Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration in submucosal lesion

Emerging Technologies in Endoscopy for Gastrointestinal Neoplasms: A Comprehensive Overview

Gastrointestinal neoplasms are a growing global health concern, requiring prompt identification and treatment. Endoscopic procedures have revolutionized the detection and treatment of gastrointestinal tumors by providing accurate, minimally invasive methods. Early-stage malignancies can be treated with endoscopic excision, leading to improved outcomes and increased survival rates. Precancerous lesions, like adenomatous polyps, can be prevented by removing them, reducing cancer occurrence and death rates. Advanced techniques like chromoendoscopy, narrow-band imaging, and confocal laser endomicroscopy improve the ability to see the mucosa surface and diagnose conditions. Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications in endoscopy can enhance diagnostic accuracy and predict histology outcomes. However, challenges remain in accurately defining lesions and ensuring precise diagnosis and treatment selection. Molecular imaging approaches and therapeutic modalities like photodynamic therapy and endoscopic ultrasonography-guided therapies hold potential but require further study and clinical confirmation. This study examines the future prospects and obstacles in endoscopic procedures for the timely identification and treatment of gastrointestinal cancers. The focus is on developing technology, limits, and prospective effects on clinical practice.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided biopsy using a three-prong asymmetry tip needle for pancreatic tumors and peridigestive tract lesions: Retrospective single-center study

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided tissue acquisition is vital for diagnosing pancreatic and peridigestive tract lesions. A new three-prong asymmetry tip needle has been developed for this procedure. In this study, we retrospectively assessed the diagnostic ability, tissue collection volume, and procedural adverse events of the three-prong asymmetry tip needle for solid pancreatic, subepithelial, and other organ lesions.

METHODS

We analyzed the data of 58 consecutive patients who underwent endoscopic ultrasound-guided tissue acquisition using a three-prong asymmetry tip needle between August 2022 and April 2023 at a single care center.

RESULTS

The tissue collection rate was 91.4% with 89.7% accuracy, 89.3% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% positive predictive value, and 25% negative predictive value. No significant differences in collection rates or diagnostic performance were observed based on the target organ, puncture route, or lesion size. Using our original assessment method, the average histological core tissue score was 3.1 ± 0.8, whereas the blood contamination volume was 2.5 ± 0.8. Only one of 58 patients (1.7%) developed a pancreatic fistula of moderate severity as an adverse event.

CONCLUSIONS

The three-prong asymmetry tip needle demonstrated good diagnostic capability and adequate sample volume with safety for pancreatic, subepithelial, and other organ lesions.

Gastric schwannoma: The gastrointestinal tumor simulator - case report and review of the literature

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Gastric schwannoma is a rare and benign tumor originating from the peripheral nerves of the stomach. Despite its benign nature, this tumor typically remains asymptomatic for an extended period, and its radiological and endoscopic presentation poses challenges in distinguishing it from other gastric mesenchymal tumors.

CASE PRESENTATION

Here, we present a rare case of a patient experiencing gastric pain and melena secondary to a gastric mass. The initial preoperative diagnosis indicated a gastrointestinal stromal tumor, but subsequent pathological and immunohistochemical staining of the surgical specimen confirmed the presence of gastric schwannoma.

DISCUSSION

To gain insights into this uncommon condition, we conducted an electronic search on PubMed using the keywords "gastric schwannoma" and "gastric neurinoma." Our focus centered on case series containing more than five cases of gastric localization, resulting in the analysis of 14 case series involving a total of 321 patients. Our review aims to comprehensively discuss the clinical, radiological, and therapeutic aspects associated with this rare disease.

CONCLUSION

In the absence of a definitive preoperative diagnosis, the surgical approach is considered the primary treatment for resectable gastric schwannoma, given its excellent long-term outcomes. However, further studies are imperative to better define the role of endoscopic resection in managing this condition.

Successful Resection of Gastric Subepithelial Lipoma Using the Bite-on-Bite Approach: Reviving Old Techniques in a Peripheral Hospital

Subepithelial lesions (SELs) are common findings in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. They are often benign and asymptomatic but can cause symptoms in some cases. The approach to endoscopic management of these lesions depends on various factors, including associated symptoms, location, available equipment, and operator expertise. In this case report, we present a 50-year-old male with long-standing dyspepsia who was found to have a submucosal lesion in the stomach. The lesion was successfully treated using the bite-on-bite method with cold biopsy forceps. This report aims to discuss gastric subepithelial lesions and current management options, and highlight an old technique for endoscopists in the era of advanced endoscopy.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided tissue acquisition beyond the pancreas

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) offers the ability to obtain tissue material via a fine needle under direct visualization for cytological or pathological examination. Prior studies have looked at EUS tissue acquisition; however, most reports have been centered around lesions of the pancreas. This paper aims to review the literature on EUS tissue acquisition in other organs (beyond the pancreas) such as the liver, biliary tree, lymph nodes, and upper and lower gastrointestinal tracts. Furthermore, techniques for obtaining tissue samples under EUS guidance continue to evolve. Specifically, some of the techniques that endoscopists employ are suction techniques (i.e., dry heparin, dry suction technique, wet suction technique), the slow pull technique, and the fanning technique. Apart from acquisition techniques, the type and size of the needle utilized play a major role in the quality of samples. This review describes the indications for tissue acquisition for each organ, and also describes and compares the various tissue acquisition techniques, as well as the different needles used according to their shape and size.

