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Dimas A, Goussia A, Papoudou-Bai A, Politi A, Paschopoulos M, Navrozoglou I, Makrigiannakis A, Vrekoussis T. The expression of corticotropin-releasing hormone family peptides in premalignant and malignant vulvar lesions. Clin Transl Oncol 2024; 26:260-268. [PMID: 37382757 PMCID: PMC10761541 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-023-03249-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the relation of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) family peptides with inflammatory processes and oncogenesis, emphasizing in vulvar inflammatory, premalignant and malignant lesions, as well as to investigate the possibility of lesion cells immunoescaping, utilizing FAS/FAS-L complex. METHODS Immunohistochemical expression of CRH, urocortin (UCN), FasL and their receptors CRHR1, CRHR2 and Fas was studied in vulvar tissue sections obtained from patients with histologically confirmed diagnosis of lichen, vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) and vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC). The patient cohort was selected from a tertiary teaching Hospital in Greece, between 2005 and 2015. For each of the disease categories, immunohistochemical staining was evaluated and the results were statistically compared. RESULTS A progressive increase of the cytoplasmic immunohistochemical expression of CRH and UCN, from precancerous lesions to VSCC was observed. A similar increase was detected for Fas and FasL expression. Nuclear localization of UCN was demonstrated in both premalignant and VSCC lesions, with staining being significantly intensified in carcinomas, particularly in the less differentiated tumor areas or in the areas at invasive tumor front. CONCLUSIONS Stress response system and CRH family peptides seem to have a role in inflammation maintenance and progression of vulvar premalignant lesions to malignancy. It seems that stress peptides may locally modulate the stroma through Fas/FasL upregulation, possibly contributing to vulvar cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Goussia
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece
- Department of Pathology, German Oncology Center, Limassol, Cyprus
| | - Alexandra Papoudou-Bai
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Anastasia Politi
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, Andreas Syggros Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 16121, Athens, Greece
| | - Minas Paschopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Iordanis Navrozoglou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Antonis Makrigiannakis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Health Science, University of Crete, 71500, Iraklio, Greece
| | - Thomas Vrekoussis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Health Science, University of Crete, 71500, Iraklio, Greece
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Schechter SA, Chan MP, Muthusamy S, Skala SL, Wang GY. Interobserver Agreement Across Subspecialties for Diagnosis of Differentiated Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia and Predictive Values of 20 Histologic Features. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2023; 147:1431-1437. [PMID: 36821250 DOI: 10.5858/arpa.2022-0088-oa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT.— Differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN) is a human papillomavirus-independent lesion with the potential for rapid progression to invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The histopathologic features of dVIN are diverse, have overlapping characteristics with lichen sclerosus (LS) and lichen simplex chronicus (LSC), and may be diagnosed by dermatopathologists or gynecologic pathologists because of the vulva's anatomic location. OBJECTIVES.— To identify the salient histopathologic features of dVIN, particularly those that predict progression to SCC, and to evaluate interobserver agreement in diagnosing dVIN within the same subspecialty and across subspecialties. DESIGN.— One general surgical pathologist, 2 pathology-trained dermatopathologists, and 1 gynecologic pathologist blinded to the final diagnoses were asked to record 20 histopathologic features and to provide their final interpretations on cases of dVIN (n = 65), LS (n = 126), LSC (n = 112), and LS with LSC (n = 6). RESULTS.— Interobserver agreement for the 4 diagnoses and 10 histopathologic features was moderate. Logistic regression analysis indicated that keratin pearls, basal pleomorphism, and basal layer disarray were independent variables for diagnosing dVIN (coefficients 1.95, 1.97, and 0.91, respectively; P < .001) and progression to SCC (coefficients 1.96, 1.20, and 1.08, respectively; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS.— There is no single histopathologic feature pathognomonic for dVIN; however, the presence of keratin pearls, basal pleomorphism, and basal layer disarray should raise high suspicion for dVIN and concurrent SCC. Expertise in both dermatologic and gynecologic pathology is beneficial for diagnosing dVIN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shula A Schechter
- From the Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (Schechter)
| | - May P Chan
- The Department of Pathology (Chan, Skala), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
- The Department of Dermatology (Chan), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Selvaraj Muthusamy
- The Department of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond (Muthusamy), Royal Oak, Michigan
| | - Stephanie L Skala
- The Department of Pathology (Chan, Skala), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
- The Rogel Cancer Center (Skala), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Grace Y Wang
- The Department of Pathology, Beaumont Health, Royal Oak, Michigan (Wang)
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Xi R, Li D, Yang S, Zhang H, Hu L, Wang X, Wang G, Wang Y. Identification of potential prognostic biomarkers in vulval squamous cell carcinoma based on human papillomavirus infection Status-Analysis of GSE183454. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2023; 43:2160930. [PMID: 36689258 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2022.2160930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to elucidate the differences in vulval squamous cell carcinomas (VSCC) based on the HPV infection status. The sequencing data GSE183454 which contains 23 VSCC samples based on its HPV infection status was obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. We comprehensively dissected the differences of genomic and tumour microenvironment (TME) immune cell infiltration landscapes between HPV + and HPV- VSCC. The potential molecular mechanisms of prognostic genes were explored by functional enrichment analysis. Five novel key molecules (SYCP2, SMC1B, RNF212, MAJIN and C14orf39) with significantly up-regulated expression in HPV + VSCC were identified while protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were created upon Cytoscape software. Additionally, VSCC with up-regulated expression of these key molecules exhibited a significantly decreased TME immune cell infiltration. SYCP2 is overexpressed in HPV + VSCC and could be a candidate therapy target for further research.IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on this subject? VSCC are characterised by two aetiological pathways. The former occurs in the background of lichen sclerosus, while the latter is related to HPV infection. VSCC most commonly arises from the non-HPV related pathway portends worse prognosis than VSCC derived from HPV infection.What do the results of this study add? Five key molecules are identified and significantly up-regulated in HPV + VSCC. In which, SYCP2 is overexpressed in HPV + VSCC and exhibited a significantly decreased TME immune cell infiltration. SYCP2 constant expression could be a potential biomarker of neoplasms associated with HPV and could be a candidate therapy target in VSCC especially HPV + VSCC for further research.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? SYCP2 could be a candidate therapy target in VSCC especially with HPV + for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruxing Xi
