Peutz-Jeghers syndrome: Diagnostic and therapeutic approach

Dual primary gastric and colorectal cancer: The known hereditary causes and underlying mechanisms

In this editorial, I commented on the paper by Lin et al, published in this issue of the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology. The work aimed at analysing the clinicopathologic characteristics and prognosis of synchronous and metachronous cancers in patients with dual primary gastric and colorectal cancer (CRC). The authors concluded the necessity for regular surveillance for metachronous cancer during postoperative follow-up and reported the prognosis is influenced by the gastric cancer (GC) stage rather than the CRC stage. Although surveillance was recommended in the conclusion, the authors did not explore this area in their study and did not include tests used for such surveillance. This editorial focuses on the most characterized gastrointestinal cancer susceptibility syndromes concerning dual gastric and CRCs. These include hereditary diffuse GC, familial adenomatous polyposis, hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer, Lynch syndrome, and three major hamartomatous polyposis syndromes associated with CRC and GC, namely Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, juvenile polyposis syndrome, and PTEN hamartoma syndrome. Careful assessment of these syndromes/conditions, including inheritance, risk of gastric and colorectal or other cancer development, genetic mutations and recommended genetic investigations, is crucial for optimum management of these patients.

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome: management for recurrent intussusceptions

BACKGROUND

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by hamartomatous gastrointestinal polyps along with the characteristic mucocutaneous freckling. Multiple surgeries for recurrent intussusception in these children may lead to short bowel syndrome. Here we present our experience of management in such patients.

METHODS

From January 2015 to December 2023, we reviewed children of PJS, presented with recurrent intussusceptions. Data were collected regarding presentation, management, and follow-up with attention on management dilemma. Diagnosis of PJS was based on criteria laid by World Health Organization (WHO).

RESULTS

A total of nine patients were presented with age ranging from 4 to 17 years (median 9 years). A total of eighteen laparotomies were performed (7 outside, 11 at our centre). Among 11 laparotomies done at our centre, resection and anastomosis of bowel was done 3 times while 8 times enterotomy and polypectomy was done after reduction of intussusception. Upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGIE & LGIE) was done in all cases while intraoperative enteroscopy (IOE) performed when required. Follow-up ranged from 2 months to 7 years.

CONCLUSION

Children with PJS have a high risk of multiple laparotomies due to polyps' complications. Considering the diffuse involvement of the gut, early decision of surgery and extensive bowel resection should not be done. Conservative treatment must be tried under close observation whenever there is surgical dilemma. The treatment should be directed in the form of limited resection or polypectomy after reduction of intussusception.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound of polyp malignant transformation with multiple metastases in a patient with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome

Multi-systemic metastasis in patients with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is very rare, and there are nearly no relevant imaging reports, especially in contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). We present here a 40-year-old male patient who underwent several partial small bowel resections and endoscopic polypectomy for intestinal polyps. After reviewing the patient's clinical diagnosis and treatment process, CEUS with sulfur hexafluoride microbubbles (SonoVue, Bracco, Milan, Italy) in the liver and gastrointestinal tract was performed. We imaged multiple abnormal masses with sonographic features consistent with malignancies. Combined with other imaging examinations and 18 gauge core-needle puncture biopsy of liver masses, multiple metastases outside the gastrointestinal tract were considered. This case report suggests CEUS may be an easy, effective, and supplementary method for evaluating PJS patients with suspected multi-systemic malignant lesions including the gastrointestinal tract.

Uncommon manifestation of Peutz-Jeghers syndrome: a case of jejuno-jejunal intussusception and volvulus leading to small bowel obstruction

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is a rare genetic disorder causing gastrointestinal polyps and skin pigmentation. Our case report highlights a unique instance of jejuno-jejunal intussusception associated with PJS in a 28-year-old female patient who presented to the emergency department with colicky abdominal pain, tachycardia, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Physical examination revealed mucocutaneous hyperpigmentation. Imaging studies showed a U-shaped distension in the jejunum with thickening and pneumatosis. Laparotomy revealed a jejuno-jejunal volvulus with intussusception. Surgical resection successfully addressed gangrenous jejunal tissue and ileal polyps. Histopathology confirmed PJS polyps. Postoperatively, the patient recovered well and was discharged. Family history revealed similar skin lesions in her uncle. Our case highlights the need for prompt surgical intervention to address complications associated with PJS and elucidates a unique presentation of PJS involving jejuno-jejunal intussusception and volvulus leading to complete small bowel obstruction. We aim to deepen understanding and prompt discussions on optimal therapeutic strategies.

Ischemic Polypectomy Through Detachable Snare and Rubber Band Ligation in Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome

Endoscopic polypectomy is essential for the prevention of Peutz-Jeghers syndrome-associated complications, including intussusception, intestinal obstruction, and malignant transformation. Conventional polypectomy is the preferred approach, but it can be challenging to achieve in patients with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome because of the high polyp burden and polyps located in areas with difficult endoscopic access. This case report highlights 2 different techniques of ischemic polypectomy and its advantage compared with conventional polypectomy in this subset of patients.

Complications, treatment, and follow-up of peutz-jeghers syndrome: About 2 case reports

INTRODUCTION

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome is an inherited disorder distinguished by hamartomatous polyps in the gastrointestinal tract and pigmented mucocutaneous lesions. Treatment of the polyps is never definitive, with most patients needing several laparotomies. For this reason, surgeons should be economical in terms of surgical resection to prevent a short bowel syndrome in the long run. In this paper, we report two observations of patients presented a Peutz Jeghers syndrome (PJS).

CASES PRESENTATION

Case report 1: A 32-year-old women, who was operated on for an intestinal perforation related to a Peutz-jeghers hamartoma of the small bowel and was later re operated on for colonic intussusception, Case report 2: A 15-year-old patient that has been operated on three times already for small bowel intussusception and later for duodenal obstruction.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

In an attempt to reduce complications, the 2010 guidelines updated in 2021 by the European Hereditary Tumor group introduced obligatory monitoring by fibroscopy and colonoscopy associated with an entero-MRI or a videocapsule from the age of 8 years. Laparotomy is indicated when endoscopic treatment is impossible or in emergency setting. When surgery is indicated, intestinal resection should be reserved for rare cases in order to avoid short bowel syndrome. The association of an intraoperative endoscopic treatment is recommended by some authors.

CONCLUSION

Peutz Jeghers syndrome is a rare entity with a complicated surveillance. Adequate polyp mapping is necessary for adequate planning of the treatment. The need for multiple laparotomies makes a comprehensive approach to surgery mandatory to prevent short bowel syndrome.

Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome: Lessons to be Learned in the Clinical Diagnosis

Introduction

Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome (PJS) is an autosomal dominant disease presenting with hamartomatous polyps in the gastrointestinal tract and hyperpigmented macules on lips and oral mucosa. The incidence of this syndrome is approximately 1 in 1,20,000 births.

Materials and Methods

In this article, we are presenting 11 cases of PJS which were misdiagnosed and patients were compelled to visit hospital repeatedly. All these cases were diagnosed based on clinical suspicion, family history, and histopathological examination of specimens. Most of the cases presented with intussusception and required emergency surgical management.

Results

PJS can be diagnosed by the presence of microscopically confirmed hamartomatous polyps and a minimum of two of the following clinical criteria: Family history, mucocutaneous melanotic spots, and small bowel polyps with bleeding per rectally. The diagnosis can be missed if the melanotic spots on the face are missed. Routine investigations, imaging, and endoscopy were done in all cases. PJS patients need regular follow-up due to chance of recurrence of symptoms and susceptibility to cancer.

Conclusion

PJS needs a high index of suspicion for diagnosis in cases of recurrent abdominal pain with bleeding per rectum. Proper family history and meticulous clinical examination for melanosis are very important to prevent the misdiagnosis of these cases.

CHRONIC ANEMIA CAUSED BY GIANT AND SOLITARY PEUTZ-JEGHERS HAMARTOMATOUS POLYP TREATED BY ENDOSCOPIC RESECTION

•Giant and solitary polyps evolve with anemia. •EUS is an important tool for stage and manage this disease. •Endoscopic treatment is the best treatment choice. •Supplementary video available on this case report.

The course and clinical manifestations of Peutz–Jeghers syndrome in the Russian population

Background. PeutzJeghers syndrome (PJS) is a rare hereditary syndrome characterized by the growth of hamartomatous polyps in the gastrointestinal tract, perioral pigmentation and an increased risk of malignant neoplasms. The syndrome is caused by a pathogenic variant in the STK11 gene. Aim. To assess the clinical picture and treatment of Russian patients with PJS. Materials and methods. A retrospective analysis of 30 patients from 25 families with an established diagnosis of PJS who were in the Ryzikh State Scientific Center for Coloproctology from 2011 to 2021 was carried out. All patients underwent instrumental examination, including esophagogastroduodenoscopy, colonoscopy, X-ray examination of the small intestine/CT-enterography, in the absence of invaginates video capsule endoscopy, as well as molecular genetic examination for the presence of pathogenic variants in the STK11 gene. All removed polyps were subjected to the histological examination. Results. The analysis of the clinical picture allowed us to establish the following data: the first complaints in patients were noted in childhood and adolescence, while the median age was 11 [7; 19] (0.524) years; pathogenic variants in the STK11 gene were identified in 26 (87%) cases, among which 10 were described for the first time; during the initial examination, polyps in the small intestine were detected in all 30 (100%) patients, in the stomach in 23/30 (77%) patients, and in the colon in 21/30 (70%); with an age, an increase in the number of polyps in all parts of the gastrointestinal tract was noted; before the diagnosis operations were performed urgently for intestinal obstruction; after the diagnosis of PJS, when polyps were detected in the gastrointestinal tract, endoscopic polypectomies were performed; if endoscopic removal of hamartomatous polyps was impossible, patients were operated as planned; malignant diseases of the predominantly reproductive system were detected in 8/30 (27%) patients. The median age of cancer detection was 52 [31; 52] (1759) years. Conclusion. Russian patients with PJS have population-specific features in the clinical picture of the course of the disease, which dictates the need to develop their own recommendations for monitoring and treatment of such patients.

Immunotherapy in combination with chemotherapy for Peutz-Jeghers syndrome with advanced cervical cancer: A case report

BACKGROUND

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder, and female patients may develop gynecologic tumours. The prognosis for such patients is poor and the specific pathogenesis remains uncertain. Therefore, there are currently no uniform treatment options.

CASE SUMMARY

Herein, we introduce the case of a 45-year-old female who was diagnosed with PJS for 45 years and cervical cancer for 3 years. Postoperative pathological examination showed metastases in the right external iliac lymph nodes. The patient was initially treated with a combination of doxorubicin and carboplatin chemotherapy and pelvic magnetic resonance showed that the metastases had grown. Subsequently, we performed whole exome sequencing in this patient and identified the relevant causative gene. In addition to the chemotherapy regimen, sindilizumab was administered and the patient was followed up. After 4 cycles of treatment, the metastases were substantially reduced and were not enlarged after six months of follow-up. This case report suggests that patients with PJS combined with cervical cancer may have a sustained response to immune-combination chemotherapy regimens.

CONCLUSION

Clinicians should be aware of the importance of immunotherapy in patients with PJS combined with advanced cervical cancer.

Atypical Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome Presenting With a Huge Jejunojejunal Intussusception in a Young Male: A Case Report

Intussusception is considered one of the rare causes of intestinal obstruction in adults compared to pediatric patients. It usually presents with non-specific clinical manifestations ranging from mild recurrent abdominal pain to severe acute abdominal pain. The non-specificity of its symptoms makes it difficult to diagnose preoperatively. As 90% of adult intussusceptions are due to a pathological lead point, this prompts the underlying medical condition to be identified. We herein report a rare case of a 21-year-old male with atypical clinical features of Peutz-Jegher syndrome (PJS), presenting with jejunojejunal intussusception as a result of a hamartomatous intestinal polyp. A preliminary diagnosis of intussusception was made after an abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan and was confirmed intraoperatively. Postoperatively, the patient's condition improved steadily, and he was discharged with a referral to the gastroenterologist for further assessment.

Hamartomatous polyps: Diagnosis, surveillance, and management

Hereditary polyposis syndrome can be divided into three categories: Ade-nomatous, serrated, and hamartomatous polyps. Hamartomatous polyps, malformations of normal tissue presenting in a disorganized manner, are characterized by an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. These syndromes exhibit hamartomatous gastrointestinal polyps in conjunction to extra-intestinal manifestations, which require conscientious and diligent monitoring. Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, Cowden syndrome, and juvenile polyposis syndrome are the most common displays of hamartomatous polyposis syndrome (HPS). Diagnosis can be pursued with molecular testing and endoscopic sampling. Early identification of these autosomal dominant pathologies allows to optimize malignancy sur-veillance, which helps reduce morbidity and mortality in both the affected patient population as well as at-risk family members. Endoscopic surveillance is an important pillar of prognosis and monitoring, with many patients eventually requiring surgical intervention. In this review, we discuss the diagnosis, surveillance, and management of HPS.