Comparison of 22G Fork-Tip and Franseen Needles and Usefulness of Contrast-Enhanced Endoscopic Ultrasound for Diagnosis of Upper Gastrointestinal Subepithelial Lesions

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided tissue acquisition (EUS-TA) is less accurate in obtaining samples from gastrointestinal subepithelial lesions (SELs) ≤2 cm than from pancreatic cancers. The present study compared the usefulness of 22G Fork-tip and Franseen needles for EUS-TA and assessed the ability of contrast-enhanced harmonic EUS (CH-EUS) to diagnose SELs ≤2 cm. Fifty-seven patients who underwent EUS-TA for SELs ≤2 cm were evaluated. The primary endpoint was to compare the rate of acquisition of sufficient samples by these two needles. Secondary endpoints included technical success rate, adverse events, numbers of needle passes, and diagnostic ability of CH-EUS for SELs. Of the 57 included patients, 23 and 34 underwent EUS-TA with Fork-tip and Franseen needles, respectively. Technical success rates were 100% with both needles and adverse events occurred in zero (0%) and one (2.9%) patient with Fork-tip and Franseen needles, respectively. The rate of adequate sample acquisition was significantly higher using Fork-tip than Franseen needles (96% vs. 74%; p = 0.038). The hyper- or iso-vascular pattern on CH-EUS correlated significantly with a diagnosis of gastrointestinal stromal tumor (p < 0.001). EUS-TA with Fork-tip needles were superior to EUS-TA with Franseen needles in acquiring sufficient samples and CH-EUS was also useful for the diagnosis of SELs ≤2 cm.

Efficacy, Feasibility, and Safety of Endoscopic Ultrasound-guided Fine-needle Biopsy for the Diagnosis of Gastrointestinal Subepithelial Lesions: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) fine-needle biopsy (FNB) has become an efficient method for diagnosing gastrointestinal (GI) subepithelial lesions (SELs). However, recent guidelines have not regarded FNB as the primary strategy for diagnosing GI SELs. We performed this study to systematically measure the efficacy, feasibility, and safety of EUS-FNB in diagnosing GI SELs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Relevant studies were searched in PubMed and EMBASE and published after January 2015 were included. The overall rates of diagnostic yield, technical success, and adverse events were calculated as outcome measures. The Jadad scale and the Newcastle-Ottawa scale were used to evaluate the quality of the trials, funnel plots and Egger's test were used to measure publication bias, and sensitivity and subgroup analyses were performed to explore the variance of heterogeneity and sensitivity, respectively.

RESULTS

Sixteen studies analyzing 969 patients between 2015 and 2020 were included. Studies showed little change in sensitivity, and 13 were considered high quality. A certain degree of publication bias existed in the diagnostic accuracy rate. The overall rates of diagnostic yield, technical success, and adverse events were [85.69% (95% confidence interval (CI): 82.73-88.22, I2=41.8%), 98.83% (95% CI: 96.73-99.97, I2=54.3%), and 1.26% (95% CI: 0.35-2.54, I2=0.0%)]. No clinical influencing factors were identified in the subgroup analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

EUS-FNB is a promising technology with a relatively superior diagnostic yield, technical success, and security, which is an optimal option for the diagnosis of SELs.

Rectal neuroendocrine tumors: Current advances in management, treatment, and surveillance

Rectal neuroendocrine neoplasms (r-NENs) are considered among the most frequent digestive NENs, together with small bowel NENs. Their incidence has increased over the past few years, and this is probably due to the widespread use of endoscopic screening for colorectal cancer and the advanced endoscopic procedures available nowadays. According to the current European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (ENETS) guidelines, well-differentiated r-NENs smaller than 10 mm should be endoscopically removed in view of their low risk of local and distant invasion. R-NENs larger than 20 mm are candidates for surgical resection because of their high risk of distant spreading and the involvement of the muscularis propria. There is an area of uncertainty regarding tumors between 10 and 20 mm, in which the metastatic risk is intermediate and the endoscopic treatment can be challenging. Once removed, the indications for surveillance are scarce and poorly codified by international guidelines, therefore in this paper, a possible algorithm is proposed.

What About Gastric Schwannoma? A Review Article

PURPOSE

Gastric schwannomas (GSs) are rare mesenchymal neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract. Diagnosis is often achieved postoperatively, based on pathology reports of retrieved specimens. The aim of the present study is to follow up all patients with gastric schwannoma (Gs) undergoing endoscopic, partial, or more extended surgery and to evaluate the appearance of local or distant recurrence.