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Donghong Li
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Shuanque Yang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Lijuan Hu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaowei Wang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Guoqing Wang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Nursing, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, Xi'an, China
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Finger AE, Riechardt S, Dahlem R, Soave A, Rink M, Sauter G, Contreras H, Steinhilper L, Fisch M, Vetterlein MW, Schuettfort VM. ‘Case of the Month’ from University Medical Center Hamburg‐Eppendorf, Germany: vulvar cancer after female–male gender reassignment. BJU Int 2022; 131:685-688. [DOI: 10.1111/bju.15884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Silke Riechardt
- Department of Urology University Medical Center Hamburg‐Eppendorf Hamburg Germany
| | - Roland Dahlem
- Department of Urology University Medical Center Hamburg‐Eppendorf Hamburg Germany
| | - Armin Soave
- Department of Urology University Medical Center Hamburg‐Eppendorf Hamburg Germany
| | - Michael Rink
- Department of Urology University Medical Center Hamburg‐Eppendorf Hamburg Germany
| | - Guido Sauter
- Institute of Pathology University Medical Center Hamburg‐Eppendorf Hamburg Germany
| | - Hendrina Contreras
- Institute of Pathology University Medical Center Hamburg‐Eppendorf Hamburg Germany
| | - Lisa Steinhilper
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics University Medical Center Hamburg‐Eppendorf Hamburg Germany
| | - Margit Fisch
- Department of Urology University Medical Center Hamburg‐Eppendorf Hamburg Germany
| | - Malte W. Vetterlein
- Department of Urology University Medical Center Hamburg‐Eppendorf Hamburg Germany
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Yoshida H, Shiraishi K, Kato T. Molecular Pathology of Human Papilloma Virus-Negative Cervical Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13246351. [PMID: 34944973 PMCID: PMC8699825 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide and is predominantly caused by infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). However, a small subset of cervical cancers tests negative for HPV, including true HPV-independent cancers and false-negative cases. True HPV-negative cancers appear to be more prevalent in certain pathological adenocarcinoma subtypes, such as gastric- and clear-cell-type adenocarcinomas. Moreover, HPV-negative cervical cancers have proven to be a biologically distinct tumor subset that follows a different pathogenetic pathway to HPV-associated cervical cancers. HPV-negative cervical cancers are often diagnosed at an advanced stage with a poor prognosis and are expected to persist in the post-HPV vaccination era; therefore, it is important to understand HPV-negative cancers. In this review, we provide a concise overview of the molecular pathology of HPV-negative cervical cancers, with a focus on their definitions, the potential causes of false-negative HPV tests, and the histology, genetic profiles, and pathogenesis of HPV-negative cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Yoshida
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-3-3457-5201
| | - Kouya Shiraishi
- Division of Genome Biology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan;
| | - Tomoyasu Kato
- Department of Gynecology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan;
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Management of Vulvar Cancer Precursors: A Survey of the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2021; 24:387-391. [PMID: 32986387 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to determine how experts treat vulvar high-grade squamous intraepithelial neoplasia (VHSIL) and differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN). METHOD A 26-question survey was designed through a literature review, reviewed by the Survey Committee of the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD), and distributed to all ISSVD members via e-mail in January 2019. RESULTS Overall, 90 of 441 physician members consented to participate and 78 of 90 were eligible to complete the survey. Most respondents were gynecologists (77%), followed by dermatologists (12%). Forty-five percent responded that their pathology was being reported using the 2015 ISSVD terminology of vulvar squamous intraepithelial lesions. The most common first-line treatments were as follows: unifocal VHSIL-excision (65%), multifocal VHSIL-imiquimod 5% (45%), VHSIL in a hair-bearing area-excision (69%), and clitoral disease-imiquimod 5% (47%). In the recurrent VHSIL, excision was favored (28%), followed by imiquimod 5% (26%) and laser (19%). Differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia was most often first treated with excision (82%), and more patients were referred to gynecologic oncology. Most patients were seen in follow-up at 3 months (range: 1 week-6 months). Sixty-seven respondents provided 26 different ways to follow treated patients, which were most commonly every 6 months for 2 years and then yearly (25%), followed by every 6 months indefinitely (18%). CONCLUSIONS Treatment of VHSIL and dVIN varies among vulvar experts with excision being the most common treatment, except in multifocal VHSIL where imiquimod is commonly used. There is wide variation in how patients are followed after treatment.
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Molecular characterization of invasive and in situ squamous neoplasia of the vulva and implications for morphologic diagnosis and outcome. Mod Pathol 2021; 34:508-518. [PMID: 32792599 DOI: 10.1038/s41379-020-00651-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV)-independent vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) is an aggressive clinical entity. Current diagnostic guidelines for premalignant lesions are ambiguous, and their molecular profile and progression events are still unclear. We selected 75 samples, from 40 patients, including 33 VSCC, 8 verrucous carcinomas (VC), 13 differentiated-type vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN), 11 suspicious for dVIN (?dVIN), 6 differentiated exophytic vulvar intraepithelial lesions (DE-VIL), 2 vulvar acanthosis with altered differentiation (VAAD), and 2 usual-type vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (uVIN/HSIL). Invasive and precursor lesions were matched in 29 cases. Clinical information, p16 immunohistochemistry, and mutation analysis were performed on all lesions. All dVIN, ?dVIN, DE-VIL, and VAAD were p16 negative, all uVIN/HSIL were p16 positive. In the HPV-independent group, mutations were identified in 6 genes: TP53 (n = 40), PIK3CA (n = 20), HRAS (n = 12), MET (n = 5), PTEN (n = 4), and BRAF (n = 1). TP53 mutations occurred in 73% (22/30) VSCC, 85% (11/13) dVIN, 70% (7/10) ?dVIN and no VC (0/8), DE-VIL (0/6) nor VAAD (0/2). Basal atypia was the only reliable feature of TP53 mutations. ?dVIN lesions that were non-acanthotic and atypical but obscured by inflammation, all harbored TP53 mutations. In lesions without TP53 mutations, PIK3CA (50% VC, 33% DE-VIL, 100% VAAD, 40% VSCC) and HRAS (63% VC, 33% DE-VIL, 0% VAAD, 20% VSCC) mutations were found. Mutational progression from in situ to invasive was seen (7/26, 27%) and usually involved TP53 (4/26, 15%). Cases with TP53 and PIK3CA co-mutations had the worse clinical outcomes (p < 0.001). We recommend testing for p53 in all HPV-independent lesions suspicious for dVIN, even in the presence of marked inflammation or non-acanthotic skin, particularly when close to a margin. VC, VAAD, and DE-VIL, were almost never mutated for TP53, but instead often harbored PIK3CA and HRAS mutations. In VSCC, combined TP53 and PIK3CA mutations may inform prognosis.