Phenolic Phytochemicals for Prevention and Treatment of Colorectal Cancer: A Critical Evaluation of In Vivo Studies

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most diagnosed and second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Limitations with existing treatment regimens have demanded the search for better treatment options. Different phytochemicals with promising anti-CRC activities have been reported, with the molecular mechanism of actions still emerging. This review aims to summarize recent progress on the study of natural phenolic compounds in ameliorating CRC using in vivo models. This review followed the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reporting and Meta-Analysis. Information on the relevant topic was gathered by searching the PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science databases using keywords, such as "colorectal cancer" AND "phenolic compounds", "colorectal cancer" AND "polyphenol", "colorectal cancer" AND "phenolic acids", "colorectal cancer" AND "flavonoids", "colorectal cancer" AND "stilbene", and "colorectal cancer" AND "lignan" from the reputed peer-reviewed journals published over the last 20 years. Publications that incorporated in vivo experimental designs and produced statistically significant results were considered for this review. Many of these polyphenols demonstrate anti-CRC activities by inhibiting key cellular factors. This inhibition has been demonstrated by antiapoptotic effects, antiproliferative effects, or by upregulating factors responsible for cell cycle arrest or cell death in various in vivo CRC models. Numerous studies from independent laboratories have highlighted different plant phenolic compounds for their anti-CRC activities. While promising anti-CRC activity in many of these agents has created interest in this area, in-depth mechanistic and well-designed clinical studies are needed to support the therapeutic use of these compounds for the prevention and treatment of CRC.

A novel stop codon mutation in STK11 gene is associated with Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome and elevated cancer risk: a case study

Based on the analysis of patients with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS), Serine threonine kinase11 (STK11) is known as a tumor suppressor gene, which is involved in cell polarization, regulation of apoptosis, and DNA damage response. In this case report study, we examined STK11 gene sequencing in a 42-year-old woman with mucocuta neous pigmentation and positive family history. Endoscopy and colonoscopy showed >1000 polyps throughout the stomach/colon (PJ-type hamartomas). The larger polyp in the stomach was resected and the small bowel imaging detected multiple jejunum/ileum small polyps. The data released from the sequencing results revealed five alterations in exons 1 to 5. The major mutation in stop codon was reported as converted to the amino acid tryptophan (TRP) to tyrosine (TER). The TGG codon was converted to TAG by mutation. Finally, another novel mutation in STK11 stop codon as a 'de novo' variant was seen. It is predicted that stop codon mutations make the affected person susceptible to developing colorectal cancer.

Strong Hereditary Predispositions to Colorectal Cancer

Cancer is one of the most common causes of death worldwide. A strong predisposition to cancer is generally only observed in colorectal cancer (5% of cases) and breast cancer (2% of cases). Colorectal cancer is the most common cancer with a strong genetic predisposition, but it includes dozens of various syndromes. This group includes familial adenomatous polyposis, attenuated familial adenomatous polyposis, MUTYH-associated polyposis, NTHL1-associated polyposis, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, juvenile polyposis syndrome, Cowden syndrome, Lynch syndrome, and Muir-Torre syndrome. The common symptom of all these diseases is a very high risk of colorectal cancer, but depending on the condition, their course is different in terms of age and range of cancer occurrence. The rate of cancer development is determined by its conditioning genes, too. Hereditary predispositions to cancer of the intestine are a group of symptoms of heterogeneous diseases, and their proper diagnosis is crucial for the appropriate management of patients and their successful treatment. Mutations of specific genes cause strong colorectal cancer predispositions. Identifying mutations of predisposing genes will support proper diagnosis and application of appropriate screening programs to avoid malignant neoplasm.

A rare cause of mechanical intestinal obstruction due to small bowel intussusception: 'A solitary Peutz-Jeghers type hamartomatous polyp'

Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome (PJS) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder which is characterized by hyperpigmentation in mucocutaneous membranes and hamartomatous polyps in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Common complications reported in patients with PSJ are bleeding and mechanical intestinal obstruction due to the hamartomatous polyps. There is also an increased risk of gastrointestinal and extra-intestinal malignancies in patients with PJS. A 28-year-old female patient was admitted to the emergency service with complaints of abdominal pain and vomiting. In addition to distention and tenderness on abdominal examination, revealed hyperpigmented lesions on her lips. An abdominal examination did not reveal any scar from the previous abdominal operation. The patient with suspected mechanical intestinal obstruction at pre-diagnosis demonstrated intussusception in the distal jejunal loops on abdominal tomography. In the diagnostic laparoscopy observed intussusception in jejunal loops. After a minimal suprapubic incision, small intestine loops were checked through alexis with bidigital palpation and no other intraluminal mass were detected. Laparoscopy-assisted jejunojejunal re-section and anastomosis was performed for the intussusception segment, where the polyb is located. It has been recommended that endoscopic polyps removal should be performed to avoid multiple surgical resections, which lead to short bowel syndrome. It has been recommended that endoscopic polyps removal should be performed to avoid multiple surgical resections, which lead to short bowel syndrome. By the nature of the disease, there may be multiple polyps simultaneously in the GIT and the associated risk of recurrent intussusception attacks in patients with PJS. To prevent short bowel syndrome and intra-abdominal adhesions due to repeated, laparo-tomies treatment with combined endoscopy and laparoscopic/laparoscopy-assisted surgery should be preferred in patients with PJS.

Genetic susceptibility to hereditary non-medullary thyroid cancer

Non-medullary thyroid cancer (NMTC) is the most common type of thyroid cancer. With the increasing incidence of NMTC in recent years, the familial form of the disease has also become more common than previously reported, accounting for 5-15% of NMTC cases. Familial NMTC is further classified as non-syndromic and the less common syndromic FNMTC. Although syndromic NMTC has well-known genetic risk factors, the gene(s) responsible for the vast majority of non-syndromic FNMTC cases are yet to be identified. To date, several candidate genes have been identified as susceptibility genes in hereditary NMTC. This review summarizes genetic predisposition to non-medullary thyroid cancer and expands on the role of genetic variants in thyroid cancer tumorigenesis and the level of penetrance of NMTC-susceptibility genes.

Unusual case of small bowel intussusception in adult revealing a Peutz-Jeghers syndrome

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by hyperpigmented mucocutaneous macules, hamartomatous polyps of the small intestine, and family history. These hamartomatous polyps can cause intermittent abdominal pain, chronic anemia, or even intussusception. Imaging has an important role in the diagnosis of this syndrome but also in the identification of complications and periodic surveillance. Here, we present a demonstrative case of a Peutz-Jeghers syndrome associated with intussusception in a 16-year-old patient.

A systematic review of symptomatic hamartomas of the jejunum and ileum

INTRODUCTION

Gastrointestinal hamartomas are rarely encountered benign growths made of an abnormal mixture of tissues normally found in the body where the growth occurs. Most hamartomas are asymptomatic and diagnosed incidentally. Evidence regarding symptomatic hamartomas of the jejunum and ileum is limited and restricted to anecdotal case reports. We aim to provide a contemporary overview to clarify various aspects linked to symptomatic hamartomas, helping aide management and clinical decision-making.

