1
|
Massironi S, Franchina M, Ippolito D, Elisei F, Falco O, Maino C, Pagni F, Elvevi A, Guerra L, Invernizzi P. Improvements and future perspective in diagnostic tools for neuroendocrine neoplasms. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2024; 19:349-366. [PMID: 38836602 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2024.2363537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) represent a complex group of tumors arising from neuroendocrine cells, characterized by heterogeneous behavior and challenging diagnostics. Despite advancements in medical technology, NENs present a major challenge in early detection, often leading to delayed diagnosis and variable outcomes. This review aims to provide an in-depth analysis of current diagnostic methods as well as the evolving and future directions of diagnostic strategies for NENs. AREA COVERED The review extensively covers the evolution of diagnostic tools for NENs, from traditional imaging and biochemical tests to advanced genomic profiling and next-generation sequencing. The emerging role of technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and liquid biopsies could improve diagnostic precision, as could the integration of imaging modalities such as positron emission tomography (PET)/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) hybrids and innovative radiotracers. EXPERT OPINION Despite progress, there is still a significant gap in the early diagnosis of NENs. Bridging this diagnostic gap and integrating advanced technologies and precision medicine are crucial to improving patient outcomes. However, challenges such as low clinical awareness, limited possibility of noninvasive diagnostic tools and funding limitations for rare diseases like NENs are acknowledged.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Massironi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Marianna Franchina
- Division of Gastroenterology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Davide Ippolito
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Federica Elisei
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Olga Falco
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Cesare Maino
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Fabio Pagni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Alessandra Elvevi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Luca Guerra
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhang XB, Fan YB, Jing R, Getu MA, Chen WY, Zhang W, Dong HX, Dakal TC, Hayat A, Cai HJ, Ashrafizadeh M, Abd El-Aty AM, Hacimuftuoglu A, Liu P, Li TF, Sethi G, Ahn KS, Ertas YN, Chen MJ, Ji JS, Ma L, Gong P. Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms: current development, challenges, and clinical perspectives. Mil Med Res 2024; 11:35. [PMID: 38835066 DOI: 10.1186/s40779-024-00535-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are highly heterogeneous and potentially malignant tumors arising from secretory cells of the neuroendocrine system. Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NENs) are the most common subtype of NENs. Historically, GEP-NENs have been regarded as infrequent and slow-growing malignancies; however, recent data have demonstrated that the worldwide prevalence and incidence of GEP-NENs have increased exponentially over the last three decades. In addition, an increasing number of studies have proven that GEP-NENs result in a limited life expectancy. These findings suggested that the natural biology of GEP-NENs is more aggressive than commonly assumed. Therefore, there is an urgent need for advanced researches focusing on the diagnosis and management of patients with GEP-NENs. In this review, we have summarized the limitations and recent advancements in our comprehension of the epidemiology, clinical presentations, pathology, molecular biology, diagnosis, and treatment of GEP-NETs to identify factors contributing to delays in diagnosis and timely treatment of these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xian-Bin Zhang
- Department of General SurgeryInstitute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Ingredients and Gut Microbiomics, Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
| | - Yi-Bao Fan
- Department of General SurgeryInstitute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Ingredients and Gut Microbiomics, Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518060, China
| | - Rui Jing
- Department of Radiology, Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250000, China
| | - Mikiyas Amare Getu
- Department of General SurgeryInstitute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Ingredients and Gut Microbiomics, Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
| | - Wan-Ying Chen
- Department of General SurgeryInstitute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Ingredients and Gut Microbiomics, Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518060, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of General SurgeryInstitute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Ingredients and Gut Microbiomics, Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
