Interdisciplinary Diagnosis, Therapy and Follow-up of Patients with Endometrial Cancer. Guideline (S3-Level, AWMF Registry Number 032/034-OL, April 2018) - Part 2 with Recommendations on the Therapy and Follow-up of Endometrial Cancer, Palliative Care, Psycho-oncological/Psychosocial Care/Rehabilitation/Patient Information and Healthcare Facilities

Summary The first German interdisciplinary S3-guideline on the diagnosis, therapy and follow-up of patients with endometrial cancer was published in April 2018. Funded by German Cancer Aid as part of an Oncology Guidelines Program, the lead coordinators of the guideline were the German Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (DGGG) and the Gynecological Oncology Working Group (AGO) of the German Cancer Society (DKG). Purpose Using evidence-based, risk-adapted therapy to treat low-risk women with endometrial cancer avoids unnecessarily radical surgery and non-useful adjuvant radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. This can significantly reduce therapy-induced morbidity and improve the patient's quality of life as well as avoiding unnecessary costs. For women with endometrial cancer and a high risk of recurrence, the guideline defines the optimal extent of surgical radicality together with the appropriate chemotherapy and/or adjuvant radiotherapy if required. An evidence-based optimal use of different therapeutic modalities should improve the survival rates and quality of life of these patients. This S3-guideline on endometrial cancer is intended as a basis for certified gynecological cancer centers. The aim is that the quality indicators established in this guideline will be incorporated in the certification processes of these centers. Methods The guideline was compiled in accordance with the requirements for S3-level guidelines. This includes, in the first instance, the adaptation of source guidelines selected using the DELBI instrument for appraising guidelines. Other consulted sources included reviews of evidence, which were compiled from literature selected during systematic searches of literature databases using the PICO scheme. In addition, an external biostatistics institute was commissioned to carry out a systematic search and assessment of the literature for one part of the guideline. Identified materials were used by the interdisciplinary working groups to develop suggestions for Recommendations and Statements, which were then subsequently modified during structured consensus conferences and/or additionally amended online using the DELPHI method, with consent between members achieved online. The guideline report is freely available online. Recommendations Part 2 of this short version of the guideline presents recommendations for the therapy of endometrial cancer including precancers and early endometrial cancer as well as recommendations on palliative medicine, psycho-oncology, rehabilitation, patient information and healthcare facilities to treat endometrial cancer. The management of precancers of early endometrial precancerous conditions including fertility-preserving strategies is presented. The concept used for surgical primary therapy of endometrial cancer is described. Radiotherapy and adjuvant medical therapy to treat endometrial cancer and uterine carcinosarcomas are described. Recommendations are given for the follow-up care of endometrial cancer, recurrence and metastasis. Palliative medicine, psycho-oncology including psychosocial care, and patient information and rehabilitation are presented. Finally, the care algorithm and quality assurance steps for the diagnosis, therapy and follow-up of patients with endometrial cancer are outlined.

Interdisciplinary Diagnosis, Therapy and Follow-up of Patients with Endometrial Cancer. Guideline (S3-Level, AWMF Registry Nummer 032/034-OL, April 2018) - Part 1 with Recommendations on the Epidemiology, Screening, Diagnosis and Hereditary Factors of Endometrial Cancer

Summary The first German interdisciplinary S3-guideline on the diagnosis, therapy and follow-up of patients with endometrial cancer was published in April 2018. Funded by German Cancer Aid as part of an Oncology Guidelines Program, the lead coordinators of the guideline were the German Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (DGGG) and the Gynecological Oncology Working Group (AGO) of the German Cancer Society (DKG).

Purpose The use of evidence-based, risk-adapted therapy to treat low-risk women with endometrial cancer avoids unnecessarily radical surgery and non-useful adjuvant radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. This can significantly reduce therapy-induced morbidity and improve the patientʼs quality of life as well as avoiding unnecessary costs. For women with endometrial cancer and a high risk of recurrence, the guideline defines the optimal surgical radicality together with the appropriate chemotherapy and/or adjuvant radiotherapy where required. The evidence-based optimal use of different therapeutic modalities should improve survival rates and the quality of life of these patients. The S3-guideline on endometrial cancer is intended as a basis for certified gynecological cancer centers. The aim is that the quality indicators established in this guideline will be incorporated in the certification processes of these centers.

