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Briski LM, Aron M, Epstein JI, Russell DH, Assarzadegan N, Delma KS, O'Dell H, Rodriguez E, Montgomery EA, Kryvenko ON. Patterns of Immunoreactivity with TTF-1 Antibodies 8G7G3/1 and SPT24 Suggest Distinct Immunoprofiles Between Most Pulmonary and Nonpulmonary Small Cell Carcinomas. Int J Surg Pathol 2024; 32:230-238. [PMID: 37170625 DOI: 10.1177/10668969231171940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Introduction. Small cell carcinoma can arise from various sites. Herein, we analyze the ability of 2 thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF-1) antibodies (SPT24 and 8G7G3/1) to separate pulmonary from nonpulmonary small cell carcinoma. Materials and Methods. We analyzed 26 pulmonary and 83 nonpulmonary small cell carcinomas, and 14 Merkel cell carcinomas. Each tumor was stained with SPT24 and 8G7G3/1. Extent of nuclear staining was scored as diffuse (>50%), focal (11%-50%), rare (1%-10%), or negative (<1%). Results. All pulmonary small cell carcinomas were positive for SPT24 and 8G7G3/1. Four Merkel cell carcinomas (29%) were positive for SPT24 (ranging from rare-to-diffuse), while 2 (14%) showed rare expression with 8G7G3/1. For nonpulmonary small cell carcinomas, 69 (83%) were positive for SPT24 and 40 (48%) were positive for 8G7G3/1. For SPT24 positive tumors, the extent of 8G7G3/1 expression was equal in 17 (25%) and less in 52 tumors (75%), including 29 (42%) that were negative for 8G7G3/1. No nonpulmonary small cell carcinoma had more staining with 8G7G3/1 compared to SPT24. The differences in staining between 8G7G3/1 and SPT24 in the nonpulmonary cohort were statistically significant (P < 0.0001) with no significant difference between primary and metastatic lesions for 8G7G3/1 (P = 0.66) or SPT24 (P = 0.77). Conclusion. Most pulmonary small cell carcinomas are diffusely positive for both SPT24 and 8G7G3/1, whereas most nonpulmonary small cell carcinomas exhibit focal-to-no staining with 8G7G3/1 and significantly less staining with 8G7G3/1 compared to SPT24. However, these trends are not absolute and should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical and radiological findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurence M Briski
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Miami Hospital, Miami, FL, USA
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Manju Aron
- Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Urology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jonathan I Epstein
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Urology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Daniel H Russell
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Naziheh Assarzadegan
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Katiana S Delma
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Miami Hospital, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Henry O'Dell
- Department of Pathology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Estelamari Rodriguez
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Oncology, University of Miami Hospital, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Montgomery
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Miami Hospital, Miami, FL, USA
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Oleksandr N Kryvenko
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Miami Hospital, Miami, FL, USA
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Miami Hospital, Miami, FL, USA
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Vilasi SM, Nguyen J, Wang CJ, Miao L, Daily K, Eid M, Song JS, Jiang H, Ylaya K, Busam KJ, Gaiser MR, Hewitt SM, Brownell I. ATOH1, TFAP2B, and CEACAM6 as Immunohistochemical Markers to Distinguish Merkel Cell Carcinoma and Small Cell Lung Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:788. [PMID: 38398178 PMCID: PMC10886870 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16040788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) can be histologically similar. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) for cytokeratin 20 (CK20) and thyroid transcription factor 1 (TTF-1) are commonly used to differentiate MCC from SCLC; however, these markers have limited sensitivity and specificity. To identify new diagnostic markers, we performed differential gene expression analysis on transcriptome data from MCC and SCLC tumors. Candidate markers included atonal BHLH transcription factor 1 (ATOH1) and transcription factor AP-2β (TFAP2B) for MCC, as well as carcinoembryonic antigen cell adhesion molecule 6 (CEACAM6) for SCLC. Immunostaining for CK20, TTF-1, and new candidate markers was performed on 43 MCC and 59 SCLC samples. All three MCC markers were sensitive and specific, with CK20 and ATOH1 staining 43/43 (100%) MCC and 0/59 (0%) SCLC cases and TFAP2B staining 40/43 (93%) MCC and 0/59 (0%) SCLC cases. TTF-1 stained 47/59 (80%) SCLC and 1/43 (2%) MCC cases. CEACAM6 stained 49/59 (83%) SCLC and 0/43 (0%) MCC cases. Combining CEACAM6 and TTF-1 increased SCLC detection sensitivity to 93% and specificity to 98%. These data suggest that ATOH1, TFAP2B, and CEACAM6 should be explored as markers to differentiate MCC and SCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena M. Vilasi
- Dermatology Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jannett Nguyen
- Dermatology Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Catherine J. Wang
- Dermatology Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Lingling Miao
- Dermatology Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Kenneth Daily
- Dermatology Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Mary Eid
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Joon Seon Song
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Hong Jiang
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Kris Ylaya
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Klaus J. Busam
- Dermatopathology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, NY 10065, USA
| | - Maria R. Gaiser
- Department of Dermatology, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stephen M. Hewitt
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Isaac Brownell
- Dermatology Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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3
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Zoccarato M, Grisold W. Paraneoplastic neurologic manifestations of neuroendocrine tumors. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2024; 200:397-407. [PMID: 38494292 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-823912-4.00023-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are a heterogeneous group of tumors arising from the transformation of neuroendocrine cells in several organs, most notably the gastro-entero-pancreatic system and respiratory tract. The classification was recently revised in the 5th Edition of the WHO Classification of Endocrine and Neuroendocrine Tumors. NENs can rarely spread to the central or peripheral nervous systems. Neurologic involvement is determined by the rare development of paraneoplastic syndromes, which are remote effects of cancer. Mechanisms depend on immunologic response to a tumor, leading to the immune attack on the nervous system or the production of biologically active ("functioning") substances, which can determine humoral (endocrine) effects with neurologic manifestations. Paraneoplastic neurologic syndromes (PNS) are immunologically mediated and frequently detected in small cell lung cancer but rarely seen in other forms of NEN. PNS and Merkel cell carcinoma is increasingly reported, especially with Lambert Eaton myasthenic syndrome. Endocrine manifestations are found in a wide spectrum of NENs. They can develop at any stage of the diseases and determine neurologic manifestations. Patient outcomes are influenced by tumor prognosis, neurologic complications, and the severity of endocrine effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Zoccarato
- Neurology Unit O.S.A., Azienda Ospedale-Università di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Wolfgang Grisold
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Experimental and Clinical Traumatology, Vienna, Austria.
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Stumpo S, Formelli MG, Persano I, Parlagreco E, Lauricella E, Rodriquenz MG, Guerrera LP, Zurlo IV, Campana D, Brizzi MP, Cives M, La Salvia A, Lamberti G. Extrapulmonary Neuroendocrine Carcinomas: Current Management and Future Perspectives. J Clin Med 2023; 12:7715. [PMID: 38137784 PMCID: PMC10743506 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12247715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs) are poorly differentiated and highly aggressive epithelial neuroendocrine neoplasms. The most common primary site is the lung, but they may arise in every organ. Approximately 37% of extrapulmonary NECs (EP-NECs) occur in the gastroenteropancreatic (GEP) tract, followed by the genitourinary (GU) system and gynecological tract. As a result of their rarity, there is scant evidence to guide treatment recommendations, and a multidisciplinary approach is essential for the management of such patients. Platinum-based chemotherapy currently represents the standard of care for EP-NECs of any site, mirroring the management of small-cell lung cancer (SCLC), but further approaches are still under investigation. Indeed, ongoing trials evaluating targeted therapies, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), and radionuclide therapy could provide potentially breakthrough therapeutic options. Given the relative dearth of evidence-based literature on these orphan diseases, the aim of this review is to provide an overview of the pathology and current treatment options, as well as to shed light on the most pressing unmet needs in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Stumpo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum–University of Bologna, Via Zamboni 33, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (S.S.); (M.G.F.); (D.C.); (G.L.)
| | - Maria Giovanna Formelli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum–University of Bologna, Via Zamboni 33, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (S.S.); (M.G.F.); (D.C.); (G.L.)
| | - Irene Persano
- Medical Oncology, AO S. Croce e Carle, 12100 Cuneo, Italy; (I.P.); (E.P.)
| | - Elena Parlagreco
- Medical Oncology, AO S. Croce e Carle, 12100 Cuneo, Italy; (I.P.); (E.P.)
| | - Eleonora Lauricella
- Medical Oncology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Consorziale Policlinico di Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.L.); (M.C.)
| | - Maria Grazia Rodriquenz
- Oncology Unit, Ospedale IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy;
| | - Luigi Pio Guerrera
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80131 Naples, Italy;
- Sarcomas and Rare Tumors Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, IRCCS-Fondazione “G. Pascale”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | | | - Davide Campana
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum–University of Bologna, Via Zamboni 33, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (S.S.); (M.G.F.); (D.C.); (G.L.)
- Medical Oncology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via P. Albertoni 15, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Brizzi
- Department of Oncology, A.O.U. San Luigi Gonzaga Hospital, 10043 Orbassano, Italy;
| | - Mauro Cives
- Medical Oncology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Consorziale Policlinico di Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.L.); (M.C.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Anna La Salvia
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, National Institute of Health (ISS), 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lamberti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum–University of Bologna, Via Zamboni 33, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (S.S.); (M.G.F.); (D.C.); (G.L.)
