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Kaketaka T, Mineo I, Kimura Y, Ito N, Okauchi Y, Tamura H, Adachi S, Iwahashi H. Insulinoma with Hyperprocalcitoninemia and Hypercalcitoninemia Showing Coexpression of Insulin and Calcitonin in Its Tumor Cells. Intern Med 2024; 63:1415-1420. [PMID: 37839887 PMCID: PMC11157324 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.1565-23] [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: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroendocrine neoplasms can produce multiple hormones that are released into the bloodstream, causing symptoms that vary depending on the type and quantity of hormones involved. We herein report a 63-year-old asymptomatic patient with pancreatic insulinoma who showed marked elevations in circulating calcitonin and procalcitonin levels that returned to normal following surgery. Immunohistochemical analyses confirmed the co-staining of calcitonin and insulin immunoreactivity in the tumor cells, suggesting a calcitonin-producing insulinoma. This insulinoma released calcitonin and a considerable amount of its precursor peptide, procalcitonin, resulting in both hyperprocalcitoninemia and hypercalcitoninemia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ikuo Mineo
- Diabetes Center, Toyonaka Municipal Hospital, Japan
| | - Yu Kimura
- Diabetes Center, Toyonaka Municipal Hospital, Japan
| | - Naohiko Ito
- Diabetes Center, Toyonaka Municipal Hospital, Japan
| | | | - Hiromi Tamura
- Department of Pathology, Toyonaka Municipal Hospital, Japan
| | - Shiro Adachi
- Department of Pathology, Toyonaka Municipal Hospital, Japan
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DelBaugh RM, Kerr DA, Dominguez-Konicki L, Beard JA, Gordon SR, Adler JM, Liu X. Metastatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms to the Pancreas: Two Unusual Cases and a Review of the Literature. Int J Surg Pathol 2024; 32:523-532. [PMID: 37461216 DOI: 10.1177/10668969231185067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
Neuroendocrine tumor metastases to the pancreas are rare, and they share substantial overlap with the significantly more common primary pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms, representing a potential diagnostic pitfall. Elucidating whether a neuroendocrine tumor within the pancreas is a primary neoplasm versus a metastasis has significant prognostic and treatment implications. Correlation with clinical history and imaging as well as incorporating an appropriate immunohistochemical panel are essential to establish the correct diagnosis. Herein, we present 2 rare neuroendocrine tumors that metastasized to the pancreas: a medullary thyroid carcinoma and an atypical carcinoid tumor of lung origin. We also provide a brief review of the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina M DelBaugh
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Darcy A Kerr
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
| | | | - Jonathan A Beard
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Stuart R Gordon
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Adler
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Xiaoying Liu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
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Asa SL, Uccella S, Tischler A. The Unique Importance of Differentiation and Function in Endocrine Neoplasia. Endocr Pathol 2023; 34:382-392. [PMID: 37043101 DOI: 10.1007/s12022-023-09762-4] [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] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
The assessment of cell differentiation in endocrine neoplasms involves not only the identification of a cell's structure and expression of specific transcription factors which regulate that cell, but also the identification of hormones and/or enzymes involved in hormone synthesis. The importance of this functional characterization is emphasized by the fact that the hormones serve as biomarkers for clinical surveillance to identify persistence, recurrence, or progression of disease. Sometimes, unusual patterns of hormone expression lead to unexpected clinical signs and symptoms. Loss of differentiated hormone production can be a sign of dedifferentiation as a tumor becomes more aggressive. In addition to prognostic information, cell differentiation can be predictive, since differentiated endocrine cells express targets for therapy, such as the sodium iodide symporter in thyroid cancers and somatostatin receptors in neuroendocrine tumors. The salient features of differentiation in the three main types of endocrine cells can be used to determine prognosis and to tailor management of patients with endocrine neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia L Asa
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
| | - Silvia Uccella
- Unit of Pathology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Arthur Tischler
- Department of Pathology, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
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Döring C, Peer K, Bankov K, Bollmann C, Ramaswamy A, Di Fazio P, Wild PJ, Bartsch DK. Whole-exome sequencing of calcitonin-producing pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms indicates a unique molecular signature. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1160921. [PMID: 37771441 PMCID: PMC10522832 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1160921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Calcitonin-producing pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (CT-pNENs) are an extremely rare clinical entity, with approximately 60 cases reported worldwide. While CT-pNENs can mimic the clinical and diagnostic features of medullary thyroid carcinoma, their molecular profile is poorly understood. Methods Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed on tumor and corresponding serum samples of five patients with increased calcitonin serum levels and histologically validated calcitonin-positive CT-pNENs. cBioPortal analysis and DAVID gene enrichment analysis were performed to identify dysregulated candidate genes compared to control databases. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the protein expression of MUC4 and MUC16 in CT-pNEN specimens. Results Mutated genes known in the literature in pNENs like MEN1 (35% of cases), ATRX (18-20% of cases) and PIK3CA (1.4% of cases) were identified in cases of CT-pNENs. New somatic SNVs in ATP4A, HES4, and CAV3 have not been described in CT- pNENs, yet. Pathogenic germline mutations in FGFR4 and DPYD were found in three of five cases. Mutations of CALCA (calcitonin) and the corresponding receptor CALCAR were found in all five tumor samples, but none of them resulted in protein sequelae or clinical relevance. All five tumor cases showed single nucleotide variations (SNVs) in MUC4, and four cases showed SNVs in MUC16, both of which were membrane-bound mucins. Immunohistochemistry showed protein expression of MUC4 in two cases and MUC16 in one case, and the liver metastasis of a third case was double positive for MUC4 and MUC16. The homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) score of all tumors was low. Discussion CT-pNENs have a unique molecular signature compared to other pNEN subtypes, specifically involving the FGFR4, DPYD, MUC4, MUC16 and the KRT family genes. However, a major limitation of our study was the relative small number of only five cases. Therefore, our WES data should be interpreted with caution and the mutation landscape in CT-pNENs needs to be verified by a larger number of patients. Further research is needed to explain differences in pathogenesis compared with other pNENs. In particular, multi-omics data such as RNASeq, methylation and whole genome sequencing could be informative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Döring
- Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Katharina Peer
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Katrin Bankov
- Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Carmen Bollmann
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Annette Ramaswamy
- Institute of Pathology, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Pietro Di Fazio
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Peter Johannes Wild
- Dr. Senckenberg Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies (FIAS), Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Detlef Klaus Bartsch
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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Yamamoto R, Yamaguchi R, Yoshida K, Ando M, Toyoda Y, Tanaka A, Kato K. A calcitonin-producing pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasm treated with distal pancreatectomy a lengthy time after a left trisectionectomy for liver metastases: a case report. Surg Case Rep 2022; 8:217. [PMID: 36480062 PMCID: PMC9732168 DOI: 10.1186/s40792-022-01575-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Calcitonin-producing pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (PanNENs) are extremely rare. There have been no reports of a patient in whom liver metastases were the presenting finding, and a calcitonin-producing PanNEN was subsequently detected after a lengthy period. CASE PRESENTATION A 53-year-old man had diarrhea for several years. Computed tomography (CT) revealed multiple liver tumors. We performed a left trisectionectomy with a bile duct resection. The histologic examination showed neuroendocrine tumors G1. Immunohistochemistry was positive for calcitonin and the serum calcitonin level was elevated. Neuroendocrine neoplasms of hepatic origin are extremely rare, so a systemic exploration was performed, but no tumor was detected. CT showed a 4-mm calcification in the pancreatic body, but no contrast-enhanced mass was noted. Although the liver tumors were resected, the diarrhea and high serum calcitonin level persisted. Serial examinations were performed for 6 years, but no tumor was identified; however, 6.5 years after the hepatectomy the serum calcitonin level increased. CT showed a 10-mm contrast-enhanced mass in the calcified area of the pancreatic body. A distal pancreatectomy was performed. The histologic examination showed a neuroendocrine tumor G1, which mimicked the liver tumors. Immunohistochemistry was positive for calcitonin. After the distal pancreatectomy, the serum calcitonin level decreased and diarrhea resolved. The calcitonin-producing neuroendocrine neoplasm was considered the pancreatic primary and the hepatic tumors were metastases. CONCLUSIONS Calcitonin-producing PanNENs may be initially recognized as liver tumors and may become evident after a lengthy period, thus long-term observation is recommended. Aggressive surgeries may contribute to long-term survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryusei Yamamoto
- Division of Surgery, Inazawa Municipal Hospital, 100 Nazukacho-Numa, Inazawa, Aichi 492-8510 Japan
| | - Ryuzo Yamaguchi
- Division of Surgery, Inazawa Municipal Hospital, 100 Nazukacho-Numa, Inazawa, Aichi 492-8510 Japan
| | - Katsushi Yoshida
- Division of Surgery, Inazawa Municipal Hospital, 100 Nazukacho-Numa, Inazawa, Aichi 492-8510 Japan
| | - Masataka Ando
- Division of Surgery, Inazawa Municipal Hospital, 100 Nazukacho-Numa, Inazawa, Aichi 492-8510 Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Toyoda
- Division of Surgery, Inazawa Municipal Hospital, 100 Nazukacho-Numa, Inazawa, Aichi 492-8510 Japan
| | - Aya Tanaka
- Division of Surgery, Inazawa Municipal Hospital, 100 Nazukacho-Numa, Inazawa, Aichi 492-8510 Japan
| | - Kenji Kato
- Division of Surgery, Inazawa Municipal Hospital, 100 Nazukacho-Numa, Inazawa, Aichi 492-8510 Japan
