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Afriliani N, Wulanhandarini T. Unusual radiologic imaging in juvenile granulosa cell tumor with precocious puberty: A unilocular cyst. Radiol Case Rep 2024; 19:4283-4288. [PMID: 39161564 PMCID: PMC11331716 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2024.06.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Juvenile Granulosa Cell Tumor (JGCT) represents 5% of all granulosa cell cancers. Precocious puberty is a frequent feature of this tumor. A 2-year and 2-month-old girl was referred with a diagnosis of suspected ovarian cancer, dysfunctional uterine bleeding, and precocious puberty. Radiologic examination revealed the following: Abdominal ultrasonography showed a solitary anechoic cystic lesion in the pelvic cavity. MRI confirmed the existence of solid components on its walls. JGCT was then confirmed using immunohistochemistry (IHC) markers. JGCT, along with adult granulosa cell tumors (AGCT) are subgroups of granulosa cell tumors (GCTs), which are part of pure sex cord tumors. The 2 forms share imaging findings due to their comparable gross appearance. GCTs require diagnostic imaging tests to distinguish them from other ovarian tumors. Two ultrasound patterns can be identified GCTs, and MRI showed that GCTs are more heterogeneous than other sex-cord stromal tumors (OSCs). In our case, the imaging characteristics for juvenile granulosa cell tumors were nonspecific and these tumors cannot be reliably distinguished from other ovarian neoplasms based on imaging alone. Although GCTs have imaging characteristics that can help to distinguish them from other tumors, confirmation by histopathology and IHC is still mandatory, especially in cases with nonspecific radiological features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurmilia Afriliani
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine - Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
- Department of Radiology, Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Tri Wulanhandarini
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine - Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
- Department of Radiology, Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
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2
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Taherifard E, Tran K, Saeed A, Yasin JA, Saeed A. Biomarkers for Immunotherapy Efficacy in Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Comprehensive Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:2054. [PMID: 39335733 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14182054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2024] [Revised: 09/11/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common primary liver malignancy and the sixth most common cancer globally, remains fatal for many patients with inappropriate responses to treatment. Recent advancements in immunotherapy have transformed the treatment landscape for advanced HCC. However, variability in patient responses to immunotherapy highlights the need for biomarkers that can predict treatment outcomes. This manuscript comprehensively reviews the evolving role of biomarkers in immunotherapy efficacy, spanning from blood-derived indicators-alpha-fetoprotein, inflammatory markers, cytokines, circulating tumor cells, and their DNA-to tissue-derived indicators-programmed cell death ligand 1 expression, tumor mutational burden, microsatellite instability, and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. The current body of evidence suggests that these biomarkers hold promise for improving patient selection and predicting immunotherapy outcomes. Each biomarker offers unique insights into disease biology and the immune landscape of HCC, potentially enhancing the precision of treatment strategies. However, challenges such as methodological variability, high costs, inconsistent findings, and the need for large-scale validation in well-powered two-arm trial studies persist, making them currently unsuitable for integration into standard care. Addressing these challenges through standardized techniques and implementation of further studies will be critical for the future incorporation of these biomarkers into clinical practice for advanced HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erfan Taherifard
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Krystal Tran
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Ali Saeed
- Department of Medicine, Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center, Lafayette, LA 70503, USA
| | - Jehad Amer Yasin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | - Anwaar Saeed
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
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Janssen FW, Lak NSM, Janda CY, Kester LA, Meister MT, Merks JHM, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, van Noesel MM, Zsiros J, Tytgat GAM, Looijenga LHJ. A comprehensive overview of liquid biopsy applications in pediatric solid tumors. NPJ Precis Oncol 2024; 8:172. [PMID: 39097671 PMCID: PMC11297996 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-024-00657-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Liquid biopsies are emerging as an alternative source for pediatric cancer biomarkers with potential applications during all stages of patient care, from diagnosis to long-term follow-up. While developments within this field are reported, these mainly focus on dedicated items such as a specific liquid biopsy matrix, analyte, and/or single tumor type. To the best of our knowledge, a comprehensive overview is lacking. Here, we review the current state of liquid biopsy research for the most common non-central nervous system pediatric solid tumors. These include neuroblastoma, renal tumors, germ cell tumors, osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma and other soft tissue sarcomas, and liver tumors. Within this selection, we discuss the most important or recent studies involving liquid biopsy-based biomarkers, anticipated clinical applications, and the current challenges for success. Furthermore, we