- Medical Oncology Unit, Vito Fazzi Hospital, 73100 Lecce, Italy;
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Elshoeibi AM, Elsayed B, Kaleem MZ, Elhadary MR, Abu-Haweeleh MN, Haithm Y, Krzyslak H, Vranic S, Pedersen S. Proteomic Profiling of Small-Cell Lung Cancer: A Systematic Review. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5005. [PMID: 37894372 PMCID: PMC10605593 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15205005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The accurate diagnosis of small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) is crucial, as treatment strategies differ from those of other lung cancers. This systematic review aims to identify proteins differentially expressed in SCLC compared to normal lung tissue, evaluating their potential utility in diagnosing and prognosing the disease. Additionally, the study identifies proteins differentially expressed between SCLC and large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC), aiming to discover biomarkers distinguishing between these two subtypes of neuroendocrine lung cancers. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases. Studies reporting proteomics information and confirming SCLC and/or LCNEC through histopathological and/or cytopathological examination were included, while review articles, non-original articles, and studies based on animal samples or cell lines were excluded. The initial search yielded 1705 articles, and after deduplication and screening, 16 articles were deemed eligible. These studies revealed 117 unique proteins significantly differentially expressed in SCLC compared to normal lung tissue, along with 37 unique proteins differentially expressed between SCLC and LCNEC. In conclusion, this review highlights the potential of proteomics technology in identifying novel biomarkers for diagnosing SCLC, predicting its prognosis, and distinguishing it from LCNEC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Basel Elsayed
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar (M.N.A.-H.); (S.V.)
| | - Muhammad Zain Kaleem
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar (M.N.A.-H.); (S.V.)
| | | | | | - Yunes Haithm
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar (M.N.A.-H.); (S.V.)
| | - Hubert Krzyslak
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Aalborg University Hospital, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Semir Vranic
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar (M.N.A.-H.); (S.V.)
| | - Shona Pedersen
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar (M.N.A.-H.); (S.V.)
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6
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Pokhrel A, Wu R, Wang JC. Review of Merkel cell carcinoma with solitary pancreatic metastases mimicking primary neuroendocrine tumor of the pancreas. Clin J Gastroenterol 2023; 16:641-662. [PMID: 37421584 DOI: 10.1007/s12328-023-01821-x] [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: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) but metastases to the pancreas are very rare. There are only a few cases of isolated metastases of MCC to the pancreas. Because of this rarity, it can be wrongly diagnosed as a neuroendocrine tumor of the pancreas(pNET), especially the poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma (PNEC) subtype, in which the treatment is vastly different than that of MCC with isolated metastases of the pancreas. METHODS An electronic search of the PubMed and google scholar databases was performed to obtain the literature on MCC with pancreatic metastases, using the following search terms: Merkel cell carcinoma, pancreas, and metastases. Results are limited to the following available article types: case reports and case series. We identified 45 cases of MCC with pancreatic metastases from the PubMed and Google Scholar database search and examined their potential relevance. Only 22 cases with isolated pancreatic metastases were taken for review including one case that we encountered. RESULTS The results from our review of cases of isolated pancreatic metastases of MCC were compared to the characteristics of the poorly differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNEC). We found the following: (a) MCC with isolated pancreatic metastases occurred at an older age than PNEC and with male gender predominance (b) Most of the metastases occurred within 2 years of initial diagnosis of MCC (c) Resection of pancreatic mass was the first line treatment in case of resectable PNECs whereas resection of metastases was infrequently performed in MCC with pancreatic metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akriti Pokhrel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Richard Wu
- Department of Pathology, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Jen Chin Wang
- Department of Pathology, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
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7
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DeCoste RC, Carter MD, Ly TY, Gruchy JR, Nicolela AP, Pasternak S. Merkel cell carcinoma: an update. Hum Pathol 2023; 140:39-52. [PMID: 36898590 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2023.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an uncommon primary cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma associated with an adverse prognosis. In recent years, our understanding of MCC biology has markedly progressed. Since the discovery of the Merkel cell polyomavirus, it has become clear that MCC represents an ontogenetically dichotomous group of neoplasms with overlapping histopathology. Specifically, most MCCs arise secondary to viral oncogenesis, while a smaller subset is the direct result of UV-associated mutations. The distinction of these groups bears relevance in their immunohistochemical and molecular characterization, as well as in disease prognosis. Further recent developments relate to the landmark utilization of immunotherapeutics in MCC, providing optimistic options for the management of this aggressive disease. In this review, we discuss both fundamental and emerging concepts in MCC, with a particular focus on topics of practical relevance to the surgical or dermatopathologist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan C DeCoste
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, QEII Health Science Centre, Nova Scotia Health, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 1V8, Canada; Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 1V8, Canada.
| | - Michael D Carter
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, QEII Health Science Centre, Nova Scotia Health, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 1V8, Canada; Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 1V8, Canada
| | - Thai Yen Ly
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, QEII Health Science Centre, Nova Scotia Health, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 1V8, Canada; Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 1V8, Canada
| | - Jennette R Gruchy
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, QEII Health Science Centre, Nova Scotia Health, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 1V8, Canada; Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 1V8, Canada
| | - Anna P Nicolela
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queens University, Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Sylvia Pasternak
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, QEII Health Science Centre, Nova Scotia Health, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 1V8, Canada; Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 1V8, Canada
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8
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Krpina K, Vranić S, Tomić K, Samaržija M, Batičić L. Small Cell Lung Carcinoma: Current Diagnosis, Biomarkers, and Treatment Options with Future Perspectives. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1982. [PMID: 37509621 PMCID: PMC10377361 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11071982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive malignancy characterized by rapid proliferation, early dissemination, acquired therapy resistance, and poor prognosis. Early diagnosis of SCLC is crucial since most patients present with advanced/metastatic disease, limiting the potential for curative treatment. While SCLC exhibits initial responsiveness to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, treatment resistance commonly emerges, leading to a five-year overall survival rate of up to 10%. New effective biomarkers, early detection, and advancements in therapeutic strategies are crucial for improving survival rates and reducing the impact of this devastating disease. This review aims to comprehensively summarize current knowledge on diagnostic options, well-known and emerging biomarkers, and SCLC treatment strategies and discuss future perspectives on this aggressive malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Krpina
- Clinic for Respiratory Diseases Jordanovac, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Semir Vranić
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - Krešimir Tomić
- Department of Oncology, University Clinical Hospital Mostar, 88000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Miroslav Samaržija
- Clinic for Respiratory Diseases Jordanovac, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lara Batičić
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
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9
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Peralta I, Dacey EB, King R. Merkel Cell Carcinoma In Situ Arising in Association With an Infundibular Cyst With Unusual Reticulated Infundibulocystic Proliferation. Am J Dermatopathol 2023; Publish Ahead of Print:00000372-990000000-00204. [PMID: 37377201 DOI: 10.1097/dad.0000000000002489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an uncommon aggressive primary cutaneous neuroendocrine tumor usually arising on sun exposed skin of older patients. Most Merkel cell carcinomas are diagnosed as invasive tumors with only rare cases of MCC in situ (MCCIS) reported. MCCs are often associated with other cutaneous neoplasms and more recently have been described in association with cystic lesions, albeit rarely. We present a unique case of an 80-year-old male with a slow growing nodular lesion on the right buttock that on excision demonstrated MCCIS arising within an infundibular cyst with unusual reticulated infundibulocystic proliferation. The MCCIS was intimately associated with the infundibulocystic proliferation and demonstrated immunopositivity for CK20, CD56, AE1/AE3, synaptophysin, and Merkel cell polyoma virus. The confinement of the MCC to the epithelium together with the Merkel cell polyoma virus positivity further supports the assumption that viral positive MCC may derive from epithelial linage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isairis Peralta
- Department of Pathology, University of Tennessee Medical Center, Knoxville, TN
| | - Elizabeth B Dacey
- Department of Pathology, Aurora Diagnostics/Sonic Healthcare, Salem, OR; and
| | - Roy King
- Department of Pathology, University of Tennessee Medical Center, Dermatopathology Partners PC, Knoxville, TN
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10
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Frost TC, Gartin AK, Liu M, Cheng J, Dharaneeswaran H, Keskin DB, Wu CJ, Giobbie-Hurder A, Thakuria M, DeCaprio JA. YAP1 and WWTR1 expression inversely correlates with neuroendocrine markers in Merkel cell carcinoma. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e157171. [PMID: 36719743 PMCID: PMC9974098 DOI: 10.1172/jci157171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundMerkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive neuroendocrine (NE) skin cancer caused by severe UV-induced mutations or expression of Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) large and small T antigens (LT and ST). Despite deep genetic differences between MCPyV-positive and -negative subtypes, current clinical diagnostic markers are indistinguishable, and the expression profile of MCC tumors is, to our knowledge, unexplored.MethodsHere, we leveraged bulk and single-cell RNA-Seq of patient-derived tumor biopsies and cell lines to explore the underlying transcriptional environment of MCC.ResultsStrikingly, MCC samples could be separated into transcriptional subtypes that were independent of MCPyV status. Instead, we observed an inverse correlation between a NE gene signature and the Hippo pathway transcription factors Yes1-associated transcriptional regulator (YAP1) and WW domain-containing transcriptional regulator 1 (WWTR1). This inverse correlation was broadly present at the transcript and protein levels in the tumor biopsies as well as in established and patient-derived cell lines. Mechanistically, expression of YAP1 or WWTR1 in a MCPyV-positive MCC cell line induced cell-cycle arrest at least in part through TEA domain-dependent (TEAD-dependent) transcriptional repression of MCPyV LT.ConclusionThese findings identify what we believe to be a previously unrecognized heterogeneity in NE gene expression within MCC and support a model of YAP1/WWTR1 silencing as essential for the development of MCPyV-positive MCC.FundingUS Public Health Service grants R35CA232128, P01CA203655, and P30CA06516.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C. Frost
- Program in Virology, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology and
| | - Ashley K. Gartin
- Program in Virology, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology and
| | - Mofei Liu
- Department of Data Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI), Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jingwei Cheng
- Department of Medical Oncology and
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Biomedical Sciences, College of Life Sciences and Agriculture, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Harita Dharaneeswaran
- Department of Medical Oncology and
- Merkel Cell Carcinoma Center of Excellence, Dana-Farber/Brigham Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Derin B. Keskin
- Department of Medical Oncology and
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Translational Immunogenomics Laboratory, DFCI, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Computer Science, Metropolitan College, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Section for Bioinformatics, Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Catherine J. Wu
- Department of Medical Oncology and
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Translational Immunogenomics Laboratory, DFCI, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anita Giobbie-Hurder
- Department of Data Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI), Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Manisha Thakuria
- Merkel Cell Carcinoma Center of Excellence, Dana-Farber/Brigham Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James A. DeCaprio
- Program in Virology, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology and
- Merkel Cell Carcinoma Center of Excellence, Dana-Farber/Brigham Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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11
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Eagle Z, Essien F, Shahin G, Jones A, McKee J, Elkins C, Juakiem W. Partial Gastric Resection for Symptomatic Anemia following Diagnosis of Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC) of the Skin with Gastric Metastasis. Clin Med Insights Case Rep 2022; 15:11795476221112382. [PMID: 36211630 PMCID: PMC9536094 DOI: 10.1177/11795476221112382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC) is a rare dermatologic malignancy with significant morbidity and mortality associated with metastatic disease. In this case, we discuss and extremely rare presentation of MCC with metastasis to the stomach in a patient that presented with profound anemia. Unfortunately, mortality following diagnosis of MCC with gastric metastasis approaches 67% at 4 months based on available published reports. Due to its rarity and high rate of mortality, there is a lack of available research and literature to help guide treatment of this rare presentation of MCC. This case report presents a positive outcome associated with a partial gastrectomy for the treatment of symptomatic MCC with gastric metastasis and continued survival with persistently stable hemoglobin at 12 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Eagle
- Department of Internal Medicine, Keesler Medical Center, Keesler Air Force Base, Biloxi, MS, USA,Zachary Eagle, Keesler Medical Center, Keesler Air Force Base, 301 Fisher Street, Biloxi, MS, 39534, USA.