METHODS

A PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase systematic review of the literature has been performed. Original papers, review articles, and case reports published between 1988 and 2019 were considered eligible. All the studies who met the inclusion criteria were analyzed. Statistical analysis of data has been performed using GraphPad Prism 7 software.

RESULTS

Three hundred twenty-eight articles were found, and a total of 102 were included and analyzed in depth. Fifty-three papers reported the follow-up information, ranging from 1 to 417 months across different studies. Among them, 31 patients underwent endoscopic removal of the gastric lesions; 140 patients underwent local surgery, including wedge resection or partial gastrectomy; and 148 patients underwent subtotal or total gastrectomy. The median follow-up was of 27-38-33 months, respectively. No recurrence or distant metastasis was detected in the endoscopy group. Among local surgery group, liver metastasis was reported in one case; in extended surgery group, one patient died for multiple liver metastases.

CONCLUSIONS

Local or more extended surgery involved a larger cohort of patients and reported satisfactory long-term results compared with endoscopy group. Surgery in absence of a definite preoperative diagnosis is considered the gold standard treatment for resectable Gs.

Diagnosis and Management of Rectal Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs)

Rectal neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are rare, with an incidence of 0.17%, but they represent 12% to 27% of all NETs and 20% of gastrointestinal NETs. Although rectal NETs are uncommon tumors, their incidence has increased over the past few years, and this is probably due to the improvement in detection rates made by advanced endoscopic procedures. The biological behavior of rectal NETs may be different: factors predicting the risk of metastases have been identified, such as size and grade of differentiation. The tendency for metastatic diffusion generally depends on the tumor size, muscular and lymphovascular infiltration, and histopathological differentiation. According to the current European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (ENETS) guidelines, tumors that are smaller than 10 mm and well differentiated are thought to have a low risk of lymphovascular invasion, and they should be completely removed endoscopically. Rectal NETs larger than 20 mm have a higher risk of involvement of muscularis propria and high metastatic risk and are candidates for surgical resection. There is controversy over rectal NETs of intermediate size, 10–19 mm, where the metastatic risk is considered to be 10–15%: assessment of tumors endoscopically and by endoanal ultrasound should guide treatment in these cases towards endoscopic, transanal, or surgical resection.

Controversies in EUS: Do we need miniprobes?

This is the fifth in a series of papers entitled "Controversies in EUS." In the current paper, we deal with high-resolution catheter probes, otherwise known as EUS miniprobes (EUS-MPs). The application of miniprobes for early carcinomas in the entire intestinal tract, for subepithelial lesions, and for findings in the bile duct and pancreatic duct as well as endobronchial use is critically discussed. Submucous lesions, especially in the colon, but also early carcinomas in special cases are considered the most important indications. The argument is illustrated by numerous examples.

Large leiomyoma of lower esophagus diagnosed by endoscopic ultrasonography–fine needle aspiration: A case report

BACKGROUND

Benign esophageal tumors are rare accounting for < 1% of esophageal tumors; two-thirds of which are leiomyomas. Esophageal leiomyoma is a benign tumor derived from mesenchymal tissue that is completely muscularly differentiated. Most esophageal leiomyomas are < 5 cm. Esophageal leiomyomas > 5 cm are rare. We describe a case of a large esophageal leiomyoma involving the cardia and diaphragm.

CASE SUMMARY

A 35-year-old woman presented to the doctor because of a choking sensation after eating. Physical examination showed no positive signs. Gastroscopy indicated an uplifted change in the cardia. Enhanced computed tomography revealed space-occupying lesions in the lower part of the esophagus and cardia, which were likely to be malignant. Positron emission tomography–computed tomography showed increased metabolism of soft tissue masses in the lower esophagus and near the cardia. Malignant lesions were considered, and mesenchymal tumors were not excluded. Endoscopic ultrasonography was performed to examine a hypoechoic mass in the lower esophagus, which was unclear from the esophageal wall. Clinical evaluation suggested diagnosis of esophageal and cardiac stromal tumors. Finally, histological specimens obtained by endoscopic ultrasonography– fine needle aspiration suggested leiomyoma. The patient underwent laparoscopic local resection of the tumor. The postoperative pathological diagnosis was leiomyoma.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic ultrasonography-fine needle aspiration is necessary for the diagnosis of gastrointestinal leiomyomas. It provides a strong basis for diagnosis of gastrointestinal tumors of unknown nature and origin.

Primary small cell carcinoma of the esophagus: progression in the last decade

Primary small cell carcinoma of the esophagus (PSCCE) is a highly malignant tumor that is diagnosed by endoscopic biopsy and immunohistochemistry. Because of its low incidence, a high degree of malignancy, and rapid progress, it is difficult to conduct large, randomized controlled trials and to establish a standard treatment plan for this disease. In recent years, several retrospective studies have been reported, and with the rise of emerging therapies, PSCCE has gradually become a focus of thoracic surgery. This paper reviews progress in the diagnosis and treatment of PSCCE in recent years.