METHODS

The search terms 'small bowel', 'small intestine', 'jejunum' and 'ileum' were combined with 'hamartoma'. Embase, Medline, PubMed searches and Google Scholar hand-searches were conducted. All English language papers from 1 January 2000 to 1 June 2020 were included.

RESULTS

In total 39 cases were reviewed: 29 adults and 10 paediatric (0-16 years). Presenting symptoms included abdominal pain (87%), vomiting (56%), gastrointestinal bleeding (20.5%) and weight loss (5%); 36 of 39 cases (92%) presented as emergencies. Diagnostic investigations included: abdominal x-ray (49%), endoscopy (38%), computed tomography (56%), magnetic resonance imaging (5%), contrast study (15%) and video capsule endoscopy (5%). Initial management strategy was either open (30) or laparoscopic (7) surgery or endoscopy (2). All cases required surgery for definitive management. Twenty-five cases recorded hamartoma size, and mean maximum diameter was 3.56cm (1.2-8cm) with stricturing in seven cases. Nine of the 39 cases were associated with hamartomatous syndromes. Two mortalities were recorded.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first published review addressing symptomatic hamartomas of the jejunum and ileum. New data relating to demographic cohort, symptom profile, investigations, management strategies, and morbidity and mortality provide greater insight to those encountering this challenging clinical finding in the future.

Gastrointestinal bleeding after endoscopic mucosal resection in a case of Peutz-Jeghers syndrome with hypofibrinogenemia: A case report

BACKGROUD

Peutz-Jegers syndrome (PJS) is an autosomal dominant hereditary disorder characterized by hamartomatous polyposis of the entire gastrointestinal tract. Fibrinogen (Fbg) is synthesized by the liver, and hypofibrinogenemia is often asymptomatic and manifests with bleeding after trauma or invasive surgical procedures. Here, we present a case of a pediatric patient with PJS and hypofibrinogenemia who manifested with gastrointestinal bleeding after endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) of small intestinal polyps.

CASE PRESENTATION

An 11-year-old boy with PJS was referred to our hospital. Since his mother was diagnosed with PJS, with black pigments being observed on his lips, mouth, and limbs, he underwent upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopy at the age of 8 years at a previous hospital. EMR for duodenal polyp was performed, and the pathological findings were consistent with hamartoma. His Fbg level was 117 mg/dl at the time, with no post-bleeding being detected after EMR. The small intestine was not assessed at the prior facility and was left neglected for three years. At our hospital, small intestine fluoroscopy was performed and revealed a polyp in the jejunum, and abdominal computed tomography showed two polyps and intussusception. On double-balloon enteroscopy, the resected polyps were hamartoma with diameters of 20 and 30 mm. The patient's Fbg level was 107 mg/dl. The day after EMR, he had melena and black stools. He was diagnosed with post-EMR bleeding and started to stop eating, and hemostatic agents were given. His hemoglobin level dropped to 9.2 g/dl the next day. Genetic testing for congenital Fbg deficiency revealed a heterozygous pathogenic variant in fibrinogen gamma chain Exon 10. Therefore, he was diagnosed with concurrent hypofibrinogenemia and PJS.

CONCLUSION

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case with concurrent PJS and hypofibrinogenemia. In patients with PJS, hypofibrinogenemia should be considered as one of the risk factors of postoperative bleeding during polypectomy, and appropriate prophylactic measures should be taken.

Advances in the Aetiology & Endoscopic Detection and Management of Early Gastric Cancer

Simple Summary

Gastric adenocarcinoma has remained a highly lethal disease. Awareness and recognition of preneoplastic conditions (including gastric atrophy and intestinal metaplasia) using high-resolution white-light endoscopy as well as chromoendoscopy is therefore essential. Helicobacter pylori, a class I carcinogen, remains the main contributor to the development of sporadic distal gastric neoplasia. Management of early gastric neoplasia with endoscopic resections should be in line with standard indications. A multidisciplinary approach to any case of an early gastric neoplasia is imperative. Hereditary forms of gastric cancer require a tailored approach and individua-lized surveillance.

Abstract

The mortality rates of gastric carcinoma remain high, despite the progress in research and development in disease mechanisms and treatment. Therefore, recognition of gastric precancerous lesions and early neoplasia is crucial. Two subtypes of sporadic gastric cancer have been recognized: cardia subtype and non-cardia (distal) subtype, the latter being more frequent and largely associated with infection of Helicobacter pylori, a class I carcinogen. Helicobacter pylori initiates the widely accepted Correa cascade, describing a stepwise progression through precursor lesions from chronic inflammation to gastric atrophy, gastric intestinal metaplasia and neoplasia. Our knowledge on He-licobacter pylori is still limited, and multiple questions in the context of its contribution to the pathogenesis of gastric neoplasia are yet to be answered. Awareness and recognition of gastric atrophy and intestinal metaplasia on high-definition white-light endoscopy, image-enhanced endoscopy and magnification endoscopy, in combination with histology from the biopsies taken accurately according to the protocol, are crucial to guiding the management. Standard indications for endoscopic resections (endoscopic mucosal resection and endoscopic submucosal dissection) of gastric dysplasia and intestinal type of gastric carcinoma have been recommended by multiple societies. Endoscopic evaluation and surveillance should be offered to individuals with an inherited predisposition to gastric carcinoma.

Extremely high anti-Mullerian hormone levels detected during infertility workup revealing sex cord tumor with annular tubules and underlying Peutz-Jeghers syndrome: A case report

We report an infertile, but otherwise asymptomatic woman, whose extremely high anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) level detected during infertility investigation led to the diagnosis of sex cord tumor with annular tubules (SCTAT) which is a very rare sex cord-stromal tumor (SCST) and eventually revealed a previously undiagnosed hereditary cancer syndrome, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS). A 33-year-old woman attended Kocaeli University ART Clinic for infertility evaluation. Her AMH level was 319.63 ng/ml. Detection of bilateral ovarian cysts required surgical evaluation. The histopathological examination of ovaries revealed SCTAT. The strong association of SCTAT with PJS raised the suspicion of this syndrome. Whole STK11 gene sequencing confirmed PJS diagnosis. AMH has become a widely used tool in the evaluation of infertile women. Clinicians dealing with infertility should be familiar with the utility of AMH measurement besides being a marker of ovarian reserve. Detection of high AMH concentrations should raise the suspicion of an SCST.

Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome and the Role of Imaging: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Associated Cancers

Simple Summary

The Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant syndrome characterized by mucocutaneous pigmentations, multiple gastrointestinal hamartomatous polyps, and an elevated risk of malignancy. Awareness of various Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome imaging patterns, associated malignancies, and their complications is crucial for accurate imaging interpretation and patient management. In this manuscript, we provide an overview of this condition, associated malignancies, and imaging surveillance protocols.

Abstract

The Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome (PJS) is an autosomal dominant neoplastic syndrome defined by hamartomatous polyps through the gastrointestinal tract, development of characteristic mucocutaneous pigmentations, and an elevated lifetime cancer risk. The majority of cases are due to a mutation in the STK11 gene located at 19p13.3. The estimated incidence of PJS ranges from 1:50,000 to 1:200,000. PJS carries an elevated risk of malignancies including gastrointestinal, breast, lung, and genitourinary (GU) neoplasms. Patients with PJS are at a 15- to 18-fold increased malignancy risk relative to the general population. Radiologists have an integral role in the diagnosis of these patients. Various imaging modalities are used to screen for malignancies and complications associated with PJS. Awareness of various PJS imaging patterns, associated malignancies, and their complications is crucial for accurate imaging interpretation and patient management. In this manuscript, we provide a comprehensive overview of PJS, associated malignancies, and surveillance protocols.

Appendiceal carcinoid in a pediatric patient with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome: A case report and comprehensive literature review

RATIONALE

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS), a rare autosomal dominant disorder, is characterized by mucocutaneous pigmentations, hamartomatous polyps in the gastrointestinal tract, and a high risk of developing various malignancies. To the best of our knowledge, only 1 case of appendiceal carcinoid associated with PJS has been previously reported in the pediatric population.

PATIENT CONCERNS

We report a 7-year-old girl who was admitted for severe, intermittent abdominal pain and cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Multiple brown melanotic macules on the lips, buccal mucosa, and the tongue were noted.

DIAGNOSIS

A plain abdominal X-ray in a standing position revealed dilated intestinal loops with multiple air-fluid levels. A computed tomography scan of the abdomen showing a "coffee bean" appearance of the jejunal loop with a transition point to the duodenal loop. Axial-contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan of the abdomen showing dilated jejunum loops, filled with fluid with the swirled appearance of mesentery typical for volvulus. The diagnosis of PJS was based on clinical findings along with the histopathologic confirmation of the hamartomatous polyps.

INTERVENTIONS

An emergency laparotomy was performed, revealing a jejunojejunal intussusception starting 40 cm from the duodenojejunal flexure. Jejunotomy revealed that a lead-point intussusception was a necrotic hamartomatous polyp. After resecting the involved jejunal necrotic segment, including the polyp, end-to-end jejuno-jejunal anastomosis was performed. Further exploration revealed the presence of a jejunal mass 80 cm from the duodenojejunal flexure identified as another hamartomatous pedunculated polyp. The polyp was resected, and the enterotomy was then closed transversely. The grossly normal appendix was also removed.

OUTCOMES

Clinical findings along with the histopathologically confirmed hamartomatous polyps were consistent with PJS. An appendiceal carcinoid (well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumor, European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society stage pT2) was incidentally detected during histological examination of the appendix. The patient and parents were counseled accordingly, focusing on active surveillance and control of symptoms. Two additional hamartomatous polyps (gastric and jejunal) were detected endoscopically and resected in the fourth postoperative week. A regular, 1-year follow-up and surveillance revealed no complications or recurrences.

LESSONS

Unusual neoplasms can occasionally be encountered in well-defined syndromes such as PJS. Therefore, active follow-up and surveillance are mandatory for all patients with PJS.

Double intussusception in a teenage child with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome: A case report

BACKGROUND

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is a genetic disorder characterized by the development of gastrointestinal hamartomatous polyps and mucocutaneous melanin pigmentation. Patients with PJS are at risk of complications such as intussusception. Intussusception is a condition where one segment of the intestine invaginates into another, causing intestinal obstruction. We report a PJS patient who was diagnosed with double intussusception in a single setting.

CASE SUMMARY

A 16-year-old teenage male PJS patient presented with a history of colicky abdominal pain, vomiting, blood in stools, loss of appetite, and weight loss. On abdominal examination, a vague mass was palpable over the right upper quadrant. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen was performed and an intussusception involving the jejunum and rectosigmoid junction was observed. The patient subsequently underwent a laparotomy and intussusception involving the jejunum and another over the ileum was noted intra-operatively. Bowel resection and an endoscopic polypectomy were performed, followed by a primary anastomosis. The patient was discharged well and reviewed again one month later, and was noted to be well.

CONCLUSION

PJS patients have a high risk of intussusception and can be diagnosed accurately by endoscopic surveillance or radiologically with abdominal CT or magnetic resonance imaging. The mainstay of treatment is surgical intervention followed by endoscopic surveillance with periodic polypectomy.

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome is a rare, autosomal dominant, hereditary polyposis syndrome defined by gastrointestinal hamartomas and mucocutaneous pigmentations, caused by a germline mutation in the serine/ threonine kinase 11 or liver kinase B1 (STK11/LKB1) genes. Hamartomatous polyps located throughout the gastrointestinal tract can be complicated by bleeding and small bowel intussusception, potentially leading to the need for emergency surgery. Individuals suffering from Peutz-Jeghers syndrome have an increased lifetime risk of various forms of cancer (gastrointestinal, pancreatic, lung, breast, uterine, ovarian and testicular). Surveillance should lead to the prevention of complications and thus a reduction in mortality and morbidity of patients.

RECENT FINDINGS

A combined approach based on wireless capsule endoscopy, magnetic resonance enterography and device-assisted enteroscopy is effective in reduction of the polyp burden and thus decreasing the risk of bleeding and intussusception. Current guidelines for screening and surveillance are mostly based on expert opinion rather than evidence.

SUMMARY

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome is an emerging disease that significantly affects the quality of life enjoyed by patients. Despite of all the progress in improved early diagnostics, options for advanced endoscopic therapy and elaborate surveillance, acute and chronic complications decrease the life expectancy of patients suffering from Peutz-Jeghers syndrome.

Intestinal obstruction with oral pigmentation: a clue to Peutz-Jeghers syndrome

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is an autosomal dominant disorder, which manifests as mucocutaneous hyperpigmentation and, intestinal and extraintestinal polyps. The classic triad of abdominal pain, mass and jam-like stools are not found commonly. On clinical examination, a strong suspicion of PJS should be made if patients below 18 years, present with mucocutaneous hyperpigmentation and intestinal obstruction. We report a case of a 16-year-old woman who presented to the surgical emergency with a 1-day history of acute pain in abdomen, in right iliac fossa and features of intestinal obstruction. A thorough history and clinical examination supported by diagnostic imaging should be done in suspicious cases for prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Clinics in diagnostic imaging (204). Gastro-gastric intussusception due to gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST)

A 95-year-old woman presented with abdominal bloating and anorexia of one week's duration. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed features in keeping with gastro-gastric intussusception with a lead mass. Oesophagogastroduodenoscopy demonstrated a large 5-cm pedunculated fundal mass intussuscepted into the distal stomach. The patient subsequently underwent endoscopic polypectomy and open gastrostomy. Histological evaluation of the gastric mass revealed a gastrointestinal stromal tumour. Her postoperative course was uneventful. We herein describe the radiological features of adult intussusception and illustrate the usefulness of CT in the detection and characterisation of lead masses.

