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Takeda M, Ochi T, Koga H, Tsuboi K, Arakawa A, Lane GJ, Yamataka A. Biopsy Diagnosis of Hirschsprung's Disease Using a Single Excisional Biopsy Based on the Anorectal Line. Eur J Pediatr Surg 2024; 34:274-281. [PMID: 36996880 DOI: 10.1055/a-2065-9071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A biopsy protocol for diagnosing Hirschsprung's disease (HD) in children using the anorectal line (ARL). MATERIALS AND METHODS The ARL was adopted for diagnosing HD in 2016 using two excisional submucosal rectal biopsies performed at different levels, sequentially; the first just above the ARL and the second, further proximal (2-ARL). Currently, only the first-level biopsy is performed (1-ARL) and examined intraoperatively. Management was observation if normoganglionic, pull-through if aganglionic, and a second-level biopsy if hypoganglionic. Hypoganglionosis was considered physiologic if the second-level biopsy was normoganglionic and pathologic if hypoganglionic. Colon caliber change and bowel obstructive symptoms reflect the severity of hypoganglionosis. RESULTS For 2-ARL (n = 54), results were: normoganglionosis (n = 31/54; 57.4%), aganglionosis (n = 19/54; 35.2%), and hypoganglionosis (n = 4/54; 7.4%); physiologic (n = 3/54; 5.6%) and pathologic (n = 1/54; 1.9%). Normoganglionosis and aganglionosis were always duplicated in 2-ARL (kappa = 1.0). For 1-ARL (n = 36), results were: normoganglionosis (n = 17/36; 47.2%), aganglionosis (n = 17/36; 47.2%), and hypoganglionosis (n = 2/36; 5.6%). Second-level biopsies were normoganglionic (physiologic: n = 1) and hypoganglionic (pathologic: n = 1). All normoganglionic cases, except one, resolved conservatively. All aganglionic cases had pull-through with HD confirmed on histopathology. Both pathologic hypoganglionic cases had caliber change and severe obstructive symptoms as definitive indications for pull-through with hypoganglionosis of the entire rectum confirmed on histopathology. Physiologic hypoganglionic cases were observed and currently have regular defecation. CONCLUSION Because the ARL is an objective functional, neurologic, and anatomic demarcation, normoganglionosis and aganglionosis can be diagnosed accurately with a single excisional biopsy. Only hypoganglionosis requires a second-level biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Takeda
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takanori Ochi
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Koga
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koichi Tsuboi
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Arakawa
- Department of Human Pathology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Geoffrey J Lane
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsuyuki Yamataka
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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Montalva L, Cheng LS, Kapur R, Langer JC, Berrebi D, Kyrklund K, Pakarinen M, de Blaauw I, Bonnard A, Gosain A. Hirschsprung disease. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2023; 9:54. [PMID: 37828049 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-023-00465-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) is a rare congenital intestinal disease that occurs in 1 in 5,000 live births. HSCR is characterized by the absence of ganglion cells in the myenteric and submucosal plexuses of the intestine. Most patients present during the neonatal period with the first meconium passage delayed beyond 24 h, abdominal distension and vomiting. Syndromes associated with HSCR include trisomy 21, Mowat-Wilson syndrome, congenital central hypoventilation syndrome, Shah-Waardenburg syndrome and cartilage-hair hypoplasia. Multiple putative genes are involved in familial and isolated HSCR, of which the most common are the RET proto-oncogene and EDNRB. Diagnosis consists of visualization of a transition zone on contrast enema and confirmation via rectal biopsy. HSCR is typically managed by surgical removal of the aganglionic bowel and reconstruction of the intestinal tract by connecting the normally innervated bowel down to the anus while preserving normal sphincter function. Several procedures, namely Swenson, Soave and Duhamel procedures, can be undertaken and may include a laparoscopically assisted approach. Short-term and long-term comorbidities include persistent obstructive symptoms, enterocolitis and soiling. Continued research and innovation to better understand disease mechanisms holds promise for developing novel techniques for diagnosis and therapy, and improving outcomes in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Montalva
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Robert-Debré Children's University Hospital, Paris, France.
- Faculty of Health, Paris-Cité University, Paris, France.
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM UMR1141, Paris, France.
| | - Lily S Cheng
- Division of Paediatric Surgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Division of Paediatric Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Raj Kapur
- Department of Pathology, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jacob C Langer
- Division of Paediatric Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dominique Berrebi
- Department of Pathology, Robert-Debré and Necker Children's University Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Kristiina Kyrklund
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mikko Pakarinen
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ivo de Blaauw
- Department of Surgery, Division of Paediatric Surgery, Radboudumc-Amalia Children's Hospital, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Arnaud Bonnard
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Robert-Debré Children's University Hospital, Paris, France
- Faculty of Health, Paris-Cité University, Paris, France
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM UMR1141, Paris, France
| | - Ankush Gosain
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.
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Beltman L, Labib H, Masselink M, Backes M, Benninga MA, Roelofs JJTH, van der Voorn JP, van Schuppen J, Oosterlaan J, van Heurn LWE, Derikx JPM. Diagnosing Hirschsprung Disease in Children Younger than 6 Months of Age: Insights in Incidence of Complications of Rectal Suction Biopsy and Other Final Diagnoses. Eur J Pediatr Surg 2023; 33:360-366. [PMID: 36724825 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1760839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The gold standard for diagnosing Hirschsprung disease (HD) in patients younger than 6 months is pathological examination of rectal suction biopsy (RSB). The aim of this study was to gain insight into the following: (1) complications following RSB, (2) final diagnosis of patients referred for RSB, and (3) factors associated with HD. METHODS Patients suspected of HD referred for RSB at our center were analyzed retrospectively. Severity of complications of RSB was assessed using Clavien-Dindo (CD) grading. Factors associated with HD were tested using multivariate logistic regression analysis. RESULTS From 2000 to 2021, 371 patients underwent RSB because of infrequent defecation, at a median age of 44 days. Three patients developed ongoing rectal bleeding (0.8%) graded CD1. Most frequent final diagnoses were: HD (n = 151, 40.7%), functional constipation (n = 113, 31%), idiopathic meconium ileus (n = 11, 3%), and food intolerance (n = 11, 3%). Associated factors for HD were male sex (odds ratio [OR], 3.19; confidence interval [CI], 1.56-6.53), presence of syndrome (OR, 7.18; CI, 1.63-31.69), younger age at time of RSB (OR, 0.98; CI, 0.85-0.98), meconium passage for more than 48 hours (OR, 3.15; CI, 1.51-6.56), distended abdomen (OR, 2.09; CI, 1.07-4.07), bilious vomiting (OR, 6.39; CI, 3.28-12.47), and failure to thrive (OR, 8.46; CI, 2.11-34.02) (model R 2 = 0.566). CONCLUSION RSB is a safe procedure with few and only minor complications. In the majority of patients referred for RSB under the age of 6 months, HD was found followed by a functional cause for the defecation problems. RSB should be obtained on a low threshold in all patients under the age of 6 months with the suspicion of HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lieke Beltman
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Emma Children's Hospital Amsterdam UMC Follow-Me Program & Emma Neuroscience Group, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hosnieya Labib
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marit Masselink
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Manouk Backes
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marc A Benninga
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joris J T H Roelofs
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - J Patrick van der Voorn
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joost van Schuppen
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jaap Oosterlaan
- Department of Pediatrics, Emma Children's Hospital Amsterdam UMC Follow-Me Program & Emma Neuroscience Group, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - L W Ernest van Heurn
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joep P M Derikx
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Beltman L, Labib H, Ahmed H, Benninga M, Roelofs J, van der Voorn P, van Schuppen J, Oosterlaan J, van Heurn E, Derikx J. Transition Zone Pull-through in Patients with Hirschsprung Disease: Is Redo Surgery Beneficial for the Long-term Outcomes? J Pediatr Surg 2023; 58:1903-1909. [PMID: 36941171 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2023.02.043] [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: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Transition zone pull-through (TZPT) is incomplete removal of the aganglionic bowel/transition zone (TZ) in patients with Hirschsprung disease (HD). Evidence on which treatment generates the best long-term outcomes is lacking. The aim of this study was to compare the long-term occurrence of Hirschsprung associated enterocolitis (HAEC), requirement of interventions, functional outcomes and quality of life between patients with TZPT treated conservatively to patients with TZPT treated with redo surgery to non-TZPT patients. METHODS We retrospectively studied patients with TZPT operated between 2000 and 2021. TZPT patients were matched to two control patients with complete removal of the aganglionic/hypoganglionic bowel. Functional outcomes and quality of life was assessed using Hirschsprung/Anorectal Malformation Quality of Life questionnaire and items of Groningen Defecation & Continence together with occurrence of Hirschsprung associated enterocolitis (HAEC) and requirement of interventions. Scores between the groups were compared using One-Way ANOVA. The follow-up duration lasted from time at operation until follow-up. RESULTS Fifteen TZPT-patients (six treated conservatively, nine receiving redo surgery) were matched with 30 control-patients. Median duration of follow-up was 76 months (range 12-260). No significant differences between groups were found in the occurrence of HAEC (p = 0.65), laxatives use (p = 0.33), rectal irrigation use (p = 0.11), botulinum toxin injections (p = 0.06), functional outcomes (p = 0.67) and quality of life (p = 0.63). CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that there are no differences in the long-term occurrence of HAEC, requirement of interventions, functional outcomes and quality of life between patients with TZPT treated conservatively or with redo surgery and non-TZPT patients. Therefore, we suggest to consider conservative treatment in case of TZPT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lieke Beltman