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8
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Heller DS, Day T, Allbritton JI, Scurry J, Radici G, Welch K, Preti M. Diagnostic Criteria for Differentiated Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia and Vulvar Aberrant Maturation. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2021; 25:57-70. [PMID: 33105449 PMCID: PMC7748053 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to describe the features required for diagnosis of differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN) and vulvar aberrant maturation (VAM). MATERIALS AND METHODS The International Society of the Study of Vulvovaginal Diseases tasked the difficult pathologic diagnoses committee to develop consensus recommendations for clinicopathologic diagnosis of vulvar lichen planus, lichen sclerosus, and dVIN. The dVIN subgroup reviewed the literature and formulated diagnostic criteria that were reviewed by the committee and then approved by the International Society of the Study of Vulvovaginal Diseases membership. RESULTS Differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia is the immediate precursor of human papillomavirus (HPV)-independent vulvar squamous cell carcinoma and shows a spectrum of clinical and microscopic appearances, some overlapping with HPV-related neoplasia. The histopathologic definition of dVIN is basal atypia combined with negative or nonblock-positive p16 and basal overexpressed, aberrant negative, or wild-type p53. The most common pattern of dVIN is keratinizing with acanthosis, aberrant rete ridge pattern, and premature maturation. The morphologic spectrum of keratinizing dVIN includes hypertrophic, atrophic, acantholytic, and subtle forms. A few dVIN cases are nonkeratinizing, with basaloid cells replacing more than 60% of epithelium. Vulvar aberrant maturation is an umbrella term for lesions with aberrant maturation that arise out of lichenoid dermatitis and lack the basal atypia required for dVIN. CONCLUSIONS Evaluation of women at risk for dVIN and VAM requires a collaborative approach by clinicians and pathologists experienced in vulvar disorders. Close surveillance of women with lichen sclerosus and use of these recommendations may assist in prevention of HPV-independent squamous cell carcinoma through detection and treatment of dVIN and VAM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tania Day
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - James Scurry
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
- NSW Health Pathology, Hunter New England, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
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Pouwer AFW, VAN DEN Einden LCG, VAN DER Linden M, Hehir-Kwa JY, Yu J, Hendriks KM, Kamping EJ, Eijkelenboom A, Massuger LFAG, Bulten J, VAN Tilborg AAG, DE Hullu JA, Kuiper RP. Clonal Relationship Between Lichen Sclerosus, Differentiated Vulvar Intra-epithelial Neoplasia and Non HPV-related Vulvar Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2020; 17:151-160. [PMID: 32108037 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN) and lichen sclerosus (LS) can give rise to vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC), but genetic evidence is currently still limited. We aimed to determine genetic abnormalities in VSCC and backtrack these abnormalities in the dVIN and LS lesions. MATERIALS AND METHODS DNA from VSCC and patient-matched dVIN and LS samples of twelve patients was collected. High-resolution genome-wide copy number analysis was performed and subsequently, we sequenced TP53. RESULTS Copy number alterations were identified in all VSCC samples. One dVIN lesion presented with three copy number alterations that were preserved in the paired VSCC sample. Targeted sequencing of TP53 identified mutations in five VSCCs. All five mutations were traced back in the dVIN (n=5) or the LS (n=1) with frequencies ranging from 3-19%. CONCLUSION Our data provide genetic evidence for a clonal relationship between VSCC and dVIN or LS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Floor W Pouwer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Loes C G VAN DEN Einden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Michelle VAN DER Linden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Jayne Y Hehir-Kwa
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.,Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jiangyan Yu
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Koen M Hendriks
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Eveline J Kamping
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Astrid Eijkelenboom
- Department of Pathology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Leon F A G Massuger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Johan Bulten
- Department of Pathology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Joanne A DE Hullu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Roland P Kuiper
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.,Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Associated Lichen Sclerosis Increases the Risk of Lymph Node Metastases of Vulvar Cancer. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9010250. [PMID: 31963481 PMCID: PMC7019519 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9010250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The most important prognostic factor in vulvar cancer is inguinal lymph node status at the time of diagnosis, even in locally advanced vulvar tumors. The aim of our study was to identify the risk factors of lymph node involvement in these women, especially the impact of lichen sclerosis (LS). We conducted a retrospective population-based cross-sectional study in two French referral gynecologic oncology institutions. We included all women diagnosed with a primary invasive vulvar cancer. Epithelial alteration adjacent to the invasive carcinoma was found in 96.8% (n = 395). The most frequently associated was LS in 27.7% (n = 113). In univariate analysis, LS (p = 0.009); usual type VIN (p = 0.04); tumor size >2 cm and/or local extension to vagina, urethra or anus (p < 0.01), positive margins (p < 0.01), thickness (p < 0.01) and lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) (p < 0.01) were significantly associated with lymph node involvement. In multivariate analysis, only LS (OR 2.3, 95% CI [1.2-4.3]) and LVSI (OR 5.6, 95% CI [1.7-18.6]) remained significantly associated with positive lymph node. LS was significantly associated with older patients (p = 0.005), anterior localization (p = 0.017) and local extension (tumor size > 2 cm: p = 0.001). LS surrounding vulvar cancer is an independent factor of lymph node involvement, with local extension and LVSI.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aim of this article is to provide clinicians and pathologists with an understanding of the aetiopathology, pathogenesis and classification of vulval neoplasia and their molecular correlates. RECENT FINDINGS There is an increased understanding of subcellular changes in vulvar malignancies. These provide the direction for further research and aid personalised treatment for patients. The article explores concepts of the aetiology of vulvar cancer and updates the reader with the equivalence of terminology of preneoplastic vulval disease. The differential diagnosis of squamous neoplasia and their clinicopathological correlation is detailed. The salient findings from recent literature into the understanding of the disease of squamous cell neoplasia and rare vulvar malignancies are summarised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Williams
- Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, 1st Floor Labs, Mindelsohn Way, Birmingham, B15 2TG, UK
| | - Sheeba Syed
- Pathology Department, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Glasgow, 1345 Govan Road, Laboratory Medicine and Facility Building, Glasgow, G51 4TF, UK
| | - Shireen Velangi
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Mindelsohn Way, Birmingham, B15 2TG, UK
| | - Raji Ganesan
- Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, 1st Floor Labs, Mindelsohn Way, Birmingham, B15 2TG, UK.