Esophageal Cancer: An Updated Review

The incidence of esophageal cancer (EC) is on the rise. With the distinct subtypes of adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma comes specific risk factors, and as a result, people of certain regions of the world can be more prone to a subtype. For example, squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus has the highest incidence in eastern Africa and eastern Asia, with smoking being a major risk factor, whereas adenocarcinoma is more prevalent in North America and western Europe, with gastroesophageal reflux disease being a leading risk factor. With that being said, adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma have similar and unfortunately poor survival rates, partly because EC is prone to early metastasis given that the esophagus does not have a serosa, as well as the superficial nature of its lymphatics compared with the rest of the gastrointestinal tract. This makes early detection of the utmost importance, and certain patients have been shown to have the benefit of screening/surveillance endoscopies, including those with Barrett's esophagus, lye-induced/caustic strictures, tylosis, and Peutz-Jeghers syndrome. Until treatments significantly improve, identifying EC at the earliest stage will have the best success for patient outcomes, and further elucidation of its pathogenesis and risk factors may lead to identifying other high-risk groups that should be screened.

Diagnostic difficulty in Peutz–Jeghers syndrome

A case of diagnostic difficulty facing the patient with colonic polyposis secondary to Peutz–Jeghers syndrome, but without family history and pathognomonic clinical features of the disease, is illustrated. The exams, including biopsy, led to diagnostic uncertainty and the definitive diagnosis was characterized in therapeutic of exception.

Gastric adenocarcinoma and proximal polyposis of the stomach (GAPPS) - A Helicobacter-opposite point

Gastric adenocarcinoma and proximal polyposis of the stomach (GAPPS) is a rare familial gastric cancer syndrome with an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance. It is characterised by fundic gland polyposis of the gastric body and is associated with a significant risk of gastric adenocarcinoma. Unlike sporadic gastric cancer, Helicobacter pylori is usually absent in patients with GAPPS. This opposite-point finding has so far not been fully clarified. Prophylactic total gastrectomy is indicated in all cases of GAPPS with fundic gland polyposis and the presence of any dysplasia. If no dysplasia is found at histology, prophylactic gastrectomy is suggested at between 30 and 35 years of age, or at five years earlier than the age at which the youngest family member developed gastric cancer. Different phenotypes of GAPPS demand an individual approach to particular family members.

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome in a woman presenting as intussusception: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is an uncommon autosomal dominant syndrome with a variable to high penetrance that leads to the development of polyps within the gastrointestinal mucosa. Here we report a case of an adult female suffering jejunoileal intussusception due to PJS.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A 30-year-old woman came to an emergency department with a small bowel obstruction caused by intussusception. The patient underwent an emergency exploratory laparotomy. An intussusception at the level of 60 cm from the ligamentum treitz was revealed, and the intussusception small bowel segment was not viable; we decided to perform segmental jejunoileal resection with the Bishop-Koop procedure, and the specimen histopathology of the segmental jejunoileal resection showed a typical hamartomatous polyp features. Two month later, diagnostic endoscopy showed multiple polyps (between 5 and 15 mm) in the large bowel. The polyps were removed with endoscopic polypectomy and examined histopathologically, showing characteristics of PJS. Further detailed family history was obtained, and similar skin lesions were detected on our patient's child (since birth). Although endoscopy screening identified multiple polyps in the child's ileum and large bowel, he was not suffering from abdominal symptoms.

CONCLUSION

In patients with intussusception at a young age, PJS can be caused by the presence of a hamartoma polyp as a trigger for intussusception. If there are multiple polyps found in the gastrointestinal mucosa and other pathognomonic signs are found, such as hyperdense macular lesions on the lip and buccal mucosa, such cases should be confirmed as PJS.

High-Tech Diagnostic Methods and Enteroscopic Treatment of Children with Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome

INTRODUCTION

 Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is an autosomal dominant hereditary hamartomatous polyposis with predominant localization in the jejunum and ileum and high risk of bowel perforation after traditional polypectomy. The modern enteroscopy is the only possible technique for visualizing and performing intraluminal endoscopic microsurgical manipulations in the deep sections of the small intestine. The study aims to develop an optimal method for the diagnosis and treatment of polyps in children with PJS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 During 2015 to 2018 we conducted 30 comprehensive examinations of children with PJS in The Department of Endoscopic Research of the National Medical Research Center for Children's Health. We performed esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy with removal of polyps more than 7 mm, then video capsule endoscopy and, guided by this, therapeutic single-balloon enteroscopy. Our technique for removal of polyps is general in all parts: (1) creating a "resistant pillow"; (2) electroexcision of polyp; (3) clipping the removal site.

RESULTS

 Successfully performed electroexcision of polyps, which were located in the deep parts of the small intestine at a distance of 30 segments (one segment is 10 cm), reached a diameter of 2.5 cm, had a long pedicle. The postoperative period was uneventful.

CONCLUSION

 We have developed an optimal method of diagnostic and therapeutic measures, the observance of which allows us to avoid delayed perforations of the small intestine in the area of polypectomy in the postoperative period in children with PJS. Thanks to this technique, modern enteroscopy is becoming the only possible alternative to bowel resection in children with PJS.