- Emma Children's Hospital Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Emma Children's Hospital Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Department of Pediatrics, Emma Children's Hospital Amsterdam UMC Follow-Me Program & Emma Neuroscience Group, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Hosnieya Labib
- Emma Children's Hospital Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hafsa Ahmed
- Emma Children's Hospital Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marc Benninga
- Emma Children's Hospital Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joris Roelofs
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Department of Pathology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Patrick van der Voorn
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Pathology, Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joost van Schuppen
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jaap Oosterlaan
- Emma Children's Hospital Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Department of Pediatrics, Emma Children's Hospital Amsterdam UMC Follow-Me Program & Emma Neuroscience Group, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ernest van Heurn
- Emma Children's Hospital Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joep Derikx
- Emma Children's Hospital Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Matsukuma K, Gui D, Saadai P. Hirschsprung Disease for the Practicing Surgical Pathologist. Am J Clin Pathol 2023; 159:228-241. [PMID: 36565211 DOI: 10.1093/ajcp/aqac141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Hirschsprung disease (HD) is a congenital condition defined by the absence of ganglion cells in the distal-most portion of the gastrointestinal tract. Biopsies and resections for HD can be adrenaline inducing for the general surgical pathologist because specimens are infrequent; HD is 1 of only a few neuroanatomic diseases that general surgical pathologists diagnose; numerous preanalytic factors (eg, biopsy adequacy, surgeon sampling protocol, processing artifacts) can affect histologic interpretation; and most importantly, the diagnosis has high stakes. METHODS We provide a comprehensive overview of the background, relevant clinical procedures, and pathologic assessment of HD. Grossing and frozen section protocols, an algorithmic approach to diagnosis, and histologic pearls and pitfalls are also discussed. RESULTS Evaluation and recognition of the features of HD have evolved significantly in the past 2 decades with the discovery of the value of calretinin immunohistochemistry in the late 2000s and the recent development of straightforward and reproducible histologic criteria for identification of the HD transition zone. CONCLUSIONS These advancements have substantially improved the pathologist's ability to reliably evaluate for HD. Nonetheless, as with any high-stakes surgical pathology specimen, clear communication with the clinical team is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Matsukuma
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Dorina Gui
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Payam Saadai
- Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA.,Pediatric Colorectal Center, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Sacramento, CA, USA
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Logan SJ, Yin H, Rogers B, Arva N, Conces MR, Cope-Yokoyama S, Dehner LP, Galliani C, Garg S, He M, Husain AN, Keisling M, Krishnan C, Puscasiu E, Rossi C, Siddiqui F, Sutton L, Terry J, Thaker AI, Huang Y, Zhang J, McCracken C, Rytting H. Calretinin Staining in Anorectal Line Biopsies Accurately Distinguished Hirschsprung Disease in a Retrospective Study. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2022; 25:645-655. [PMID: 36408569 DOI: 10.1177/10935266221132602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The absence of submucosal ganglion cells does not reliably distinguish Hirschsprung disease from non Hirschsprung disease in anorectal line biopsies. Calretinin staining might be helpful in these biopsies. To determine its value, we analyzed calretinin positive mucosal neurites in anorectal line biopsies. METHODS Two pediatric pathologists, without access to patient data, evaluated calretinin positive mucosal neurites in anorectal line junctional mucosa in archival rectal biopsies contributed by 17 institutions. A separate investigator compiled patient information and sent data for statistical analysis. RESULTS Biopsies with anorectal junctional mucosa from 115 patients were evaluated for calretinin positive mucosal neurites. 20/20 Hirschsprung disease biopsies were negative. 87/88 non Hirschsprung disease biopsies and 7/7 post pullthrough Hirschsprung disease neorectal biopsies were positive. Statistical analysis of the 108 non pullthrough biopsies yielded an accuracy of 99.1% (sensitivity 100%, specificity 98.9%). Age range was preterm to 16 years. Biopsy size was less than 1 mm to over 1 cm. CONCLUSIONS Absence of calretinin positive mucosal neurites at the anorectal line was highly accurate in distinguishing Hirschsprung disease from non Hirschsprung disease cases in this blinded retrospective study. Calretinin staining is useful for interpreting biopsies from the physiologic hypoganglionic zone up to the anorectal line.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanna J Logan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Hong Yin
- Department of Pathology, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Beverly Rogers
- Department of Pathology, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Nicoleta Arva
- Department of Pathology, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Miriam R Conces
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Sandy Cope-Yokoyama
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cook Children's Medical Center, Fort Worth, TX, USA
| | - Louis P Dehner
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University Medical Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Carlos Galliani
- Department of Pathology, University of South Alabama Children's and Women's Hospital, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Shipra Garg
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Mai He
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University Medical Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Aliya N Husain
- Department of Pathology, University of Chicago Comer Children's Hospital, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Matthew Keisling
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Akron Children's Hospital, Akron, OH, USA
| | - Chandra Krishnan
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Dell Children's Medical Center, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Elena Puscasiu
- Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Christopher Rossi
- Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Faiza Siddiqui
- Department of Pathology, University of Chicago Comer Children's Hospital, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lisa Sutton
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Driscoll Children's Hospital, Corpus Christi, TX, USA
| | - Jefferson Terry
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ameet I Thaker
- Department of Pathology, UT Southwestern Children's Health, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Yuan Huang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Courtney McCracken
- Department of Pediatrics Biostatistics Core, Emory School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Heather Rytting
- Department of Pathology, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Pan W, Goldstein AM, Hotta R. Opportunities for novel diagnostic and cell-based therapies for Hirschsprung disease. J Pediatr Surg 2022; 57:61-68. [PMID: 34852916 PMCID: PMC9068833 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2021.10.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Despite significant progress in our understanding of the etiology and pathophysiology of Hirschsprung disease (HSCR), early and accurate diagnosis and operative management can be challenging. Moreover, long-term morbidity following surgery, including fecal incontinence, constipation, and Hirschsprung-associated enterocolitis (HAEC), remains problematic. Recent advances applying state-of-the art imaging for visualization of the enteric nervous system and utilizing neuronal stem cells to replace the missing enteric neurons and glial cells offer the possibility of a promising new future for patients with HSCR. In this review, we summarize recent research advances that may one day offer novel approaches for the diagnosis and management of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weikang Pan
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street, 185 Cambridge St, CPZN 6-215, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Department of Pediatric Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, China
| | - Allan M Goldstein
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street, 185 Cambridge St, CPZN 6-215, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Ryo Hotta
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street, 185 Cambridge St, CPZN 6-215, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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Determining the correct resection level in patients with Hirschsprung disease using contrast enema and full thickness biopsies: Can the diagnostic accuracy be improved by examining submucosal nerve fiber thickness? J Pediatr Surg 2022:S0022-3468(22)00555-3. [PMID: 36180266 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2022.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intraoperative resection level in patients with Hirschsprung disease (HD) is determined by contrast enema, surgeon's intraoperative judgement and full thickness biopsy (FTB) identifying ganglia. This study aims to evaluate diagnostic accuracy of contrast enema and FTB in determination of resection level and whether this can be improved by measuring submucosal nerve fiber diameter. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed contrast enema and intraoperative FTBs obtained in our center, determining diagnostic accuracy for level of resection. Gold standard was pathological examination of resection specimen. Secondly, we matched transition zone pull-through (TZPT) patients with non-TZPT patients, based on age and length of resected bowel, to blindly compare nerve fibers diameters between two groups using group comparison. RESULTS From 2000-2021, 209 patients underwent HD surgery of whom 180 patients (138 males; median age at surgery: 13 weeks) with 18 TZPTs (10%) were included. Positive predictive value of contrast enema was 65.1%. No caliber change was found in patients with total colon aganglionosis (TCA). Negative predictive value of surgeon's intraoperative judgement and FTB in determining resection level was 79.0% and 90.0% (91.2% single-stage, 84.4% two-stage surgery) respectively. Mean nerve fiber diameter in TZPT was 25.01 µm (SD= 5.63) and in non-TZPT 24.35 µm (SD= 6.75) (p = 0.813). CONCLUSION Determination of resection level with combination of contrast enema, surgeon's intraoperative judgement and FTB results in sufficient diagnostic accuracy in patients with HD. If no caliber change is seen with contrast enema, TCA should be considered. Resection level or transition zone cannot be determined by assessment of submucosal nerve fiber diameter in FTB. TYPE OF STUDY clinical research paper.
