed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Patient-level comparisons stratified by treatment modalities, adjusted for demographics, were conducted using shared-frailty Cox regression.

PARTICIPANTS AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Participants include all patients diagnosed with SNUC based on histological evidence. We looked at the overall cumulative survival outcome for different treatment modalities and overall survival by treatment modality in low versus high stage SNUC patients.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Seventeen studies were identified, comprising 208 patients from 1993 to 2020. There was no significant difference in cumulative overall survival in low versus high stage patients, and no significant difference in outcomes by treatment modality. The overall cumulative survival of SNUC is 30% at 95 months. Among patients treated with various combinations of treatment modalities, patients with chemoradiotherapy had the highest cumulative survival of 42% at 40 months. Definitive chemoradiotherapy was associated with improved disease survival rate. Regardless of tumour stage, patients should be treated early and aggressively, with no superiority of one treatment regimen over another. Trimodality treatment does not confer survival advantage over bimodality treatment.

Durable and dramatic response to checkpoint inhibition combined with COX-2 inhibitor celecoxib in a patient with p16+ metastatic sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma: A case study

BACKGROUND

Sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma (SNUC) is an exceedingly rare head and neck malignancy. No consensus exists on treatment for metastatic disease.

CASE

A 56-year-old female was diagnosed with SNUC after endorsing sinus congestion, diplopia, and right orbital pain. Initially treated with surgery and radiation, she later developed significant metastatic disease. She demonstrated progression of her hepatic metastases under pembrolizumab therapy. However, the addition of ipilimumab and a COX-2 inhibitor resulted in significant improvement in her lesions as well as an ongoing durable response. Her regimen was complicated by immune-related adverse events successfully treated with steroids.

CONCLUSION

Dual checkpoint inhibition deserves consideration when treating metastatic SNUC, especially after single agent therapy has failed. The positive effect of this treatment may be augmented by IDO1 inhibition.

Immunotherapy in SMARCB1 (INI-1)-deficient sinonasal carcinoma: Two case reports

BACKGROUND

SMARCB1/INI-1 deficient sinonasal carcinoma (SDSC) is a rare subset of sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma with a poor prognosis. Here, we present two case reports of SDSC patients. We also review the literature on this tumor. This is the first published report of SDSC treatment with immunotherapy.

CASE SUMMARY

Here we present two patient cases of SDSC in which initial consultation and diagnosis were complicated but SDSC was ultimately diagnosed. One patient received a traditional treatment of surgery and adjuvant chemoradiotherapy, while the other patient received additional immunotherapy; the prognoses of these two patients differed. We review previous diagnostic literature reports and SDSC treatments and provide a unique perspective on this rare type of tumor.

CONCLUSION

SDSC is a rare, diagnostically challenging carcinoma with a consistently poor prognosis, early distant metastases, and frequent recurrence. Timely diagnosis and intervention are critical for treatment, for which the standard of care is surgery followed by adjuvant chemoradiotherapy, though immunotherapy may be an effective new treatment for SDSC.

The Impact of Delay in Treatment on Survival in Surgically Managed Sinonasal Undifferentiated Carcinoma

Background  Sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma (SNUC) is a rare, aggressive malignancy with a poor prognosis, and multimodal therapy is the standard of care. We sought to characterize treatment delays in SNUC managed with surgery and adjuvant radiation and to determine the impact on survival using the National Cancer Database (NCDB). Methods  This was a retrospective, population-based cohort study of patients with SNUC between 2004 and 2016 in the NCDB. The intervals of diagnosis to surgery (DTS), surgery to radiation (SRT), and radiation duration (RTD) were examined. Recursive partitioning analysis (RPA) was performed to identify the variables with the greatest impact on survival. The association between treatment delay and overall survival (OS) was then assessed using multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression. Results  Of 173 patients who met inclusion criteria, 65.9% were male, average age at diagnosis was 56.6 years, and 5-year OS was 48.1%. Median durations of DTS, SRT, and RTD were 18, 43, and 46 days, respectively. Predictors of treatment delay included Black race, government insurance excluding Medicare/Medicaid, and positive margins. RPA-derived optimal thresholds were 29, 28, and 38 days for DTS, SRT and RTD, respectively. On multivariate analysis, positive margins (hazard ratio [HR]: 4.82; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.28-10.2) and DTS less than 29 days (HR: 2.41; 95% CI: 1.23-4.73) were associated with worse OS. Conclusion  Our results likely reflect the aggressive nature of the disease with surgeons taking more invasive disease to the operating room more quickly. Median treatment intervals described may serve as relevant national benchmarks.