Methods The guideline was compiled in accordance with the requirements for S3-level guidelines. This includes, in the first instance, the adaptation of source guidelines selected using the DELBI instrument for appraising guidelines. Other consulted sources include reviews of evidence which were compiled from literature selected during systematic searches of literature databases using the PICO scheme. In addition, an external biostatistics institute was commissioned to carry out a systematic search and assessment of the literature for one area of the guideline. The identified materials were used by the interdisciplinary working groups to develop suggestions for Recommendations and Statements, which were then modified during structured consensus conferences and/or additionally amended online using the DELPHI method with consent being reached online. The guideline report is freely available online.

Recommendations Part 1 of this short version of the guideline presents recommendations on epidemiology, screening, diagnosis and hereditary factors, The epidemiology of endometrial cancer and the risk factors for developing endomentrial cancer are presented. The options for screening and the methods used to diagnose endometrial cancer including the pathology of the cancer are outlined. Recommendations are given for the prevention, diagnosis, and therapy of hereditary forms of endometrial cancer.

Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair for Aortoesophageal Fistula after Covered Rupture of Aortic Homograft: A Durable Option?

A 63-year-old woman underwent replacement of the aortic root, ascending aorta, and partial arch due to Type A aortic dissection. Shortly thereafter, a replacement of the distal aortic arch and descending aorta was performed. Three years later, the patient developed an aortoesophageal fistula (AEF) resulting in re-replacement of the distal aortic arch and proximal descending aorta with a cryopreserved aortic homograft. Six weeks post-discharge, the patient was readmitted due to recurrent AEF. A thoracic endovascular stent graft was implanted to cover the aortic rupture, followed by correction of an esophageal lesion. The patient was monitored closely over time.

Portkatheterbrüche bei 361 implantierten Portsystemen Ursachenanalyse – Lösungsmöglichkeiten – Literaturübersicht

INTRODUCTION

The use of a venous port-catheter-system is known as a relatively safe implant. Besides infections, the breakage of PIPS is the most common reason for explanation before term. The purpose of this study is to analyse port-related complications and to show ways of preventing them.

METHOD

Between 1.1.1994 and 31.12.1999, 391 PIPS were implanted in the V. subclavia with the Seldinger technique at Surgical Clinic 1 of the University of Leipzig. Subsequently, 311 of them were followed up until 31.12.2000, with a mean observation time of 45 months.

RESULTS

We registered 48 complications altogether (15.4% of 311), 21(6.7%) of which occurred immediately after implantation (up to 30 days postoperatively). These could be divided either into wound-healing disorders/pulmonary distress (4.5%, n = 14) or complications concerning the catheter systems (2.3%, n = 7). Long-term complications after 31 days were evident in 27 patients (8.7%), due either to infections (4.5%, n = 13) or catheter-associated problems (4.5%, n = 14). Catheter lesions occurred in nine cases (2.9% out of 311) at the point of entry into the musculus pectoralis, i.e., where the catheter had to change direction. Typically these were lengthways tears caused by the catheter. We observed one full breakage without dislocation, and two dislocated catheter fragments in the systemic circulation. We consider the change of direction to be responsible for wear on the silicon catheter. During implantation, extreme change of direction of the catheter should be avoided because this is where breakage happens. Catheter implantation by means of exposure of the vena basilica in the infraclavicular triangle is the method of choice.

Prediction of outcome in multiorgan resections for cancer using a bayes-network

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The long-term success of multivisceral resections for cancer is difficult to forecast due to the complexity of factors influencing the prognosis. The aim of our study was to assess the predictivity of a Bayes network for the postoperative outcome and survival.

METHODOLOGY

We included each oncologic patient undergoing resection of 4 or more organs from 2002 till 2005 at the Ulm university hospital. Preoperative data were assessed as well as the tumour classification, the resected organs, intra- and postoperative complications and overall survival. Using the Genie 2.0 software we developed a Bayes network.

RESULTS

Multivisceral tumour resections were performed in 22 patients. The receiver operating curve areas of the variables "survival >12 months" and "hospitalisation >28 days" as predicted by the Bayes network were 0.81 and 0.77 and differed significantly from 0.5 (p: 0.019 and 0.028, respectively). The positive predictive values of the Bayes network for these variables were 1 and 0.8 and the negative ones 0.71 and 0.88, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Bayes networks are useful for the prognosis estimation of individual patients and can help to decide whether to perform a multivisceral resection for cancer.