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Kapur RP, Tisoncik-Go J, Gale M. Myelin Protein Zero Immunohistochemistry Is Not a Reliable Marker of Extrinsic Mucosal Innervation in Patients With Hirschsprung Disease. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2022; 25:388-396. [PMID: 34904460 DOI: 10.1177/10935266211059395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Innervation of aganglionic rectum in Hirschsprung disease derives from extrinsic nerves which project from cell bodies located outside the bowel wall and markers that distinguish extrinsic from intrinsic innervation are diagnostically useful. Myelin protein zero (MPZ) is a putative marker of extrinsic glial cells which could distinguish mucosal innervation in aganglionic vs ganglionic colon. METHODS Sections and protein blots from ganglionic and aganglionic colon were immunolabeled with MPZ-specific antibodies. RESULTS Immunolabeling of MPZ with a chicken polyclonal or mouse monoclonal antibody confirmed glial specificity and reliably labeled hypertrophic submucosal nerves in Hirschsprung disease. In contrast, a rabbit polyclonal antibody strongly labeled extrinsic and intrinsic nerves, including most mucosal branches. Immunoblots showed MPZ is expressed in mucosal glial cells, albeit at lower levels than in extrinsic nerves, and that the rabbit antibody is more sensitive that the other two probes. Unfortunately, none of these antibodies consistently distinguished mucosal innervation in aganglionic vs ganglionic rectum. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that (a) glial cell myelin protein zero expression is influenced more by location (mucosa vs submucosa) than the extrinsic vs intrinsic origin of the accompanied nerves and (b) myelin protein zero immunohistochemistry has limited value as a diagnostic adjunct for Hirschsprung disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raj P Kapur
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, 7274Seattle Children's Hospital and the University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jennifer Tisoncik-Go
- Center for Innate Immunity and Immune Disease, Department of Immunology, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Michael Gale
- Center for Innate Immunity and Immune Disease, Department of Immunology, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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10
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Beltman L, Windster JD, Roelofs JJTH, van der Voorn JP, Derikx JPM, Bakx R. Diagnostic accuracy of calretinin and acetylcholinesterase staining of rectal suction biopsies in Hirschsprung disease examined by unexperienced pathologists. Virchows Arch 2022; 481:245-252. [PMID: 35513609 PMCID: PMC9343274 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-022-03334-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Rectal suction biopsy (RSB) is a gold standard for diagnosing Hirschsprung disease (HD). Calretinin staining of RSB is increasingly used by experienced pathologists due to non-complex examination and comparable diagnostic accuracy with acetylcholinesterase (AChE). However, the diagnostic accuracy of calretinin examined by unexperienced pathologists remains to be elucidated. Therefore, we aim to compare diagnostic accuracy of calretinin with AChE on RSB for diagnosing HD when examined by unexperienced pathologists. We prospectively analyzed sections from RSB stained with AChE + HE and calretinin. Blinded examination was done by five unexperienced pathologists (pathology residents) and three experienced pathologists (senior pediatric gastro-enterology pathologists) assessing for the presence of HD. Cases for the study included ones proven to be HD on resection specimens and cases without HD. Diagnostic accuracy was determined calculating area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratio, and posttest probability. Fleiss’ kappa analysis was performed to assess interobserver agreement between reviewers. Eleven of 18 included patients (61%) were diagnosed with HD. Comparing the diagnostic accuracy of unexperienced pathologists, calretinin versus AChE + HE showed sensitivity of 80.0% versus 74.5% and specificity of 100% versus 65.4%, AUC of 0.87 (0.78–0.96) versus 0.59 (0.45–0.72). Unexperienced pathologists showed substantial agreement with calretinin (kappa 0.72 [0.61–0.84]) and fair agreement with AChE + HE (kappa 0.34 [0.23–0.44]). We found calretinin having higher diagnostic accuracy in diagnosing HD compared to AChE + HE when examined by unexperienced pathologists. Therefore, we recommend to use calretinin as the standard technique for staining RSB in diagnosing HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Beltman
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. .,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | - J D Windster
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Intensive Care, Erasmus University Medical Center, Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J J T H Roelofs
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - J P M Derikx
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - R Bakx
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Amsterdam Gastroenterology and Metabolism, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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11
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Conces MR, Beach S, Pierson CR, Prasad V. Submucosal Nerve Diameter in the Rectum Increases With Age: An Important Consideration for the Diagnosis of Hirschsprung Disease. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2022; 25:263-269. [PMID: 34791945 DOI: 10.1177/10935266211049689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hypertrophic submucosal nerves, defined as ≥40 µm in diameter, are considered supportive of a diagnosis of HSCR, but the effect of age on nerve diameter has not been well-studied. We sought to determine the distribution of the largest nerve diameter in ganglionic rectal biopsies and the significance of hypertrophic submucosal nerves in the diagnosis of Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) based on age. METHODS Rectal biopsies performed in the evaluation of HSCR were retrospectively reviewed from 179 patients (151 ganglionic biopsies, 28 aganglionic biopsies), and the diameter of the largest submucosal nerve was measured. RESULTS In non-Hirschsprung disease (non-HSCR) biopsies, submucosal nerve diameter increased with age. In patients <1 year, the average diameter was 34.1 ± 11.6 µm but increased to 50.8 ± 17.3 µm after 1 year of age. Submucosal nerves ≥40 µm in diameter were significantly associated with HSCR across all ages [HSCR = 25/28 (89.3%) vs non-HSCR = 59/151 (39.1%), p < 0.0001] and remained significant in patients <1 year of age [HSCR = 22/24 (91.7%) vs non-HSCR = 19/91 (20.9%), p < 0.0001]. CONCLUSIONS The diameter of submucosal nerves increases with age, and ≥40 µm nerves are common after 1 year of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam R Conces
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio.,Department of Pathology, 2647The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Sarah Beach
- Department of Biomedical Education and Anatomy, Division of Anatomy, 2647The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Christopher R Pierson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio.,Department of Pathology, 2647The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio.,Department of Biomedical Education and Anatomy, Division of Anatomy, 2647The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Vinay Prasad
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio.,Department of Pathology, 2647The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
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12
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Righini-Grunder F, Bouron-Dal Soglio D, Hart L, Aspirot A, Faure C, Patey N. Characterization of the Transition Zone in Short Segment Hirschsprung Disease Using Calretinin Immunostaining. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2022; 25:270-277. [PMID: 34875924 DOI: 10.1177/10935266211053973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: The detailed expression pattern of calretinin immunohistochemistry in the transition zone (TZ) of Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) has not yet been reported. This study aims to examine the value of calretinin immunohistochemistry for more accurately determining the distal and proximal border of the TZ in short segment HSCR. Methods: Specimens of pull-through surgery from 51 patients with short form of HSCR were analyzed on two longitudinal strips using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and calretinin immunohistochemistry. Results: In all but two patients, the first appearance of calretinin expression was seen on mucosal nerve fibers before the appearance of any ganglion cells, indicating the distal border of the TZ. The maximum distance between the distal border of the TZ and the proximal border of the TZ, defined by ganglion cells in a normal density on H&E stained sections, a strong calretinin expression on mucosal nerve fibers and in >80% of submucosal and myenteric ganglion cells, with no nerve hypertrophy and absence of ganglionitis was 60 mm. Conclusion: The distal border of the TZ is characterized by calretinin positive intramucosal neurites in nearly all of short form of HSCR and not by calretinin expression on ganglion cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Righini-Grunder