Modern treatment of sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Sinonasal undifferentiated carcinomas are rare aggressive tumours with traditionally poor outcomes. Although multimodality treatment has been recommended by most centres, the ideal treatment sequence or regimen has not been established.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent evidence suggests that induction chemotherapy may be used for chemoselection and cytoreduction prior to definitive chemoradiotherapy. Where there is a favourable response, concurrent chemoradiotherapy is favoured, with an improved overall survival and improved rates of organ preservation.

SUMMARY

Induction chemotherapy may be a useful guide for selection of patients for chemoradiotherapy or surgery and has shown encouraging results. Further research is required to establish the ideal induction chemotherapy regimen for this rare group of tumours.

Results of Primary Treatment and Salvage Treatment in the Management of Patients with Non-Squamous Cell Malignant Tumors of the Sinonasal Region: Single Institution Experience

Non-squamous cell carcinoma-related malignant sinonasal tract tumors (non-SCC MSTT) are rare and diverse malignancies. In this study, we report our experience in the management of this group of patients. The treatment outcome has been presented, involving both primary treatment and salvage approaches. Data from 61 patients treated radically due to non-SCC MSTT between 2000 and 2016 at the National Cancer Research Institute, Gliwice branch, were analyzed. The group consisted of the following pathological subtypes of MSTT: adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC), undifferentiated sinonasal carcinoma (USC), sarcoma, olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB), adenocarcinoma, small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (SNC), mucoepidermic carcinoma (MEC), and acinic cell carcinoma, which were found in nineteen (31%), seventeen (28%), seven (11.5%), seven (11.5%), five (8%), three (5%), two (3%) and one (2%) of patients, respectively. There were 28 (46%) males and 33 (54%) females at the median age of 51 years. Maxilla was the primary tumor localization followed by the nasal cavity and ethmoid sinus in thirty-one (51%), twenty (32.5%), and seven (11.5%) patients, respectively. In 46 (74%) patients, an advanced tumor stage (T3 or T4) was diagnosed. Primary nodal involvement (N) was found in three (5%) cases, and all patients underwent radical treatment. The combined treatment consisted of surgery and radiotherapy (RT) and was given to 52 (85%) patients. The probabilities of overall survival (OS), locoregional control (LRC), metastases-free survival (MFS), and disease-free survival (DFS) were assessed in pathological subtypes and grouped together, along with the ratio and effectiveness of salvage. Locoregional treatment failure was seen in 21 (34%) patients. Salvage treatment was performed in fifteen (71%) patients and was effective in nine (60%) cases. There was a significant difference in OS between patients who underwent salvage and those who did not (median: 40 months vs. 7 months, p = 0.01). In the group of patients who underwent salvage, OS was significantly longer when the procedure was effective (median: 80.5 months) than if it failed (median: 20.5 months), p < 0.0001. OS in patients after effective salvage was the same as in patients who were primary cured (median: 80.5 months vs. 88 months, p = 0.8). Distant metastases developed in ten (16%) patients. Five and ten year LRC, MFS, DFS, and OS were 69%, 83%, 60%, 70%, and 58%, 83%, 47%, 49%, respectively. The best treatment results were observed for patients with adenocarcinoma and sarcoma, while USC gave the poorest results in our set of patients. In this study, we indicate that salvage is possible in most patients with non-SCC MSTT with locoregional failure and that it may significantly prolong their overall survival.