| | - Hong-Xia Dong
- Department of Gastroenterology, General Hospital of Chinese PLA, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Tikam Chand Dakal
- Department of Biotechnology, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, Rajasthan, 313001, India
| | - Akhtar Hayat
- Interdisciplinary Research Centre in Biomedical Materials (IRCBM), COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Hua-Jun Cai
- Department of General SurgeryInstitute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Ingredients and Gut Microbiomics, Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
| | - Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Department of General SurgeryInstitute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Ingredients and Gut Microbiomics, Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
| | - A M Abd El-Aty
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, Ataturk University, Erzurum, 25240, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Hacimuftuoglu
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Medical Faculty, Ataturk University, Erzurum, 25240, Turkey
| | - Peng Liu
- Department of General SurgeryInstitute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Ingredients and Gut Microbiomics, Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
| | - Tian-Feng Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shenzhen Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore
| | - Kwang Seok Ahn
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Yavuz Nuri Ertas
- ERNAM-Nanotechnology Research and Application Center, Erciyes University, Kayseri, 38039, Türkiye
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Erciyes University, Kayseri, 38280, Türkiye
- UNAM-National Nanotechnology Research Center, Bilkent University, Ankara, 06800, Türkiye
| | - Min-Jiang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Imaging Diagnosis and Minimally Invasive Intervention Research, Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui, Zhejiang, 323000, China
| | - Jian-Song Ji
- Key Laboratory of Imaging Diagnosis and Minimally Invasive Intervention Research, Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Lishui, Zhejiang, 323000, China
| | - Li Ma
- Department of Epidemiology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, 116044, China
| | - Peng Gong
- Department of General SurgeryInstitute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Ingredients and Gut Microbiomics, Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Litmeyer A, Konukiewitz B, Kasajima A, Foersch S, Schicktanz F, Schmitt M, Kellers F, Grass A, Jank P, Lehman B, Gress TM, Rinke A, Bartsch DK, Denkert C, Weichert W, Klöppel G, Jesinghaus M. High expression of insulinoma-associated protein 1 (INSM1) distinguishes colorectal mixed and pure neuroendocrine carcinomas from conventional adenocarcinomas with diffuse expression of synaptophysin. J Pathol Clin Res 2023; 9:498-509. [PMID: 37608427 PMCID: PMC10556265 DOI: 10.1002/cjp2.339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Complementary to synaptophysin and chromogranin A, insulinoma-associated protein 1 (INSM1) has emerged as a sensitive marker for the diagnosis of neuroendocrine neoplasms. Since there are no comparative data regarding INSM1 expression in conventional colorectal adenocarcinomas (CRCs) and colorectal mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinomas/neuroendocrine carcinomas (MANECs/NECs), we examined INSM1 in a large cohort of conventional CRCs and MANECs/NECs. In conventional CRC, we put a special focus on conventional CRC with diffuse expression of synaptophysin, which carry the risk of being misinterpreted as a MANEC or a NEC. We investigated INSM1 according to the immunoreactive score in our main cohort of 1,033 conventional CRCs and 21 MANECs/NECs in comparison to the expression of synaptophysin and chromogranin A and correlated the results with clinicopathological parameters and patient survival. All MANECs/NECs expressed INSM1, usually showing high or moderate expression (57% high, 34% moderate, and 9% low), which distinguished them from conventional CRCs, which were usually INSM1 negative or low, even if they diffusely expressed synaptophysin. High expression of INSM1 was not observed in conventional CRCs. Chromogranin A was negative/low in most conventional CRCs (99%), but also in most MANECs/NECs (66%). Comparable results were observed in our independent validation cohorts of conventional CRC (n = 274) and MANEC/NEC (n = 19). Similar to synaptophysin, INSM1 expression had no prognostic relevance in conventional CRCs, while true MANEC/NEC showed a highly impaired survival in univariate and multivariate analyses (e.g. disease-specific survival: p < 0.001). MANECs/NECs are a highly aggressive variant of colorectal cancer, which must be reliably identified. High expression of INSM1 distinguishes MANEC/NEC from conventional CRCs with diffuse expression of the standard neuroendocrine marker synaptophysin, which do not share the same dismal prognosis. Therefore, high INSM1 expression is a highly specific/sensitive marker that is supportive for the diagnosis of true colorectal MANEC/NEC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne‐Sophie Litmeyer