provide an overview of liquid biopsy-based biomarker publication output for each tumor type based on a comprehensive literature search between 1989 and 2023. Per study identified, we list the relevant liquid biopsy-based biomarkers, matrices (e.g., peripheral blood, bone marrow, or cerebrospinal fluid), analytes (e.g., circulating cell-free and tumor DNA, microRNAs, and circulating tumor cells), methods (e.g., digital droplet PCR and next-generation sequencing), the involved pediatric patient cohort, and proposed applications. As such, we identified 344 unique publications. Taken together, while the liquid biopsy field in pediatric oncology is still behind adult oncology, potentially relevant publications have increased over the last decade. Importantly, steps towards clinical implementation are rapidly gaining ground, notably through validation of liquid biopsy-based biomarkers in pediatric clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Michael T Meister
- Princess Máxima Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Johannes H M Merks
- Princess Máxima Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Division of Imaging and Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Marry M van den Heuvel-Eibrink
- Princess Máxima Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Wilhelmina Children's Hospital-Division of CHILDHEALTH, University Medical Center Utrech, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Max M van Noesel
- Princess Máxima Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Division of Imaging and Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Godelieve A M Tytgat
- Princess Máxima Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Leendert H J Looijenga
- Princess Máxima Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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Dantkale KS, Agrawal M. A Comprehensive Review of Current Trends in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Ovarian Germ Cell Tumors. Cureus 2024; 16:e52650. [PMID: 38380211 PMCID: PMC10877227 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.52650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Ovarian germ cell tumors constitute a rare and intricate spectrum of neoplasms characterized by diverse histological subtypes. This comprehensive review elucidates the classification, diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and unique challenges associated with these tumors. The classification is rooted in histological attributes, with principal subtypes encompassing dysgerminoma, immature teratoma, yolk sac tumor (endodermal sinus tumor), choriocarcinoma, and mixed germ cell tumors. Each subtype bears distinct characteristics and clinical implications, necessitating precise diagnosis and tailored therapeutic strategies. Diagnosis hinges upon recognizing the broad clinical presentation, employing imaging techniques (such as ultrasound and MRI), evaluating tumor markers (alpha-fetoprotein and beta-human chorionic gonadotropin), and conducting histopathological examinations where necessary. Staging, primarily utilizing the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) system, is pivotal in determining the extent of disease, guiding treatment choices, and facilitating prognostic assessment. Treatment modalities encompass surgery, chemotherapy (including standard regimens and emerging therapies), radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. Prognosis is influenced by histological subtype, tumor stage, patient age, surgical success, response to chemotherapy, and tumor markers, while predictive biomarkers are continually emerging. Despite advances in treatment, ovarian germ cell tumors pose distinct challenges, including late diagnosis, treatment-related side effects, and the enigma of chemoresistance. An integral aspect of comprehensive care is supportive strategies to manage symptoms and offer psychological and emotional support. This review accentuates the vital role of early diagnosis and multidisciplinary care in optimizing outcomes. Future research directions and evolving clinical practices are explored in these intricate and distinctive malignancies, highlighting the dynamic landscape of ovarian germ cell tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ketki S Dantkale
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research (DMIHER), Wardha, IND
| | - Manjusha Agrawal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research (DMIHER), Wardha, IND
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Głowska-Ciemny J, Szymanski M, Kuszerska A, Rzepka R, von Kaisenberg CS, Kocyłowski R. Role of Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) in Diagnosing Childhood Cancers and Genetic-Related Chronic Diseases. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4302. [PMID: 37686577 PMCID: PMC10486785 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15174302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein commonly found during fetal development, but its role extends beyond birth. Throughout the first year of life, AFP levels can remain high, which can potentially mask various conditions from the neurological, metabolic, hematological, endocrine, and early childhood cancer groups. Although AFP reference values and clinical utility have been established in adults, evaluating AFP levels in children during the diagnostic process, treatment, and post-treatment surveillance is still associated with numerous diagnostic pitfalls. These challenges arise from the presence of physiologically elevated AFP levels, inconsistent data obtained from different laboratory tests, and the limited population of children with oncologic diseases that have been studied. To address these issues, it is essential to establish updated reference ranges for AFP in this specific age group. A population-based study involving a statistically representative group of patients could serve as a valuable solution for this purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Głowska-Ciemny
- PreMediCare Prenatal Research Center, ul. Czarna Rola 21, 61-625 Poznań, Poland; (M.S.); (A.K.); (R.K.)