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Abdulrahman Z, Kortekaas KE, De Vos Van Steenwijk PJ, Van Der Burg SH, Van Poelgeest MIE. The immune microenvironment in vulvar (pre)cancer: review of literature and implications for immunotherapy. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2018; 18:1223-1233. [DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2018.1542426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ziena Abdulrahman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Kim E Kortekaas
- Department of Gynaecology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Sjoerd H Van Der Burg
- Department of Medical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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13
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Pleunis N, Leermakers MEJ, van der Wurff AA, Klinkhamer PJJM, Ezendam NPM, Boll D, de Hullu JA, Pijnenborg JMA. Surgical margins in squamous cell carcinoma, different for the vulva? Eur J Surg Oncol 2018; 44:1555-1561. [PMID: 29934053 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2018.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The recommended pathological resection margin (8 mm) for vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is broader than for SCC located elsewhere, and does not depend on tumor grade or lesion size. Our aim is to evaluate the resection margin in vulvar SCC in relation to local recurrence, and to determine the impact of other prognostic factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS Data of all surgically treated patients at the Gynecological Oncology Center South with vulvar SCC, FIGO IB-IIIC, between 2005 and 2015 were analysed retrospectively. The relation between the pathological resection margin and other clinicopathological factors with the risk of local recurrence was analysed. RESULTS In this cohort of 167 patients, the tumor was radically removed in 87% of the patients. Yet, in 57% the pathological resection margin was <8 mm. Including re-excisions, the median closest margin was 7.0 mm. There was no significant difference in the risk of local recurrence for a resection margin <8 mm or ≥8 mm (25.0% (n = 20) and 22.2% (n = 16)), nor in the median resection margin of patients with or without local recurrence (6.5 mm and 7.0 mm). Lichen sclerosus was the only significant risk factor for local recurrence. CONCLUSION A pathological resection margin <8 mm was not related to an increased risk of local recurrence. The most important predictor of local recurrence was the presence of lichen sclerosus. A resection margin <8 mm in vulvar SCC can therefore be accepted, especially in tumors located close to clitoris, urethra or anus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noortje Pleunis
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Tilburg, The Netherlands; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Maria E J Leermakers
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Nicole P M Ezendam
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Eindhoven, The Netherlands; Department of Medical Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Dorry Boll
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Joanne A de Hullu
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Johanna M A Pijnenborg
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Tilburg, The Netherlands; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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HPV-independent Differentiated Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (dVIN) is Associated With an Aggressive Clinical Course. Int J Gynecol Pathol 2018; 36:507-516. [PMID: 28319571 DOI: 10.1097/pgp.0000000000000375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Differentiated vulvar intrapeithelial neoplasia (dVIN) is an human papillomavirus (HPV)-independent precursor of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and the aim of this study was to better characterize its natural history. Cases of dVIN were identified from the pathology archives. Outcomes of patients with dVIN only, without associated invasive SCC, were compared with a cohort of patients with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion [HSIL(VIN3)]. Eighteen patients diagnosed with dVIN with adjacent invasive SCC (SCC/dVIN) and 7 patients with dVIN only, without invasive carcinoma, were identified. Mean age in both cohorts was 75 yr. All lesions but 1 were unifocal. In 35% of SCC/dVIN cases the surgical resection margins were positive for SCC, with 75% and 60% having margins positive for dVIN in the SCC/dVIN and dVIN-only cohorts, respectively. In total, 23/25 women with dVIN only or dVIN/SCC, for whom there was follow-up information, experienced either progression to or recurrence of invasive SCC, respectively, at a median of 1.1 yr, including all but 1 case of dVIN only, where the median time of progression to invasive SCC was 1.9 yr. A total of 22/25 women died of disease with a median overall survival of 3.4 yr. The outcome (i.e. progression to invasive carcinoma) of patients with dVIN only was significantly worse than that of a comparison group of 18 patients with HSIL(VIN3) (progression-free survival log-rank, P<0.001; disease-specific survival, P=0.04; overall survival, P=0.01). Six of 7 patients with dVIN only developed invasive carcinoma on follow-up, compared with 0 of 18 patients with HSIL(VIN3). The diagnosis of dVIN indicates the presence of a high-risk human papillomavirus-negative precursor of invasive SCC. These patients are likely to progress to invasive carcinoma over a relatively short period, at which point their prognosis is guarded.
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15
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Assessment of CK17 as a Marker for the Diagnosis of Differentiated Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia. Int J Gynecol Pathol 2018; 36:273-280. [PMID: 27513074 DOI: 10.1097/pgp.0000000000000317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN), precursor of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma, is human papilloma virus independent and often found in a background of lichen sclerosus (LS) and lichen simplex chronicus (LSC). Subtle histologic findings make the diagnosis of dVIN difficult, and, although the use of p53 and Ki-67 has been of some value, there is a need for a better immunohistochemical marker. Cytokeratin 17 (CK17), a cytoskeletal intermediate filament protein, has previously been used in the diagnosis of anogenital lesions. Here we evaluated CK17 in dVIN in comparison with LS, LSC, and usual VIN (uVIN/HSIL). Twenty-nine cases of dVIN, 9 cases of uVIN, 8 cases of LS, and 7 of LSC were evaluated using CK17, Ki-67, and p53. All 29 dVIN cases displayed immunoreactivity for CK17, with 27 (93%) showing intermediate to strong and diffuse reactivity. No cases of uVIN displayed diffuse CK17 expression, whereas 63% of LS and 29% of LSC displayed intermediate to strong diffuse immunoreactivity, confined to the upper half of the epithelium. P53 and Ki-67 expression was present in varying degrees in all types of lesions, displaying limited discriminatory power for dVIN. Our findings suggest that CK17, although not specific for dVIN, when combined with histologic findings, Ki-67, and p53 immunohistochemistry, can be a marker of vulvar dysplasia and serve as an adjunct in the diagnosis of dVIN. Specifically, in small biopsies, the presence of diffuse suprabasal or full thickness expression strongly favors a diagnosis of dVIN over LSC, whereas focal and/or superficial expression supports a diagnosis of LSC.
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Tosti G, Iacobone AD, Preti EP, Vaccari S, Barisani A, Pennacchioli E, Cantisani C. The Role of Photodynamic Therapy in the Treatment of Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia. Biomedicines 2018; 6:biomedicines6010013. [PMID: 29393881 PMCID: PMC5874670 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines6010013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia is a non-invasive precursor lesion found in 50–70% of patients affected by vulvar squamous cell carcinoma. In the past, radical surgery was the standard treatment for vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia, however, considering the psychological and physical morbidities related to extensive surgery, several less aggressive treatment modalities have been proposed since the late 1970s. Photodynamic therapy is an effective and safe treatment for cutaneous non-melanoma skin cancer, with favorable cosmetic outcomes. Methods: in the present paper, the results of selected studies on photodynamic therapy in the treatment of vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia are reported and discussed. Results: Overall, complete histological response rates ranged between 20% and 67% and symptom response rates ranged between 52% and 89% according to different studies and case series. Conclusions: the real benefit of photodynamic therapy in the setting of vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia lies in its ability to treat multi-focal disease with minimal tissue destruction, preservation of vulvar anatomy and excellent cosmetic outcomes. These properties explain why photodynamic therapy is an attractive option for vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Tosti
- Division of Melanoma, Soft Tissue Sarcomas and Rare Tumors, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia, Via G. Ripamonti 437, 20141 Milano, Italy.
| | | | | | - Sabina Vaccari
- Unit of Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Policlinico Sant'Orsola-Malpighi, 40138 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Alessia Barisani
- Unit of Dermatology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Policlinico Sant'Orsola-Malpighi, 40138 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Elisabetta Pennacchioli
- Division of Melanoma, Soft Tissue Sarcomas and Rare Tumors, Istituto Europeo di Oncologia, Via G. Ripamonti 437, 20141 Milano, Italy.
| | - Carmen Cantisani
- Department of Dermatology, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy.