Efficacy of Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Biopsy in Gastric Subepithelial Tumors Located in the Cardia

BACKGROUND

In cases of subepithelial tumors (SETs) located in the cardiac area, a preoperative histologic diagnosis might be helpful in determining the requirement of surgery.

AIM

To investigate the efficacy of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) in gastric SETs located in the cardia.

METHODS

The data of 107 patients who underwent EUS-FNB, from 2012 to 2017, for tissue sampling of gastric SETs located in the cardia were collected. The clinicopathological data, EUS-related parameters, and surgical outcomes were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

The EUS-FNB results were diagnostic in 86.9% (93/107) and nondiagnostic in 13.1% (14/107) of the patients. Immunostaining of the FNB specimens led to the diagnosis of gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) in 25 SETs (23.4%), leiomyoma in 62 SETs (57.9%), heterotopic pancreas in 3 SETs (2.8%), and schwannoma in 2 SETs (1.9%). In the multivariate analysis, patients with GISTs showed significantly more inhomogeneous echogenicity [odds ratio (OR), 8.867], more cystic foci (OR, 26.98), and older age (OR, 1.087). In 26 patients who underwent surgical resection, the agreement between EUS-FNB and surgical pathological findings was 100% with respect to the diagnosis of GISTs (n = 20) and leiomyoma (n = 7). Among these cases, the proportion of high-risk GISTs was 20.0% (4/20), and no leiomyosarcoma was detected.

CONCLUSIONS

Although a majority of the subepithelial lesions in the cardia of the stomach are benign, 20% of the cases diagnosed with GIST have a high malignant potential. Preoperative EUS-FNB might be a useful tool for decision-making regarding the ultimate management and outcomes of these lesions.

EUS and EUS-guided FNA/core biopsies in the evaluation of subepithelial lesions of the lower gastrointestinal tract: 10-year experience

Background and Objective:

The widespread use of colonoscopy has led to an increasing number of subepithelial lesions (SELs) being detected in the lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This study aimed to analyze the utility of EUS and its role in the management of lower GI SELs.

Patients and Methods:

Records of all patients who were referred for lower EUS evaluation of a SEL at a tertiary center between 2007 and 2018 were retrospectively reviewed after IRB approval. Data collection included patient/lesion characteristics, technical details of procedure, and pathology results.

Results:

A total of 47 patients underwent EUS examinations for the evaluation of 49 suspected SEL in the lower GI tract (2 patients had 2 SELs each). Out of the 49 suspected lesions, the most frequent location was in the rectum (30/49, 61.2%). EUS showed extraluminal compression in 2 cases (2/49, 4.1%) and intraluminal lesions were identified in 40 cases (40/49, 81.6%). In 7 patients (7/49, 14.3%), no lesion could be identified by EUS. Twenty (20/49, 40.8%) SELs were malignant or had malignant potential. Twenty-six EUS-guided fine-needle aspirations (FNAs) and 14 EUS-core biopsies were performed. EUS-FNA alone was able to correctly diagnose 15/26 (57.7%) of the lower SELs. When EUS-guided fine needle biopsies (FNB) were performed during the same procedure, the final diagnosis was confirmed in 21/26 (80.8%) cases. There was only one procedure-related complication caused by use of narcotics.

Conclusion:

EUS-guided FNA/FNB are feasible and safe techniques for assessing lower GI SELs and provide valuable information regarding lesion characteristics and their malignant potential with high diagnostic accuracy.

Predicting Malignancy Risk in Gastrointestinal Subepithelial Tumors with Contrast-Enhanced Harmonic Endoscopic Ultrasonography Using Perfusion Analysis Software

Background/Aims

Contrast-enhanced harmonic endoscopic ultrasonography (CEH-EUS) is a promising imaging modality that can differentiate subepithelial tumors (SETs) by detecting the degree of enhancement. However, whether CEH-EUS alone can predict the malignancy risk of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of CEH-EUS by using perfusion analysis software for distinguishing among SETs and predicting the malignancy risk of GISTs.

Methods

We retrospectively included patients with SETs who underwent preoperative CEH-EUS. In this study, 44 patients with histologically proven GISTs and benign SETs were enrolled. Perfusion analysis was performed using perfusion quantification software. Peak enhancement (PE), wash-in rate (WiR), wash-in perfusion index (WiPI), and wash-in and wash-out areas under the time-intensity curve (WiWoAUC) were calculated and compared between the GISTs and benign SETs.

Results

When we allocated the enrolled patients into the leiomyoma group and low- and high-grade malignancy GIST groups, significant statistical differences in PE (p<0.001), WiR (p=0.009), WiPI (p<0.001), and WiWoAUC (p<0.001) were identified in the high-grade malignancy group compared with the leiomyoma group.