| | - Francis Essien
- Department of Internal Medicine, David Grant Medical Center, Travis Air Force Base, Fairfield, CA, USA
| | - George Shahin
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keesler Medical Center, Keesler Air Force Base, Biloxi, MS, USA
| | - Amia Jones
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Singing River Hospital System, Biloxi, MS, USA
| | - John McKee
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Singing River Hospital System, Biloxi, MS, USA
| | - Camille Elkins
- Department of Pathology, Singing River Hospital System, Biloxi, MS, USA
| | - Wassem Juakiem
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keesler Medical Center, Keesler Air Force Base, Biloxi, MS, USA
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12
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Lewis DJ, Sobanko JF, Etzkorn JR, Shin TM, Giordano CN, McMurray SL, Walker JL, Zhang J, Miller CJ, Higgins HW. Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Dermatol Clin 2022; 41:101-115. [DOI: 10.1016/j.det.2022.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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13
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Dalal H, Iqbal A, Rani P, Saaed J, Berenzon D. A Primary Extracutaneous Presentation of Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Cureus 2022; 14:e28088. [PMID: 36134061 PMCID: PMC9481196 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.28088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine malignancy with a mortality rate of around 33%. The presence of advanced disease at the time of diagnosis is associated with poor prognosis. Twofold etiologies have been described in the pathogenesis of Merkel cell carcinoma: chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light and Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPvY). MCC usually affects sun-exposed skin areas, and the presence of cutaneous nodules is the hallmark of the disease. However, there have been case reports in the literature where the diagnosis of MCC was made in the absence of any cutaneous findings. We present a case report of Merkel cell carcinoma that is unique in its presentation because of the presence of pulmonary and hepatic nodules and the absence of cutaneous lesions.
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14
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Mak G, Menon S, Lu JQ. Neurofilaments in neurologic disorders and beyond. J Neurol Sci 2022; 441:120380. [PMID: 36027641 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2022.120380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Many neurologic diseases can initially present as a diagnostic challenge and even when a diagnosis is made, monitoring of disease activity, progression and response to therapy may be limited with existing clinical and paraclinical assessments. As such, the identification of disease specific biomarkers provides a promising avenue by which diseases can be effectively diagnosed, monitored and used as a prognostic indicator for long-term outcomes. Neurofilaments are an integral component of the neuronal cytoskeleton, where assessment of neurofilaments in the blood, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and diseased tissue has been shown to have value in providing diagnostic clarity, monitoring disease activity, tracking progression and treatment efficacy, as well as lending prognostic insight into long-term outcomes. As such, this review attempts to provide a glimpse into the structure and function of neurofilaments, their role in various neurologic and non-neurologic disorders, including uncommon conditions with recent knowledge of neurofilament-related pathology, as well as their applicability in future clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Mak
- McMaster University, Department of Medicine, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Suresh Menon
- McMaster University, Department of Medicine, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jian-Qiang Lu
- McMaster University, Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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15
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Silk AW, Barker CA, Bhatia S, Bollin KB, Chandra S, Eroglu Z, Gastman BR, Kendra KL, Kluger H, Lipson EJ, Madden K, Miller DM, Nghiem P, Pavlick AC, Puzanov I, Rabinowits G, Ruiz ES, Sondak VK, Tavss EA, Tetzlaff MT, Brownell I. Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) clinical practice guideline on immunotherapy for the treatment of nonmelanoma skin cancer. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:e004434. [PMID: 35902131 PMCID: PMC9341183 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-004434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) are some of the most commonly diagnosed malignancies. In general, early-stage NMSCs have favorable outcomes; however, a small subset of patients develop resistant, advanced, or metastatic disease, or aggressive subtypes that are more challenging to treat successfully. Recently, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC), and basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Although ICIs have demonstrated activity against NMSCs, the routine clinical use of these agents may be more challenging due to a number of factors including the lack of predictive biomarkers, the need to consider special patient populations, the management of toxicity, and the assessment of atypical responses. With the goal of improving patient care by providing expert guidance to the oncology community, the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) convened a multidisciplinary panel of experts to develop a clinical practice guideline (CPG). The expert panel drew on the published literature as well as their own clinical experience to develop recommendations for healthcare professionals on important aspects of immunotherapeutic treatment for NMSCs, including staging, biomarker testing, patient selection, therapy selection, post-treatment response evaluation and surveillance, and patient quality of life (QOL) considerations, among others. The evidence- and consensus-based recommendations in this CPG are intended to provide guidance to cancer care professionals treating patients with NMSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann W Silk
- Merkel Cell Carcinoma Center of Excellence, Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christopher A Barker
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Shailender Bhatia
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kathryn B Bollin
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Scripps MD Anderson Cancer Center, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Sunandana Chandra
- Hematology Oncology Division, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Zeynep Eroglu
- Department of Cutaneous Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Brian R Gastman
- Melanoma and High-Risk Skin Cancer Program, Cleveland Clinic Cancer Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Kari L Kendra
- Division Of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Harriet Kluger
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Evan J Lipson
- Bloomberg Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kathleen Madden
- Melanoma/Cutaneous Oncology Program, New York University Langone Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - David M Miller
- Department of Medicine and Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Paul Nghiem
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Anna C Pavlick
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Igor Puzanov
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Guilherme Rabinowits
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Miami Cancer Institute/Baptist Health South Florida, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Emily S Ruiz
- Mohs and Dermatologic Surgery Center, Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Vernon K Sondak
- Department of Cutaneous Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | | | - Michael T Tetzlaff
- Dermopathology Division, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Isaac Brownell
- Dermatology Branch, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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16
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Richardson WM, Hohmann A, Usmani H, Lozeau D, Huston TL. CK20/CK7 Double Negative Merkel Cell Carcinoma In-Situ: A Case Report. J Cutan Pathol 2022; 49:947-956. [PMID: 35748574 DOI: 10.1111/cup.14284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
An 83-year-old male with a history of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers presented with a light pink non-ulcerated slightly raised 0.6 x 0.5 cm papule on his left lower extremity. Biopsy revealed a proliferation of intraepidermal round blue cells. On immunohistochemical staining, CD56, chromogranin, and pancytokeratin were faintly positive within the lesional population, while synaptophysin was strongly positive. CD45, CK5/6, CK7, CK20, Melan-A, SOX10, and TTF-1 stains were negative. There was no dermal component identified. A Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) stain was negative. Distant metastases and other in situ pathologies were excluded and a diagnosis of Merkel cell carcinoma in situ (MMCIS) was made. The majority of MCCIS lesions reported in the literature have been discovered amongst other non-melanoma neoplasms. Our findings of a MCCIS with purely intraepidermal involvements without the association with another squamous cell neoplasm is a rare finding. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hunya Usmani
- Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University
| | - Daniel Lozeau
- Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University.,Department of Dermatology, Stony Brook University.,Department of Pathology, Stony Brook University.,Dermatology Section, Medicine Service, Northport VAMC
| | - Tara L Huston
- Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University.,Department of Dermatology, Stony Brook University.,Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Stony Brook University
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17
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García-Mesa Y, Martín-Sanz R, García-Piqueras J, Cobo R, Muñoz-Bravo S, García-Suárez O, Martín-Biedma B, Vega JA, Feito J. Merkel Cell Carcinoma Display PIEZO2 Immunoreactivity. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12060894. [PMID: 35743679 PMCID: PMC9224776 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12060894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
As an essential component of mechano-gated ion channels, critically required for mechanotransduction in mammalian cells, PIEZO2 is known to be characteristically expressed by Merkel cells in human skin. Here, we immunohistochemically investigated the occurrence of Piezo channels in a case series of Merkel cell carcinoma. A panel of antibodies was used to characterize Merkel cells, and to detect PIEZO2 expression. All analyzed tumors displayed PIEZO2 in nearly all cells, showing two patterns of immunostaining: membranous and perinuclear dot-like. PIEZO2 co-localized with cytokeratin 20, chromogranin A, synaptophysin and neurofilament. Moreover, neurofilament immunoreactive structures resembling nerve-Merkel cell contacts were occasionally found. PIEZO2 was also detected in cells of the sweat ducts. The role of PIEZO2 in Merkel cell carcinoma is still unknown, but it could be related with the mechanical regulation of the tumor biology or be a mere vestige of the Merkel cell derivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yolanda García-Mesa
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, 33003 Oviedo, Spain; (Y.G.-M.); (J.G.-P.); (R.C.); (O.G.-S.); (J.A.V.)
| | - Raquel Martín-Sanz
- Servicio de Oftalmología, IBSAL, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain;
| | - Jorge García-Piqueras
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, 33003 Oviedo, Spain; (Y.G.-M.); (J.G.-P.); (R.C.); (O.G.-S.); (J.A.V.)