- Institute of PathologyPhillips University Marburg and University Hospital MarburgMarburgGermany
| | - Björn Konukiewitz
- Department of PathologyUniversity Hospital Schleswig‐Holstein, Campus Kiel, Christian‐Albrechts‐Universität zu KielKielGermany
- Institute of PathologyTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Atsuko Kasajima
- Institute of PathologyTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
| | | | - Felix Schicktanz
- Institute of PathologyTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Maxime Schmitt
- Institute of PathologyTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Franziska Kellers
- Department of PathologyUniversity Hospital Schleswig‐Holstein, Campus Kiel, Christian‐Albrechts‐Universität zu KielKielGermany
| | - Albert Grass
- Institute of PathologyPhillips University Marburg and University Hospital MarburgMarburgGermany
| | - Paul Jank
- Institute of PathologyPhillips University Marburg and University Hospital MarburgMarburgGermany
| | - Bettina Lehman
- Department of SurgeryPhillips University Marburg and University Hospital MarburgMarburgGermany
| | - Thomas M Gress
- Department of Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Infectious DiseasesPhillips University Marburg and University Hospital MarburgMarburgGermany
| | - Anja Rinke
- Department of Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Infectious DiseasesPhillips University Marburg and University Hospital MarburgMarburgGermany
| | - Detlef K Bartsch
- Department of SurgeryPhillips University Marburg and University Hospital MarburgMarburgGermany
| | - Carsten Denkert
- Institute of PathologyPhillips University Marburg and University Hospital MarburgMarburgGermany
| | - Wilko Weichert
- Institute of PathologyTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Günter Klöppel
- Institute of PathologyTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Moritz Jesinghaus
- Institute of PathologyPhillips University Marburg and University Hospital MarburgMarburgGermany
- Institute of PathologyTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Søreide K, Hallet J, Jamieson NB, Stättner S. Optimal surgical approach for digestive neuroendocrine neoplasia primaries: Oncological benefits versus short and long-term complications. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 37:101786. [PMID: 37328324 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2023.101786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The rising incidence and the accumulating prevalence of neuroendocrine neoplasia (NEN) in the population makes this a common, prevalent and a clinically relevant disease group. Surgical resection represents the only potentially curative treatment for digestive NENs. Thus, resection should in principle be considered for all patients with NEN, although taking the patients age, relevant comorbidity, and performance status into account for operability. Patients with insulinomas, NEN of the appendix and rectal NENs are usually cured by surgery alone. However, less than a third of patients are amendable to curative surgery alone at time of diagnosis. Furthermore, recurrence is common and may occur years after primary surgery, hence the long follow-up time recommended in most NENs (>10 years). As many patients with NENs present with locoregional or metastatic disease, there is considerable debate regarding the role of debulking surgery in these settings. However, good long-term survival can be achieved in a considerable proportion of patients, with 50-70% alive up to 10 years after surgery. Location and grade are the main determinants of long-term survival. Here we present considerations to surgery for primary neuroendocrine tumors in the digestive tract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kjetil Søreide
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway; Gastrointestinal Translational Research Group, Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Julie Hallet
- Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Susan Leslie Clinic for Neuroendocrine Tumors - Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nigel B Jamieson
- Wolfson Wohl Cancer Research Centre, School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Stefan Stättner