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17
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Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is involved in one of the at least 2 pathways leading to vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC). Inactivation of p53 and retinoblastoma by the viral products E6 and E7 is involved in malignant transformation. The percentage of HPV-positive VSCCs ranges from 18% to 75%, depending on the geographical area. HPV-associated tumors affect relatively young women and arise from high-grade intraepithelial lesions, identical to other HPV-associated premalignant lesions of the anogenital tract. HPV-independent tumors tend to affect older women and usually arise in a background of inflammatory skin disorders and a subtle variant of in situ lesion called differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia. HPV-positive tumors tend to be of basaloid or warty types, whereas HPV-independent tumors tend to be of keratinizing type, but there is frequent overlap between histologic types. There is no conclusive evidence yet on the best strategy in terms of determining HPV attribution. HPV DNA detection is generally considered the gold standard although there is some concern about misclassification when using this technique alone. p16 immunostaining has shown to be an excellent surrogate marker of HPV infection. Positive results for both techniques are considered the best evidence for HPV-association. The prognostic role of HPV in VSCC is still contradictory, but increasing evidence suggests that HPV-associated tumors are less aggressive. Currently, there are no differences in treatment between HPV-associated and HPV-independent VSCC, but novel immunological strategies based on anti-HPV antigens are being evaluated in clinical trials.
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18
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The Natural History of Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia, Differentiated Type: Evidence for Progression and Diagnostic Challenges. Int J Gynecol Pathol 2017; 35:574-584. [PMID: 26974999 DOI: 10.1097/pgp.0000000000000280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva (SCCV) develops through either human papillomavirus (HPV)-dependent or HPV-independent pathways. Approximately 60% of SCCV arise independently of HPV, commonly in a background of an inflammatory dermatosis, particularly lichen sclerosus. The likely direct precursor to most of these lesions is vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN), differentiated type (dVIN), although the evidence is largely circumstantial. There are few reports of progression to carcinoma, and the natural history of this pathway is not well understood. Nevertheless, dVIN is widely regarded as a potentially aggressive lesion. We identified dVIN adjacent to SCCV in 97 of 212 women (45.8%). Twenty-four of the 97 women (24.7%) had biopsies performed at least 6 mo before presentation with SCCV; slides for 47 biopsies from 21 women were available for review. dVIN was identified in 18 biopsies from 8 women (38.1%), which in 14 biopsies had been previously unrecognized. The subsequent cancer developed in the same region as the previous biopsy showing dVIN in 6 of the 8 women. The median interval between biopsy and invasive cancer was 43.5 mo (range, 8-102 mo). dVIN-associated SCCV was strongly associated with both lichen sclerosus, and HPV-negative status compared with usual type VIN (relative risk=38.35 (9.755-150.8) and 0.06485 (0.02764-0.1522), respectively). This study adds to the evidence linking dVIN with SCCV, and indicates that both clinical and histologic underrecognition contribute to the apparent rarity of dVIN as a solitary diagnosis. The morphologic spectrum of dVIN is likely to be wider than commonly appreciated; however, histologically defining the lower threshold is difficult and controversial.
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19
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Halonen P, Jakobsson M, Heikinheimo O, Riska A, Gissler M, Pukkala E. Lichen sclerosus and risk of cancer. Int J Cancer 2017; 140:1998-2002. [PMID: 28124469 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.30621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Revised: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Malignant potential of lichen sclerosus (LS) has been suspected, but evidence is sparse. We used the population-based Finnish Cancer Registry data to further study this connection. We identified all women with the diagnosis of LS (n = 7,616) listed in the Finnish Hospital Discharge Registry from 1970 to 2012. The cohort was followed through the Finnish Cancer Registry for subsequent cancer diagnoses until 2014. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) were calculated for different cancers by dividing the observed numbers of cancers by expected ones. The expected numbers were based on national cancer incidence rates. During the follow-up period, we found 812 cancers among patients with LS (SIR: 1.13, 95% CI 1.05-1.21). LS was associated with an increased risk of vulvar (182 cases, SIR: 33.6, 95% CI 28.9-38.6) and vaginal cancer (4 cases, SIR: 3.69, 95% CI 1.01-9.44). The risk of cancers of the uterine cervix and lung was significantly decreased. LS is associated with an increased risk for vulvar and vaginal cancer. These data are important when designing the care of women diagnosed with LS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia Halonen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Maija Jakobsson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Oskari Heikinheimo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Annika Riska
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mika Gissler
- Information Services Department, THL National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Family Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eero Pukkala
- Finnish Cancer Registry, Institute for Statistical and Epidemiological Cancer Research, Helsinki, Finland.,Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Tampere, Finland
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20
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Prognostic importance of human papillomavirus (HPV) and p16 positivity in squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva treated with radiotherapy. Gynecol Oncol 2016; 142:293-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2016.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Revised: 05/16/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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21
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Nooij LS, Brand FAM, Gaarenstroom KN, Creutzberg CL, de Hullu JA, van Poelgeest MIE. Risk factors and treatment for recurrent vulvar squamous cell carcinoma. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2016; 106:1-13. [PMID: 27637349 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2016.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Revised: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent disease occurs in 12-37% of patients with vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC). Decisions about treatment of recurrent VSCC mainly depend on the location of the recurrence and previous treatment, resulting in individualized and consensus-based approaches. Most recurrences (40-80%) occur within 2 years after initial treatment. Currently, wide local excision is the treatment of choice for local recurrences. Isolated local recurrence of VSCC has a good prognosis, with reported 5-year survival rates of up to 60%. Groin recurrences and distant recurrences are less common and have an extremely poor prognosis. For groin recurrences, surgery with or without (chemo) radiotherapy is a treatment option, depending on prior treatment. For distant recurrences, there are only palliative treatment options. In this review, we give an overview of the available literature and discuss epidemiology, risk factors, and prognostic factors for the different types of recurrent VSCC and we describe treatment options and clinical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- L S Nooij
- Department of Gynecology, LUMC, Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - J A de Hullu
- Department of Gynecology, Radboud UMC, Netherlands
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22
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MALDI Mass Spectrometry Imaging Reveals Decreased CK5 Levels in Vulvar Squamous Cell Carcinomas Compared to the Precursor Lesion Differentiated Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17071088. [PMID: 27399691 PMCID: PMC4964464 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17071088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Revised: 06/24/2016] [Accepted: 06/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvar cancer is the fourth most common gynecological cancer worldwide. However, limited studies have been completed on the molecular characterization of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma resulting in a poor understanding of the disease initiation and progression. Analysis and early detection of the precursor lesion of HPV-independent vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC), differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN), is of great importance given dVIN lesions have a high level of malignant potential. Here we present an examination of adjacent normal vulvar epithelium, dVIN, and VSCC from six patients by peptide Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MALDI-MSI). The results reveal the differential expression of multiple peptides from the protein cytokeratin 5 (CK5) across the three vulvar tissue types. The difference observed in the relative abundance of CK5 by MALDI-MSI between the healthy epithelium, dVIN, and VSCC was further analyzed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in tissue from eight VSCC patients. A decrease in CK5 immunostaining was observed in the VSCC compared to the healthy epithelium and dVIN. These results provide an insight into the molecular fingerprint of the vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia that appears to be more closely related to the healthy epithelium than the VSCC.