- Departamento de Anatomía e Histología, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ramón Cobo
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, 33003 Oviedo, Spain; (Y.G.-M.); (J.G.-P.); (R.C.); (O.G.-S.); (J.A.V.)
| | - Saray Muñoz-Bravo
- Servicio de Anatomía Patológica, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain;
| | - Olivia García-Suárez
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, 33003 Oviedo, Spain; (Y.G.-M.); (J.G.-P.); (R.C.); (O.G.-S.); (J.A.V.)
| | - Benjamín Martín-Biedma
- Departamento de Cirugía y Especialidades Médico-Quirúrgicas, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain;
| | - José Antonio Vega
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOS, Universidad de Oviedo, 33003 Oviedo, Spain; (Y.G.-M.); (J.G.-P.); (R.C.); (O.G.-S.); (J.A.V.)
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, 7500912 Santiago, Chile
| | - Jorge Feito
- Servicio de Anatomía Patológica, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-923136783
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18
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Investigation of the RB1-SOX2 axis constitutes a tool for viral status determination and diagnosis in Merkel cell carcinoma. Virchows Arch 2022; 480:1239-1254. [PMID: 35412101 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-022-03315-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
MCC (Merkel cell carcinoma) is an aggressive neuroendocrine cutaneous neoplasm. Integration of the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is observed in about 80% of the cases, while the remaining 20% are related to UV exposure. Both MCPyV-positive and -negative MCCs-albeit by different mechanisms-are associated with RB1 inactivation leading to overexpression of SOX2, a major contributor to MCC biology. Moreover, although controversial, loss of RB1 expression seems to be restricted to MCPyV-negative cases.The aim of the present study was to assess the performances of RB1 loss and SOX2 expression detected by immunohistochemistry to determine MCPyV status and to diagnose MCC, respectively.Overall, 196 MCC tumors, 233 non-neuroendocrine skin neoplasms and 70 extra-cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinomas (NEC) were included. SOX2 and RB1 expressions were assessed by immunohistochemistry in a tissue micro-array. Diagnostic performances were determined using the likelihood ratio (LHR).RB1 expression loss was evidenced in 27% of the MCC cases, 12% of non-neuroendocrine skin tumors and 63% of extra-cutaneous NEC. Importantly, among MCC cases, RB1 loss was detected in all MCPyV(-) MCCs, while MCPyV( +) cases were consistently RB1-positive (p < 0.001). SOX2 diffuse expression was observed in 92% of the MCC cases and almost never observed in non-neuroendocrine skin epithelial neoplasms (2%, p < 0.0001, LHR + = 59). Furthermore, SOX2 diffuse staining was more frequently observed in MCCs than in extra-cutaneous NECs (30%, p < 0.001, LHR + = 3.1).These results confirm RB1 as a robust predictor of MCC viral status and further suggest SOX2 to be a relevant diagnostic marker of MCC.
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19
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Neuroendocrine Neoplasms of the Gynecologic Tract. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14071835. [PMID: 35406607 PMCID: PMC8998008 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14071835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Neuroendocrine refers to the cells that synthesize and secrete messenger chemicals such as neuropeptides and amines. Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are aggressive tumors arising from neuroendocrine cells, with an annual incidence of 6.98/100,000 and a prevalence of 170,000 in the United States. Primary gynecologic NENs constitute ≤2% of female reproductive tumors. NENs of the gynecologic tract are associated with high recurrence rates and dismal prognosis, making their treatment challenging. This article focuses on the updated staging classifications, clinicopathological characteristics, imaging, and management of NENs of the gynecological tract. Abstract Gynecological tract neuroendocrine neoplasms (NEN) are rare, aggressive tumors from endocrine cells derived from the neuroectoderm, neural crest, and endoderm. The primary gynecologic NENs constitute 2% of gynecologic malignancies, and the cervix is the most common site of NEN in the gynecologic tract. The updated WHO classification of gynecologic NEN is based on the Ki-67 index, mitotic index, and tumor characteristics such as necrosis, and brings more uniformity in the terminology of NENs like other disease sites. Imaging plays a crucial role in the staging, triaging, restaging, and surveillance of NENs. The expression of the somatostatin receptors on the surface of neuroendocrine cells forms the basis of increasing evaluation with functional imaging modalities using traditional and new tracers, including 68Ga-DOTA-Somatostatin Analog-PET/CT. Management of NENs involves a multidisciplinary approach. New targeted therapies could improve the paradigm of care for these rare malignancies. This article focuses on the updated staging classifications, clinicopathological characteristics, imaging, and management of gynecologic NENs of the cervix, ovary, endometrium, vagina, and vulva, emphasizing the relatively common cervical neuroendocrine carcinomas among these entities.
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20
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Dum D, Menz A, Völkel C, De Wispelaere N, Hinsch A, Gorbokon N, Lennartz M, Luebke AM, Hube-Magg C, Kluth M, Fraune C, Möller K, Bernreuther C, Lebok P, Clauditz TS, Jacobsen F, Sauter G, Uhlig R, Wilczak W, Steurer S, Minner S, Marx AH, Simon R, Burandt E, Krech T. Cytokeratin 7 and cytokeratin 20 expression in cancer: A tissue microarray study on 15,424 cancers. Exp Mol Pathol 2022; 126:104762. [PMID: 35390310 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2022.104762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Combined analysis of cytokeratin 7 (CK7) and cytokeratin 20 (CK20) is often used for assessing the origin of metastatic cancer. To evaluate the diagnostic utility of CK7 and CK20, tissue microarrays containing 15,424 samples from 120 different tumor types and subtypes and 608 samples of 76 different normal tissue types were analyzed by immunohistochemistry. CK7 positivity was seen in 52% (8.7% weak, 5.9% moderate, 37% strong) and CK20 positivity in 23% (5.1% weak, 3.4% moderate, 15% strong) of interpretable tumors. Of 8390 positive tumors, 1181 (14%) showed positivity for CK7 and CK20, 5380 (64%) showed positivity for CK7 alone, and 1829 (22%) showed positivity for CK20 alone. CK20 predominated in gastrointestinal tract, urothelial and Merkel cell carcinomas. CK7 was usually negative in prostate cancer and colorectal cancer. Combined evaluation of CK7/CK20 revealed the best diagnostic utility in CK20 positive tumors, where CK7 negativity is often linked to colorectal origin while CK7 positivity argues for urothelial origin or mucinous ovarian cancer. Associations with unfavorable tumor features were found for cytokeratin 7 loss in breast cancer of no special type, urothelial and renal cell carcinomas, for CK7 overexpression in high-grade serous ovarian and gastric cancer, and for CK20 overexpression in urothelial carcinoma. CK20 loss was linked to MSI in gastric (p = 0.0291) and colorectal adenocarcinoma (p < 0.0001). These analyses provide comprehensive data on the frequency of CK7 and CK20 immunostaining - alone or in combination - in human cancers. These data facilitate interpretation of CK7/CK20 immunostaining in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Dum
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anne Menz
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Cosima Völkel
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Noémi De Wispelaere
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; General, Visceral and Thoracic Surgery Department and Clinic, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Andrea Hinsch
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Natalia Gorbokon
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Maximilian Lennartz
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Andreas M Luebke
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Hube-Magg
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Martina Kluth
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Fraune
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Möller
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christian Bernreuther
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Patrick Lebok
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Till S Clauditz
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Frank Jacobsen
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Guido Sauter
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ria Uhlig
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Waldemar Wilczak
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Steurer
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sarah Minner
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Andreas H Marx
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; Department of Pathology, Academic Hospital Fuerth, Fuerth, Germany
| | - Ronald Simon
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Eike Burandt
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Till Krech
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; Institute of Pathology, Clinical Center Osnabrueck, Osnabrueck, Germany
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21
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Merkel Cell Carcinoma: From Pathobiology to Clinical Management. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10121293. [PMID: 34943208 PMCID: PMC8698953 DOI: 10.3390/biology10121293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an uncommon type of skin cancer that carries a poor prognosis. It is seen predominantly in old age in sun-exposed body parts. Racial and geographical differences are seen in its occurrence. Viral infection and radiation exposure are the two leading factors implicated in its causation. Small, firm to hard nodule (usually in sun-exposed areas), red with a history of a rapid increase in size is a common personation of the disease. Other body parts such as upper limbs, trunk, and even lower limbs may be also involved. The disease is diagnosed by taking a tissue sample (biopsy) for examination, and other radiological investigations are needed to reach a proper diagnosis with the staging of the disease. There are various treatment options including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Surgery is the primary treatment option though some patients may not be the candidates for operation where other treatment options come into play. Abstract Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an infrequent, rapidly growing skin neoplasm that carries a greater probability of regional lymph node involvement, and a grim prognosis in advanced cases. While it is seen predominantly in old age in sun-exposed body parts, the prevalence varies among different races and geographical regions. Merkel cell polyomavirus and UV radiation-induced mutations contribute to its etiopathogenesis. The clinical presentation of MCC lacks pathognomonic features and is rarely considered highly at the time of presentation. Histopathological examination frequently reveals hyperchromatic nuclei with high mitotic activity, but immunohistochemistry is required to confirm the diagnosis. Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) and imaging are advised for effective staging of the disease. Multimodal management including surgery, radiation therapy, and/or immunotherapy are deployed. Traditional cytotoxic chemotherapies may result in an initial response, but do not result in a significant survival benefit. Checkpoint inhibitors have dramatically improved the prognosis of patients with metastatic MCC, and are recommended first-line in advanced cases. There is a need for well-tolerated agents with good safety profiles in patients who have failed immunotherapies.