- Department of General, Visceral and Vascular Surgery, Salzkammergutklinikum, Vöcklabruck, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Jacoba IM, Weber HC. Biomarkers in gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2023; 30:175-180. [PMID: 36895178 DOI: 10.1097/med.0000000000000805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NEN) represent a heterogenous group of rare tumors emanating from neuroendocrine cells that are clinically silent for prolonged periods of time without detection. Traditional biomarkers lack sufficiently high enough specificity and sensitivity for these tumors and their secreted products. New molecules are sought to improve accuracy of detection and monitoring of GEP-NENs. The purpose of this review is to highlight recent advances in the discovery of novel biomarkers and their potential characteristics and utility as markers of GEP-NENs. RECENT FINDINGS Several recent GEP-NEN investigations regarding NETest demonstrate superior sensitivity and specificity in diagnosis and disease monitoring as compared with chromogranin A. Among several tissue-based emergent candidate molecules as biomarkers for GEP-NEN INSM1 has demonstrated consistently excellent characteristics when compared with traditional markers including chromogranin A, synaptophysin, and CD56. SUMMARY For the diagnosis and clinical monitoring of NEN, there still exists a considerable need for better biomarkers. Novel technology has resulted in a promising liquid biopsy for the detection and monitoring of GEP-NENs. The search for improved tissue biomarkers has resulted in identification of one potential candidate whereas several others remain in the investigatory phase.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isa Mulingbayan Jacoba
- Boston Medical Center/Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine
| | - H Christian Weber
- Boston Medical Center/Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine
- Department of Medicine
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kong G, Boehm E, Prall O, Murray WK, Tothill RW, Michael M. Integrating Functional Imaging and Molecular Profiling for Optimal Treatment Selection in Neuroendocrine Neoplasms (NEN). Curr Oncol Rep 2023; 25:465-478. [PMID: 36826704 PMCID: PMC10110720 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-023-01381-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Gastroenteropancreatic NEN (GEP-NEN) are group of malignancies with significant clinical, anatomical and molecular heterogeneity. High-grade GEP-NEN in particular present unique management challenges. RECENT FINDINGS In the current era, multidisciplinary management with access to a combination of functional imaging and targeted molecular profiling can provide important disease characterisation, guide individualised management and improve patient outcome. Multiple treatment options are now available, and combination and novel therapies are being explored in clinical trials. Precision medicine is highly relevant for a heterogenous disease like NEN. The integration of dual-tracer functional PET/CT imaging, molecular histopathology and genomic data has the potential to be used to gain a more comprehensive understanding of an individual patient's disease biology for precision diagnosis, prognostication and optimal treatment allocation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grace Kong
- Department of Molecular Imaging and Therapeutic Nuclear Medicine, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia. .,The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Emma Boehm
- Department of Molecular Imaging and Therapeutic Nuclear Medicine, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia.,Centre for Cancer Research and Department of Clinical Pathology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Owen Prall
- Department of Pathology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - William K Murray
- Department of Pathology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Richard W Tothill
- The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Centre for Cancer Research and Department of Clinical Pathology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael Michael
- The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
From morphology to molecular targets—the pathologist’s view in diagnosing gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms. MEMO - MAGAZINE OF EUROPEAN MEDICAL ONCOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12254-022-00850-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
SummaryIn the last decade, a number of genetic alterations in gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NENs) have been identified. In addition, differences in tumor morphology as well as proliferation index (Ki-67) or number of mitoses have led to changes in the classification of these neoplasms. According to the new World Health Organization (WHO) classification, GEP-NENs are now divided into two genetically and prognostically different categories: (i) well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors (NET) subdivided into low (G1), intermediate (2) and high (G3) grade tumors, and (ii) poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas (NEC). In addition, a group of mixed neuroendocrine–non-neuroendocrine neoplasms (MiNEN) has been defined. This review focuses on the clinical, morphological, immunohistochemical and molecular findings of the GEP-NENs and their key diagnostic features that can help the pathologist to differentiate between tumors in this heterogeneous group. In challenging cases, additional immunohistochemical and/or molecular analysis can be helpful to determine the correct diagnosis and proper treatment for the patient.