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, 30748CHU Sainte Justine, Montreal, Canada.,Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, 30748Children's Hospital Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | | | - Lara Hart
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, 103398McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Ann Aspirot
- Divion of Pediatric Surgery, 25461CHU Sainte Justine, Montreal, Canada
| | - Christophe Faure
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, 30748CHU Sainte Justine, Montreal, Canada
| | - Natacha Patey
- Division of Pediatric Pathology, 25461CHU Sainte Justine, Montreal, Canada
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13
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Najjar S, Ahn S, Umrau K, Erdem Arslan M, Jennings TA, Whyte C, Lee H. Increasing Trend of Calretinin-Positive Mucosal Innervation from Aganglionic Zone toward Transition Zone in Hirschsprung's Disease. Eur J Pediatr Surg 2022; 32:191-197. [PMID: 33513627 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1722859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Diagnosis of very short-segment Hirschsprung's disease (vsHD) by rectal suction biopsy is challenging as its aganglionic zone (AZ) overlaps with physiologic hypoganglionic zone and calretinin-positive mucosal nerves may extend from the transition zone (TZ) into AZ. We studied whether an increasing trend/gradient of calretinin-positive mucosal nerves along the distance from AZ toward TZ aids in diagnosis of HD. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, 46 rectal suction biopsies from non-HD and HD, and 15 pull-through specimens from short-segment HD were evaluated by mucosal calretinin immunostain (CI) and image processing and analysis (IPA) to measure pixel count (PC, the percentage of calretinin stained pixels in the mucosa). Consecutive longitudinal sections of proximal AZ toward distal TZ in HD pull-through specimens were utilized as a vsHD surrogate model. First, we studied variability of mucosal CI in non-HD biopsies along the distance from dentate line. Second, we determined a cutoff point of mucosal CI by IPA that separated non-HD versus HD and applied this cutoff to longitudinal sections from proximal AZ to distal TZ segments in HD pull-through specimens. Third, we studied whether an increasing trend of mucosal CI was universally observed in HD pull-through. RESULTS Our findings included a significant variability in PC along the biopsy distance in non-HD cases. Positive mucosal CI was found in proximal AZ in 6 (43%) of 14 HD pull-through, among which 1 case lacked submucosal nerve hypertrophy in the proximal AZ. All 14 HD pull-through cases showed an increasing trend/gradient of PC from AZ toward TZ. CONCLUSION Based on our findings, the presence or absence of mucosal CI positivity and submucosal nerve hypertrophy may not reliably diagnose vsHD in rectal suction biopsy. While we acknowledge that the density of mucosal innervation in variable contexts and anatomical locations is unknown and yet to be explored, our study suggests that an increasing trend of positive mucosal CI from AZ toward TZ by IPA might prove to be a useful tool for the diagnosis of vsHD in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saleh Najjar
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, New York, United States
| | - Sangtae Ahn
- GE Global Research, Niskayuna, New York, United States
| | - Kavita Umrau
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, New York, United States
| | - Mustafa Erdem Arslan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, New York, United States
| | - Timothy A Jennings
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, New York, United States
| | - Christine Whyte
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, United States
| | - Hwajeong Lee
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, United States
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14
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Ludwig K, De Bartolo D, Salerno A, Ingravallo G, Cazzato G, Giacometti C, Dall’Igna P. Congenital anomalies of the tubular gastrointestinal tract. Pathologica 2022; 114:40-54. [PMID: 35212315 PMCID: PMC9040549 DOI: 10.32074/1591-951x-553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Congenital anomalies of the tubular gastrointestinal tract are an important cause of morbidity not only in infants, but also in children and adults. The gastrointestinal (GI) tract, composed of all three primitive germ layers, develops early during embryogenesis. Two major steps in its development are the formation of the gut tube (giving rise to the foregut, the midgut and the hindgut), and the formation of individual organs with specialized cell types. Formation of an intact and functioning GI tract is under strict control from various molecular pathways. Disruption of any of these crucial mechanisms involved in the cell-fate decision along the dorsoventral, anteroposterior, left-right and radial axes, can lead to numerous congenital anomalies, most of which occur and present in infancy. However, they may run undetected during childhood. Therapy is surgical, which in some cases must be performed urgently, and prognosis depends on early diagnosis and suitable treatment. A precise pathologic macroscopic or microscopic diagnosis is important, not only for the immediate treatment and management of affected individuals, but also for future counselling of the affected individual and their family. This is even more true in cases of multiple anomalies or syndromic patterns. We discuss some of the more frequent or clinically important congenital anomalies of the tubular GI, including atresia's, duplications, intestinal malrotation, Meckel's diverticulum and Hirschsprung's Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrhin Ludwig
- Department of Pathology, Azienda Ospedale-Università Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Debora De Bartolo
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua School of Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Angela Salerno
- Department of Oncology, Anatomic and Histologic Pathology and Cytodiagnostics, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ingravallo
- Department of Emergencies and Organ Transplantation, Section of Pathology, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Gerardo Cazzato
- Department of Emergencies and Organ Transplantation, Section of Pathology, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Cinzia Giacometti
- Department of Services, Pathology Unit, ULSS 6 “Euganea”, Camposampiero, Italy
| | - Patrizia Dall’Igna
- Department of Emergencies and Organ Transplantation, Pediatric Surgery, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
- Correspondence Patrizia Dall’Igna Department of Emergencies and Organ Transplantation, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Consorziale, Ospedale Pediatrico Giovanni XXIII, via Giovanni Amendola 207, 70126 Bari, Italy E-mail:
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15
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Arbizu R, Freiberg B, Rodriguez L. Lower Gastrointestinal Functional and Motility Disorders in Children. Pediatr Clin North Am 2021; 68:1255-1271. [PMID: 34736588 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2021.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Functional and motility gastrointestinal disorders are the most common complaints to the pediatric gastroenterologist. Disorders affecting the small intestine carry a significant morbidity and mortality due to the severe limitation of therapeutic interventions available and the complications associated with such interventions. Congenital colorectal disorders are rare but also carry significant morbidity and poor quality of life plus the social stigma associated with its complications. In this review, we summarize the clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluations, and the therapeutic interventions available for the most common and severe gastrointestinal functional and motility disorders of the small bowel, colon, and anorectum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Arbizu
- Section of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Neurogastroenterology and Motility Center, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, Yale New Haven Children's Hospital, 333 Cedar Street, LMP 4093, PO Box 208064, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Ben Freiberg
- Section of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Neurogastroenterology and Motility Center, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, Yale New Haven Children's Hospital, 333 Cedar Street, LMP 4093, PO Box 208064, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Leonel Rodriguez
- Section of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Neurogastroenterology and Motility Center, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, Yale New Haven Children's Hospital, 333 Cedar Street, LMP 4093, PO Box 208064, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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16