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22
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Mistry K, Levell NJ, Craig P, Steven NM, Venables ZC. Merkel cell carcinoma. SKIN HEALTH AND DISEASE 2021; 1:e55. [PMID: 35663768 PMCID: PMC9060125 DOI: 10.1002/ski2.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare neuroendocrine carcinoma. The cellular origin of MCC may include Merkel cell precursors. The incidence of MCC has increased significantly however trends may have been confounded by evolving diagnostic criteria. The two key aetiologies of MCC are ultraviolet radiation and Merkel cell polyoma virus (MCPyV). Both have unique mechanisms of carcinogenesis. MCC presents non-specifically as a rapidly growing, red-to-violet nodule on sun-exposed areas. Diagnostic accuracy has improved through immunohistochemical markers such as CK-20. Lymph nodes should be evaluated in MCC through examination and sentinel biopsy. USS, CT, MRI and CT-PET may be useful in staging. Management depends on tumour location, stage and comorbidities. MCPyV status may guide treatment strategy in the future. Treatment for the primary MCC is commonly wide local excision followed by radiotherapy, guided by anatomical constraints. There is uncertainty about surgical margins. Treatments for nodal disease have not been determined through trials. They include nodal dissection or radiotherapy for clinically or radiologically apparent disease, and adjuvant nodal irradiation for negative nodes, microscopic disease or following nodal dissection for definite disease. Patients with loco-regional advanced inoperable disease should be considered for combination therapy including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery and immunotherapy. Systemic therapy for advanced disease includes immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway. Avelumab can improve survival in metastatic MCC. Immunotherapy may result in longer disease control. Various other immunotherapeutic and molecular agents are undergoing trials. MCC continues to have a high mortality characterized by high recurrence and early metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. Mistry
- Department of DermatologyNorfolk and Norwich University HospitalNorwichUK
| | - N. J. Levell
- Department of DermatologyNorfolk and Norwich University HospitalNorwichUK
| | - P. Craig
- Department of Cellular PathologyGloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustCheltenhamUK
| | - N. M. Steven
- Institute of Immunology and ImmunotherapyUniversity of BirminghamBirminghamUK
| | - Z. C. Venables
- Department of DermatologyNorfolk and Norwich University HospitalNorwichUK
- Public Health EnglandVictoria House Capital ParkCambridgeUK
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23
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Caruso G, Sassu CM, Tomao F, Di Donato V, Perniola G, Fischetti M, Benedetti Panici P, Palaia I. The puzzle of gynecologic neuroendocrine carcinomas: State of the art and future directions. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2021; 162:103344. [PMID: 33933568 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2021.103344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary gynecologic neuroendocrine carcinomas (gNECs) are a heterogeneous spectrum of rare and highly aggressive neoplasms, accounting for about 2% of all gynecologic malignancies, which mostly resemble the small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC). Due to the lack of standardized treatment guidelines, their management poses a noteworthy clinical challenge. Currently, cumulative data retrieved from the management of SCLC and from retrospective studies supports a multimodality strategy, based on surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Nevertheless, the prognosis remains poor and recurrences are extremely frequent. Hence, there is an urgent need for novel treatment options and promising molecular targets. Recently, there has been an increasing interest on the potential role of immune checkpoint inhibitors, especially in the recurrent setting. However, only scant evidence exists and there is still a long road ahead. A solid collaboration between gynecologists and oncologists worldwide is required to improve the treatment of these puzzling tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Caruso
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, University of Rome "Sapienza", Policlinico "Umberto I", Rome, Italy.
| | - Carolina Maria Sassu
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, University of Rome "Sapienza", Policlinico "Umberto I", Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Tomao
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, European Institute of Oncology (IEO) IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Violante Di Donato
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, University of Rome "Sapienza", Policlinico "Umberto I", Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgia Perniola
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, University of Rome "Sapienza", Policlinico "Umberto I", Rome, Italy
| | - Margherita Fischetti
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, University of Rome "Sapienza", Policlinico "Umberto I", Rome, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Benedetti Panici
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, University of Rome "Sapienza", Policlinico "Umberto I", Rome, Italy
| | - Innocenza Palaia
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, University of Rome "Sapienza", Policlinico "Umberto I", Rome, Italy
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Muto Y, Ryo E, Namikawa K, Takahashi A, Ogata D, Fujimura T, Yatabe Y, Aiba S, Yamazaki N, Mori T. RB1 gene mutations are a distinct predictive factor in Merkel cell carcinoma. Pathol Int 2021; 71:337-347. [PMID: 33751708 DOI: 10.1111/pin.13090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma that tends to show local recurrence and metastasis. Typically, MCC is polyomavirus (MCPyV)-associated and cytokeratin 20 (CK20) positive. However, little is known about this tumor and its origins. Here, we aimed to determine the developmental origins of MCC and to identify prognostic clinicopathologic factors. Initial examinations revealed that CK20 and MCPyV expression (CK20+, MCPyV+ (60%); CK20+, MCPyV- (10%); CK20-, and MCPyV- (30%)) did not affect overall survival. With RB1 gene sequencing of FFPE specimens, which covered an entire exon, all RB1 mutation-positive cases showed positive regional lymph node and/or distant metastases (8/8 cases, 100%), whereas the frequency of the metastasis was statistically significantly lower in RB1 mutation-negative cases, (10/16 cases, 62%, P = 0.033). The results were also confirmed with immunohistochemistry, and either RB1 alterations, entire exon sequencing, or immunohistochemistry was associated with the metastasis (P = 0.007). RB1 alterations may be used to access the aggressive clinical course of MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Muto
- Department of Dermatologic Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Dermatology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Eijitsu Ryo
- Division of Molecular Pathology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenjiro Namikawa
- Department of Dermatologic Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akira Takahashi
- Department of Dermatologic Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Dai Ogata
- Department of Dermatologic Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taku Fujimura
- Department of Dermatology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yasushi Yatabe
- Division of Molecular Pathology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Diagnostic Pathology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Setsuya Aiba
- Department of Dermatology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Naoya Yamazaki
- Department of Dermatologic Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taisuke Mori
- Division of Molecular Pathology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Diagnostic Pathology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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25
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Maekawa K, Tokumitsu T, Noguchi H, Nakamura E, Gi T, Horinouchi S, Yamashita S, Takeshima H, Asada Y, Sato Y. Glioblastoma mimicking metastatic small cell carcinoma: A case report with ultrastructural findings. Diagn Cytopathol 2021; 49:E291-E296. [PMID: 33609337 DOI: 10.1002/dc.24715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
It is often straightforward to distinguish glioblastoma (GBM) from metastatic carcinoma by cytology; however, small cell variants of GBM or GBM with primitive neuronal component (GBMPNC) can mimic metastatic small cell carcinoma (SCC). Herein, we report a case of GBMPNC mimicking metastatic SCC and present cytological and ultrastructural findings. A 65-year-old man with memory disturbance was hospitalized. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed the presence of a 6 cm sized tumor in the right anterior temporal lobe. Intraoperative cytology slides indicated that the tumor consisted of small-sized cells with scant cytoplasm showing high cellularity. The initial intraoperative diagnosis was metastatic SCC; however, any primary visceral tumor was not detected clinically. Immunohistochemical and ultrastructural studies of postoperative histological sections revealed that the lesion was GBMPNC. This case shows that some GBMs may have the potential to closely mimic metastatic SCC, which expands the differential diagnosis and emphasizes the importance of clinical correlation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazunari Maekawa
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Takako Tokumitsu
- Division of Pathology, Miyazaki University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Noguchi
- Division of Pathology, Miyazaki University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Eriko Nakamura
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Gi
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Shoichi Horinouchi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Miyazaki University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Shinji Yamashita
- Department of Neurosurgery, Miyazaki University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Hideo Takeshima
- Department of Neurosurgery, Miyazaki University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Yujiro Asada
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan.,Division of Pathology, Miyazaki University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Sato
- Division of Pathology, Miyazaki University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
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26
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Laprovitera N, Riefolo M, Ambrosini E, Klec C, Pichler M, Ferracin M. Cancer of Unknown Primary: Challenges and Progress in Clinical Management. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13030451. [PMID: 33504059 PMCID: PMC7866161 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13030451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Patients with cancer of unknown primary site suffer the burden of an uncertain disease, which is characterized by the impossibility to identify the tissue where the tumor has originated. The identification of the primary site of a tumor is of great importance for the patient to have access to site-specific treatments and be enrolled in clinical trials. Therefore, patients with cancer of unknown primary have reduced therapeutic opportunities and poor prognosis. Advancements have been made in the molecular characterization of this tumor, which could be used to infer the tumor site-of-origin and thus broaden the diagnostic outcome. Moreover, we describe here the novel therapeutic opportunities that are based on the genetic and immunophenotypic characterization of the tumor, and thus independent from the tumor type, which could provide most benefit to patients with cancer of unknown primary. Abstract Distant metastases are the main cause of cancer-related deaths in patients with advanced tumors. A standard diagnostic workup usually contains the identification of the tissue-of-origin of metastatic tumors, although under certain circumstances, it remains elusive. This disease setting is defined as cancer of unknown primary (CUP). Accounting for approximately 3–5% of all cancer diagnoses, CUPs are characterized by an aggressive clinical behavior and represent a real therapeutic challenge. The lack of determination of a tissue of origin precludes CUP patients from specific evidence-based therapeutic options or access to clinical trial, which significantly impacts their life expectancy. In the era of precision medicine, it is essential to characterize CUP molecular features, including the expression profile of non-coding RNAs, to improve our understanding of CUP biology and identify novel therapeutic strategies. This review article sheds light on this enigmatic disease by summarizing the current knowledge on CUPs focusing on recent discoveries and emerging diagnostic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Laprovitera
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (N.L.); (M.R.); (E.A.)