The contemporary management of cancers of the sinonasal tract in adults

Sinonasal malignancies make up <5% of all head and neck neoplasms, with an incidence of 0.5-1.0 per 100,000. The outcome of these rare malignancies has been poor, whereas significant progress has been made in the management of other cancers. The objective of the current review was to describe the incidence, causes, presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and recent developments of malignancies of the sinonasal tract. The diagnoses covered in this review included sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma, sinonasal adenocarcinoma, sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma, and esthesioneuroblastoma, which are exclusive to the sinonasal tract. In addition, the authors covered malignances that are likely to be encountered in the sinonasal tract-primary mucosal melanoma, NUT (nuclear protein of the testis) carcinoma, and extranodal natural killer cell/T-cell lymphoma. For the purpose of keeping this review as concise and focused as possible, sarcomas and malignancies that can be classified as salivary gland neoplasms were excluded.

Molecular Basis and Rationale for the Use of Targeted Agents and Immunotherapy in Sinonasal Cancers

Despite the progress of surgery, radiotherapy, and neoadjuvant chemotherapy, the prognosis for advanced sinonasal cancers (SNCs) remains poor. In the era of precision medicine, more research has been conducted on the molecular pathways and recurrent mutations of SNCs, with the aim of understanding carcinogenesis, helping with diagnosis, identifying prognostic factors, and finding potentially targetable mutations. In the treatment of SNC, immunotherapy is rarely used, and no targeted therapies have been approved, partly because these tumors are usually excluded from major clinical trials. Data on the efficacy of targeted agents and immune checkpoint inhibitors are scarce. Despite those issues, a tumor-agnostic treatment approach based on targeted drugs against a detected genetic mutation is growing in several settings and cancer subtypes, and could also be proposed for SNCs. Our work aims to provide an overview of the main molecular pathways altered in the different epithelial subtypes of sinonasal and skull base tumors, focusing on the possible actionable mutations for which potential target therapies are already approved in other cancer types.

The role of altered microRNA expression in premalignant and malignant head and neck lesions with epithelial origin

Background and Aims

The premalignant lesions of the oral cavity carry a risk of transformation to malignancy. Hence, early diagnosis followed by timely intervention remarkably affects the prognosis of patients. During tumorigenesis, particular microRNAs (miRNAs) show altered expressions and because of their post transcriptionally regulatory role could provide favorable diagnostic, therapeutic, or prognostic values in head and neck cancers.

Methods

In this review, we have demonstrated diagnostic, prognostic, and potential therapeutic roles of some miRNAs associated with oral premalignant and malignant lesions based on previous validate studies.

Results

It is previously documented that dysregulation of miRNAs contributes to cancer development and progression. MiRNAs could be tumor suppressors that normally suppress cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis or play as oncogenes that improved tumorigenesis process. Altered expression of miRNAs has also been reported in premalignant oral epithelial lesions such as leukoplakia, oral submucous fibrosis, oral lichen planus and some malignant carcinoma like oral squamous cell, verrucous, spindle cell, Merkel cell carcinoma and basal cell.

Conclusion

Some of miRNAs could be new therapeutic candidates in miRNA‐based target gene therapy. Although more investigations are required to identify the most favorable miRNA candidate, altered expression of some miRNAs could be used as biomarkers in premalignant lesions and oral cancers with high sensitivity and specificity.

Impact of salvage surgery for recurrent sinonasal cancers with skull base and intracranial involvement

OBJECTIVE

Patients with recurrent sinonasal cancers (RSNCs) often present with extensive involvement of the skull base and exhibit high rates of subsequent recurrence and death after therapy. The impact of salvage surgery and margin status on progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) has yet to be demonstrated. The goal of this study was to determine whether skull base resection with negative margins has an impact on outcomes in the recurrent setting.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of 47 patients who underwent surgery for RSNC with skull base invasion between November 1993 and June 2020 was conducted. The following variables were extracted from the clinical records: patient demographic characteristics (age and sex), tumor pathology, dural and orbital invasion, and prior radiation exposure and induction chemotherapy. Metastatic disease status, surgical approach, margin status, and history of postoperative chemotherapy and/or postoperative radiation therapy were noted. The primary and secondary outcomes were PFS and OS, respectively.