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Rytting H, Dureau ZJ, Vega JV, Rogers BB, Yin H. Autopsy Study of Calretinin Immunohistochemistry in the Anorectal Canal in Young Infants and Potential Implications for Rectal Biopsy Approach in the Neonatal Period. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2021; 24:542-550. [PMID: 34266330 DOI: 10.1177/10935266211030172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Absent submucosal ganglion cells in biopsies 1-3 cm above the pectinate line establishes the pathologic diagnosis of Hirschsprung Disease (HD). Calretinin stains both ganglion cells and their mucosal neurites and has gained importance in HD diagnosis. Absent calretinin positive mucosal neurites in biopsies at the appropriate level above the pectinate line is highly specific for HD. Whether this applies to lower biopsies is uncertain. To address this, we studied anorectal canal autopsy specimens from infants. METHODS We performed an autopsy study of infant anorectal canal specimens to describe calretinin staining in this region. Calretinin staining was correlated with histologic and gross landmarks. RESULTS In all 15 non-HD specimens, calretinin positive mucosal neurites were present in glandular mucosa up to the anorectal line where neurites rapidly diminished. Age range was preterm 26 weeks to 3 months. CONCLUSIONS Calretinin positive mucosal neurites are present in glandular mucosa up to the anorectal line in young infants. This is potentially important regarding neonatal HD biopsy level and diagnosis. Positive calretinin staining at the anorectal line favors normal innervation making HD unlikely. Absent calretinin positive neurites in glandular mucosa is worrisome for HD in young infants, regardless of location.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Rytting
- Department of Pathology, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Inc., Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Zachary J Dureau
- Department of Pathology, Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - Jose Velazquez Vega
- Department of Pathology, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Inc., Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Beverly B Rogers
- Department of Pathology, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Inc., Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Hong Yin
- Department of Pathology, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Inc., Atlanta, Georgia
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17
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Greenberg A, Aizic A, Zubkov A, Borsekofsky S, Hagege RR, Hershkovitz D. Automatic ganglion cell detection for improving the efficiency and accuracy of hirschprung disease diagnosis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:3306. [PMID: 33558593 PMCID: PMC7870950 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-82869-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Histopathologic diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR) is time consuming and requires expertise. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in digital pathology is actively researched and may improve the diagnosis of HSCR. The purpose of this research was to develop an algorithm capable of identifying ganglion cells in digital pathology slides and implement it as an assisting tool for the pathologist in the diagnosis of HSCR. Ninety five digital pathology slides were used for the construction and training of the algorithm. Fifty cases suspected for HSCR (727 slides) were used as a validation cohort. Image sets suspected to contain ganglion cells were chosen by the algorithm and then reviewed and scored by five pathologists, one HSCR expert and 4 non-experts. The algorithm was able to identify ganglion cells with 96% sensitivity and 99% specificity (in normal colon) as well as to correctly identify a case previously misdiagnosed as non-HSCR. The expert was able to achieve perfectly accurate diagnoses based solely on the images suggested by the algorithm, with over 95% time saved. Non-experts would require expert consultation in 20–58% of the cases to achieve similar results. The use of AI in the diagnosis of HSCR can greatly reduce the time and effort required for diagnosis and improve accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel Greenberg
- Institute of Pathology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, 6 Weizmann Street, 6423906, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Asaf Aizic
- Institute of Pathology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, 6 Weizmann Street, 6423906, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Asia Zubkov
- Institute of Pathology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, 6 Weizmann Street, 6423906, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Sarah Borsekofsky
- Institute of Pathology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, 6 Weizmann Street, 6423906, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Rami R Hagege
- Institute of Pathology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, 6 Weizmann Street, 6423906, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dov Hershkovitz
- Institute of Pathology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, 6 Weizmann Street, 6423906, Tel Aviv, Israel. .,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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18
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Alturkustani M, Shillingford N, Zhou S, Wang L, Warren M. Phox2b Immunohistochemical Staining in Detecting Enteric Neural Crest Cells in Hirschsprung Disease. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2021; 24:19-26. [PMID: 32975470 DOI: 10.1177/1093526620953372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It can be challenging to recognize undifferentiated/immature ganglion cells, especially single forms. Ganglion cells and glia are derived from enteric neural crest cells (ENCCs), a group of autonomic nervous system (ANS)-lineage neural crest progenitors that PHOX2B regulates. Phox2b is an excellent marker for neoplastic and non-neoplastic ANS cells (eg, peripheral neuroblastic tumors [pNTs]). We hypothesized that Phox2b immunohistochemical staining (IHC) would also be useful for detecting ENCCs. METHODS Hematoxylin and eosin, calretinin IHC, and Phox2b IHC were reviewed on 21 pull-through specimens and on a cohort of 12 rectal biopsies. RESULTS Phox2b IHC demonstrated nuclear positivity in all of the ganglion cells across the different phases of differentiation without background staining. The Phox2b result correlated with the morphological findings, calretinin IHC results, and diagnoses based on the routine diagnostic method. The intensity was uniformly strong in the undifferentiated/immature forms and became variable in the mature forms; this pattern was similar to that seen in pNTs. CONCLUSION Phox2b IHC was highly sensitive and specific for detecting ganglion cells. It worked especially well for immature ganglion cells, seen in premature neonates, and scattered single forms in transition zones. In basic research settings, Phox2b can be a useful marker for early differentiation of ENCCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murad Alturkustani
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children's Hospital Los Angeles and Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California.,Department of Pathology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nick Shillingford
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children's Hospital Los Angeles and Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Shengmei Zhou
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children's Hospital Los Angeles and Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Larry Wang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children's Hospital Los Angeles and Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Mikako Warren
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children's Hospital Los Angeles and Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
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19
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Abstract
Surgical pathology for Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) occasionally is difficult, especially for those who encounter the disorder infrequently. This article reviews pathologic features of HSCR, considers various specimens the pathologist is required to evaluate, and discusses useful ancillary tests. Potential diagnostic pitfalls are highlighted, and helpful hints are provided to successfully navigate challenging situations. Finally, the article looks forward to new ancillary tests on the horizon and future topics for HSCR research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Hwang
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Seattle Children's Hospital, University of Washington, OC.8.720 4800, Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98105, USA
| | - Raj P Kapur
- Department of Pathology, Seattle Children's Hospital, University of Washington, OC.8.720 4800, Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98105, USA.