Collapse
|
8
|
Smolkova B, Kataki A, Earl J, Ruz-Caracuel I, Cihova M, Urbanova M, Buocikova V, Tamargo S, Rovite V, Niedra H, Schrader J, Kohl Y. Liquid biopsy and preclinical tools for advancing diagnosis and treatment of patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2022; 180:103865. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2022.103865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
|
9
|
Zhong E, Pareja F, Hanna MG, Jungbluth AA, Rekhtman N, Brogi E. Expression of novel neuroendocrine markers in breast carcinomas: a study of INSM1, ASCL1, and POU2F3. Hum Pathol 2022; 127:102-111. [PMID: 35690220 PMCID: PMC10227884 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2022.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INSM1, ASCL1, and POU2F3 are novel transcription factors involved in neuroendocrine (NE) differentiation of neoplasms in several organs, but data on their expression in breast carcinomas (BCs) are limited. We retrospectively evaluated the expression of these markers in a series of 97 BCs (58 with NE morphology and 39 with otherwise uncommon morphology) tested prospectively using immunohistochemistry (IHC). Nuclear staining in >50% of the cells was used as the positive cut-off. Thirty-two of the 97 BCs (33%) were INSM1-positive. INSM1-positivity correlated significantly with histologic type and presence of stromal mucin. INSM1 also correlated with synaptophysin and chromogranin, established markers of NE differentiation (P < .0001 and P = .0023, respectively). In BC with NE morphology, the expression of INSM1 supported NE differentiation, and INSM1 was more specific than synaptophysin and more sensitive and specific than chromogranin. INSM1 was the most expressed NE marker in 17 BCs. INSM1-positive BCs included 56% of solid papillary BCs, 88% of BCs with solid papillary features, and 75% of high-grade NE carcinomas. Of 35 BCs tested for POU2F3 and ASCL1, only 1 and 4 cases were positive, respectively. Our results show that INSM1 is a sensitive marker of NE differentiation in BC and should be included with synaptophysin and chromogranin in the IHC panel used to evaluate NE differentiation in BC with NE morphology. ASCL1 and POU2F3 are uncommon in BC and their routine assessment is not warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Zhong
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, 10065 USA
| | - Fresia Pareja
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, 10065 USA
| | - Matthew G Hanna
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, 10065 USA
| | - Achim A Jungbluth
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, 10065 USA
| | - Natasha Rekhtman
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, 10065 USA
| | - Edi Brogi
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, 10065 USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Couvelard A, Cros J. An update on the development of concepts, diagnostic criteria, and challenging issues for neuroendocrine neoplasms across different digestive organs. Virchows Arch 2022; 480:1129-1148. [PMID: 35278097 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-022-03306-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Digestive neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are a group of heterogeneous neoplasms found throughout the digestive tract, with different behaviour and genetic background. In the last few years, nomenclature and WHO/UICC classifications of digestive NENs have changed, and molecular classifications have emerged, especially in pancreatic locations. Increasing patho-molecular details are needed to diagnose the different categories of NEN, including the use of helpful immunohistochemical markers. In this review, we address these topics in three successive chapters. We first briefly review recent updates in classifications, discuss important grading and proliferating issues and advances in the molecular understanding of NEN. Then, we provide an update on diagnosis, including the most important differential diagnoses of NEN, with a focus on high-grade neoplasms and mixed tumours. Finally, we highlight a variety of currently used and next-generation predictive and prognostic biomarkers as well as biomarkers of tumour origin and describe some site specificities of gastrointestinal NEN. We specifically focus on biomarkers available to pathologists with the potential to change the way patients with NEN are diagnosed and treated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Couvelard
- Department of Pathology of Bichat and Beaujon AP-HP Hospitals, ENETS Centre of Excellence, Université Paris Cité, 46 Rue Henri Huchard, 75018, Paris, France.
| | - Jérôme Cros
- Department of Pathology of Bichat and Beaujon AP-HP Hospitals, ENETS Centre of Excellence, Université Paris Cité, 46 Rue Henri Huchard, 75018, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|