Papillary carcinoma in a thyroglossal duct cyst: management and algorithm for treatment of a rare entity

Thyroglossal duct cyst carcinoma is a very rare finding and its presentation is similar to that of a benign cyst, which is the most common congenital lesions of the neck. The diagnosis is usually made postoperatively after histological examination. A case of a surgically treated 47-year-old patient with a papillary carcinoma in a thyroglossal duct cyst is presented. The patient underwent the Sistrunk procedure. After stratification in the proposed high risk group, subsequent total thyroidectomy and radioiodine therapy were performed successfully. The patient remains tumor-free 18 months postoperatively. Sistrunk procedure is recommended as the most promising treatment generally including total thyroidectomy with or without lymph node dissection. Subsequent radiotherapy is recommended in selected patients, depending on the classification into high- or low-risk patients. Diagnostic and therapeutic features are discussed with the current literature and a definitive algorithm for treatment based on risk group stratification is proposed.

[Acute pancreatitis]

Acute pancreatitis is potentially fatal. It can be diagnosed based on present history, clinical appearance, and typical findings from laboratory and radiologic investigations. All patients must be admitted to hospital, as the disease course cannot be predicted at initial presentation. Increasing severity demands increasingly individualized therapy. The most important interventions are fast fluid resuscitation and analgesic therapy with opioids. Therapeutic agents specific to pancreatitis have failed to show any advantages so far. The roles of antibiotic therapy and nutritional support in the therapeutic regimen have been profoundly reassessed during recent years. Surgery and endoscopic interventions may be necessary and beneficial in carefully selected patients. In this review we summarize clinically relevant issues of acute pancreatitis.

[The male breast carcinoma: a center experience]

Male breast carcinoma represents a rare tumor entity and is not the focus of major research activities although an increasing incidence has to be noticed. Registry data on 67 males diagnosed and treated for breast carcinoma during the period 1985-2005 in the metropolitan area of Leipzig were retrospectively analyzed. The median age at diagnosis was 65 years (39-92 years) with an incidence peak in the age group 60-70 years. According to the TNM classification a carcinoma in situ was diagnosed in 8 % (n = 5) of the cases and an invasive carcinoma T1 in 39 % (n = 26 ), T2 in 38 % (n = 25), T3 (n = 0) and T4 in 15 % (n = 11). The lymphnode status presented in 56 % negative and in 44 % positive (N1 + N2) nodes. Solid organ metastasis was detected in only 6 % of the patients. The overall 5-year survival is 72 % and comparable with published data. Respective survival rates for patients diagnosed with UICC-stadium 1-4 are 81 %, 76 %, 65 % and 0 %. These rates are similar to those of female patients. Considering the low incidence of male breast carcinoma and the limited knowledge on this rare disease surgeons should apply diagnostic and therapeutic guidelines that are established for the treatment of female breast carcinoma unless powerful evidence based data will become available.

Das Mammakarzinom des Mannes - Historie, Epidemiologie, Ätiologie, Genetik und Histopathologie

Breast carcinoma is a rare disease in men. The incidence is 1 per cent of the incidence in women. Relative hyperestrogenemia and environmental factors seem to be important for the development of the disease. In recent years, germline mutations have been observed in male breast carcinoma patients in several genes, BRCA2, the androgene receptor gene and PTEN. Suspected genetic factors include the cell-cycle checkpoint kinase (CHEK)2 protein truncating mutation 1100delC that has been shown to confer a 10-fold increase of breast cancer risk in men. The c.1-34T > C 5' promoter region polymorphism in cytochrome P450c17 (CYP17), a key enzyme in the biosynthesis of estrogen, has been associated with male breast cancer risk, hemochromatosis gene (HFE) mutations, the mismatch repair genes (hMSH2, hMLH1,hPMS1,hPMS2) and PTEN mutations (Cowden syndrome) are associated with male breast cancer. The majority of tumors is seen retromamillarly. Ductal carcinoma in situ comprises 5-10 % of all cancers. In case of invasive growth, 85-90 % are invasive ductal carcinomas (NOS), 2.5 % are papillary tumors; lobular cancers are exceptionally rare. About 3/4 of all cancers express estrogen and progesterone receptor with increasing positivity with increasing patient age. HER-2 / neu overexpression is seen in the same frequency as in female breast cancer. Poor prognostic factors are tumor size > 2 cm, poorly differentiated tumors, receptor negativity, axillary lymph node involvement and more than four affected nodes.