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20
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Abstract
Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) is conventionally defined as aganglionosis of the distal rectum and a variable length of proximal contiguous bowel with a transition zone of ganglionic, but neuroanatomically abnormal, bowel located immediately upstream. Recent improvement in our understanding of the pathology and genetics of HSCR and relevant animal models indicates highly variable expressivity. The spectrum of intestinal neuropathology includes patients with very short-segment aganglionosis, limited to the distal 1 to 2 cm of the rectum, and possibly patients with no true aganglionic segment, but nonphysiological transition zone pathology in their distal rectums. The presence or absence of submucosal ganglion cells in a rectal biopsy is not sufficient to exclude these patients, in whom submucosal nerve hypertrophy and/or abnormal cholinergic mucosal innervation may be the only diagnostic clues. In addition, diagnosis or exclusion of HSCR by rectal biopsy now relies in part on mucosal patterns of calretinin immunohistochemistry, with less emphasis on submucosal tissue adequacy and assessment of cholinergic innervation. These recent trends in the surgical pathology approach to rectal biopsies may miss patients at the phenotypically milder end of the malformation spectrum, with profound implications for subsequent management, prognosis, and genetic counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raj P Kapur
- Department of Pathology, Seattle Children's Hospital and the University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Lusine Ambartsumyan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Seattle Children's Hospital and the University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Caitlin Smith
- Department of Surgery, Seattle Children's Hospital and the University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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21
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Abstract
Diagnosis or exclusion of Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) is a frequent exercise in any pediatric hospital. Although HSCR may present at different ages and with varied clinical findings, the most common presentation is a neonate with severe constipation or signs of intestinal obstruction. A variety of diagnostic tests including contrast enema and anorectal manometry may be used as diagnostic screens, but diagnosis ultimately rests upon histopathological evaluation of a rectal biopsy. For the experienced pathologist, conventional hematoxylin-and-eosin-stained sections often suffice to exclude HSCR or establish the diagnosis. However, ancillary diagnostic tests such as acetylcholinesterase histochemistry or calretinin immunohistochemistry are complementary and extremely helpful in some cases. In this Perspectives article, we review the clinical and pathological features of HSCR, highlight those that are found in most patients, and discuss how to address particularly challenging aspects of the diagnostic workup.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lusine Ambartsumyan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Seattle Children's Hospital and University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Caitlin Smith
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Seattle Children's Hospital and University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Raj P Kapur
- Department of Pathology, Seattle Children's Hospital and University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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22
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Schilling F, Geppert CE, Strehl J, Hartmann A, Kuerten S, Brehmer A, Jabari S. Digital pathology imaging and computer-aided diagnostics as a novel tool for standardization of evaluation of aganglionic megacolon (Hirschsprung disease) histopathology. Cell Tissue Res 2018; 375:371-381. [PMID: 30175382 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-018-2911-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Based on a recently introduced immunohistochemical panel (Bachmann et al. 2015) for aganglionic megacolon (AM), also known as Hirschsprung disease, histopathological diagnosis, we evaluated whether the use of digital pathology and 'machine learning' could help to obtain a reliable diagnosis. Slides were obtained from 31 specimens of 27 patients immunohistochemically stained for MAP2, calretinin, S100β and GLUT1. Slides were digitized by whole slide scanning. We used a Definiens Developer Tissue Studios as software for analysis. We configured necessary parameters in combination with 'machine learning' to identify pathological aberrations. A significant difference between AM- and non-AM-affected tissues was found for calretinin (AM 0.55% vs. non-AM 1.44%) and MAP2 (AM 0.004% vs. non-AM 0.07%) staining measurements and software-based evaluations. In contrast, S100β and GLUT1 staining measurements and software-based evaluations showed no significant differences between AM- and non-AM-affected tissues. However, no difference was found in comparison of suction biopsies with resections. Applying machine learning via an ensemble voting classifier, we achieved an accuracy of 87.5% on the test set. Automated diagnosis of AM by applying digital pathology on immunohistochemical panels was successful for calretinin and MAP2, whereas S100β and GLUT1 were not effective in diagnosis. Our method suggests that software-based approaches are capable of diagnosing AM. Our future challenge will be the improvement of efficiency by reduction of the time-consuming need for large pre-labelled training data. With increasing technical improvement, especially in unsupervised training procedures, this method could be helpful in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Schilling
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Krankenhausstraße 9, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.,Institute of Pathology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Krankenhausstraße 9, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Carol E Geppert
- Institute of Pathology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Krankenhausstraße 9, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Johanna Strehl
- Institute of Pathology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Krankenhausstraße 9, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Arndt Hartmann
- Institute of Pathology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Krankenhausstraße 9, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Kuerten
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Krankenhausstraße 9, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Axel Brehmer
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Krankenhausstraße 9, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Samir Jabari
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Krankenhausstraße 9, 91054, Erlangen, Germany. .,Institute of Pathology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Krankenhausstraße 9, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES Finding thickened nerve fibres is one of the key elements in the diagnosis of Hirschsprung disease (HD); however, its value at different ages remains uncertain. Nerve fibre diameters <40 μm can be observed in infants younger than 8 weeks, despite the presence of HD. The aim of this study was to identify a change in maximum nerve fibre diameter in HD patients, measured before and after 8 weeks of age. METHODS Nerve fibre diameter was retrospectively evaluated in tissue of 20 infants treated for definite HD. Rectal suction biopsies (RSBs) obtained within the first 8 weeks of life (T1) and resected bowel obtained during primary surgery at an average of 24.7 weeks (T2), were assessed. The 2 thickest nerve fibre diameter recordings at T1 and T2 were compared in each subject, to examine changes in nerve trunk diameter with increasing age. RESULTS In 13 cases (65%), nerve fibre diameters were ≥40 μm at T1 and T2. Six subjects (30%) had nerve trunk diameters <40 μm at T1; however, they experienced diameter increases to ≥40 μm by T2. Thus, at T2, 19 subjects (95%) had diameter recordings ≥40 μm. Nerve fibre diameter in the remaining case (5%) stayed consistent at <40 μm at T1 and T2, despite the presence of HD. CONCLUSIONS After the first 8 weeks of life, nerve fibre measurements appear to be associated with HD. Measuring the 2 thickest nerve fibres can support typical HD diagnosis criteria beyond 8 weeks of age, but is not superior to histopathological confirmation of aganglionosis.
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Kovach AE, Pacheco MC. Ganglion Cells Are Frequently Present in Pediatric Mucosal Colorectal Biopsies: H&E Sections and Calretinin Immunohistochemistry in the Evaluation of Children With Chronic Constipation. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2018; 21:48-53. [PMID: 28508695 DOI: 10.1177/1093526617704594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Hirschsprung disease (HD) rarely presents as chronic constipation after the newborn period. At our institution, calretinin immunohistochemistry (CAL) is frequently requested by clinicians on rectal mucosal biopsies (RMBs) taken during colonoscopy in older children in whom suspicion for HD is low. We hypothesized that review of these biopsies would frequently reveal ganglion cells (GCs). We reviewed features of mucosal biopsies (November 2013 to September 2015) from children ≥1 year of age on which clinicians had requested CAL on at least one specimen. A total of 93 biopsies with paired CAL from 83 patients were suitable for study (ages 1-18 years, M:F 1.2). Submitted clinical indication was constipation in 62 patients (75%). GCs were found within or subjacent to muscularis mucosa in 63 biopsies (68%), 12 (19%) of which were designated from a specific anatomic site, eg, 2 or 3 cm. In 25 of 63 (40%) cases, GCs were identified on one of the first 3 sections (median 5th, range 1st-54th). Forty-six cases (73%) contained no or <0.5 mm of submucosa (SM, range 0-2 mm). All but one case (62/63, 98%) with identified GCs showed positive CAL staining; a single case showed equivocal staining. Among the 30 biopsies with no observed GCs, none (0%) had >1 mm of SM, and 21 (70%) had no SM. CAL was positive in 28 (93%) and equivocal/weak in 2 (7%); no additional work-up for HD was pursued. The data suggest that H&E sections of RMBs can exclude HD at a specified site in many cases and provide the basis for a future study examining the utility of CAL in RMBs without SM as a means for excluding HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra E Kovach
- 1 Division of Pediatric Pathology, Department of Pathology Microbiology & Immunology, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
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Rectal Suction Biopsy in Patients With Previous Anorectal Surgery for Hirschsprung Disease. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2017; 65:173-178. [PMID: 27755344 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0000000000001443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to determine rates of histologically positive, negative, and inconclusive rectal suction biopsies in post-pull-through patients with Hirschsprung disease evaluated for potential residual aganglionosis at our institution and to determine how patients were managed after a post-pull-through rectal suction biopsy. METHODS Thirty-nine post-pull-through suction biopsies from our institution were reviewed. Samples, stained with H&E and often acetylcholinesterase and/or calretinin, were categorized as "histologically" positive, negative, or inconclusive for aganglionosis. Subsequent clinical action was categorized as bowel resection, no further procedure, or rebiopsy. Agreement between histologic diagnosis and clinical action was assessed. RESULTS Histologically, all biopsies were inconclusive (46%) or negative (54%) for residual aganglionosis. Postbiopsy clinical action included redo pull-through (5%), no further procedure (59%), or rebiopsy (36%). Rebiopsy was sought in 2 of 21 histologically negative patients and in only 12 of 18 histologically indeterminate patients. Eventual redo pull-through procedures in 6 of 39 patients showed 4 with residual aganglionosis and 2 with abnormalities suggesting residual "transition zone." CONCLUSIONS Our findings show that suction biopsy after pull-through was frequently histologically indeterminate and never definitively positive for residual aganglionosis. When biopsy was histologically indeterminate, rebiopsy was pursued less commonly than may be expected. Our findings emphasize that suction biopsy examination is not a "criterion standard" for residual aganglionosis, but instead a component of a diagnosis that ultimately combines clinicopathologic factors, the constellation of which can sometimes spare patients from a more invasive full-thickness biopsy.