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Rindi G, Mete O, Uccella S, Basturk O, La Rosa S, Brosens LAA, Ezzat S, de Herder WW, Klimstra DS, Papotti M, Asa SL. Overview of the 2022 WHO Classification of Neuroendocrine Neoplasms. Endocr Pathol 2022; 33:115-154. [PMID: 35294740 DOI: 10.1007/s12022-022-09708-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 219] [Impact Index Per Article: 109.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In this review, we detail the changes and the relevant features that are applied to neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) in the 2022 WHO Classification of Endocrine and Neuroendocrine Tumors. Using a question-and-answer approach, we discuss the consolidation of the nomenclature that distinguishes neuronal paragangliomas from epithelial neoplasms, which are divided into well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) and poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs). The criteria for these distinctions based on differentiation are outlined. NETs are generally (but not always) graded as G1, G2, and G3 based on proliferation, whereas NECs are by definition high grade; the importance of Ki67 as a tool for classification and grading is emphasized. The clinical relevance of proper classification is explained, and the importance of hormonal function is examined, including eutopic and ectopic hormone production. The tools available to pathologists for accurate classification include the conventional biomarkers of neuroendocrine lineage and differentiation, INSM1, synaptophysin, chromogranins, and somatostatin receptors (SSTRs), but also include transcription factors that can identify the site of origin of a metastatic lesion of unknown primary site, as well as hormones, enzymes, and keratins that play a role in functional and structural correlation. The recognition of highly proliferative, well-differentiated NETs has resulted in the need for biomarkers that can distinguish these G3 NETs from NECs, including stains to determine expression of SSTRs and those that can indicate the unique molecular pathogenetic alterations that underlie the distinction, for example, global loss of RB and aberrant p53 in pancreatic NECs compared with loss of ATRX, DAXX, and menin in pancreatic NETs. Other differential diagnoses are discussed with recommendations for biomarkers that can assist in correct classification, including the distinctions between epithelial and non-epithelial NENs that have allowed reclassification of epithelial NETs in the spine, in the duodenum, and in the middle ear; the first two may be composite tumors with neuronal and glial elements, and as this feature is integral to the duodenal lesion, it is now classified as composite gangliocytoma/neuroma and neuroendocrine tumor (CoGNET). The many other aspects of differential diagnosis are detailed with recommendations for biomarkers that can distinguish NENs from non-neuroendocrine lesions that can mimic their morphology. The concepts of mixed neuroendocrine and non-neuroendocrine (MiNEN) and amphicrine tumors are clarified with information about how to approach such lesions in routine practice. Theranostic biomarkers that assist patient management are reviewed. Given the significant proportion of NENs that are associated with germline mutations that predispose to this disease, we explain the role of the pathologist in identifying precursor lesions and applying molecular immunohistochemistry to guide genetic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido Rindi
- Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Section of Anatomic Pathology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.
- Department of Woman and Child Health Sciences and Public Health, Anatomic Pathology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli - IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli, 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.
- ENETS Center of Excellence, Rome, Italy.
| | - Ozgur Mete
- Department of Pathology, University Health Network, University of Toronto, 200 Elizabeth Street, 11th floor, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada.
| | - Silvia Uccella
- Unit of Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Olca Basturk
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Stefano La Rosa
- Unit of Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Lodewijk A A Brosens
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Shereen Ezzat
- Department of Medicine, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Wouter W de Herder
- Department of Internal Medicine, Sector of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, ENETS Center of Excellence Rotterdam, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - David S Klimstra
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Paige.AI, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mauro Papotti
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Sylvia L Asa
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Duarte DB, Febra J, Miranda HP, Amaral C. Tumeur neuroendocrine pancréatique métastatique sécrétant de la calcitonine : une entité tumorale rare. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2022; 83:149-151. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2022.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Kiriakopoulos A, Giannakis P, Menenakos E. Calcitonin: current concepts and differential diagnosis. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2022; 13:20420188221099344. [PMID: 35614985 PMCID: PMC9125613 DOI: 10.1177/20420188221099344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Calcitonin (CT) is most effectively produced by the parafollicular cells of the thyroid gland. It acts through the calcitonin receptor (CTR), a seven-transmembrane class II G-protein-coupled receptor linked to multiple signal transduction pathways with its main secretagogues being calcium and gastrin. It is clinically used mostly in the diagnosis and follow-up of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). Hypercalcitoninemia can be attributed to primary (e.g. CT-secreting tumor) or secondary (e.g. due to hypercalcemia) overproduction, underexcretion (e.g. renal insufficiency), drug reaction (e.g. β-blockers), or false-positive results. In clinical practice, elevated basal calcitonin (bCT) is indicative, but not pathognomonic, of MTC. Current literature leans toward an age as well as gender-specific cutoff approach. bCT >100 pg/ml has up to 100% positive prognostic value (PPV) for MTC, whereas bCT between 8 and 100 pg/ml for adult males and 6 and 80 pg/ml for adult females should be possibly further investigated with stimulation calcitonin (sCT) tests. Calcium is showing similar efficacy with pentagastrin (Pg) sCT; however, the real value of these provocative tests has been disputed given the availability of new, highly sensitive CT immunoassays. Anyhow, evidence concludes that sCT <2 times bCT may not be suggestive of MTC, in which case, thyroid in addition to