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mattia Riefolo
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (N.L.); (M.R.); (E.A.)
| | - Elisa Ambrosini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (N.L.); (M.R.); (E.A.)
| | - Christiane Klec
- Division of Oncology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (C.K.); (M.P.)
| | - Martin Pichler
- Division of Oncology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (C.K.); (M.P.)
| | - Manuela Ferracin
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (N.L.); (M.R.); (E.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-051-209-4714
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27
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Dermal and Intraepidermal Merkel Cell Carcinoma With Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Report of a Rare Case With Special Reference to the Touch Dome. Am J Dermatopathol 2021; 43:15-20. [PMID: 32000217 DOI: 10.1097/dad.0000000000001618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT In skin containing hair follicles, specialized epithelial structures known as "touch domes (TDs)" are located where the Merkel cells are clustered. We explored the histogenetic relationship between intraepidermal and dermal Merkel cell carcinomas (MCCs) and investigated which transformed progenitor cells can develop into intraepidermal MCC. We encountered an association between an extremely rare case of dermal and intraepidermal MCC with squamous cell carcinoma, which was examined using standard immunohistochemical methods with various epithelial, neuroendocrine, and TD markers including several immunohistochemical markers. Differential expression levels of CK20 and CD56 were found between intraepidermal and dermal MCCs, indicating molecularly distinct MCC populations. CK15 and CK17, expressed in TDs, were partially expressed in the intraepidermal neuroendocrine component at the tumor periphery in intraepidermal MCC with squamous cell carcinoma. These differences may suggest that the origin of dermal and intraepidermal MCCs is different under pathological conditions. We hypothesize that intraepidermal MCC is derived from tissue-specific stem cells localized within TDs.
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28
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Wang J, Liu D, Meng Y, Guo Y, Zhao M. Extrapulmonary small cell carcinoma of the external auditory canal: a case report and review of the literature. J Int Med Res 2020; 48:300060520946517. [PMID: 32851892 PMCID: PMC7457657 DOI: 10.1177/0300060520946517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Extrapulmonary small cell carcinoma (EPSCC) affecting the external auditory canal (EAC) is uncommon. We herein report a case involving a 56-year-old man with EPSCC of the EAC who had a 48-year history of recurrent purulent discharge in both ears and a 20-day history of right ear pain and hemorrhage followed by incomplete right eyelid closure and an askew mouth. He underwent surgical removal of middle ear granulation tissue, residual ossicles, and a right EAC mass. Postoperatively, pathomorphological examination combined with immunohistochemical staining supported a diagnosis of small cell carcinoma. Radiation therapy at a dose of 60.06 Gy in 33 daily fractions was completed 1 month after surgery, and synchronous etoposide-cisplatin regimen chemotherapy was performed for two cycles and four sequential cycles. One year postoperatively, magnetic resonance imaging showed no tumor in the ear; however, computed tomography showed multiple liver space-occupying lesions that were considered to indicate liver metastasis. Further chemotherapy was performed, but the patient died 15 months postoperatively. This case indicates that timely and accurate chemoradiotherapy is likely the most reasonable approach to EPSCC of the EAC given the aggressiveness of this tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyan Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Second
Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Third
Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Danqing Liu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The First
Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yingdi Meng
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Second
Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yingyuan Guo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Second
Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Ming Zhao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Second
Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
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29
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Danger is only skin deep: aggressive epidermal carcinomas. An overview of the diagnosis, demographics, molecular-genetics, staging, prognostic biomarkers, and therapeutic advances in Merkel cell carcinoma. Mod Pathol 2020; 33:42-55. [PMID: 31676786 DOI: 10.1038/s41379-019-0394-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a high grade primary cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma and is among the most aggressive cutaneous malignancies. The rising incidence of MCC, together with its often rapidly aggressive course, underscore a critical need to recognize the histopathologic and the immunohistochemical features that inform its accurate diagnosis. In the current review, we summarize the current state of knowledge regarding the accurate diagnosis of MCC and the exclusion of other entities in the differential diagnosis. We provide a comprehensive review of genomic studies that identified the molecular-genetic drivers of MCC as well as a summary of studies identifying prognostic biomarkers that can facilitate risk stratification. Importantly, Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) appears to be causative in most cases of MCC and represents both a diagnostic and prognostic marker. Finally, as staging of MCC has undergone critical refinements with the introduction of the 8th Edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer staging system, we provide an update on MCC staging. In particular, the prognostic significance of the sentinel lymph node (SLN) in MCC necessitates a systematic approach to its evaluation and diagnosis to ensure accurate and consistent risk stratification for patients, and we therefore provide a comprehensive overview of SLN evaluation in MCC. Finally, the intimate relationship between MCC and the integrity of the host immune system has led to paradigm-shifting therapeutic advances with the successful application of immune checkpoint blockade to treat patients with advanced disease, and we therefore summarize those studies and the correlative studies in which predictive biomarkers have been identified.
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30
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Park S, Ahn HK, Lee DH, Jung Y, Jeong JW, Nam S, Lee WS. Systematic mutation analysis in rare colorectal cancer presenting ovarian metastases. Sci Rep 2019; 9:16990. [PMID: 31740709 PMCID: PMC6861287 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-53182-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Although colorectal cancer is one of the most lethal cancer types in the world, its metastasis to the ovary is rare, compared to metastasis to other organs. Consequently, the genomic basis for colon-to-ovary metastasis remains unstudied, due to limited available patients, and thus there have been no attempts to construct individual-specific networks. Due to its rarity, the small sample size makes common mutations difficult to find. To overcome this problem, we herein attempted to apply a biological connectivity map called a sample-specific network (SSN), to reveal common biological functions in three samples. Our three samples were compared to a clinical dataset contained in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Colorectal Adenocarcinoma (COAD), showing different mutational spectra, compared to matched samples based on age, gender, microsatellite instability (MSI) status, and tumor, node, metastasis (TNM) stage. The SSNs for the three samples revealed significant correlations of the mutation statuses of several apoptosis genes, in contrast to the TCGA-matched samples. Further analysis of a targeted-gene panel sequencing dataset for colon-to-ovary metastasis of primary tumor samples also confirmed significant correlations of the mutational statuses among apoptosis genes. In summary, using SSN, we successfully identified a common function (apoptosis) among our three patients having colon-to-ovary metastasis, despite no common mutations in the three patients. Such computational analyses could facilitate productive study of rare cancers and other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungjin Park
- College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, Korea
- Gachon Institute of Genome Medicine and Science, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
| | - Hee Kyung Ahn
- Department of Medical Oncology, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
| | - Dae Ho Lee
- College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, Korea
- Gachon Advanced Institute of Health Sciences & Technology, Gachon University, Incheon, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
| | - YunJae Jung
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, Korea
| | - Joo-Won Jeong
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seungyoon Nam
- College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, Korea.
- Gachon Institute of Genome Medicine and Science, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea.
- Department of Medical Oncology, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea.
- Department of Life Sciences, Gachon University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, Korea.
| | - Won-Suk Lee
- College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, Korea.
- Department of Surgery, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea.
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Abstract
In pathological diagnostics, monoclonal antibodies (mAb) are mainly used for immunhistochemical analysis. After an initial histological evaluation, a precise panel of antibodies is selected in order to stain the slides by using an indirect immune method. The most frequent issues include localisation of the primary tumor in cases of metastases, determination of undifferentiated tumors, subtyping of lympho-proliferative diseases and soft tissue tumors, as well as the assessment of proliferation via Ki-67. Increasing importance in mAb-based diagnostics is attributed to the analysis of predictive biomarkers such as hormone receptors, mismatch repair proteins (MMR) and programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1). Their evaluation is performed by using different scores, which the clinical physician needs to be aware of due to their direct therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Förster
- Institut für Pathologie, Berufsgenossenschaftliches Universitätskliniken Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bürkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789, Bochum, Deutschland.
| | - A Tannapfel
- Institut für Pathologie, Berufsgenossenschaftliches Universitätskliniken Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bürkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789, Bochum, Deutschland
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INSM1 Is More Sensitive and Interpretable than Conventional Immunohistochemical Stains Used to Diagnose Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Am J Surg Pathol 2019; 42:1541-1548. [PMID: 30080705 DOI: 10.1097/pas.0000000000001136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an extremely aggressive skin cancer that must be distinguished from other basaloid cutaneous neoplasms that have different treatments and prognoses. This is sometimes challenging in small shave specimens, crushed samples, lymph nodes, and core needle biopsies. Insulinoma-associated protein 1 (INSM1) immunohistochemistry is a sensitive nuclear marker of neuroendocrine differentiation. INSM1 staining was performed on 56 MCC (47 primary tumors, 9 nodal metastases), 50 skin control cases that included basal cell carcinomas, basaloid squamous cell carcinomas, Bowen disease, sebaceous neoplasms, melanoma, and B-cell lymphomas, and 28 lymph node control cases that included metastatic neuroendocrine neoplasms, melanomas, squamous cell carcinomas, lymphomas, and adenocarcinomas. Percent of staining nuclei (0, <25%, 25% to 50%, 50% to 75%, >75%) and intensity (weak, moderate, strong) were recorded for each sample. All 56 MCC expressed INSM1. By comparison, synaptophysin, CK20, and chromogranin were expressed in 96%, 92%, and 32% of MCC, respectively. While the 3 conventional markers showed significant variability in staining intensity and distribution, INSM1 stained >75% tumor nuclei in 89% of MCC and 50% to 75% of tumor nuclei in 11%. Staining intensity was strong in 85% and moderate in 15%. None of the 50 cutaneous basaloid non-MCC neoplasms in the control group stained with INSM1, and among the lymph node controls 5 of 5 neuroendocrine neoplasms expressed INSM1, confirming that INSM1 staining cannot distinguish MCC from metastatic extracutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma. INSM1 holds promise as a neuroendocrine marker that can distinguish MCC from its mimickers in the skin and improve detection of sentinel lymph node metastases.