Conclusions

CEH-EUS with perfusion analysis using perfusion analysis software could be a quantitative and independent method for predicting malignancy risk in gastrointestinal SETs.

Gastric Schwannoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature for Gastric Submucosal Masses Distinction

Schwannomas origin from Schwann cells sheath and generally are benign, slow-growing, and asymptomatic neoplasms which frequently appear in the head and neck. Although gastrointestinal schwannoma is really rare, the most affected organ in GI system is the stomach. Gastric schwannoma forms 0.2% of all gastric tumors. This neoplasm is always detected as a submucosal mass, the same as other gastrointestinal stromal tumors. Although these tumors have almost the same presentations, they are completely different at therapeutic options and prognoses. Hence, it is important to distinguish them apart and make an accurate diagnosis to optimize treatment outcomes. Herein, we report a case of 28-year-old woman with frequent vomiting and abdominal pain caused by 5 × 6 cm schwannoma in the antrum of the stomach. This is a rare case of gastric outlet obstruction due to a massive schwannoma. In addition, all other probable submucosal masses will be discussed at different aspects.

A rare presentation of simple renal cyst: gastrointestinal obstruction

Simple renal cysts are one of the most common lesions in elderly. These cysts are usually asymptomatic but when the size of these cysts increase, we would see symptoms such as hypertension, hematuria, flank pain or urinary obstruction. In this study, we explore a case of small bowel obstruction that presented with nausea, repeated vomiting that causes hematemesis, and a submucosal obstructive lesion that was seen in Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). After endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) evaluation, we detected a large simple renal cyst and approved our diagnosis with CT scan. We planned a medical treatment for this patient that consist consuming small size meals, 5 to 6 times a day, and high calorie liquids in small volumes. We conclude that simple renal cyst can be one of the cause of extrinsic intestinal obstruction and EUS is affective for differentiation of intrinsic submucosal lesion from extrinsic compression.

Subepithelial rectal gastrointestinal stromal tumor - the use of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration to establish a definitive cytological diagnosis: a case report

Background

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors are the most common mesenchymal neoplasms affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The stomach is the most common location to be affected, and the rectum one of the rarest, but the whole gastrointestinal tract remains susceptible. Gastrointestinal stromal tumors account for only 0.1% of rectal tumors. Currently, endoscopic ultrasound plays an essential role in the diagnostic process of gastrointestinal stromal tumors, especially when the affected sites have a worse outcome and higher morbidity rates.

Case presentation

We describe the case of a 68-year-old white Japanese man with a history of long-term mild rectal pain and tenesmus. A digital rectal examination revealed a right palpable solid mass ranging from 3 to 7 cm from his anal verge. A colonoscopy was performed and showed a 5 cm elevated lesion covered by normal mucosa, located 4 cm above the pectineal line. Endoscopic ultrasound confirmed the diagnosis of a homogeneous hypoechoic mass with areas of necrosis as a rectal subepithelial lesion originating at the fourth layer (muscularis propria). He then underwent endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration of the lesion, followed by cytological and immunohistochemistry evaluation. The evaluation showed spindle and epithelioid cells of variable sizes, in fascicles separated by stroma, which reacted firmly and consistently to CD117/c-kit and CD34, and negative to desmin and S-100 protein. There was weak staining for nuclear Ki-67 in the tumor cells. A diagnosis of rectal gastrointestinal stromal tumor was confirmed. After a multidisciplinary meeting, an abdominoperineal resection of his rectum was performed. The pathology of the specimen confirmed the diagnosis of rectal gastrointestinal stromal tumor. He is now asymptomatic after 3 months’ follow-up and is on adjuvant therapy with a tyrosine-kinase inhibitor.

Conclusions

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors are rare tumors, and among the variety of primary location sites, the rectum is one of the rarest. The localization of this type of tumor has worse outcomes and higher morbidity rates. We report this rare case to emphasize the need for precise diagnosis and the important role of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration in such situations.

The role of EUS and EUS-guided FNA in the management of subepithelial lesions of the esophagus: A large, single-center experience

BACKGROUND

Referral for endosonographic evaluation of subepithelial lesions seen in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is fairly common. Although rarely studied separately in details, esophageal lesions have some unique differences from other GI sites and might deserve some special considerations regarding follow-up and management.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All cases referred for endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) evaluation of subepithelial esophageal lesions at Bezmialem University Hospital, a tertiary center in Istanbul, Turkey were retrospectively reviewed. Data were collected for patient and lesion characteristics as well as for pathology results and follow-up if available. Lesions were subcategorized according to their size, location, and final diagnosis.