whole body workup based on clinical evaluation is further warranted. Moreover, measurement of basal and stimulated procalcitonin has been proposed as an emerging concept in this clinical scenario. Measuring bCT levels in patients with thyroid nodules as a screening tool for MTC remains another controversial topic. It has been well established, though, that bCT levels raise the sensitivity of FNAB (Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy) and correlate with disease progression both pre- and postoperatively in this situation. There have been numerous reports about extrathyroidal neoplasms that express CT. Pancreatic, laryngeal, and lung neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are most frequently associated with hypercalcitoninemia, but CT production has also been described in various other neoplasms such as duodenal, esophageal, cutaneous, and paranasal NENs as well as prostate, colon, breast, and lung non-NENs. This review outlines the current biosynthetic and physiology concepts about CT and presents up-to-date information regarding the differential diagnosis of its elevation in various clinical situations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Periklis Giannakis
- 5th Surgical Clinic, Department of Surgery,
‘Evgenidion Hospital’, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelos Menenakos
- 5th Surgical Clinic, Department of Surgery,
‘Evgenidion Hospital’, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
Medical School, Athens, Greece
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Mühlethaler-Mottet A, Uccella S, Marchiori D, La Rosa S, Daraspe J, Balmas Bourloud K, Beck Popovic M, Eugster PJ, Grouzmann E, Abid K. Low number of neurosecretory vesicles in neuroblastoma impairs massive catecholamine release and prevents hypertension. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1027856. [PMID: 36531507 PMCID: PMC9751011 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1027856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neuroblastoma (NB) is a pediatric cancer of the developing sympathetic nervous system. It produces and releases metanephrines, which are used as biomarkers for diagnosis in plasma and urine. However, plasma catecholamine concentrations remain generally normal in children with NB. Thus, unlike pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma (PHEO/PGL), two other non-epithelial neuroendocrine tumors, hypertension is not part of the usual clinical picture of patients with NB. This suggests that the mode of production and secretion of catecholamines and metanephrines in NB is different from that in PHEO/PGL, but little is known about these discrepancies. Here we aim to provide a detailed comparison of the biosynthesis, metabolism and storage of catecholamines and metanephrines between patients with NB and PHEO. METHOD Catecholamines and metanephrines were quantified in NB and PHEO/PGL patients from plasma and tumor tissues by ultra-high pressure liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Electron microscopy was used to quantify neurosecretory vesicles within cells derived from PHEO tumor biopsies, NB-PDX and NB cell lines. Chromaffin markers were detected by qPCR, IHC and/or immunoblotting. RESULTS Plasma levels of metanephrines were comparable between NB and PHEO patients, while catecholamines were 3.5-fold lower in NB vs PHEO affected individuals. However, we observed that intratumoral concentrations of metanephrines and catecholamines measured in NB were several orders of magnitude lower than in PHEO. Cellular and molecular analyses revealed that NB cell lines, primary cells dissociated from human tumor biopsies as well as cells from patient-derived xenograft tumors (NB-PDX) stored a very low amount of intracellular catecholamines, and contained only rare neurosecretory vesicles relative to PHEO cells. In addition, primary NB expressed reduced levels of numerous chromaffin markers, as compared to PHEO/PGL, except catechol O-methyltransferase and monoamine oxidase A. Furthermore, functional assays through induction of chromaffin differentiation of the IMR32 NB cell line with Bt2cAMP led to an increase of neurosecretory vesicles able to secrete catecholamines after KCl or nicotine stimulation. CONCLUSION The low amount of neurosecretory vesicles in NB cytoplasm prevents catecholamine storage and lead to their rapid transformation by catechol O-methyltransferase into metanephrines that diffuse in blood. Hence, in contrast to PHEO/PGL, catecholamines are not secreted massively in the blood, which explains why systemic hypertension is not observed in most patients with NB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annick Mühlethaler-Mottet
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Research Laboratory, Woman-Mother-Child Department, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Silvia Uccella
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Pathology Service, Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Deborah Marchiori
- Unit of Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Stefano La Rosa
- Unit of Pathology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jean Daraspe
- Electron Microscopy Facility (EMF), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Katia Balmas Bourloud
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Research Laboratory, Woman-Mother-Child Department, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Maja Beck Popovic
- Pediatric Hematology Oncology Unit, Woman-Mother-Child Department, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Philippe J. Eugster
- Service of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Eric Grouzmann
- Service of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Karim Abid
- Service of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Karim Abid,