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23
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Diagnostic Difficulties in Pathological Laboratories in Developing Countries: A Case Report of Differentiated Squamous Cell Carcinoma in a Young Togolese Woman. Case Rep Pathol 2016; 2016:3727484. [PMID: 27066286 PMCID: PMC4811070 DOI: 10.1155/2016/3727484] [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] [Received: 12/14/2015] [Accepted: 02/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We report a case of poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva induced by human papillomavirus in a 23-year-old woman, in whom we experienced diagnostic difficulties.
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24
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Kacerovska D, Michal M, Hora M, Hadravsky L, Kazakov DV. Lichen sclerosus on the penis associated with striking elastic fibers accumulation (nevus elasticus) and differentiated penile intraepithelial neoplasia progressing to invasive squamous cell carcinoma. JAAD Case Rep 2015; 1:163-5. [PMID: 27051718 PMCID: PMC4808714 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdcr.2015.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Denisa Kacerovska
- Sikl's Department of Pathology, Charles University in Prague, Medical Faculty in Pilsen, Pilsen, Czech Republic; Bioptical Laboratory, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Michal
- Sikl's Department of Pathology, Charles University in Prague, Medical Faculty in Pilsen, Pilsen, Czech Republic; Bioptical Laboratory, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Milan Hora
- Department of Urology, Charles University in Prague, Medical Faculty in Pilsen, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Ladislav Hadravsky
- Sikl's Department of Pathology, Charles University in Prague, Medical Faculty in Pilsen, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Dmitry V Kazakov
- Sikl's Department of Pathology, Charles University in Prague, Medical Faculty in Pilsen, Pilsen, Czech Republic; Bioptical Laboratory, Pilsen, Czech Republic
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25
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No viral association found in a set of differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia cases by human papillomavirus and pan-viral microarray testing. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0125292. [PMID: 25894343 PMCID: PMC4404153 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0125292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2014] [Accepted: 03/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN) is the precursor lesion of Vulvar Squamous Cell Carcinoma (VSCC), and the differentiated type (dVIN) is more frequently observed in relation to VSCC. In contrast to usual-type VIN (uVIN), which is related to infection by human papillomavirus (HPV), a germline mutation in the p53 gene is thought to be associated with ~90% of dVIN cases. To date, no infectious agent has been identified in association with dVIN, and studies investigating this possibility have been hindered by the difficulty in accurately diagnosing dVIN from small biopsies. Here, we used immunostaining for p16ink4a), a biomarker for HPV infection, to study 14 uVIN high-grade VIN and 14 dVIN cases, and to select 10 dVIN cases to broadly screen for all kn(own viruses using a pan-viral microarray platform (ViroChip). All of the uVIN tissue samples, including 8 warty and 6 basaloid cases, showed positivity with the p16(ink4a) immunostain. The staining pattern was full-thickness for all except two cases in which positive staining was localized in the lower 1/3 of the epidermis. In contrast, immunostaining for p16(ink4a) was negative in all dVIN cases. ViroChip analysis of 10 pure dVIN samples confirmed the absence of human papillomavirus subtypes or any other virus with the exception of a single sample that showed a weak microarray signature to a porcine herpesvirus. Follow-up PCR testing of the sample was negative for herpesvirus, and in-depth metagenomic next-generation sequencing revealed only sequences corresponding to non-pathogenic viral flora and bacterial contamination. In this study, we demonstrated lack of a virus association in 10 dVIN cases. Alternative pathways for carcinogenesis such as the p53 mutation should be considered for investigation of potential treatment options in dVIN.