RESULTS

A total of 164 EUS examinations were identified. In 22.5% of cases, the lesion could not be identified by EUS. Of the remaining cases, 57.6% had a lesion larger than 1 cm in size. Extramural compression was the diagnosis in 12% and leiomyoma in around 60%. Thirteen patients had follow-up examinations with only two showing an increase in size after 12 months. Sixty-five EUS-guided fine needle aspirations (EUS-guided FNAs) were performed, with around 50% having nondiagnostic samples and 94% of the remaining samples confirming the presumptive diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of subepithelial lesions in the esophagus are benign with extremely low malignancy potential. EUS examinations performed for lesions smaller than 2 cm as well as FNAs taken from lesions smaller than 3 cm might have minimal impact on their ultimate management and outcome. More than one FNA pass should be attempted in order to improve the yield.

Primary Esophageal Intramural Squamous Cell Carcinoma Masquerading as a Submucosal Tumor: A Rare Presentation of a Common Disease

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the commonest primary malignant esophageal tumor, which typically presents as endoscopically visible surface mucosal ulcerations, irregularities, or polyploidal masses. We here report a rare case of primary ESCC with completely intramural growth under a normal looking intact nondysplastic surface squamous epithelium disguising as a submucosal tumor. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy-guided mucosal biopsy was negative for malignancy. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) revealed a heteroechoic solid mass originating from the muscularis propria of the distal esophagus. Cytological study of EUS-guided fine needle aspiration from the mass was suggestive of squamous cell carcinoma, which was confirmed on immunohistochemistry. There was no evidence of metastatic origin of this tumor or continuous cancer involvement from the surrounding structures, including the head, neck, and lungs on bronchoscopy, computed tomography scan, and positron emission tomography scan. Exclusive intramural squamous cell carcinoma with normal overlying mucosa is an exceedingly rare presentation of primary ESCC with only four cases reported in the literature so far. A high index of suspicion is required by the gastroenterologists and pathologists in diagnosing these cases as these tumors closely mimic the mesenchymal submucosal tumors such as lipoma, leiomyoma, and gastrointestinal stromal tumors. EUS is an indispensable tool in making a preoperative diagnosis and therapeutic decision making.

Role of Endoscopic Ultrasonography in Guiding Treatment Plans for Upper Gastrointestinal Subepithelial Tumors

Gastrointestinal (GI) subepithelial tumors (SETs) are usually observed incidentally by endoscopy and have diverse prognoses, varying from benign to potentially malignant. When a GI SET is suspected, endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) is the most accurate diagnostic method to differentiate it from extraluminal compression. To determine the nature of GI SETs, EUS is also the most accurate diagnostic method, and reveals the precise sonographic nature of the lesion. There are some SETs with typical EUS findings of GI SETs, but most hypoechoic lesions are difficult to diagnose based on EUS images alone. EUS is also helpful to determine GI wall involvement in SETs and optimal treatment methods. For the diagnosis of GI SETs, obtaining a proper specimen is essential. EUS-guided cytology or biopsy methods such as fine-needle aspiration, Tru-Cut biopsy, and the newly introduced fine-needle biopsy (FNB) provide good results. To increase the diagnostic yield for GI SETs, cytology with immunocytochemical staining is used for cytological interpretation, resulting in good diagnostic yields. Recently, EUS-FNB using cheese slicer technology has been introduced, and has been reported to provide good diagnostic results for GI SETs.

Management of treatment-naïve limited-stage small cell esophagus carcinoma

Objectives:

To identify the problems and principles of treatment decisions in treatment-naïve limited-stage small cell esophagus carcinoma (LD-SCEC).

Methods:

Clinical data from 39 patients with LD-SCEC treated in the Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China between 2000 and 2013 were retrospectively collected with regard to pathologic characteristics, overall survival (OS), and relevant prognostic factors.

Results:

The median OS was 21.1 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 12.4-29.7 months). The one-year OS was 76%, 3-year was 25%, and the 5-year OS was 8%. Depth of invasion, lymph metastasis status, and chemotherapy were independent prognostic factors. Of the 39 cases, only 38.4% (15 cases) were diagnosed as SCEC by the biopsy specimen. Eight of the 15 patients (group A) received chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy, while the remaining 7 patients (group B) and the other 24 patients (group C) received surgery as initial treatment. The one-year survival of group A was 87%, of group B was 69%, and of group C was 74% (p=0.037). The accuracy of the biopsy diagnosis influenced the treatment decisions and prognosis.

Conclusion:

Small cell esophagus carcinoma is a systemic disease, with depth of invasion, lymph metastasis status, and chemotherapy as independent prognostic factors. Systemic therapy based on chemotherapy is recommended. The top priority is to improve the accuracy of diagnosis before deciding on the initial treatment option.

Yields and Utility of Endoscopic Ultrasonography-Guided 19-Gauge Trucut Biopsy versus 22-Gauge Fine Needle Aspiration for Diagnosing Gastric Subepithelial Tumors

Background/Aims

To evaluate the yields and utility of 19-gauge (G) Trucut biopsy (TCB) versus 22 G fine needle aspiration (FNA) for diagnosing gastric subepithelial tumors (SETs).