Implications of Splicing Alterations in the Onset and Phenotypic Variability of a Family with Subclinical Manifestation of Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome: Bioinformatic and Molecular Evidence

Peutz–Jeghers Syndrome (PJS) is an autosomal dominant pre-cancerous disorder caused in 80–90% of cases by germline mutations in the tumor suppressor gene STK11. We performed a genetic test of the STK11 gene in two Italian young sisters suspected of PJS, since they showed pathognomonic café au lait spots in absence of other symptoms and familiarity. Sequencing of all exons of STK11 gene and other 8 genes, suggested to be involved in hamartomatous syndromes, (PTEN, BMPR1A, SDHB, SDHD, SMAD4, AKT1, ENG, PIK3CA) led to the identification in both the probands of a novel germline silent mutation named c.597 G>A, hitting the last nucleotide of exon 4. Interestingly, genetic testing of the two probands’ parents showed that their unaffected father was carrier of this mutation. Moreover, he carried a second intronic substitution named c.465-51 T>C (rs2075606) which was not inherited by his daughters. We also observed that all the family members carrying the c.597 G>A mutation presented an aberrant splice variant of STK11 mRNA lacking exon 4. Furthermore, in silico analysis of c.465-51 T>C substitution showed that it may activate an Enhancer Splicing Element. Finally, qRT-PCR analysis of STK11 expression levels showed a slight downregulation of the wild type allele in the father and a 2-fold downregulation in the probands compared to the unaffected mother. Our results have led the hypothesis that the c.465-51 T>C intronic variant, which segregates with the wild type allele, could increase the splicing effectiveness of STK11 wild-type allele and compensate the side effect of the c.597 G>A splicing mutation, being responsible for the phenotypic variability observed within this family. This finding highlight the importance of RNA analysis in genetic testing, remarking that silent DNA variant can often be splicing variant involved in disease onset and progression. The identification of these variants has a crucial role to ensure an appropriate follow-up and cancer prevention in at-risk individuals.

Intestinal intussusception in Peutz Jeghers syndrome: A case report

Hamartomatous polyposis is a rare cause of intussusception in adults. But this complication is the most frequent for patient with Peutz Jeghers syndrome. Small bowel screening is recommended for those patients in order to prevent emergency repetitive surgeries. We report here the case of a 20-year-old patient with confirmed Peutz Jeghers syndrome since eight years for whom a scheduled laparotomy was indicated. Asymptomatic intestinal intussusception was discovered intraoperatively. The patient was treated successfully with enterectomy and side to side anastomosis. Postoperative course was uneventful. Regular assessment as recommended for those patients is performed. Gastrointestinal intussusception in adults is rare and is often diagnosed preoperatively in a context of bowel obstruction. In the case of our patient, intussusception was diagnosed intraoperatively. This fact confirms the necessity of well-timed polypectomy in order to prevent this complication and the risk of extended resection in patients who are exposed to short gut syndrome by requiring iterative resections.

Mutation analysis of related genes in hamartoma polyp tissue of Peutz-Jeghers syndrome

BACKGROUND

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is a rare disease with clinical manifestations of pigmented spots on the lips, mucous membranes and extremities, scattered gastrointestinal polyps, and susceptibility to tumors. The clinical heterogeneity of PJS is obvious, and the relationship between clinical phenotype and genotype is still unclear.

AIM

To investigate the mutation status of hereditary colorectal tumor-associated genes in hamartoma polyp tissue of PJS patients and discuss its relationship with the clinicopathological data of PJS.

METHODS

Twenty patients with PJS were randomly selected for this study and were treated in the Air Force Medical Center (former Air Force General Hospital) PLA between 2008 and 2017. Their hamartoma polyp tissues were used for APC, AXIN2, BMPR1A, EPCAM, MLH1, MLH3, MSH2, MSH6, MUTYH, PMS1, PMS2, PTEN, SMAD4, and LKB1/STK11 gene sequencing using next-generation sequencing technology. The correlations between the sequencing results and clinical pathological data of PJS were analyzed.

RESULTS

Fourteen types of LKB1/STK11 mutations were detected in 16 cases (80.0%), of which 8 new mutations were found (3 types of frameshift deletion mutations: c.243delG, c.363_364delGA, and c.722delC; 2 types of frameshift insertions: c. 144_145insGCAAG, and c.454_455insC; 3 types of splice site mutations: c.464+1G>T, c.464+1G>A, and c.598-1G>A); 9 cases (45.0%) were found to have 18 types of heterozygous mutations in the remaining 13 genes except LKB1/STK11. Of these, MSH2: c.792+1G>A, MSH6: c.3689C>G, c.4001+13C>CTTAC, PMS1: c.46C>t, and c.922G>A were new mutations.

CONCLUSION

The genetic mutations in hamartoma polyp tissue of PJS are complex and diverse. Moreover, other gene mutations in PJS hamartoma polyp tissue were observed, with the exception of LKB1/STK11 gene, especially the DNA mismatch repair gene (MMR). Colorectal hamartoma polyps with LKB1/STK11 mutations were larger in diameter than those with other gene mutations.

Establishment and characterization of 18 human colorectal cancer cell lines

Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents the third most frequently diagnosed malignancy worldwide and is the second most common cause of tumor-associated mortalities in Korea. Due to the disease’s aggressive behavior, the 5-year survival rate for CRC patients remains unpromising. Well-characterized cell lines have been used as a biological model for studying the biology of cancer and developing novel therapeutics. To assist in vitro studies, 18 CRC cell lines (SNU-1566, SNU-1983, SNU-2172, SNU-2297, SNU-2303, SNU-2353B, SNU-2359, SNU-2373B, SNU-2407, SNU-2423, SNU-2431, SNU-2465, SNU-2493, SNU-2536C, SNU-2621B, SNU-NCC-61, SNU-NCC-376, and SNU-NCC-377) derived from Korean patients were established and characterized in the present study. General characteristics of each cell line including doubling time, in vitro morphology, mutational profiles, and protein expressions of CRC-related genes were described. Whole exome sequencing was performed on each cell line to configure mutational profiles. Single nucleotide variation, frame shift, in-frame deletions and insertions, start codon deletion, and splice stop codon mutation of various genes were found and classified based on their pathogenicity reports. In addition, cell viability was assayed to measure their sensitivities to 24 anti-cancer drugs including anti-metabolites, kinase inhibitors, histone deacetylase inhibitors, alkylating inhibitors, and topoisomerase inhibitors, all widely used for various cancers. On testing, five CRC cell lines showed MSI, of which MLH1 or MSH6 gene was mutated. These newly established CRC cell lines can be used to investigate biological characteristics of CRC, particularly for investigating gene alterations associated with CRC.

Novel germline STK11 variants and breast cancer phenotype identified in an Indian cohort of Peutz-Jeghers syndrome

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) caused by germline STK11 variants is a rare autosomal dominant cancer predisposition syndrome characterized by multiple gastrointestinal (GI) hamartomatous polyps, mucocutaneous pigmentation and a high inherited risk of developing GI, breast and other cancers. Despite GI and breast being the two most common PJS-associated cancer sites, the immunohistochemical (IHC) and molecular features of these tumors in carriers of STK11 variant is not known. Detailed phenotyping including tumor IHC and its correlation with comprehensive STK11 genotyping by full gene sequencing followed by large genomic rearrangement analysis was performed in an Indian PJS cohort. A total of 4 distinct STK11 pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants were identified in 10 PJS cases from 7 of the 19 families tested-in 4/5 classical PJS families and 3/14 suspected PJS families. The pathogenic STK11 variant identified was novel in 3/7 families. In addition, four distinct, likely benign variants identified in seven families were also novel. All of the four breast cancer cases in families with STK11 pathogenic variant were estrogen receptor (ER)-positive and Her2-negative. Several novel STK11 variants identified in this Indian PJS cohort highlight the need to study PJS in different populations across the world. This is the first report showing ER positivity in breast cancer in carriers of STK11 variants and needs confirmation in a larger pooled cohort of PJS associated breast cancers. This could help establish the role of chemoprevention or prophylactic oophorectomy in female carriers of STK11 pathogenic variants.