Histopathological outcome of 597 isolated soft tissue tumors suspected of soft tissue sarcoma: A single-center 12-year experience

BACKGROUND

The aim of this present report was to analyze the patients referred to us with the presumptive diagnosis of soft tissue sarcoma (STS).

METHODS

We reviewed all patients referred to us with suspected soft tissue sarcoma (STS) of the extremities or trunk over a 12-year period.

RESULTS

We treated 597 patients with soft tissue tumors. Open biopsy revealed soft tissue sarcoma in 318 cases, benign mesenchymal tumor in 124 cases and isolated metastases (ISTM) from carcinomas in 98 patients; other pathologies were found in 57 patients. The primary carcinomas were lung cancer in 26 patients, breast cancer in 19 patients, renal carcinoma in 16 patients, carcinoma of the esophagus in 12 patients, colonic carcinoma in 5 patients, thyroid gland cancer in 6 patients, and in 14 patients carcinoma of unknown primary was diagnosed.

CONCLUSIONS

In our collective with soft tissue tumor, 50% of the patients had the diagnosis of soft tissue sarcoma, 20% presented with a metastasis of carcinoma and 20% had a benign tumor. Referring to our results, in patients with the presumptive diagnosis of soft tissue sarcomas, soft tissue metastasis of a primary carcinoma was unexpectedly common, indicating that greater consideration should be given to this differential diagnosis.

Iatrogenic tracheobronchial ruptures - treatment and outcomes

In the present paper we discuss the indication and follow-up of 42 patients with iatrogenic tracheobrochial ruptures. Thirty-five patients were treated by operation and 7 patients were treated conservatively. In the operated patients, four developed an insufficiency of the tracheal closure and the rupture related mortality was 2.8%. A significant effect on suture dehiscence was seen for mediastinitis (P<0.005) prior to operation, prior resection of the esophagus (P<0.001), and a long delay between injury and diagnosis (P=0.004). In the conservatively treated group the rupture related mortality was 29%. In conclusion to our results we suggest a surgical procedure whenever a tracheobronchial rupture is diagnosed and the patient's constitution allows the surgical procedure or anesthesia.

[Tracheobronchial ruptures: classification and management]

BACKGROUND

Tracheobronchial ruptures are rare surgical emergencies with significant mortality. We present management and outcome of such ruptures treated at the University of Leipzig in Germany and propose a novel therapeutic algorithm-a new classification system for stratifying treatment of patients with tracheobronchial ruptures.

METHODS

We retrospectively studied 24 patients 19 to 88 years old who were treated in our institution for tracheobronchial injury.

RESULTS

Eighty-seven percent of the injuries were caused iatrogenically. Fifty-four percent were type I injuries (isolated tracheal lesions), 38% type II (involvement of carina or main stem bronchi), and 8% type III (distal lesions of lobar or segmental bronchi). Seventy-five percent of the patients were operated via right-sided dorsolateral thoracotomy. In four (22%), insufficiency of the tracheal closure occurred, with mediastinitis possibly being a significant risk factor for this event (P<0.001). In surgically treated patients, rupture-related and overall mortality were 5.5% and 28%, respectively, whereas in medically treated patients, mortality was 33%.

CONCLUSION

The proposed classification of tracheobronchial injuries enables stratifying the treatment of patients with tracheobronchial ruptures. Type I lesions can be surgically closed either by a right-sided thoracotomy or transcervical-transtracheal approach. In contrast, surgical management of type II and III injuries always requires thoracotomy.

[Wound infection and infection-promoting factors in breast cancer surgery -- a prospective multicenter study on quality control]

INTRODUCTION

The quality of treatment of cancer of the female breast is reflected not only in such parameters as local recurrence rate and survival times, but also in the development of surgical complications. Within the framework of a study investigating the performance and quality assurance in surgical treatment of breast cancer, therefore, the wound infection rate (WIR) and factors influencing it were analysed in a large patient population.

METHODS

In the period between 1.1.2000 and 31.12.2000, 84 surgical departments participated in a prospective multicenter study to investigate primary surgery for breast cancer. A total of 1 416 patients were recruited to the study, the organization and conduction of which was in the hands of the former surgical department 1 of the University of Leipzig under the patronage of the East German Working Group for Performance and Quality Control in Surgery in cooperation with the An Institute for Quality Control in Operative Medicine of the Otto-von-Guericke University in Magdeburg. In addition to parameters characterizing patients, tumors and diagnostic work-up, we also analysed the surgical treatment and its possible complications with the aid of a questionnaire. The definition of wound infection was based on the criteria of the "Hospital Infection Control Practice Advisory Committee".