Methods

We retrieved data for 152 patients with a gastric SET larger than 2 cm who had undergone endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS)-guided 19 G TCB (n=90) or 22 G FNA (n=62). Relevant clinical, tumor-specific, and EUS procedural information was reviewed retrospectively.

Results

A specific diagnosis was made for 76 gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) and 51 non-GIST SETs. The diagnostic yield of TCB was greater than that of FNA (77.8% vs. 38.7%, p<0.001). The percentage of non-diagnostic specimens (suspicious and insufficient) was significantly lower in the TCB group (6.7% and 15.5%, respectively) than in the FNA group (22.6% and 38.7%, respectively; both p<0.001). TCB accurately diagnosed 90.9% of GISTs and 81.1% of non-GIST SETs, whereas FNA accurately diagnosed 68.8% of GISTs and 14.3% of non-GIST SETs. There were nine technical failures with TCB, and the rate of adverse events did not differ between the groups (TCB vs. FNA, 3.3% vs. 8.1%; p=0.27).

Conclusions

Nineteen-gauge TCB is safe and highly valuable for diagnosing gastric SETs larger than 2 cm if technical failure can be avoided.

Utility of DOG1 Immunomarker in Fine Needle Aspirates of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is the most common mesenchymal tumor of the gastrointestinal tract. DOG1 is a sensitive and specific immunohistochemical marker for the diagnosis of GIST. To date, no study has reported the utility of DOG1 immunocytochemistry on aspirate smears.

METHODS

Aspirates with a cytological diagnosis of GIST were retrieved. DOG1 immunocytochemistry was performed on aspirates with adequate material.

RESULTS

23 cases were included (11 primary, 2 recurrent, 10 metastatic). Primary tumors were most frequently located in the stomach; most metastatic tumors were in the liver. Tumor cells were arranged in cohesive clusters with high cellularity. Cells were spindled, had a low N:C ratio, and a moderate amount of cytoplasm, which was elongated and tapering. Characteristic nuclear features included elongated nuclei with blunt or tapering ends, fine chromatin, mild anisonucleosis, and longitudinal grooves. The mitotic count was low, including in metastatic tumors. DOG1 immunopositivity was noted in 57% of the cases examined. Histopathology was available in 5 cases, all diagnosed as GIST.

CONCLUSION

Cytology is a sensitive investigative modality for the preoperative diagnosis and confirmation of metastasis of GISTs. In ambiguous cases, DOG1 immunocytochemistry can serve as a valuable adjunct. Cytologic assessment, however, cannot predict malignant potential of GISTs as even metastatic tumors display bland nuclear features.

A feasible modified biopsy method for tissue diagnosis of gastric subepithelial tumors

AIM: To evaluate the diagnostic yield and safety of a modified technique for the histological diagnosis of subepithelial tumors (SETs).

METHODS: A retrospective review of patients who underwent a modified technique for the histological diagnosis of gastric SETs, consisting of a mucosal incision with a fixed flexible snare (MIF) and deep-tissue biopsy under conventional endoscopic view, from January 2012 to January 2013 was performed. Eleven patients with gastric SETs 10-30 mm in diameter and originating from the third or fourth layer on endoscopic ultrasonography were included.

RESULTS: The mean age was 59.8 (range, 45-76) years, and 5 patients were male. The mean size of the SETs was 21.8 (range, 11-30) mm. The number of biopsy specimens was 6.3 (range 5-8). The mean procedure time was 9.0 min (range, 4-17 min). The diagnostic yield of MIF biopsies was 90.9% (10/11). The histological diagnoses were leiomyoma (4/11, 36.4%), aberrant pancreas (3/11, 27.3%), gastrointestinal stromal tumors (2/11, 18.2%), an inflammatory fibrinoid tumor (1/11, 9.1%); one result was non-diagnostic (1/11, 9.1%). There were six mesenchymal tumors; the specimens obtained in each case were sufficient for an immunohistochemical diagnosis. There was no major bleeding, but one perforation occurred that was successfully controlled by endoscopic clipping.

CONCLUSION: The MIF biopsy was simple to perform, safe, and required a shorter procedure time, with a high diagnostic yield for small SETs.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection for gastrointestinal mesenchymal tumors adjacent to the esophagogastric junction: we need to do more

OBJECTIVE

Extensive surgery is the mainstay of therapy for patients with gastrointestinal mesenchymal tumors (GIMTs) adjacent to the esophagogastric junction (EGJ). However, this modality is invasive and may interfere with anatomic consistency of the digestive tract. Therefore, we evaluated the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for GIMTs close to the EGJ and factors related to incomplete resection.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

For 39 GIMTs adjacent to the EGJ in 39 consecutive patients, the baseline information, complications, and therapeutic outcomes were recorded. Subsequently, risk factors, focusing on age, sex, tumor size, extent, shape, perforation presence/absence, and histopathology, were analyzed.