RESULTS

The cohort included 30 males (63.8%) and 17 females (36.2%), with a mean ± SD age of 54.8 ± 14.4 years. Thirty-five (74.5%) patients showed disease progression, and 29 (61.7%) patients died during the study period. The mean ± SD patient follow-up period was 61.8 ± 64.4 months. Dural invasion was associated with increased risk of death (HR 2.62, 95% CI 1.13-6.08). High-risk histopathology (HR 3.14, 95% CI 1.10-8.95) and induction chemotherapy (HR 2.32, 95% CI 1.07-5.06) were associated with increased odds of disease progression. When compared to patients with positive margins or gross-total resection with unknown margin status, those with negative margins had decreased odds of disease progression (HR 0.30, 95% CI 0.14-0.63) and death (HR 0.38, 95% CI 0.17-0.85).

CONCLUSIONS

RSNCs show high rates of subsequent disease progression and mortality. This study demonstrated that negative margins may be associated with improved PFS and OS in carefully selected patients who have undergone salvage surgery for RSNC.

Emerging concepts in sinonasal tumor research

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Sinonasal malignancies are rare and understudied, often diagnosed at late stages, and may behave aggressively. This review explores investigative diagnostic, therapeutic, and scientific advances specific to sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma (SNUC), intestinal-type adenocarcinoma (ITAC), and olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB).

RECENT FINDINGS

A number of studies have recently contributed more robust knowledge of the genetic and molecular landscapes of SNUC, ITAC, and ONB. These analyses have identified SMARCB1 and IDH2 mutations in SNUC, potentially allowing for the tumor's subdivision. Recent studies have also defined a role for induction chemotherapy in SNUC. Somatic mutations for ITAC have been identified and may be potentially targetable with FDA approved therapies. Studies defining the tumor microenvironment for ITAC and ONB have introduced the possibility of immune checkpoint inhibition for these tumor types.

SUMMARY

Studies reviewed here detail promising results of the most current and novel characterization of SNUC, ITAC, and ONB genetic and molecular landscapes, which have informed ongoing therapeutic discovery. With continued multi-institutional efforts, the field of sinonasal tumor research will achieve higher disease control and improved treatment outcomes for patients afflicted with these rare cancers.

Precision Postoperative Radiotherapy in Sinonasal Carcinomas after Endonasal Endoscopic Surgery

Simple Summary

Sinonasal cancers are rare and heterogeneous tumors, mainly carcinomas, with essentially local evolution and a severe vital and functional prognosis. These tumors are more and more being treated in first intent by a mini-morbid endoscopic approach rather than open surgery as the cornerstone of curative treatment. Adjuvant radiotherapy remains necessary owing to non-optimal local control. This article describes the requirements of radiotherapy to ensure adequate delays, the potential of postoperative radiotherapy to increase local and distant disease control and to decrease morbidity further after mini morbid surgery and dose painting techniques, and reviews the criteria that lead to the choice of one technique over another.

Abstract

Radiotherapy plays an important role in the treatment of sinonasal cancer, mainly in the adjuvant setting after surgical resection. Many technological approaches have been described, including intensity-modulated radiotherapy, concomitant chemoradiotherapy, charged particle therapy or combined approaches. The choice is based on general criteria related to the oncological results and morbidity of each technique and their availability, as well as specific criteria related to the tumor (tumor extensions, pathology and quality of margins). The aims of this review are: (i) to provide an overview of the radiotherapy techniques available for the management of sinonasal malignant tumors and (ii) to describe the constraints and opportunities of radiotherapy owing to the recent developments of endonasal endoscopic surgery. The indication and morbidity of the different techniques will be discussed based on a critical literature review.

Outcome for sinonasal malignancies: a population-based survey

Purpose

Sinonasal malignancies (SNM) represent a rare and complex group of cancers that includes a wide range of histopathological subtypes. Data from population-based cohorts are scarce but warranted as a basis for randomized controlled treatment trials (RCTs). Our aim was to assess overall and histology subset-specific outcomes for SNM patients treated at a tertiary referral centre.