RESULTS

The overall WIR was 4.5 % (n = 65). 21 (32 %) of the wound infections (WI) were diagnosed exclusively on a clinical basis without establishing the responsible pathogens. In 44 (68 %) of the WI, a search for the pathogen was undertaken which in 3 cases (7 %) was negative, and in 41 cases (93 %) positive. 118 (8.3 %) of the patients received perioperative antibiotic cover. The following parameters were found to have a significant influence on WIR: local drainage, blood transfusion, the time lapse between biopsy and definitive surgery, and the size of the primary tumor.

DISCUSSION

Some of the above factors (transfusion, time lapse, drainage) can be influenced by the therapist. The wound infection rate is a marker for treatment quality.

Impact of age on in-hospital mortality of surgical patients in a German university hospital

Although the frequency of major surgical procedures in elderly patients is increasing, the impact of age as an independent factor on in-hospital mortality and capacity planning is uncertain. Therefore, we analyzed how age, gender, number of diagnoses, and number of operations per patient are reflecting the demographic changes going on in the last decade. Furthermore, we analyzed the influence of age, main diagnoses, and comorbidities on in-hospital mortality, and cost factors, like duration of in-hospital stay, number of operations, and stay at the intensive care unit using multiple regression analysis. One thousand four hundred and sixty-nine patients hospitalized in 1990, and 5,718 patients hospitalized during 1998-2000 at the surgical department of a German university hospital were recruited. The average age of the patients increased significantly from the year 1990 to 1999 (by 4 years). The overall in-hospital mortality of the elderly patients (above 70 years of age) declined from 18.6% in 1990 to 7.6% in 2000. The number of diagnoses increased from 1.27 to 3.5 per patient. Age is a significant, independent risk factor for in-hospital mortality (odd's ratio (OR), 2.2), prolonged stay at intensive care unit (OR, 1.8), reoperation (OR, 1.3), and prolonged hospitalization (OR, 1.8). Nevertheless, oncologic diseases and pre-existing comorbidities are also significant independent factors for the clinical course and costs resulting from treating elderly patients. We conclude that decisions for surgical treatment should not be solely based on patient's age. The demographic changes in Europe result in an over-proportional increase in expenditures, which should be included when planning the capacities of a surgical department.

High efficacy and low toxicity of weekly docetaxel given as first-line treatment for metastatic breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Docetaxel is one of the most effective antitumor agents currently available for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer (MBC). This phase II multicenter study prospectively analyzed the efficacy and toxicity of docetaxel given on a weekly schedule as first-line treatment of metastatic breast cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All patients received docetaxel, 35 mg/m(2) weekly for 6 weeks, followed by 2 weeks of rest. Subsequent cycles (3 weeks of treatment, 2 weeks of rest) were given until a maximum of 5 cycles or disease progression. Premedication consisted of 8 mg dexamethasone intravenously 30 min prior to the infusion of docetaxel.

RESULTS

Fifty-four patients at a median age of 58 years with previously untreated MBC were included in the study. A median of 10 doses (median cumulative dose 339 mg/m(2)) was administered (range: 2-18). The overall response rate was 48.1% (95% CI: 34-61%, intent-to-treat). Median survival was 15.8 months and median time to progression was 5.9 months (intent-to-treat). Hematological toxicity was mild with absence of neutropenia-related complications. Grade 3 neutropenia was observed in 3.7% of patients and grade 3 and 4 anemia was observed in 5.6 and 1.9% of patients, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The weekly administration of docetaxel is highly efficient and safe as first-line treatment for MBC and may serve as an important treatment option specifically in elderly patients and patients with a reduced performance status.

[Differential diagnosis of soft tissue sarcomas]

INTRODUCTION

Soft tissue sarcoma often goes undetected.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Over a 10-year period, the patients referred to us with a soft tissue tumor (STT) of the extremities and wall of the trunk were analyzed retrospectively. The aim of the present study was to investigate the differential diagnoses, the number of incompletely operated STS, and local recurrences together with their percentage fluctuations.