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Konukiewitz B, Jesinghaus M, Kasajima A, Klöppel G. Neuroendocrine neoplasms of the pancreas: diagnosis and pitfalls. Virchows Arch 2021; 480:247-257. [PMID: 34647171 PMCID: PMC8986719 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-021-03211-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Common to neuroendocrine neoplasms of the pancreas is their expression of synaptophysin, chromogranin A, and/or INSM1. They differ, however, in their histological differentiation and molecular profile. Three groups can be distinguished: well-differentiated neuroendocrine neoplasms (neuroendocrine tumors), poorly differentiated neuroendocrine neoplasms (neuroendocrine carcinomas), and mixed neuroendocrine-non-neuroendocrine neoplasms. However, the expression of synaptophysin and, to a lesser extent, also chromogranin A is not restricted to the neuroendocrine neoplasms, but may also be in a subset of non-neuroendocrine epithelial and non-epithelial neoplasms. This review provides the essential criteria for the diagnosis of pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms including diagnostic clues for the distinction of high-grade neuroendocrine tumors from neuroendocrine carcinomas and an algorithm avoiding diagnostic pitfalls in the delineation of non-neuroendocrine neoplasms with neuroendocrine features from pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Björn Konukiewitz
- Institute of Pathology, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, Arnold-Heller-Straße 3/14, 24105, Kiel, Germany.
| | - Moritz Jesinghaus
- Institute of Pathology, Universitätsklinikum Marburg, Baldingerstraße, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Atsuko Kasajima
- Institute of Pathology, Technische Universität München, Trogerstraße 18, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Günter Klöppel
- Institute of Pathology, Technische Universität München, Trogerstraße 18, 81675, Munich, Germany
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Asa SL, Mete O, Cusimano MD, McCutcheon IE, Perry A, Yamada S, Nishioka H, Casar-Borota O, Uccella S, La Rosa S, Grossman AB, Ezzat S. Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors: a model for neuroendocrine tumor classification. Mod Pathol 2021; 34:1634-1650. [PMID: 34017065 DOI: 10.1038/s41379-021-00820-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The classification of adenohypophysial neoplasms as "pituitary neuroendocrine tumors" (PitNETs) was proposed in 2017 to reflect their characteristics as epithelial neuroendocrine neoplasms with a spectrum of clinical behaviors ranging from small indolent lesions to large, locally invasive, unresectable tumors. Tumor growth and hormone hypersecretion cause significant morbidity and mortality in a subset of patients. The proposal was endorsed by a WHO working group that sought to provide a unified approach to neuroendocrine neoplasia in all body sites. We review the features that are characteristic of neuroendocrine cells, the epidemiology and prognosis of these tumors, as well as further refinements in terms used for other pituitary tumors to ensure consistency with the WHO framework. The intense study of PitNETs has provided information about the importance of cellular differentiation in tumor prognosis as a model for neuroendocrine tumors in different locations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia L Asa
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Ozgur Mete
- Department of Pathology, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael D Cusimano
- Department of Neurosurgery, Saint Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ian E McCutcheon
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Arie Perry
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shozo Yamada
- Hypothalamic and Pituitary Center, Moriyama Neurological Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nishioka
- Department of Hypothalamic and Pituitary Surgery, Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Olivera Casar-Borota
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Silvia Uccella
- Department of Pathology, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Stefano La Rosa
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ashley B Grossman
- Department of Endocrinology, University of Oxford, London, UK.,Royal Free London, London, UK.,Barts and the London School of Medicine, London, UK.,London Clinic Centre for Endocrinology, London, UK
| | - Shereen Ezzat
- Department of Medicine, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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12
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Vlaemynck K, De Man M, De Man K, Hoorens A, Geboes K. Neuroendocrine tumor with diarrhea: not always the usual suspects - a case report of metastatic calcitoninoma with literature review. Acta Clin Belg 2021; 76:239-243. [PMID: 31900071 DOI: 10.1080/17843286.2020.1711668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
We describe a case of a 59-year-old man without relevant past medical history, presenting with chronic diarrhea and weight loss. Extensive laboratory analysis, stool cultures and gastro- and ileocolonoscopy could not identify a diagnosis. Abdominal imaging revealed a mass in the uncinate process of the pancreas with mesenteric adenopathies and liver metastases. Fine needle aspiration was compatible with a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor with low proliferative capacity (Ki-67 <1%). Immunohistochemical staining was positive for calcitonin and serum calcitonin levels were clearly elevated. Surprisingly, 18FDG PET-CT scan was positive, but no tracer uptake was seen on 68Gallium-DOTATOC PET-CT scan. Treatment with somatostatin analogues was not successful, but long-term tumor control could be obtained with Everolimus. However, no significant effect was seen on stool frequency despite additional treatment with multiple symptomatic therapies, liver-directed therapy with radio- and chemoembolization and additional external radiotherapy to the primary pancreatic tumor. Ondansetron, eventually, seems to be the only therapy, until now, causing a decrease in stool frequency.Functioning pancreatic calcitoninomas are considered to be a rare disease entity with few literature on optimal (nuclear) imaging and treatment. We discuss molecular insights regarding these aspects that can be of great interest to nuclear medicine physicians, pathologists, endocrinologists and gastroenterologists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenny Vlaemynck
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marc De Man