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26
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Trietsch MD, Nooij LS, Gaarenstroom KN, van Poelgeest MIE. Genetic and epigenetic changes in vulvar squamous cell carcinoma and its precursor lesions: a review of the current literature. Gynecol Oncol 2014; 136:143-57. [PMID: 25448458 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2014.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2014] [Revised: 10/29/2014] [Accepted: 11/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Vulvar cancer is a relatively rare gynecologic malignancy with an annual incidence in developed countries of approximately 2 per 100,000 women. Vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) has two etiological pathways: a high risk human papillomavirus (HPV)-dependent route, which has usual vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (uVIN) as a precursor lesion, and an HPV-independent route, which is associated with differentiated VIN (dVIN), lichen sclerosus, and genetic alterations, such as TP53 mutations. Research on the molecular etiology of vulvar cancer has increased in the past years, not only regarding genetic alterations, but also epigenetic changes. In genetic alterations, a mutation irreversibly changes the nucleotide sequence of the DNA, or the number of copies of chromosomes per cell is altered. In epigenetics, the nucleotide sequence remains the same but genes can be 'switched' on or off by, for example, DNA methylation or histone modification. We searched the current literature on genetic and epigenetic alterations in VSCC and its precursor lesions. Many studies have reported a higher incidence of somatic mutations in HPV-negative tumors compared to HPV-positive tumors, with TP53 mutations being the most frequent. Allelic imbalances or loss of heterozygosity are more frequently found in higher stages of dysplasia and in invasive carcinomas, but it is not exclusive to HPV-negative tumors. A limited number of studies are available on epigenetic changes in vulvar lesions, with hypermethylation of CDKN2A being the most frequently investigated change. For most genes, hypermethylation occurs more frequently in vulvar squamous cell carcinomas than in precursor lesions. As most studies have focused on HPV infection and TP53 mutations, we suggest that more research should be performed using whole genome or next generation sequencing to determine the true landscape of genetic and epigenetic alterations in vulvar squamous cell carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjolijn D Trietsch
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | - Linda S Nooij
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Department of Gynecology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Katja N Gaarenstroom
- Department of Gynecology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
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27
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Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2014; 28:1051-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2014.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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28
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Joehlin-Price AS, Elkins CT, Stephens JA, Cohn DE, Knobloch TJ, Weghorst CM, Suarez AA. Comprehensive evaluation of caspase-14 in vulvar neoplasia: an opportunity for treatment with black raspberry extract. Gynecol Oncol 2014; 135:503-9. [PMID: 25256208 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2014.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2014] [Revised: 09/12/2014] [Accepted: 09/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to determine the expression of caspase-14, a key protein in maturation of squamous epithelia, in archival malignant and premalignant vulvar squamous lesions and examine in-vitro effects of a black raspberry extract (BRB-E) on a vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) cell line. METHODS VSCC cell cultures were exposed to different BRB-E concentrations and used to create cell blocks. Immunohistochemistry for caspase-14 was performed on cell block sections, whole tissue sections, and a tissue microarray consisting of normal vulvar skin, lichen sclerosus (LS), classic and differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (cVIN and dVIN respectively), and VSCC. RESULTS LS demonstrated abnormal full thickness (5/11) or absent (1/11) caspase-14 staining. dVIN often showed markedly reduced expression (4/7), and cVIN occasionally demonstrated either absent or reduced caspase-14 (6/22). VSCC predominantly had absent or markedly reduced caspase-14 (26/28). VSCC cell cultures demonstrated a significant increase in caspase-14 (p=0.013) after BRB-E treatment: 7.3% (±2.0%) of untreated cells showed caspase-14 positivity, while 21.3% (±8.9%), 21.7% (±4.8%), and 22.6% (±5.3%) of cells were positive for caspase-14 after treatment with 200, 400, and 800 μg/mL BRB-E, respectively. Pair-wise comparisons between the treatment groups and the control demonstrated significant differences between no treatment with BRB-E and each of these treatment concentrations (Dunnett's adjusted p-values: 0.024, 0.021, and 0.014, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Caspase-14 is frequently decreased in premalignant and malignant vulvar squamous lesions, and is upregulated in VSCC cell culture by BRB-E. BRB-E should be further explored and may ultimately be incorporated in topical preparations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy S Joehlin-Price
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 410 W 10th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Camille T Elkins
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 410 W 10th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Julie A Stephens
- Center for Biostatistics, The Ohio State University, 2012 Kenny Rd, Columbus, OH 43221, USA
| | - David E Cohn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 370 W 9th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Thomas J Knobloch
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, 1841 Neil Ave, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, 300 W 10th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Christopher M Weghorst
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, 1841 Neil Ave, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, 300 W 10th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Adrian A Suarez
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 410 W 10th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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29
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Stewart CJR, Crook ML. Fascin and cyclin D1 immunoreactivity in non-neoplastic vulvar squamous epithelium, vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia and invasive squamous carcinoma: correlation with Ki67 and p16 protein expression. J Clin Pathol 2013; 67:319-25. [PMID: 24218024 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2013-201920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To investigate cyclin D1 and fascin immunoreactivity in normal, reactive and neoplastic vulvar skin correlating the findings with p16 protein and Ki67 expression. METHODS 66 vulvar biopsy or resection specimens demonstrating normal appearances, reactive epidermal changes, usual-type vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (uVIN), differentiated-type VIN (dVIN), p16-positive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and p16-negative SCC were examined immunohistochemically for cyclin D1, fascin, Ki67 and p16 protein. Where applicable, expression patterns were compared in microanatomically distinct areas, particularly at the invasive front (deep tumour margin) of SCC. RESULTS Normal epidermis showed parabasal Ki67 and cyclin D1 staining while fascin labelled cells in the lower one-third of the epithelium. Reactive and dVIN specimens demonstrated mildly increased Ki67 and cyclin D1 expression that maintained parabasal polarity, whereas uVIN and p16-positive SCC were characterised by loss of cyclin D1 staining. However, in 14 of 20 p16-positive SCC small infiltrative tumour groups and single infiltrating cells at the invasive front showed a cyclin D1-positive/ Ki67-negative phenotype. In contrast, p16-negative SCC generally showed diffuse and concordant cyclin D1 and Ki67 labelling, including at the invasive margin. Fascin expression was increased in all VIN and SCC lesions. CONCLUSIONS Variations in cyclin D1 and Ki67 expression between p16-positive and p16-negative vulvar SCCs suggest different mechanisms of invasion in these tumour subgroups. Fascin is upregulated in vulvar squamous neoplasia but immunostaining does not discriminate in situ from invasive lesions nor putative human papilloma virus (HPV)-associated and HPV-independent SCCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- C J R Stewart
- Department of Histopathology, King Edward Memorial Hospital, , Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Phosphorylated S6 as an immunohistochemical biomarker of vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia. Mod Pathol 2013; 26:1498-507. [PMID: 23765247 DOI: 10.1038/modpathol.2013.85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2012] [Revised: 04/13/2013] [Accepted: 04/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
As life expectancy lengthens, cases of non-viral-associated vulvar squamous cell carcinoma and its precursor lesion, so-called differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN), continue to increase in frequency. Differentiated VIN often is difficult to recognize and failure to detect it before invasion results in morbidity and mortality. Thus, identification of a reliable biomarker for this type of lesion would be of great clinical benefit. Our recent studies have identified activation (ser235/236 phosphorylation) of ribosomal protein S6 (p-S6) in basal epithelial cells as an event that precedes and accompanies laminin γ(2) overexpression in most preinvasive oral dysplasias. To test this as a potential biomarker of vulvar dysplasia, we immunostained seven differentiated VINs and nine papillomavirus-related 'classic' VINs, most of which were associated with carcinoma, for p-S6. All carcinomas, all differentiated VINs, and most classic VINs contained regions of p-S6 staining in the basal layer, whereas basal and parabasal cells of normal vulvar epithelium and hyperplastic and inflamed lesions lacking cellular atypia were p-S6 negative. Laminin γ(2) was expressed in a subset of VINs, always occurring within basal p-S6 positive regions, as we had found previously for oral dysplasias. Lichen sclerosus is considered a potential precursor of vulvar carcinoma. Two lichen sclerosus lesions of patients with a concurrent carcinoma and one of six lichen sclerosus lesions without atypia or known concurrent carcinoma were basal p-S6 positive. In summary, there is a distinct difference in p-S6 basal cell layer staining between benign and neoplastic vulvar squamous epithelium, with consistent staining of differentiated VIN and of some lichen sclerosus lesions. These results support further studies to assess the potential of p-S6 as a biomarker to identify vulvar lesions at risk of progressing to invasive cancer.