RESULTS

A total of 490 patients with an STT were referred to our department, and of these patients 55% were diagnosed with an STS. In addition to STS, the differential diagnoses for STT included 2% lymphomas, 18% isolated carcinoma metastases, 18% benign mesenchymal tumors, 5% inflammatory processes, and 2% old hematomas. Only 45% of the STS had not undergone previous surgery. Of these, 15% had been incompletely resected, while 39% of the STS patients were admitted with a local recurrence. Within the 10-year period, referrals with STT and STS remained relatively constant, but referrals of patients with incompletely resected or recurrent STS doubled in the last 2 years under observation.

DISCUSSION

In view of the numerous differential diagnoses of an STT, both the possibility of an STS and also carcinoma manifestations in the soft tissues should receive more attention. With the aim of reducing the relatively high number of STS re-resections and local recurrences, the treatment of patients with suspicious STT should be reserved for a specialized center.

Rating of isolated disseminated tumor cells in bone marrow in comparison with other factors of prognosis in breast carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Despite the use of radical loco-regional therapeutic methods and although conventional methods of diagnosis give no indication of metastases at the time of operation, distant metastases develop in approximately 50 percent of the carcinoma patients within 5 years. While with the R0 resection of solid tumors local relapses are mainly a matter of concern for the operating surgeon, distant metastases can be traced back to systemic dissemination of tumor cells at the time of operation.

AIMS

The goal of our prospective six year continuous study is to compare the rating of the IDT BM with established prognosis factors and to reach conclusions for the practice.

METHODS

A prospective study is represented in which 197 patients suffering from breast carcinoma were analyzed for prognostic relevance of detected isolated disseminated tumor cells in the bone marrow (IDT BM). The patients were operated between 1993-1997 and subsequently observed until 1999. The monoclonal antibodies CK II and A45-B/B3 were used with the immuno-cytochemical standard method for detecting IDT BM. For the purpose of cell cultivation, the cells were marked with the HEA 125 antibody and separated by means of magnetic cell sorting (MACS). In this investigation, only the presence of isolated disseminated tumor cells detected by the

RESULTS

A45-B/B3 antibody proved to be an independent prognostic factor for survival time. The risk of an earlier death increased with the detection of IDT BM at least by a factor of two. The detection of IDT BM also represented an independent prognostic factor for the time until advancement of the tumor. The risk of an earlier relapse of the tumor increased with the detection of disseminated tumor cells in the bone marrow containing the A45-B/B3 antibody by at least a factor of four.

CONCLUSION

A generally acknowledged standardization of the method is desirable. Due to the importance of the independent prognostic IDT BM factor, this method of ascertaining the pathological stage should be established at institutions of higher learning.

[Prospective multicenter study for quality management of breast cancer surgery]

Over the last 10 years a dramatic decrease became apparent in primary treatment of breast cancer in general surgical departments. A prospective 1-year observational study involving 84 surgical departments was carried out to describe the current therapeutic situation. A total of 1,416 patients undergoing primary surgical treatment for mammary carcinoma were recorded, and their data evaluated. 68.9% of the carcinomas were treated in departments with an annual case load for this disease of more than 20 operations, with 50% of them being operated on in 8 departments with a case load of 40-100 procedures per year. 94.4% of the carcinomas were confirmed histologically, and in 91% of the patients surgery was performed in curative intention. The rate of breast-preserving procedures was 40%, and breast amputations accounted for 60%. An analysis of the data allowed an evaluation of this specific patient group in the surgical departments. Deficits in terms of management quality are identified.

[Inflammatory pseudotumor of the ileopsoas muscle with femoral paralysis caused by massive metal abrasion of a hip endoprosthesis]

Case report of a 62-year-old patient with a presumed loosening of a hip endoprosthesis after 10 years and a planned replacement. In addition, the patient suffered pain in the thigh and had paresis of the femoral nerve. A CAT-Scan substantiated the diagnosis either of a suppurating or a neoplastic tumour in the left iliac foss. The wide excision revealed a rare inflammatory tumour in the left ileopsoas muscle due to the excessive abrasion of the metal hip endoprosthesis.

MR-guided percutaneous core biopsy of small breast lesions: first experience with a vertically open 0.5T scanner

PURPOSE

The growing use of highly sensitive but only moderate specific breast MRI requires the development of both minimal-invasive as well as precise biopsy systems. The aim of the study was to prove the accuracy and feasibility of a biopsy procedure carried out in prone position in a vertically opened MR imager.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The biopsies were carried out in 21 women with lesions visible on MRI alone using an open breast coil with an integrated biopsy device. A 14 G coaxial needle was placed under near real-time MRI-guidance. After the tip of this needle was verified in contact with the lesion, we used a non MR-compatible, but MR-safe biopsy gun with a 16 G canula to take four to eight cores.