Methods

A retrospective, population-based, consecutive cohort of patients with SNMs diagnosed from 2001 through 2019 was examined. Outcome was analysed in relation to age, gender, site, stage, histopathology, and treatment.

Results

Two-hundred and twenty-six patients were identified, whereof 61% presented with stage IV disease. 80% completed treatment with curative intent, which comprised surgery with neoadjuvant (29%) or adjuvant (37%) radiotherapy, monotherapy with surgery (22%), definitive chemoradiotherapy (7%), or radiotherapy (5%). Median follow-up was 106 months. The 5- and 10-year overall survival rates were 57% and 35%, respectively. Median overall survival was 76 months (esthesioneuroblastoma: 147 months; adenocarcinoma: 117; salivary carcinoma: 88; mucosal melanoma: 69; squamous cell carcinoma: 51, undifferentiated carcinoma: 42; neuroendocrine carcinoma: 9; and NUT-carcinoma 5). The 5- and 10-year disease-free survival rates were 63% and 54%, respectively, and disease-specific survival 83% and 66%. Increasing age, stage IVB, melanoma histopathology, and treatment with definitive chemoradiotherapy emerged as significant independent prognostic risk factors for disease-specific mortality (p ≤ 0.001).

Conclusion

The results indicate a seemingly good outcome in comparison to previous reports, particularly for mucosal melanoma, adenocarcinoma, and undifferentiated carcinoma. The study provides additional background for future RCTs focusing on histology subset-specific treatment for SNM.

Complete response to immunotherapy in sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma

Sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma (SNUC) is an uncommon aggressive tumor. Locally advanced disease is usually diagnosed at presentation. Multidisciplinary approach is essential and aims to ensure optimal trimodal strategy. Induction chemotherapy is preferred in order to select patients who will benefit from chemoradiotherapy or surgery. Immunotherapy is not indicated in patients with recurrent SNUC. We describe an impressive response in a young man previously treated with radiotherapy and chemotherapy and demolitive surgery who had metastatic bone and lung disease. We also report data on PD-L1, next-generation sequencing, and neutrophil/platelets ratio.

Malignant Sinonasal Tumors: Update on Histological and Clinical Management

Tumors of nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses (TuNSs) are rare and heterogeneous malignancies, presenting different histological features and clinical behavior. We reviewed the literature about etiology, biology, and clinical features of TuNSs to define pathologic features and possible treatment strategies. From a diagnostic point of view, it is mandatory to have high expertise and perform an immunohistochemical assessment to distinguish between different histotypes. Due to the extreme rarity of these neoplasms, there are no standard and evidence-based therapeutic strategies, lacking prospective and large clinical trials. In fact, most studies are retrospective analyses. Surgery represents the mainstay of treatment of TuNSs for small and localized tumors allowing complete tumor removal. Locally advanced lesions require more demolitive surgery that should be always followed by adjuvant radio- or chemo-radiotherapy. Recurrent/metastatic disease requires palliative chemo- and/or radiotherapy. Many studies emphasize the role of specific genes mutations in the development of TuNSs like mutations in the exons 4-9 of the TP53 gene, in the exon 9 of the PIK3CA gene and in the promoter of the TERT gene. In the near future, this genetic assessment will have new therapeutic implications. Future improvements in the understanding of the etiology, biology, and clinical features of TuNSs are warranted to improve their management.

The effect of prior radiation on the success of ventral skull base reconstruction: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The incidence of cerebrospinal fluid leak after ventral skull base reconstruction is a primary outcome of interest to skull base surgeons. Exposure to pre-operative radiation may put patients at an increased risk of skull base reconstructive failure. A systematic search identified studies which included patients receiving ventral skull base reconstruction in the setting of pre-operative radiation. A meta-analysis using a random effects model was conducted to estimate an odds ratio of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak in patients exposed to pre-operative radiation. A meta-analysis of 13 studies demonstrated that the odds ratio of CSF leak was 1.73 (95% CI 0.98-3.05). The majority of studies (77%) used vascularized tissue grafts for reconstruction. We identified an increased incidence of CSF leak among patients undergoing ventral skull base reconstruction after prior radiation therapy, although not of statistical significance. Skull base surgeons should exercise caution when planning reconstruction in this population.