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kathia De Man
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Anne Hoorens
- Department of Pathology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karen Geboes
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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13
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Srirangam Nadhamuni V, Iacovazzo D, Evanson J, Sahdev A, Trouillas J, McAndrew L, R Kurzawinski T, Bryant D, Hussain K, Bhattacharya S, Korbonits M. GHRH secretion from a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor causing gigantism in a patient with MEN1. Endocrinol Diabetes Metab Case Rep 2021; 2021:EDM200208. [PMID: 34156350 PMCID: PMC8240703 DOI: 10.1530/edm-20-0208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
SUMMARY A male patient with a germline mutation in MEN1 presented at the age of 18 with classical features of gigantism. Previously, he had undergone resection of an insulin-secreting pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour (pNET) at the age of 10 years and had subtotal parathyroidectomy due to primary hyperparathyroidism at the age of 15 years. He was found to have significantly elevated serum IGF-1, GH, GHRH and calcitonin levels. Pituitary MRI showed an overall bulky gland with a 3 mm hypoechoic area. Abdominal MRI showed a 27 mm mass in the head of the pancreas and a 6 mm lesion in the tail. Lanreotide-Autogel 120 mg/month reduced GHRH by 45% and IGF-1 by 20%. Following pancreaticoduodenectomy, four NETs were identified with positive GHRH and calcitonin staining and Ki-67 index of 2% in the largest lesion. The pancreas tail lesion was not removed. Post-operatively, GHRH and calcitonin levels were undetectable, IGF-1 levels normalised and GH suppressed normally on glucose challenge. Post-operative fasting glucose and HbA1c levels have remained normal at the last check-up. While adolescent-onset cases of GHRH-secreting pNETs have been described, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of ectopic GHRH in a paediatric setting leading to gigantism in a patient with MEN1. Our case highlights the importance of distinguishing between pituitary and ectopic causes of gigantism, especially in the setting of MEN1, where paediatric somatotroph adenomas causing gigantism are extremely rare. LEARNING POINTS It is important to diagnose gigantism and its underlying cause (pituitary vs ectopic) early in order to prevent further growth and avoid unnecessary pituitary surgery. The most common primary tumour sites in ectopic acromegaly include the lung (53%) and the pancreas (34%) (1): 76% of patients with a pNET secreting GHRH showed a MEN1 mutation (1). Plasma GHRH testing is readily available in international laboratories and can be a useful diagnostic tool in distinguishing between pituitary acromegaly mediated by GH and ectopic acromegaly mediated by GHRH. Positive GHRH immunostaining in the NET tissue confirms the diagnosis. Distinguishing between pituitary (somatotroph) hyperplasia secondary to ectopic GHRH and pituitary adenoma is difficult and requires specialist neuroradiology input and consideration, especially in the MEN1 setting. It is important to note that the vast majority of GHRH-secreting tumours (lung, pancreas, phaeochromocytoma) are expected to be visible on cross-sectional imaging (median diameter 55 mm) (1). Therefore, we suggest that a chest X-ray and an abdominal ultrasound checking the adrenal glands and the pancreas should be included in the routine work-up of newly diagnosed acromegaly patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinaya Srirangam Nadhamuni
- Department of Endocrinology, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Donato Iacovazzo
- Department of Endocrinology, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Jane Evanson
- St. Bartholomew’s Hospital, Barts and the London NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Anju Sahdev
- St. Bartholomew’s Hospital, Barts and the London NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Jacqueline Trouillas
- Department of Pathology, Groupement Hospitalier Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Lorraine McAndrew
- St. Bartholomew’s Hospital, Barts and the London NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Tom R Kurzawinski
- Division of Endocrine Surgery, University College Hospital, London, UK
| | - David Bryant
- Sunderland Royal Hospital, South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust, South Shields, Tyne and Wear, UK
| | - Khalid Hussain
- Division of Endocrinology, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Ad Dawhah, Qatar
| | | | - Márta Korbonits
- Department of Endocrinology, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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14
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Lam AKY, Ishida H. Pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms: Clinicopathological features and pathological staging. Histol Histopathol 2021; 36:367-382. [PMID: 33305819 DOI: 10.14670/hh-18-288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The nomenclature and classification of pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms has evolved in the last 15 years based on the advances in knowledge of the genomics, clinical behaviour and response to therapies. The current 2019 World Health Organization classification of pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms categorises them into three groups; pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (PanNETs)(grade 1 grade 2, grade 3), pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinomas and mixed neuroendocrine-non-neuroendocrine neoplasms (MiNENs) based on the mitotic rate, Ki-67 index, morphological differentiation and/or co-existing tissue subtype. PanNETs are also classified into non-functional NET, insulinoma, gastrinoma, VIPoma, glucagonoma, somatostatinoma, ACTH-producing NET and serotonin producing NET based on hormone production and clinical manifestations. A portion of the cases were associated with genetic syndromes such as multiple neuroendocrine neoplasia 1 (MEN 1), neurofibromatosis and Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome. In view of the distinctive pathology and clinical behaviour of PanNENs, the current 8th AJCC/UICC staging system has separated prognostic staging grouping for PanNETs from the pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinomas or MiNENs. Pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinomas and MiNENs are staged according to the prognostic stage grouping for exocrine pancreatic carcinoma. The new stage grouping of PanNETs was validated to have survival curves separated between different prognostic groups. This refined histological and staging would lead to appropriate selections of treatment strategies for the patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hirotaka Ishida