Prediction of Deleterious Non-synonymous SNPs of Human STK11 Gene by Combining Algorithms, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Simulation

Serine-threonine kinase11 (STK11) is a tumor suppressor gene which plays a key role in regulating cell growth and apoptosis. It is widely known as a multitasking kinase and engaged in cell polarity, cell cycle arrest, chromatin remodeling, energy metabolism, and Wnt signaling. The substitutions of single amino acids in highly conserved regions of the STK11 protein are associated with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS), which is an autosomal dominant inherited disorder. The abnormal function of the STK11 protein is still not well understood. In this study, we classified disease susceptible single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in STK11 by using different computational algorithms. We identified the deleterious nsSNPs, constructed mutant protein structures, and evaluated the impact of mutation by employing molecular docking and molecular dynamics analysis. Our results show that W239R and W308C variants are likely to be highly deleterious mutations found in the catalytic kinase domain, which may destabilize structure and disrupt the activation of the STK11 protein as well as reduce its catalytic efficiency. The W239R mutant is likely to have a greater impact on destabilizing the protein structure compared to the W308C mutant. In conclusion, these mutants can help to further realize the large pool of disease susceptibilities linked with catalytic kinase domain activation of STK11 and assist to develop an effective drug for associated diseases.

Genetic Implication and Dental Consideration in Syndromes with Benign and Malignant Oral Neoplastic Component: A Narrative Review

Background and Objective:

The presence of an internal and often occult malignancy may be forewarned by various oral manifestations. Several of these findings are preferentially localized to the head and neck region, including the oral cavity. This places the dental practitioner in a unique position to detect these signs and symptoms of occult neoplastic involvement. Because they may be present before an established syndrome or cancer diagnosis, even representing the initial expression of disease in some cases, early recognition by a dentist may lead to timely diagnosis and management of these syndromes. Thus, the aim of this narrative review was literature search and gathering data of such syndromes.

Materials and Methods:

A Medline–PubMed search was conducted of the literature using the keywords “syndrome,” “dental management,” “Cowden’s syndrome,” “Peutz–Jeghers syndrome,” “malignant component,” “Gardner’s syndrome,” “Gorlin–Goltz syndrome,” and “McCune–Albright syndrome.” The search strategy was limited to human studies (case reports and case series), full-text English articles published from January 1, 2000, to mid-2019. Irrelevant articles or articles with inadequate information were omitted.

Results:

A total of 36 pieces of literature were reviewed, of which 13 were literature reviews, 15 case reports, 3 expert committee guides and updates, and 4 original research papers, and 1 was a book.

Conclusion:

These syndromes pose risk during dental practice, which necessitates extra awareness and caution to prevent potential complications. Although, the multidisciplinary approach in treating these cases is not well documented, any related information may be helpful in understanding the pathogenesis and the nature of these syndromes.

Small bowel polyp resection using device-assisted enteroscopy in Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome: Results of a specialised tertiary care centre

INTRODUCTION

Enteroscopy resection of small bowel polyps in Peutz-Jeghers syndrome has only been described in small case series. Herein, we aimed to assess the efficacy of enteroscopy resection of small bowel polyps within a specialised tertiary care centre and the impact on intraoperative enteroscopy.

METHODS

This was an observational single-centre study. All adult Peutz-Jeghers syndrome patients followed in the Predisposition Digestive Ile-de-France network who underwent an endoscopic resection of at least one small bowel polyp ≥ 1 cm by enteroscopy between 2002-2015 were included. Small bowel polyps were detected under a dedicated screening programme by previous capsule endoscopy and/or magnetic resonance enterography, performed every 2-3 years. Complete treatment was defined as the absence of polyps ≥ 1 cm after conventional endoscopic resection. Intraoperative enteroscopy or surgical resection were indicated in incomplete treatments. The overall complete treatment rate including conventional enteroscopy and intraoperative enteroscopy was also considered.

RESULTS

Endoscopic resection of 216 small bowel polyps (median: 8.6 per patient, size: 6-60 mm) was performed by 50 enteroscopies in 25 patients (mean age: 36 years, range: 18-71, 56% male) with small bowel polyp ≥ 1 cm. Twenty-three patients (92%) underwent 42 screening capsule endoscopies and 14 (57%) had 23 magnetic resonance enterographies during a median follow-up of 60 months. Complete treatment was achieved in 76%. Intraoperative enteroscopy and surgical resection were performed in four (16%) and two (8%) patients. Intraoperative enteroscopy improved by 16% the complete treatment rate and the overall rate was 92%. The complication rate was 6%.

CONCLUSION

This long-term study confirmed the efficacy and safety of endoscopic resection of small bowel polyps in Peutz-Jeghers syndrome. Intraoperative enteroscopy can be a complementary approach in selected cases.

An update on genetic risk assessment and prevention: the role of genetic testing panels in breast cancer

Introduction: In the past 5 years, multi-gene panels have replaced the practice of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic testing in cases of suspected inherited breast cancer susceptibility. A variety of genes have been included on these panels without certainty of their clinical utility. Pertinent current and historical literature was reviewed to provide an up-to-date snapshot of the changing landscape of the use of gene panel tests in the context of breast cancer. Areas covered: Following a recent review of the evidence, 10 genes have been found to have definitive evidence of increased breast cancer risk with variable penetrance. Here, we review the recent changes to the practice of multi-gene panel use in breast cancer diagnoses, including an update on next generation sequencing, alternative models of genetic testing, considerations when ordering these panel tests, and recommendations for management in identified carriers for a variety of genes. A comparison of screening recommendations and carrier frequencies from recent studies is also explored. Lastly, we consider what the future of hereditary oncologic genetic testing holds. Expert opinion: The transition to multi-gene panels in breast cancer patients has improved the likelihood of capturing a rare variant in a well-established gene associated with hereditary breast cancer (e.g. BRCA1 and BRCA2, TP53). There is also an increase in the likelihood of uncovering an uncertain result. This could be in the form of a variant of uncertain significance, or a pathogenic variant in a gene with questionable breast cancer risk-association. Concurrently, a changing landscape of who orders genetic tests will improve access to genetic testing. This pervasiveness of genetic testing must be accompanied with increased genetic literacy in all health-care providers, and access to support from genetics professionals for management of patients and at-risk family members.