Rare Diseases of the Nose, the Paranasal Sinuses, and the Anterior Skull Base

Due to their low incidence and thus resulting limited diagnostic criteria as well as therapeutic options, rare diseases of the nose, the paranasal sinuses, and the anterior skull base are a significant challenge. The value as of which a disease has to be considered as rare amounts to a maximum of 5 patients per 10 000 people. Within these diseases, however, there are extreme differences. Some rare or orphan diseases like for example the inverted papilloma belong to regularly diagnosed and treated diseases of larger departments of oto-rhino-laryngology whereas other rare diseases and malformations have only been described in less than 100 case reports worldwide. This fact emphasizes the necessity of bundling the available experience of diagnostics and therapy. The present article gives an overview about rare diseases of the nose, the paranasal sinuses, and the anterior skull base from the field of diseases/syndromes of the olfactory system, malformations of the nose and paranasal sinuses, ventilation and functional disorders as well as benign and malignant tumors. The classification and data on diagnostic and therapeutic options were established based on the current literature.

Survival outcomes in sinonasal carcinoma with neuroendocrine differentiation: A NCDB analysis

BACKGROUND

Sinonasal carcinoma with neuroendocrine differentiation (SCND) is a rare group of tumors with poor prognosis. Treatment and sequence of therapies are still unclear. The goal of this study is to analyze treatment outcomes in SCND using a national database.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database was queried for SCND from 2004 to 2014. Patient demographics, tumor characteristics and treatment paradigms were tabulated. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression was performed for statistical analysis of treatment regimen on overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

A total of 415 patients were identified. Most patients were male (61.2%), with a median age of 58 years and the most common primary site was the nasal cavity (52.5%). T4 tumors were observed in 67.7% of cases. Unimodality (41.9%) and bimodality (43.9%) therapies were the most common treatment modalities. Radiation therapy was the only treatment administered in 30% of the patients, while 27.2% received definitive chemoradiation (CRT) and 11.6% had surgery with adjuvant CRT. In our Cox-PH model, age (HR = 1.04, p < 0.001), T4 (HR = 2.6, p = 0.004) and N2/N3 (HR = 2.18, p = 0.001) were associated with worse survival. Trimodality (HR = 0.49, p = 0.005) and bimodality (HR = 0.65, p = 0.009) therapies had a better OS compared to unimodality. Patients treated with definitive CRT or surgery with adjuvant CRT had a significant increase in OS (p = 0.01 and 0.002 respectively).

CONCLUSION

SCND appears to be best treated using a multimodality approach with definitive CRT or surgery followed by CRT. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy could be helpful in selecting the best treatment strategy.

Targeting MET Amplification with Crizotinib in a Case of Sinonasal Undifferentiated Carcinoma

Comprehensive molecular testing of individual tumors has led to the identification of novel molecularly defined cancer therapies and treatment indications. Given low frequencies of many molecular alterations, efficacy of therapies used to target them are often undefined, especially in the context of rare malignancies. Here we describe the first reported case of MET amplification in sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma (SNUC), a rare cancer with a poor prognosis. The patient was treated with crizotinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that targets c-MET, and experienced a complete response. Our report demonstrates the potential of employing precision oncology approaches in SNUC and other rare cancers.

A rare presentation of Sinonasal Undifferentiated Carcinoma with brain metastasis and para-aortic mass

Sinonasal Undifferentiated carcinoma (SNUC) comprises 3% of the head and neck tumors, including metastatic neoplasms. Herein we report the case of a 60-year-old male who was brought dead to our institute with previous records of a contrast-enhanced CT scan of the brain and MRI with evidence of tumor in the maxillary sinus with intracranial extensions. The histopathological examination of the mass in the maxillary sinus proved to be SNUC with metastases to the brain, lungs, and around the aorta. These tumors are undifferentiated and are distinct from other poorly differentiated tumors in deriving their origin from the Schneiderian epithelium. The aggressive nature of the tumor renders the prognosis quite dismal. SNUCs need to be early recognized and distinguished from other poorly differentiated carcinomas with the help of immunohistochemistry.