- School of Medicine, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
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15
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Giannetta E, Sesti F, Modica R, Grossrubatscher EM, Guarnotta V, Ragni A, Zanata I, Colao A, Faggiano A. Case Report: Unmasking Hypercalcemia in Patients With Neuroendocrine Neoplasms. Experience From Six Italian Referral Centers. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:665698. [PMID: 34093441 PMCID: PMC8170398 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.665698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypercalcemia is a common paraneoplastic syndrome which can occur in up to 10% of patients with advanced neoplasms. Paraneoplastic parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) represents the most frequent cause of this syndrome. In neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) paraneoplastic hypercalcemia is rare. CASE SERIES The present series includes all patients with NENs and paraneoplastic hypercalcemia from four Italian centres: (I) A 40-year-old man was hospitalized for repeated episodes of falls, hyposthenia and drowsiness. Severe hypercalcemia was found. Metastatic pancreatic G2 NEN and PTHrP-related hypercalcemia were diagnosed. The patient started therapy with somatostatin analogs (SSA) and Denosumab. After disease progression peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) was started with an objective response associated with PTHrP reduction and normocalcemia. (II) A 45-year-old man was referred for pancreatic G2 NEN. SSA and subsequently everolimus were administered for metastases occurrence. Hypercalcemia occurred and PRRT and Denosumab were started for disease progression with the onset of bone metastases. Despite disease stability after four cycles of PRRT the patient's performance status worsened until death. (III) A 49-year-old woman was hospitalized for psychic slowdown, confusional state, sensory dullness. A severe hypercalcemia, associated with a pancreatic G1 NEN was diagnosed and treated with haemodialysis, bisphosphonates injections and continuous infusion of calcitonin. 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D was high, PTHrP was undetectable. After surgery serum calcium levels and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D were normalized. (IV) A 69-year-old man was hospitalized after the onset of shortness of breath and dyspnea, asthenia and weight loss. Computed Tomography (CT) and 68Ga DOTATOC Positron Emission Tomography (PET)-CT revealed a left pulmonary nodule. Hypercalcemia and markedly elevated PTHrP levels were detected. The histological examination revealed an atypical carcinoid. After surgery, calcium levels were normalized, PTHrP was significantly reduced with an improvement of general conditions. CONCLUSION In our series, paraneoplastic PTHrP-related hypercalcemia occurred in pancreatic NEN and in one bronchial carcinoid representing the third case in the literature. Our case associated with 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D secretion represents the fourth case in the literature. PTHrP secretion should be considered in NENs' patients with hypercalcemia. Acute treatment should be focused on lowering calcium levels, and long-term control can be achieved by tumor cytoreduction inhibiting PTHrP release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Giannetta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Elisa Giannetta,
| | - Franz Sesti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Modica
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Valentina Guarnotta
- Dept PROMISE, UOC Malattie Endocrine, del Ricambio e Della Nutrizione, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Alberto Ragni
- Oncological Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Città della Salute e Della Scienza Hospital, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Isabella Zanata
- Section of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - Antongiulio Faggiano
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant’Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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16
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Malignant Insulinoma with Multiple Liver Metastases and Hypercalcitoninemia in a Patient with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Presenting as Recurrent Episodes of Diaphoresis due to Severe Hypoglycemia. Case Rep Endocrinol 2020; 2020:4239679. [PMID: 32082648 PMCID: PMC7019204 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4239679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Insulinoma is an insulin-producing pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor that can be malignant in about 10% of cases. Locoregional invasion, lymph node metastases, or remote metastases are the main criteria of malignant insulinoma. Its incidence in patients with pre-existing diabetes mellitus (DM) is exceptionally rare. In this report, we describe a 66-year-old man with long-standing type 2 DM who presented with recurrent episodes of diaphoresis due to severe hypoglycemia despite the withdrawal of insulin therapy, hypercalcitoninemia, and biochemical and radiological findings suggestive of metastatic malignant insulinoma. Unfortunately, after few days of diazoxide treatment, edema, hypotension, oliguria, and water retention were observed, patient's clinical status deteriorated rapidly, and he died in our department from acute renal failure.