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Abstract
Premalignant lesions of the lower female genital tract encompassing the cervix, vagina and vulva are variably common and many, but by no means all, are related to infection by human papillomavirus (HPV). In this review, pathological aspects of the various premalignant lesions are discussed, mainly concentrating on new developments. The value of ancillary studies, mainly immunohistochemical, is discussed at the appropriate points. In the cervix, the terminology and morphological features of premalignant glandular lesions is covered, as is the distinction between adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS) and early invasive adenocarcinoma, which may be very problematic. A spectrum of benign, premalignant and malignant cervical glandular lesions exhibiting gastric differentiation is emerging with lobular endocervical glandular hyperplasia (LEGH), including so-called atypical LEGH, representing a possible precursor of non HPV-related cervical adenocarcinomas exhibiting gastric differentiation; these include the cytologically bland adenoma malignum and the morphologically malignant gastric type adenocarcinoma. Stratified mucin producing intraepithelial lesion (SMILE) is a premalignant cervical lesion with morphological overlap between cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and AIS and which is variably regarded as a form of reserve cell dysplasia or stratified AIS. It is now firmly established that there are two distinct types of vulval intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) with a different pathogenesis, molecular events, morphological features and risk of progression to squamous carcinoma. These comprise a more common HPV-related usual type VIN (also referred to as classic, undifferentiated, basaloid, warty, Bowenoid type) and a more uncommon differentiated (simplex) type which is non-HPV related and which is sometimes associated with lichen sclerosus. The former has a relatively low risk of progression to HPV-related vulval squamous carcinoma and the latter a high risk of progression to non-HPV related vulval squamous carcinoma. Various aspects of vulval Paget's disease are also discussed.
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van den Einden LCG, de Hullu JA, Massuger LFAG, Grefte JMM, Bult P, Wiersma A, van Engen-van Grunsven ACH, Sturm B, Bosch SL, Hollema H, Bulten J. Interobserver variability and the effect of education in the histopathological diagnosis of differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia. Mod Pathol 2013; 26:874-80. [PMID: 23370772 DOI: 10.1038/modpathol.2012.235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
No published data concerning intraobserver and interobserver variability in the histopathological diagnosis of differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (DVIN) are available, although it is widely accepted to be a subtle and difficult histopathological diagnosis. In this study, the reproducibility of the histopathological diagnosis of DVIN is evaluated. Furthermore, we investigated the possible improvement of the reproducibility after providing guidelines with histological characteristics and tried to identify histological characteristics that are most important in the recognition of DVIN. A total number of 34 hematoxylin and eosin-stained slides were included in this study and were analyzed by six pathologists each with a different level of education. Slides were reviewed before and after studying a guideline with histological characteristics of DVIN. Kappa statistics were used to compare the interobserver variability. Pathologists with a substantial agreement were asked to rank items by usefulness in the recognition of DVIN. The interobserver agreement during the first session varied between 0.08 and 0.54, which slightly increased during the second session toward an agreement between -0.01 and 0.75. Pathologists specialized in gynecopathology reached a substantial agreement (kappa 0.75). The top five of criteria indicated to be the most useful in the diagnosis of DVIN included: atypical mitosis in the basal layer, basal cellular atypia, dyskeratosis, prominent nucleoli and elongation and anastomosis of rete ridges. In conclusion, the histopathological diagnosis of DVIN is difficult, which is expressed by low interobserver agreement. Only in experienced pathologists with training in gynecopathology, kappa values reached a substantial agreement after providing strict guidelines. Therefore, it should be considered that specimens with an unclear diagnosis and/or clinical suspicion for DVIN should be revised by a pathologist specialized in gynecopathology. When adhering to suggested criteria the diagnosis of DVIN can be made easier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loes C G van den Einden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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Differentiated dysplasia is a frequent precursor or associated lesion in invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity and pharynx. Virchows Arch 2013; 462:609-17. [PMID: 23588556 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-013-1412-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2012] [Revised: 03/29/2013] [Accepted: 04/02/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The source of precursor lesions of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the oral cavity and pharynx, their classification, and grading are controversial. In contrast, vulvar and penile cancer precursor lesions are known to be related to human papillomavirus or chronic inflammation and can be described using the vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) classification system (VIN 1-3) or as differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN), respectively. Oral and pharyngeal SCC precursor lesions are more etiologically diverse, and the spectrum of lesions may thus be wider. No international consensus exists regarding the histological types of precursor lesions or the significance of individual types. We therefore reviewed resection specimens and preceding biopsies of 155 patients with SCC of the oral cavity and pharynx (excluding tonsils) and identified five basic patterns of SCC-associated or precursor lesions: (1) pleomorphic (22/155), (2) basaloid (5/155), (3) differentiated (63/155), (4) mixed (42/155), and (5) verrucous (12/155). Keratinization was a common but variable feature in differentiated, mixed, and verrucous dysplasia. In 11/155 patients, no precursor lesion could be identified. Progression of isolated differentiated dysplasia (ranging from months to years) was documented in 13/155 (8 %) of patients. Our data suggest that full-thickness epithelial dysplasia of pleomorphic or basaloid type is present in <20 % of oral and pharyngeal SCC, and differentiated dysplasia is a frequent precursor or associated in situ lesion. Failure to recognize differentiated dysplasia results in the underdiagnosis of many patients at risk for invasive carcinoma. These results indicate a need to refine criteria to distinguish differentiated dysplasia from morphologically related lichenoid lesions.
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del Pino M, Rodriguez-Carunchio L, Ordi J. Pathways of vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia and squamous cell carcinoma. Histopathology 2012. [DOI: 10.1111/his.12034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Marta del Pino
- Faculty of Medicine; Institute Clinic of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology; Hospital Clinic-Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS); University of Barcelona; Barcelona; Spain
| | - Leonardo Rodriguez-Carunchio
- Department of Pathology; Faculty of Medicine; CRESIB (Centre de Recerca en Salut Internacional de Barcelona); Hospital Clinic; University of Barcelona; Barcelona; Spain
| | - Jaume Ordi
- Department of Pathology; Faculty of Medicine; CRESIB (Centre de Recerca en Salut Internacional de Barcelona); Hospital Clinic; University of Barcelona; Barcelona; Spain
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