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Kapur RP, Raess PW, Hwang S, Winter C. Choline Transporter Immunohistochemistry: An Effective Substitute for Acetylcholinesterase Histochemistry to Diagnose Hirschsprung Disease With Formalin-fixed Paraffin-embedded Rectal Biopsies. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2017. [PMID: 28649946 DOI: 10.1177/1093526617697060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Acetylcholinesterase enzymatic histochemistry (AChE EHC), which highlights abnormal cholinergic nerves in the mucosa of aganglionic bowel, has been used for decades to evaluate rectal biopsies for Hirschsprung disease (HSCR). While useful diagnostically, AChE EHC is not compatible with conventional formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues and is not widely available. The choline transporter (ChT) is a putative alternative marker of cholinergic nerves. ChT immunohistochemistry (IHC) was investigated using FFPE biopsies and resections from patients with confirmed HSCR, as well as appropriate non-HSCR controls. ChT immunostaining was effective at identifying cases with HSCR and qualitatively similar to AChE EHC on frozen section. Among 3 pathologists, the diagnostic positive and negative predictive values based on ChT IHC ranged from 0.84-0.94 and 0.85-0.89, respectively, with good inter-observer agreement (Cohen kappa = 0.70-0.90). ChT IHC was useful in unusual scenarios in which calretinin (CR) IHC failed to correctly identify patients with HSCR. In 10 cases of short-segment HSCR, abnormal ChT+ mucosal innervation was present through the entire aganglionic segment and into portions of the TZ with submucosal nerve hypertrophy. In contrast, mucosal CR IHC was retained in the TZ and adjacent aganglionic bowel, which could lead to misinterpretation of a biopsy as ganglionic bowel. Indeed, 6 such patients were identified with paradoxical CR-positive mucosal innervation in their diagnostic biopsies. ChT IHC was interpreted as unequivocal HSCR in these cases, and HSCR was confirmed on resection. In summary, ChT IHC in FFPE tissue demonstrates high positive and negative predictive values for HSCR, is superior to CR IHC in a subset of cases, and can be incorporated into routine practice without the need for specialized techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raj P Kapur
- 1 Department of Pathology, University of Washington and Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Philipp W Raess
- 2 Department of Pathology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Samuel Hwang
- 2 Department of Pathology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Conrad Winter
- 1 Department of Pathology, University of Washington and Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Terra SA, de Arruda Lourenção PL, G Silva M, A Miot H, Rodrigues MAM. A critical appraisal of the morphological criteria for diagnosing intestinal neuronal dysplasia type B. Mod Pathol 2017; 30:978-985. [PMID: 28304401 DOI: 10.1038/modpathol.2017.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2016] [Revised: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Intestinal neuronal dysplasia type B is a controversial entity expressed by complex changes in the enteric nervous system. Diagnosis depends on rectal biopsy histopathology and diagnostic criteria, both qualitative and quantitative, have changed over time, hindering the diagnostic practice. We analyzed the morphological criteria for the histological diagnosis of intestinal neuronal dysplasia type B in a series of patients with intestinal neuronal dysplasia type B according to the 1990 Frankfurt Consensus criteria and verified the applicability of the numerical criteria proposed by Meier-Ruge et al in 2004 and 2006. Qualitative criteria adopted for the histological diagnosis of intestinal neuronal dysplasia type B included hyperplasia of the submucous plexus with hyperganglionosis and hypertrophy of the nerve trunks. Quantitative criteria considered more than 20% giant ganglia in the submucosa, with more than eight neurons each on 25 ganglia, and children aged over 1 year. Distal colon surgical specimens from 29 patients, aged 0-16 years, diagnosed with intestinal neuronal dysplasia type B were retrospectively analyzed using sections processed for conventional histology (H&E) and calretinin immunohistochemistry. Hyperplasia of the submucosal nerve plexi with hyperganglionosis and hypertrophy of the nerve trunks was observed in all cases. Ganglia with small, immature neurons were detected in the majority of cases. Quantitative analysis confirmed hyperganglionosis (mean number=10.7 neurons per ganglion) and hypertrophy of the nerve trunks (median=44.6 μm thickness). Neurons showed immunostaining for calretinin, but neuron counts in calretinin-stained sections were lower compared with H&E (P<0.01). No significant differences were verified between children aged under and over 1 year regarding hyperganglionosis (P=0.79), neuron counts (P=0.36), and immature ganglia (P=0.66). Only one patient met the numerical criteria proposed by Meier-Ruge et al in 2004 and 2006. In conclusion, the numerical criteria showed limited applicability when transposed to conventional histopathology. Children aged over 1 year presented very similar histological features of neuronal immaturity to younger children, questioning the need for an age criterion when diagnosing intestinal neuronal dysplasia type B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone A Terra
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu School of Medicine, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Pedro L de Arruda Lourenção
- Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Botucatu School of Medicine, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Márcia G Silva
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu School of Medicine, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Hélio A Miot
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu School of Medicine, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Maria A M Rodrigues
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu School of Medicine, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, Brazil
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Two Cases of Chronic Intestinal Pseudo-obstruction: A Comparison of Staining Characteristics of Enteric Visceral Myopathy With Hirschsprung Disease. Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol 2016; 24:e72-9. [DOI: 10.1097/pai.0000000000000314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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29
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Abou Gabal HH, Osman WM, Abd El Atti RM. Effectiveness of calretinin immunohistochemistry with digital morphometry in mapping of different segments of Hirschsprung disease. EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2016; 36:9-18. [DOI: 10.1097/01.xej.0000482435.40584.bd] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
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Muise ED, Cowles RA. Rectal biopsy for Hirschsprung's disease: a review of techniques, pathology, and complications. World J Pediatr 2016; 12:135-41. [PMID: 26684314 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-015-0068-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2014] [Accepted: 03/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hirschsprung's disease (HD) is one of the most common congenital anomalies of colorectal function, affecting approximately 1 in 5000 live births, with a 4:1 male predominance. HD is characterized by aganglionosis that is most often limited to the rectosigmoid, but can extend proximally along the colon and, in rare instances, reach into the small intestine. A clinical history of delayed passage of meconium beyond 48 hours after birth, physical exam findings of abdominal distention and vomiting, and a contrast enema demonstrating a transition zone are highly suggestive of HD. DATA SOURCES We searched databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus for the following key words: Hirschsprung's disease, rectal biopsy, pathology, ganglion cell, nerve trunk hypertrophy, pediatric constipation, and selected publications written in English that were relevant to the scope of this review. RESULTS Based on the data presented in the literature, we reviewed 1) biopsy techniques for the diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease, addressed inadequate biopsies, and complications from rectal biopsy, and 2) pathologic and histologic interpretation of biopsy specimens for the diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease. CONCLUSION A well-executed rectal biopsy with expert pathologic evaluation of the specimen remains the gold standard for the diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease and is the subject of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor Dorothy Muise
- Section of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Robert Anthony Cowles
- Section of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA. .,Section of Pediatric Surgery, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, FMB 131, PO Box 20862, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
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Coe A, Avansino JR, Kapur RP. Distal Rectal Skip-Segment Hirschsprung Disease and the Potential for False-Negative Diagnosis. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2016; 19:123-31. [PMID: 26372258 DOI: 10.2350/15-08-1686-oa.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
In skip-segment Hirschsprung disease (SS-HSCR), an aganglionic segment of bowel, which extends proximally from the distal rectum, is interrupted by a ganglionated "skip segment." Skip segments are usually located far proximal to the rectum where they do not interfere with initial diagnosis, although the possibility of distal SS-HSCR should be considered during interpretation of intraoperative biopsies or patients with atypical postoperative courses. We report 2 cases of SS-HSCR with skip areas in the distal rectum, 1 of which led to a false-negative diagnosis by suction rectal biopsy. These 2 cases of SS-HSCR, along with others in the literature, highlight the point that ganglionic skip segments can confuse clinicians and lead to inadequate bowel resection, diagnostic delay, or a false-negative diagnosis. The pathogenesis of SS-HSCR is discussed in light of recent discoveries regarding transmesenteric migration of vagal neural crest cells and the role of sacral neural crest cells in hindgut neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Coe