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Feola T, Puliani G, Sesti F, Modica R, Biffoni M, Di Gioia C, Carletti R, Anastasi E, Di Vito V, Centello R, Lenzi A, Isidori AM, Faggiano A, Giannetta E. Laryngeal Neuroendocrine Tumor With Elevated Serum Calcitonin: A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge. Case Report and Review of Literature. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:397. [PMID: 32765421 PMCID: PMC7378381 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Laryngeal neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are a rare group of NENs of the neck, which commonly show immunostaining for calcitonin. Laryngeal NENs with calcitonin hypersecretion and lymph node metastases represent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge, which should be included in the differential diagnosis of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). We report a complex case of laryngeal NEN with calcitonin hypersecretion and a review of the literature. Case Presentation: A 59-year-old man presented with dysphagia, dyspnea, and lateral cervical mass; he was a smoker. At first imaging, a laryngeal lesion with lateral cervical lymphadenopathies was found, and it resulted as a moderately differentiated neuroendocrine tumor (G2), Ki67 = 5%, positive for calcitonin. Increased levels of serum calcitonin (50 pg/ml) were found. The patient started somatostatin analogs for lesions positivity to somatostatin receptor-based imaging. After 5 months, the disease progressed at 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET-CT, and also new painful cutaneous lesions occurred. Considering high serum levels of calcitonin, differential diagnosis with MTC was required. Patient performed a thyroid color Doppler ultrasound, nodule fine needle aspiration, calcitonin dosage in fine needle washout fluid, and a calcium gluconate stimulation test. After multidisciplinary evaluation, we decided to perform a total thyroidectomy associated with lateral cervical lymphadenectomy and resection of skin metastases. No MTC was found. Two of the five resected lymph nodes, left upper parathyroid, and skin lesions were metastases of NEN G2, positive for calcitonin. After 2 months, new painful skin lesions occurred, and a target therapy with everolimus 10 mg/day was started. After 6 months of therapy, partial metabolic response with a reduction of 53.7% of radiotracer uptake at primary tumor was detected together with an improvement of patient's quality of life. Conclusions: The present case is the seventh described in the literature of laryngeal NEN associated with elevated serum calcitonin levels and the first case with parathyroid metastasis, suggesting the importance of a correct differential diagnosis between MTC and calcitonin-secreting laryngeal NEN, using an integrated approach of biochemistry and advanced imaging. This is also the first time that somatostatin analogs and then everolimus were used in this setting, resulting in clinical and partial metabolic response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Feola
- Department of Experimental Medicine Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Neuroendocrinology, Neuromed Institute, IRCCS, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Giulia Puliani
- Department of Experimental Medicine Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Franz Sesti
- Department of Experimental Medicine Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Modica
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Biffoni
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Cira Di Gioia
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Raffaella Carletti
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Pathological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela Anastasi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Di Vito
- Department of Experimental Medicine Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Centello
- Department of Experimental Medicine Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea M. Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Elisa Giannetta
- Department of Experimental Medicine Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Elisa Giannetta
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Abstract
The role of immunohistochemistry (IHC) in endocrine pathology is similar to that in other organ systems in that it can aid in the subclassification of tumors within an organ, confirm site of primary in metastatic disease, provide prognostic information, identify underlying genetic alterations, and predict response to treatment. Although most endocrine tumors do not require IHC to render a diagnosis, there are certain scenarios in which IHC can be extremely helpful. For example, in thyroid, IHC can be used to support tumor dedifferentiation, in the adrenal it can aid in the diagnosis of low-grade adrenocortical carcinomas, and in paragangliomas it can help identify tumors arising as part of an inherited tumor syndrome. This review will focus on the applications of IHC in tumors of the thyroid, parathyroids, adrenals, and paraganglia in adults.
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Koch CA, Petersenn S. Neuroendocrine neoplasms - think about it and choose the most appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic steps. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2018; 19:107-109. [PMID: 30357544 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-018-9472-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christian A Koch
- Medicover GmbH Germany, Berlin / Hannover, Germany.
- Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany.
- Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
- University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA.
| | - S Petersenn
- ENDOC Center for Endocrine Tumors, Hamburg, Germany
- University of Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany
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