Survival Outcomes in Sinonasal Poorly Differentiated Squamous Cell Carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

Sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is rare with no consensus on treatment regimen. Our goal is to analyze treatment outcomes in poorly differentiated SCC (PDSCC) using a large national database.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective database study.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database was queried for sinonasal invasive SCC, grade 3 (poorly differentiated) from 2004 to 2014. Patient demographics and tumor and treatment characteristics were tabulated. Kaplan-Meier (KM) analysis was performed to compare overall survival (OS) between histology subtype and primary site. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression was performed for statistical analysis of treatment regimen on OS.

RESULTS

A total of 1,074 patients were identified. The maxillary sinus was the most common site (45%). T4 tumors were observed in 50% of patients, with most patients treated at high-volume facilities (77%). In KM analysis, spindle cell SCC histological subtype, primary tumors of the maxillary sinus, and poorly differentiated grade had worse OS. In our Cox-PH model, higher T stage and age were associated with worse OS. Those treated at a high-volume facility and those who underwent surgical resection followed by adjuvant radiation had improved OS. Chemotherapy within the treatment regimen did not confer survival benefit except in surgical patients when positive margins were present, and surgery with adjuvant chemoradiation trended toward improved survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Sinonasal PDSCC appears to be best treated at high-volume centers with surgical resection followed by adjuvant radiation. Poorly differentiated grade has worse OS compared to more differentiated tumors. Chemotherapy along with adjuvant radiation may have a role in patients with positive surgical margins.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 131:E1040-E1048, 2021.

High-grade sinonasal carcinomas and surveillance of differential expression in immune related transcriptome

The skull base is the location of a wide variety of malignant tumors. Among them is sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma (SNUC), a highly aggressive sinonasal neoplasm that was recently reclassified into subgroups of high-grade carcinomas with unique genomic events (e.g., SMARC-deficient carcinoma, nuclear protein in testis NUT carcinoma). Other high-grade carcinomas in this location are neuroendocrine carcinomas, sinonasal adenocarcinomas, and teratocarcinosarcomas. Given the rarity of these tumors, little transcriptomic data is available. The aim of this study was to characterize the immune-oncology gene expression profile in SNUC and other high-grade sinonasal carcinomas. Next-generation sequencing was performed in 30 high-grade sinonasal carcinoma samples using the HTG EdgeSeq Precision Immuno-Oncology Panel. Ingenuity pathway analysis was performed to understand the immunobiology, signaling, and functional perturbations during tumor development. The samples were divided into 3 groups: 21 SNUCs and SMARC-deficient sinonasal carcinomas; 5 high-grade neuroendocrine carcinomas (HGNECs), with small cell and large cell variants; and 4 high-grade sinonasal carcinomas (HGSNCs) of mixed histology (1 NUT carcinoma, 1 teratocarcinosarcoma, and 2 sinonasal adenocarcinomas). PRAME and ASCL1 emerged as upregulated transcripts with strong protein validation for SNUC and HGNEC; other upregulated candidates EZH2 and BRCA1 offer consideration for alternative targeted therapy, and downregulation of major histocompatibility complex molecules and chemokines represent another hurdle in the development of effective immunotherapy. This immune-oncology gene expression analysis of 3 groups of high-grade sinonasal carcinoma with emphasis on SNUC identified a number of differentially expressed transcripts reflecting effects on tumorigenesis. Identification of immune pathways should be further investigated for possible integration of immunotherapy into a multidisciplinary approach to these cancers and personalized treatment.