- New Med Medical Center, ul. Szamotulska 100, 60-566 Poznań, Poland
| | - Marcin Szymanski
- PreMediCare Prenatal Research Center, ul. Czarna Rola 21, 61-625 Poznań, Poland; (M.S.); (A.K.); (R.K.)
| | - Agata Kuszerska
- PreMediCare Prenatal Research Center, ul. Czarna Rola 21, 61-625 Poznań, Poland; (M.S.); (A.K.); (R.K.)
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Zielona Gora, ul. Zyty 28, 65-046 Zielona Góra, Poland;
| | - Rafał Rzepka
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Zielona Gora, ul. Zyty 28, 65-046 Zielona Góra, Poland;
| | - Constantin S. von Kaisenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, D-30625 Hannover, Germany;
| | - Rafał Kocyłowski
- PreMediCare Prenatal Research Center, ul. Czarna Rola 21, 61-625 Poznań, Poland; (M.S.); (A.K.); (R.K.)
- New Med Medical Center, ul. Szamotulska 100, 60-566 Poznań, Poland
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Bourgioti C, Konidari M, Moulopoulos LA. Manifestations of Ovarian Cancer in Relation to Other Pelvic Diseases by MRI. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15072106. [PMID: 37046767 PMCID: PMC10093428 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Imaging plays a pivotal role in the diagnostic approach of women with suspected ovarian cancer. MRI is widely used for preoperative characterization and risk stratification of adnexal masses. While epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) has typical findings on MRI; there are several benign and malignant pelvic conditions that may mimic its appearance on imaging. Knowledge of the origin and imaging characteristics of a pelvic mass will help radiologists diagnose ovarian cancer promptly and accurately. Finally, in special subgroups, including adolescents and gravid population, the prevalence of various ovarian tumors differs from that of the general population and there are conditions which uniquely manifest during these periods of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charis Bourgioti
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aretaieion Hospital, 76 Vas. Sofias Ave., 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Marianna Konidari
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aretaieion Hospital, 76 Vas. Sofias Ave., 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Lia Angela Moulopoulos
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aretaieion Hospital, 76 Vas. Sofias Ave., 11528 Athens, Greece
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Terenziani M, Barretta F, Gattuso G, Bisogno G, Conte M, Crocoli A, De Pasquale MD, Biasoni D, Spreafico F, D'Angelo P. Should we reduce routine surveillance imaging in pediatric germ cell tumors? Pediatr Blood Cancer 2023; 70:e30200. [PMID: 36625403 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30200] [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: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
This paper retrospectively investigated the site and the detection method of relapses in children and adolescents with malignant germ cell tumors enrolled in the TCGM-AIEOP-2004 Study and subsequently developed a relapse, in order to evaluate a possible reduction in radiological exposure during follow-up. Including all malignant cases, serum tumor markers identified a relapse in more than 70% and, according to the selection criteria published by Children Oncology Group in 2018, in more than 90% of cases. These results confirm the importance of serum tumor markers as a relapse detection method, with possible reduction of radiology exams in specific subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Terenziani
- Pediatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Barretta
- Medical Statistics, Biometry and Bioinformatics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanna Gattuso
- Pediatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianni Bisogno
- Hematology Oncology Division, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Crocoli
- General Surgery Department, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Debora De Pasquale
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Cell and Gene Therapy Department, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Biasoni
- Urologic Surgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Filippo Spreafico
- Pediatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo D'Angelo
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Unit, ARNAS "Civico, Di Cristina and Benfratelli" Hospitals, Palermo, Italy
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