- 1 University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Jeffrey R Avansino
- 2 Department of Surgery, University of Washington and Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Raj P Kapur
- 3 Department of Pathology, University of Washington and Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
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Warren M, Kaul A, Bove KE. Calretinin-Immunoreactive Hypoinnervation in Down Syndrome (DS): Report of an Infant with Very Short-Segment Hirschsprung Disease and Comparison to Biopsy Findings in 20 Normal Infants and 11 Infants with DS and Chronic Constipation. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2016; 19:87-93. [PMID: 26230373 DOI: 10.2350/15-01-1602-oa.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In Down syndrome (DS) constipation is common, and the incidence of Hirschsprung disease (HD) is 1-2%. Rectal suction biopsies (RSBs) in DS may show discordant features; calretinin immunoreactivity (CRir) often helps resolve discrepancies. We report a case of unequivocal very short-segment HD (vsHD) in an infant with DS who had aganglionosis with abnormal acetylcholine esterase (AChE) activity in 3 RSBs. The CRir patterns were scanty positive rather than the expected absent CRir innervation in the lamina propria (LP). The resection specimen was grossly typical for short-segment HD, with a 5.5-cm, narrow but normally ganglionated segment proximal to the verified very short distal anganglionic zone. Unequivocal calretinin hypoinnervation was limited to the distal 2 cm, substantiating the warning of Kapur that small numbers of CRir nerves in the LP do not exclude a diagnosis of vsHD. We evaluated RSBs from 11 DS and 20 randomly selected normal infants <6 months of age with chronic constipation. The normal infants had abundant mucosal calretinin innervation and AChE histochemistry. We observed variable CRir hypoinnervation in RSBs in DS infants (including 6/7 with "normal" original diagnosis and 1/4 with HD). Our findings caution against overdependence on "normal" calretinin immunohistochemistry and suggest that AChE may be more reliable than CRir in the context of DS. An unknown number of patients with DS may have enteric nervous system disorders functionally similar to HD, which are possibly related to abnormal or imbalanced autonomic innervation, of which distal calretinin hypoinnervation is one manifestation, despite the presence of ganglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikako Warren
- 1 Division of Pathology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Ajay Kaul
- 2 Division of Gastroenterology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kevin E Bove
- 1 Division of Pathology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES The detection of ganglion cells in rectal biopsies of infants or toddlers with severe constipation is routinely performed by pediatric pathologists in many institutions. Hirschsprung disease (HD) is defined by the lack of ganglion cells (aganglionosis). The early recognition and the prompt implementation of surgical procedures obviously protect infants affected with HD from potential life-threatening conditions, including enterocolitis and debilitating constipation. Image-based and non-image-based clinical techniques and some laboratory tests have been reevaluated along the years, but often fragmentarily. Immunohistochemical markers have been increasingly used in pathology laboratories to detect ganglion cells and nerve fibers. Recently, calretinin, a vitamin D-dependent calcium-binding protein with expression in ganglion cells and nerves, has been described as an adjunctive or primary diagnostic test in HD. The aim of the present study was to systematically summarize and update laboratory procedures targeting ganglion cells in rectal biopsies. METHODS Procedures and tests have been reviewed and values of specificity and sensitivity have been calculated according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. RESULTS Contrast enema has the lowest sensitivity and specificity of all of the 3-index investigations under the lens: contrast enema, anorectal manometry, and biopsy with histology. The latter procedure seems to have the highest sensitivity and specificity. Acetylcholinesterase staining on fresh-frozen material has been found to have slightly higher rates of sensitivity and specificity when compared with hematoxylin and eosin only. Calretinin staining may be supportive for the diagnosis, although some cases with false-positivity may be of some concern. CONCLUSIONS Hematoxylin and eosin with or without acetylcholinesterase remains the criterion standard according to our PRISMA-based data. In our opinion, the number of false-positive results with potential overtreatment may limit the increasing advocacy for calretinin staining. Both the "primum non nocere" dictum and the "loss aversion heuristic" need to be satisfied harmoniously by preventing harm from unnecessary surgery.
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Bachmann L, Besendörfer M, Carbon R, Lux P, Agaimy A, Hartmann A, Rau TT. Immunohistochemical panel for the diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease using antibodies to MAP2, calretinin, GLUT1 and S100. Histopathology 2015; 66:824-35. [PMID: 25123159 DOI: 10.1111/his.12527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2014] [Accepted: 08/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease is currently based on the identification of aganglionosis and the presence of an increase in acetylcholinesterase-positive hypertrophic nerve fibres in the large bowel submucosa. However, acetylcholinesterase staining is laborious and requires a skilled technician. The aim of this study was to identify a method for diagnosing Hirschsprung's disease reliably using an immunohistochemical panel of recently proposed markers. METHODS AND RESULTS Sixty-nine specimens from 37 patients were evaluated. MAP2 and calretinin antibodies were shown to stain ganglia reliably in the submucosal and myenteric plexuses of normal tissue. By contrast, reduced staining of ganglia was observed in patients with Hirschsprung's disease. Staining for GLUT1 and S100 was used to evaluate the number and thickness of nerve fibres. Gain of GLUT1 and S100 expression was in contrast to the loss of calretinin and MAP2. Hypertrophic submucosal nerve fibres in Hirschsprung's disease develop a perineurium with a ring-like GLUT1 staining pattern similar in size and intensity to that observed in deeper subserosal tissue. CONCLUSIONS The diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease using immunohistochemical panels could be as accurate as with conventional frozen section techniques. In particular, the use of a combination of markers for ganglia and hypertrophic nerve fibres highlighting a prominent perineurium in Hirschsprung's disease could be an alternative method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonhard Bachmann
- Institute of Pathology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Comprehensive Cancer Centre Erlangen - Metropolitan Region Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Comments on "a variant pattern of Calretinin immunohistochemistry on rectal suction-biopsies is fully specific of short-segment Hirschsprung's disease". Pediatr Surg Int 2015; 31:107. [PMID: 25374345 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-014-3609-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/08/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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TGF-β1, Ghrelin, Neurexin, and Neuroligin are Predictive Biomarkers for Postoperative Prognosis of Laparoscopic Surgery in Children with Hirschsprung Disease. Cell Biochem Biophys 2014; 71:1249-54. [DOI: 10.1007/s12013-014-0338-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Guinard-Samuel V, Bonnard A, Peuchmaur M, Berrebi D. A variant pattern of calretinin immunohistochemistry on rectal suction-biopsies is fully specific of short-segment Hirschsprung's disease. Pediatr Surg Int 2014; 30:803-8. [PMID: 24946949 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-014-3526-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Calretinin immunohistochemistry is now widely used to diagnose Hirschsprung's disease (HD), since loss of calretinin expression within the mucosa and muscularis mucosae of rectal suction-biopsy is pathognomonic of HD. However, a stippled staining may be observed within hypertrophic nerves in the submucosae in some HD patients. The aim of the study was to test the hypothesis that such findings may announce the beginning of the transitional zone. METHODS We retrieved 44 consecutive patients (10 girls and 34 boys; median age 6.5 days), diagnosed with aganglionosis on rectal suction biopsies, followed by surgery. According to calretinin immunohistochemistry performed on all paraffin-embedded rectal biopsies, we defined two HD groups: P- showing an absence of any staining within mucosa, muscularis mucosae and submucosa et P+ showing an absence of staining within the mucosa and muscularis mucosae, but a positivity of some submucosal hypertrophic nerves. These data were correlated to the length of total pathological segment (aganglionic and transitional zones) obtained from the original surgery reports. RESULTS 18/44 patients (40.9 %) belonged to the P+ group and 26/44 (59 %) patients were within the P- group. In the P+ group, the maximal length of the aganglionic zone was 9 cm [mean 4 (1-9)] and the total pathological zone never exceeded 14 cm [mean 8 (3.8-14)]. In the P- group, the maximal length of aganglionic zone was 55.5 cm [mean 11.3 (2.5; 55.5)] and the total pathological zone extended to 59.5 cm [mean 17.75 (4.5; 59.5)]. Aganglionic segment was significantly shorter in the P+ group (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION Staining of some hypertrophic nerves in the submucosa in suction rectal biopsy of HD patients using calretinin immunohistochemistry is only encountered in short-segment aganglionosis with a pathological zone always restricted to rectal and sigmoid colon. This information could be crucial for the surgeons in the decision to choose a transanal procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Guinard-Samuel
- Pathology Department, Robert Debré Hospital, 48 Boulevard Sérurier, 75019, Paris, France,
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