Outcomes of Primary Versus Salvage Surgery for Sinonasal Malignancies: A Population-Based Analysis

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

There exists a lack of consensus on the optimal sequence of treatment for many sinonasal malignancies (SNMs). This study compares the overall survival (OS) outcomes for primary surgery (PS) versus salvage surgery (SS) in SNM patients across stage, histology, and primary site.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective database review.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database was queried for all SNM cases treated with multimodal surgical and nonsurgical therapy between 2004 and 2015. Logistic regression identified predictors of SS. Cox proportional hazards models evaluated predictors of mortality, and Kaplan-Meier log-rank test assessed OS outcomes.

RESULTS

Our SNM cohort consisted of 3,011 patients (PS = 2,804; SS = 207). SS patients had significantly longer postoperative hospital stays (P = .009) and increased rates of 30-day (P < .001) and 90-day mortality (P < .001) compared to PS. On multivariate logistic regression, predictors of undergoing SS included sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma histology (odds ratio = 2.72; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.16-6.66; P = .024). On multivariate Cox proportional hazards analyses among SS patients, late-stage disease (hazard ratio [HR] = 4.80; 95% CI: 1.46-15.8; P = .01) and positive surgical margins (HR = 2.31; 95% CI: 1.29-4.13; P = .005) portended significantly worse OS. In the propensity score-matched cohort controlling for stage and histology, PS had significantly improved OS compared to SS (P = .007). Compared to SS, PS also had improved OS in subgroup analyses for patients with late-stage disease (P = .026) and squamous cell carcinoma histology (P = .006).

CONCLUSIONS

In our SMN cohort, PS resulted in improved OS outcomes compared to SS independent of stage and histology. Consideration may be given to primary surgical resection for SMN whenever feasible, though a targeted, individualized approach is warranted.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 131:E710-E718, 2021.

Impact of induction chemotherapy and socioeconomics on sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma survival

BACKGROUND

Sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma (SNUC) is an uncommon malignancy of the nasal cavity and accessory sinuses with limited available studies evaluating role of induction chemotherapy (IC), demographics, and socioeconomic factors on overall survival (OS).

METHODS

The 2004-2015 National Cancer Database was queried for patients with histologically confirmed SNUC. IC was defined as chemotherapy administered 6 months to 2 weeks before surgery or ≥45 days before radiotherapy.

RESULTS

Of 440 identified patients, 70 (16%) underwent treatments involving IC. This consisted of 52 (12%), 15 (3%), and 3 (1%) patients receiving IC before definitive radiation therapy, surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy, or surgery only, respectively. On univariate analysis, IC (p = 0.34) did not affect OS, whereas having government insurance (hazard ratio [HR], 1.79; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.37-2.34; p < 0.001) and living in regions with ≥13% of the population without a high school diploma (HR, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.06-1.79; p = 0.02) were associated with worse OS. On log-rank test, patients with advanced stage had similar OS regardless of whether or not they received IC (p = 0.96). Patients who received IC lived closer to their treatment site (p = 0.02) and had worse overall health, with more comorbidities (p = 0.02). The timing of IC before definitive surgery or radiation did not affect OS (p = 0.69).

CONCLUSION

In this SNUC population-based analysis, IC did not appear to provide additional OS benefit regardless of disease stage or timing before definitive treatment. Distance to treatment and level of comorbidities may be associated with receiving IC, whereas type of insurance and residence education level may impact SNUC OS, regardless of treatment.

Diagnostic traps awaiting the head/neck pathologist: "Cytoplasm-poor" neoplasms

CONTEXT

Beyond squamous carcinoma, a variety of diagnostically challenging neoplasms arise within various head and neck sites. This is particularly the situation with neoplasms where little cellular cytoplasm is present to assist the pathologist in categorizing such lesions.

OBJECTIVE

To highlight diagnostic pitfalls that accompanying neoplasms composed primarily of 'cytoplasmically-poor' cells. These pitfalls include morphologic and immunohistochemical traps that emerge from this class of neoplasms.

DATA SOURCES

Selection of pathologic specimens from the author's personal files, and literature review.

CONCLUSIONS

Interpretative pitfalls regarding the histopathology and immunophenotype of small 'cytoplasmically-poor' neoplasms are a diagnostic hazard in head and neck surgical pathology practice, and require knowledge of histomorphologic plasticity and aberrant immunophenotyping.