RESULTS

Complete removal of junctional GIMTs was achieved in 32 cases, giving an overall complete resection rate of 82%. The mean tumor size was 16.1±12.7 (median, 12; range, 4-50) mm. There were no major intra- and postoperative complications, but two small perforations were found. The final histopathologic diagnoses included 28 leiomyomas, 10 gastrointestinal stromal tumors, and 1 schwannoma. No local recurrence or distant metastasis was observed during a mean follow-up of 15.7±8.4 (median, 16; range, 6-35) months. Univariate analysis showed incomplete resection was associated with tumor shape and size. Multivariate regression analysis identified tumor irregularity (odds ratio=37.50, 95% confidence interval=4.253-330.627) as the single factor associated with incomplete resection.

CONCLUSIONS

ESD is feasible and safe for well-selected patients with GIMTs adjacent to the EGJ. Irregular tumor shape should be considered as a technical difficulty while performing ESD. Oncologic outcomes need to be assessed with longer follow-up.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection of large gastrointestinal stromal tumors in the esophagus and stomach

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), the most common mesenchymal tumors of the digestive tract with potential for malignant transformation, are mainly treated by open surgery or laparoscopic resection. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy, safety, and feasibility of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for large-size (2-5 cm) GISTs in the esophagus and stomach.

METHODS

A total of 31 patients with large-size GISTs in the esophagus (6 patients) and stomach (25 patients) underwent ESD between September 2008 and December 2011. Demographics, clinical data, therapeutic outcomes, complications, pathological characteristics, risk classification, and follow-up outcomes were recorded.

RESULTS

ESD was successfully performed in 31 patients at age of 59.06 ± 7.23 years (range: 46-74). The mean time of the procedure was 70.16 ± 16.25 min (range: 40-105). Perforation for 2-10 mm occurred in six patients (19.35%) and was endoscopically repaired with clips or nylon bands, with no conversions to open surgery. Intraoperative bleeding occurred in three patients (9.68%) and was corrected with argon plasma coagulation or hot biopsy forceps. No mortalities occurred. The mean size of the resected tumors was 2.70 ± 0.72 cm (range: 2.0-5.0). Out of the 31 patients, 24 (77.42%) were at very low risk and 7 (22.58%) were at low risk. Positive rate of CD117, DOG-1, and CD34 were 83.87%, 12.90%, and 100%, respectively. A follow up for 14.29 ± 8.99 months (range: 3-39) showed no recurrence or metastasis.

CONCLUSIONS

ESD appears to be an effective, safe, and feasible treatment for large-size GISTs in the esophagus and stomach.

Metastatic breast cancer to the gastrointestinal tract: report of five cases and review of the literature

Luminal gastrointestinal (GI) metastases from breast cancer are rare, reports are fragmentary and poor. The purposes of this study are to assess the gastrointestinal involvement from breast cancer in a retrospective study at a single institution and reviewing the related literature. Between January 2007 and December 2011 a total of 980 patients with breast cancer were treated at our institution, patients' records and report database were analysed. Institutional Review Board approval was obtained for this study. A search of the literature using PubMed, CancerLit, Embase, was performed. Selected for the present review were papers published in English before June 2012. Five of 980 patients (0.5%) showed gastrointestinal metastases from breast cancer, 3 patients had gastric involvement, 1 jejunum, and 1 rectum. Reviewing the literature, 206 patients affected by gastrointestinal metastasis from breast cancer were identified: the most frequent site of metastasis was the stomach (60%). The majority of the patients underwent chemotherapy and endocrine therapy, someone surgery and radiotherapy. GI metastases from breast cancer are rare, but possible, and a very late recurrence can also occur. Cyto-histological diagnosis is mandatory, to differentiate GI metastases from breast cancer to other diseases and to allow an adequate treatment.

Endoscopic ultrasound, where are we now in 2012?

Topics related with endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) made up considerable portion among many invited lectures presented in International Digestive Endoscopy Network 2012 meeting. While the scientific programs were divided into the fields of upper gastrointestinal (UGI), lower gastrointestinal, and pancreato-biliary (PB) categories, UGI and PB parts mainly dealt with EUS related issues. EUS diagnosis in subepithelial lesions, estimation of the invasion depth of early gastrointestinal cancers with EUS, and usefulness of EUS in esophageal varices were discussed in UGI sessions. In the PB part, pancreatic cystic lesions, EUS-guided biliopancreatic drainage, EUS-guided tissue acquisition, and improvement of diagnostic yield in indeterminate biliary lesions by using intraductal ultrasound were discussed. Advanced techniques such as contrast-enhanced EUS, EUS elastography and forward-viewing echoendoscopy were also discussed. In this paper, I focused mainly on topics of UGI and briefly mentioned about advanced EUS techniques since more EUS related papers by other invited speakers were presented afterwards.