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Villani A, Fabbrocini G, Costa C, Carmela Annunziata M, Scalvenzi M. Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Therapeutic Update and Emerging Therapies. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) 2019; 9:209-222. [PMID: 30820877 PMCID: PMC6522614 DOI: 10.1007/s13555-019-0288-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but highly aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer whose incidence has almost doubled in recent decades. Risk factors for MCC include age > 65 years, immunosuppression, sun exposure and infection by Merkel cell polyomavirus. MCC usually presents as rapidly growing, firm, red to violaceous nodule localized on the sun-exposed skin. Surgery followed by radiation therapy is considered to be the first-line treatment for primary or loco-regional MCC in order to prevent recurrences and lymph node metastasis, while chemotherapy has always been used to treat advanced forms. However, responses to chemotherapy are mostly of short duration, and the associated clinical benefit on overall survival is still unclear. The use of checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) has shown good results in the treatment of advanced MCC and, consequently, CPIs are considered emerging immunotherapeutic options for these patients, although there are still no standardized treatments for patients with metastatic disease. Here we present a complete overview of the different possibilities for the treatment of MCC according to the stage of the disease, focusing on the emerging immunotherapies used for treating advanced MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Villani
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico, Naples, Italy.
| | - Gabriella Fabbrocini
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudia Costa
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Carmela Annunziata
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico, Naples, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Scalvenzi
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico, Naples, Italy
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Leblebici C, Yeni B, Savli TC, Aydın Ö, Güneş P, Cinel L, Şimşek BÇ, Yıldız P, Tuncel D, Kayahan S. A new immunohistochemical marker, insulinoma-associated protein 1 (INSM1), for Merkel cell carcinoma: Evaluation of 24 cases. Ann Diagn Pathol 2019; 40:53-58. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anndiagpath.2019.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2019] [Revised: 03/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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Stanoszek LM, Chan MP, Palanisamy N, Carskadon S, Siddiqui J, Patel RM, Harms KL, Lowe L, Fullen DR, Harms PW. Neurofilament is superior to cytokeratin 20 in supporting cutaneous origin for neuroendocrine carcinoma. Histopathology 2018; 74:504-513. [PMID: 30239030 DOI: 10.1111/his.13758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM Primary cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma, or Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), cannot be distinguished morphologically from small-cell neuroendocrine carcinomas (SmCC) from other sites. Immunohistochemistry is required to confirm cutaneous origin, and is also used for detection of sentinel lymph node (SLN) metastases of MCC. Cytokeratin 20 (CK20) expression is commonly used for these purposes, but is negative in some MCC cases, and has unclear specificity. We evaluated immunohistochemistry for neurofilament and CK20 in MCC compared with SmCC from other sites. METHODS AND RESULTS We evaluated neurofilament expression in 55 MCC specimens from 39 unique patients, including nine CK20-negative MCC tumours. Neurofilament expression was observed in 42 of 55 (76.4%) MCC cases, including seven of nine (77.8%) CK20-negative MCC cases. Neurofilament was expressed in nine of 12 (75%) Merkel cell polyomavirus-positive tumours and five of 10 (50%) virus-negative tumours. Compared to a standard immunohistochemical panel (cytokeratin cocktail and CK20), neurofilament was 87.5% sensitive for detecting SLN metastases. Neurofilament and CK20 expression was also assessed in 61 extracutaneous SmCC from 60 unique patients, with primary sites including lung (27), bladder (18), cervix (3), gastrointestinal tract (3), sinonasal tract (2) and other sites (7). The specificity of neurofilament and CK20 for MCC versus non-cutaneous SmCC was 96.7% and 59.0%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Neurofilament has superior specificity to CK20 in distinguishing MCC from non-cutaneous SmCC. Neurofilament is frequently expressed in CK20- and virus-negative MCC tumours. Limitations of neurofilament immunohistochemistry include lower sensitivity than CK20 and subtle staining in some tumours. However, our findings indicate that neurofilament is useful for excluding non-cutaneous SmCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Stanoszek
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - May P Chan
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department ofDermatology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Nallasivam Palanisamy
- Department of Urology, Vattikuti Urology Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Shannon Carskadon
- Department of Urology, Vattikuti Urology Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Javed Siddiqui
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Rajiv M Patel
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department ofDermatology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kelly L Harms
- Department ofDermatology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lori Lowe
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department ofDermatology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Douglas R Fullen
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department ofDermatology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Paul W Harms
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department ofDermatology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Concurrent Hairy Cell Leukemia and Metastatic Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Case Rep Oncol Med 2018; 2018:1736854. [PMID: 30538875 PMCID: PMC6261234 DOI: 10.1155/2018/1736854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hairy cell leukemia (HCL) and Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) are two rare malignancies with distinct cells of origin. HCL is a lymphoid malignancy of mature B cells, and MCC derives from neuroendocrine cell origin. HCL has a favorable prognosis with most patients achieving long-term remission and potential cure. In contrast, MCC is an aggressive malignancy affecting the skin and can metastasize quickly with a dismal prognosis. Immunocompromised patients, such as those with AIDS, posttransplant, and the elderly, have higher incidences than the general population, suggesting a possible immune mechanism. We report a case where a patient presented with HCL and metastatic MCC synchronously. This is the first reported case of these two rare malignancies occurring concurrently at initial presentation and may represent a role of immunosuppression in the pathogenesis of MCC.
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Khatchaturian EM, Zohrabian N. A novel report of a primary Merkel cell carcinoma lesion in the nasal vestibule. Clin Case Rep 2018; 6:2033-2036. [PMID: 30455885 PMCID: PMC6230652 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.1757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) accounts for less than 1% of cutaneous malignancies. As the lesion may mimic benign entities, clinicians' differential should include rare entities to improve outcomes by early intervention. We present a case of primary MCC in the nasal vestibule requiring partial rhinectomy, suprahyoid lymphadenectomy, and radiation therapy.
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Prado JCM, Monezi TA, Amorim AT, Lino V, Paladino A, Boccardo E. Human polyomaviruses and cancer: an overview. Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2018; 73:e558s. [PMID: 30328951 PMCID: PMC6157077 DOI: 10.6061/clinics/2018/e558s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The name of the family Polyomaviridae, derives from the early observation that cells infected with murine polyomavirus induced multiple (poly) tumors (omas) in immunocompromised mice. Subsequent studies showed that many members of this family exhibit the capacity of mediating cell transformation and tumorigenesis in different experimental models. The transformation process mediated by these viruses is driven by viral pleiotropic regulatory proteins called T (tumor) antigens. Similar to other viral oncoproteins T antigens target cellular regulatory factors to favor cell proliferation, immune evasion and downregulation of apoptosis. The first two human polyomaviruses were isolated over 45 years ago. However, recent advances in the DNA sequencing technologies led to the rapid identification of additional twelve new polyomaviruses in different human samples. Many of these viruses establish chronic infections and have been associated with conditions in immunosuppressed individuals, particularly in organ transplant recipients. This has been associated to viral reactivation due to the immunosuppressant therapy applied to these patients. Four polyomaviruses namely, Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), Trichodysplasia spinulosa polyomavirus (TSPyV), John Cunningham Polyomavirus (JCPyV) and BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) have been associated with the development of specific malignant tumors. However, present evidence only supports the role of MCPyV as a carcinogen to humans. In the present review we present a summarized discussion on the current knowledge concerning the role of MCPyV, TSPyV, JCPyV and BKPyV in human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Carlos Mann Prado
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Telma Alves Monezi
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Aline Teixeira Amorim
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Vanesca Lino
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Andressa Paladino
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Enrique Boccardo
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
- *Corresponding author. E-mail:
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Venturi M, Pilloni L. Non-specific labeling of macrophages with anti-cytokeratin 20 (SP33) in the evaluation of nodal micrometastasis from Merkel cell carcinoma: A pitfall for metastasis. J Cutan Pathol 2018; 46:88-90. [PMID: 30288773 DOI: 10.1111/cup.13367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michela Venturi
- Section of Dermatology, "Mario Aresu" Department of Medical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luca Pilloni
- Section of Pathology, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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40
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Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Updates on Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Management. CURRENT DERMATOLOGY REPORTS 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s13671-018-0221-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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41
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Kervarrec T, Zaragoza J, Gaboriaud P, Le Gouge A, Beby-Defaux A, Le Corre Y, Hainaut-Wierzbicka E, Aubin F, Bens G, Michenet P, Maillard H, Touzé A, Samimi M, Guyétant S. Differentiating Merkel cell carcinoma of lymph nodes without a detectable primary skin tumor from other metastatic neuroendocrine carcinomas: The ELECTHIP criteria. J Am Acad Dermatol 2018; 78:964-972.e3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2017.11.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Revised: 11/04/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
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Increased S100A15 expression and decreased DNA methylation of its gene promoter are involved in high metastasis potential and poor outcome of lung adenocarcinoma. Oncotarget 2018; 8:45710-45724. [PMID: 28498804 PMCID: PMC5542220 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.17391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2016] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aims to determine the functional role of S100A15 and its promoter DNA methylation patterns in lung cancer progression. Experimental Design We analyzed 178 formalin-fixed paraffin embedded specimens from lung cancer patients, including 24 early stage and 91 advanced stage adenocarcinoma. S100A15 protein expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry stain, and its DNA methylation levels were measured by pyrosequencing. Results S100A15 nuclear staining was increased in lung adenocarcinoma patients with distant metastasis versus those without distant metastasis. There was reduced one/three-year overall survival in adenocarcinoma patients receiving first line target therapy and harboring high nuclear expressions of S100A15. Both DNA methylation levels over -423 and -248 CpG sites of the S100A15 gene promoter were decreased in adenocarcinoma patients with distant metastasis, and the former was associated with lower one-year overall survival. The highly invasive CL1-5 cell lines display decreased DNA methylation over −412/−248/−56 CpG sites of the S100A15 gene promoter and increased S100A15 gene/protein expressions as compared with the less invasive CL1-0 cell lines. Knockdown of S100A15 in CL1-5 cell line inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while over-expression of S100A15 in CL1-0 cell line promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. RNA sequencing analysis revealed potential biological effects of S100A15 over-expression and knock-down with CTNNB1, ZEB1, CDC42, HSP90AA1, BST2, and PCNA being the pivotal down-stream mediators. Conclusions Increased S100A15 expression and decreased DNA methylation of its gene promoter region were associated with high metastasis potential and poor outcome in lung adenocarcinoma, probably through triggering CTNNB1 -centered pathways.
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Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma. Incidence of MCC continues to rise, and risk factors include advanced age, pale skin, chronic sun exposure, and immune suppression. Diagnosing MCC utilizes a combination of morphology and immunohistochemistry. Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is present in approximately 70-80% of MCCs and represents a key pathogenic driver in those MCCs. In contrast, MCPyV-negative MCCs arise through progressive accumulation of ultraviolet-light induced somatic mutations. Staging of MCC proceeds according to the American Joint Commission on Cancer (AJCC) 8th Edition, which utilizes features of the primary tumor together with regional lymph node(s) (clinically and/or pathologically detected) and/or distant metastases. Many potentially useful biomarkers have been studied to refine risk stratification in MCC. In recent years, the host immune infiltrate has been leveraged as immune checkpoint blockade has emerged as an efficacious mode of treatment for patients with advanced MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T. Tetzlaff
- 0000 0001 2291 4776grid.240145.6Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Unit 85, Houston, TX 77030 USA ,0000 0001 2291 4776grid.240145.6Department of Translational and Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Unit 85, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Priyadharsini Nagarajan
- 0000 0001 2291 4776grid.240145.6Department of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Unit 85, Houston, TX 77030 USA
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Safa F, Pant M, Weerasinghe C, Felix R, Terjanian T. Merkel cell carcinoma masquerading as cellulitis: a case report and review of the literature. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 25:e106-e112. [PMID: 29507504 DOI: 10.3747/co.25.3836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (mcc) is an uncommon malignancy of the skin arising from cells located in the deeper layers of the epidermis called Merkel cells. This malignancy rarely presents as a metastatic disease, and the field is therefore deficient in regards to management. We report the case of a 49-year-old woman who presented with a presumptive diagnosis of osteomyelitis of the left fifth digit that was resistant to treatment with antibiotics; she underwent debridement of the digit that revealed mcc and was later to have metastatic disease to her lungs, liver, and musculoskeletal system. The management of mcc, although simple in the early stage of the disease, can become challenging when it is more advanced. Multiple new modalities for its treatment have emerged over the last few years, and more recently, clinical trials are being conducted for the use of immunotherapy agents in the treatment of this malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Safa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Staten Island University Hospital, Staten Island, NY, USA
| | - M Pant
- Department of Internal Medicine, Staten Island University Hospital, Staten Island, NY, USA
| | - C Weerasinghe
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Staten Island University Hospital, Staten Island, NY, USA; and
| | - R Felix
- Department of Pathology, Staten Island University Hospital, Staten Island, NY, USA
| | - T Terjanian
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Staten Island University Hospital, Staten Island, NY, USA; and
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Patibandla JR, Fehniger JE, Levine DA, Jelinic P. Small cell cancers of the female genital tract: Molecular and clinical aspects. Gynecol Oncol 2018; 149:420-427. [PMID: 29458976 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2018.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Revised: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Extra-pulmonary small cell carcinomas of the gynecologic tract (EPSCC-GTs) are a rare group of aggressive malignancies associated with poor prognoses and limited treatment options. Here, we review the clinical and molecular aspects of EPSCC-GTs and discuss how understanding their molecular features can assist in their diagnosis and the identification of novel effective treatments. METHODS We searched PubMed and Scopus for articles using the following keywords: "small cell carcinoma" in combination with "neuroendocrine", "ovary", "vagina", "fallopian tube", "vulva", "endometrium", "uterus", "cervix", or "gynecologic". Articles were limited to those published in English from January 1984 to October 2017. RESULTS EPSCC-GTs account for 2% of all gynecologic malignancies. The molecular features of EPSCC-GTs are largely understudied and unknown, with the exception of small cell carcinoma (SCC) of the ovary, hypercalcemic type (SCCOHT) and SCC of the cervix (SCCC). In nearly all cases, SCCOHT displays mutation in a single gene, SMARCA4, a member of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex. The loss of expression of the SWI/SNF protein SMARCA2 is another feature of SCCOHT. Dual negative staining for SMARCA2 and SMARCA4 is specific for SCCOHT and is generally used by gynecologic pathologists for the accurate diagnosis of this malignancy. Mutational analysis of SCCC has shown alterations in PIK3CA, KRAS and TP53, of which the last is the most common, although other actionable mutations have been identified. The molecular features of other EPSCC-GTs are largely unknown. CONCLUSIONS Due to their rarity, the majority of EPSCC-GTs are understudied and poorly understood. As demonstrated in the case of SCCOHT, unraveling the mutational profiles of these tumors can lead to improved diagnosis and the identification of novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay R Patibandla
- Gynecologic Oncology, Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Julia E Fehniger
- Gynecologic Oncology, Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Douglas A Levine
- Gynecologic Oncology, Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, United States
| | - Petar Jelinic
- Gynecologic Oncology, Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, United States.
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De Cicco L, Vavassori A, Jereczek-Fossa BA, Pruneri G, Catalano G, Ferrari AM, Orecchia R. Lymph Node Metastases of Merkel Cell Carcinoma from Unknown Primary Site: Report of Three Cases. TUMORI JOURNAL 2018; 94:758-61. [DOI: 10.1177/030089160809400522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an uncommon aggressive neuroendocrine skin carcinoma. It usually affects sun-exposed skin of white elderly people. MCC is characterized by a high incidence of early locoregional relapse and distant metastases. Because of its rarity and the resulting lack of prospective randomized trials, data regarding the optimal treatment of MCC are limited. Despite aggressive multimodality treatment, the prognosis of patients bearing MCC is often poor. We report three cases of lymph node metastases of MCC with unknown primary sites. Two patients died 17 and 28 months after diagnosis due to brain and pancreatic metastases, respectively, without evidence of cutaneous disease. The third patient is alive and free of tumor at 16 months from the diagnosis. After an accurate diagnosis of lymph node metastases from MCC, the absence of a primary tumor at complete initial evaluation and during adequate follow-up can confirm this particular clinical scenario. The prognosis seems to be analogous to that of cases with similar disease stage (lymph node involvement) but a known primary site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi De Cicco
- Division of Radiotherapy, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Radiation, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Vavassori
- Division of Radiotherapy, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara A Jereczek-Fossa
- Division of Radiotherapy, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Pruneri
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Roberto Orecchia
- Division of Radiotherapy, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Rush PS, Rosenbaum JN, Roy M, Baus RM, Bennett DD, Lloyd RV. Insulinoma-associated 1: A novel nuclear marker in Merkel cell carcinoma (cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma). J Cutan Pathol 2017; 45:129-135. [PMID: 29148079 DOI: 10.1111/cup.13079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Revised: 10/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, clinically aggressive, cutaneous neuroendocrine (NE) neoplasm. As a tumor with small, round, blue cells, the histologic differential diagnosis for MCC can include melanoma, metastatic small cell carcinoma (SCC), nodular hematopoietic tumors, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), atypical variants of squamous carcinoma and the uncommon occurrence of primary cutaneous Ewing sarcoma. In cases with atypical histology or without the classic immunophenotype, the diagnosis can be challenging. Ultimately, immunohistochemistry (IHC) is essential to the definitive diagnosis of MCC and in difficult cases, the diagnosis may hinge entirely on the immunophenotype of the tumor cells. Insulinoma-associated 1 (INSM1) is a transcription factor expressed in tissues undergoing terminal NE differentiation. As a nuclear protein tied to both differentiation and the cell cycle, INSM1 may offer additional utility in comparison to traditional, cytoplasmic markers of NE differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick S Rush
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Jason N Rosenbaum
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Madhuchhanda Roy
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Rebecca M Baus
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Daniel D Bennett
- Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Ricardo V Lloyd
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, Wisconsin
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Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive skin cancer with a neuroendocrine phenotype. Incidence varies according to the geographic regions but is overall increasing. Different risk factors have been identified namely advanced age, immunosuppression, and ultraviolet light exposure. An association between MCC and polyomavirus infection is known. However, the exact mechanism that leads to carcinogenesis is yet to be fully understood. Surgery when feasible is the recommended treatment for localized disease, followed by adjuvant radiation or chemoradiation. In the metastatic setting, chemotherapy has been the standard treatment. However, two recently published trials with immune checkpoint inhibitors in first and second line showed promising results with a tolerable safety profile and these might become the standard therapy shortly. Somatostatin receptors are expressed in many MCC but such expression is not associated with disease severity. Presently there are no biomarkers predictive of response that could help to better select patients to these new therapies, and additional research is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Amaral
- Center for Dermatooncology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Tuebingen, Liebermeisterstr. 25, 72076, Tuebingen, Germany
- Portuguese Air Force Health Direction, Paço do Lumiar, 1649-020, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ulrike Leiter
- Center for Dermatooncology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Tuebingen, Liebermeisterstr. 25, 72076, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Claus Garbe
- Center for Dermatooncology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Tuebingen, Liebermeisterstr. 25, 72076, Tuebingen, Germany.
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50
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Bommareddy PK, Kaufman HL. Avelumab and other recent advances in Merkel cell carcinoma. Future Oncol 2017; 13:2771-2783. [PMID: 28976209 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2017-0305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but aggressive form of skin cancer that occurs in the elderly, is associated with UV radiation and immunosuppression. Initial treatment consists of wide excision with adjuvant radiation. Although the tumor is sensitive to chemotherapy, long-term survival is unusual and there had been no US FDA-approved drugs prior to 2017. The recognition that MCC is associated with the Merkel cell polyomavirus occurs more commonly in immune-compromised patients and tumors express PD-L1 suggested testing immunotherapy. A study of an anti-PD-L1 antibody, avelumab, in chemotherapy-refractory MCC demonstrated a response rate of 31.8% resulting in FDA approval in March 2017 and EMA in September 2017. This review will discuss the disease, role of avelumab and other emerging treatment strategies for MCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praveen K Bommareddy
- Departments of Surgery & Medicine, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Howard L Kaufman
- Departments of Surgery & Medicine, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
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