RESULTS

We found eight malignant and 12 benign lesions. In one patient the procedure was not successful. In case of malignancy, the operation confirmed the diagnosis in all cases. The 12/21 patients with benign lesions have been followed without evidence of lesions growth over eight to 28 months.

CONCLUSION

The described procedure allows MRI-guided minimal invasive core biopsy of small breast lesions (five to 17 mm) with a high degree of accuracy.

[A giant malignant tumour of the skull-Case report and differential diagnosis]

The case of a 72-year-old woman with a high-partially located tumor grown within a half year to a magnitude of 8.5 x 11 x 11 cm is reported. The patient remembered a mastectomy and axillary lymphadenectomy followed by chemotherapy and radiation 8 years ago. Therefore we assumed a skeletal metastasis of a breast cancer. After wide excision, an unusual morphology was found, allowing only a classification as a pleomorphic sarcoma. Searching for the pathohistological evaluation of the former breast tumor, a cystosarcoma phylloides malignum could be found out. The tumor described here can be identified as a metastasis of this rare neoplasm.

[MR-guided preoperative localization and percutaneous core biopsy of suspected breast lesions. Possibilities and experience on the vertically open 0.5-T-system]

PURPOSE

To evaluate the feasibility of performing breast interventions in a vertically open 0.5 T MR system (SIGNA SP/i, GE Medical Systems). To develop fitted equipment and to establish preoperative wire localization and percutaneous breast core biopsy as clinical routine procedures.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Initially, we applied a localization method with the patient placed in a sitting position in 31 cases using a single loop coil and a self-developed fixation device. Subsequently, 46 wire localizations and 28 percutaneous core biopsies were carried out in prone patient position using an open breast coil with an integrated biopsy device. The used instruments were either MR-compatible (18 G biopsy needle and localization wire, 14 G coaxial needle, prototype of a 16 G double-shoot gun) or MR-safe (double-shoot gun with 16 G needle).

RESULTS

After biopsy we found the needle tip (18 G for a wire localization and 14 G for a percutaneous core biopsy, respectively) placed either within or close to the lesions (< 10 mm distance) for all patients. Out of a total of 66 benign lesions and 39 malignant tumors we missed the lesion (12 mm mean diameter, 4-25 mm range) during open biopsy in two cases and obtained a false negative result for one percutaneous biopsy of a 5 mm lesion.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative wire localization and percutaneous core biopsy of suspicious breast lesions demonstrated by MRI can be carried out a vertically open 0.5 T MR scanner. The degree of accuracy is comparable with that of X-ray or ultrasound-guided procedures. A follow-up has to be performed in cases with a negative biopsy.

[Luxation of the clavicle as rare cause of monstrous thrombus formation of the internal jugular vein]

Summary.A 55-year-old female with massive painless swelling of the right cervical soft tissue was admitted for surgical exploration. The operation revealed an ectasia of the internal jugular vein with a diameter up to 7 cm which was obliterated by thrombotic material. We discussed a retrosternal dislocation of the clavicle proved by chest X-ray. We resected the internal jugular vein from the basis of the skull to the upper thoracic aperture. The postoperative course was uneventful.

[Nonpalpable carcinoma of the breast - diagnosed by vacuum core breast biopsy and surgical management]

The wire-localized extirpation is the "gold standard" for the examination of nonpalpable lesions suspicious of malignancy. Less invasive techniques were introduced in the last years, offering also a high diagnostic reliability, e. g. stereotactic core needle biopsy, the "advanced breast biopsy" and the vacuum core biopsy. Based on an analysis of 40 vacuum core breast biopsies and the following interventions in the case of carcinoma recommendations for the management of the nonpalpable breast carcinoma diagnosed by vacuum core biopsy should be developed. In 12 patients (33 %) carcinomas were found necessitating further operations. These were 92 % pTis or pT1pN0M0-carcinomas and only in one case an occult pT2pN1M0-carcinoma. We recommend a short interval between core biopsy and operation, a preoperative localization of the clips e. g. the residual microcalcification, and the controlled placement of the hooked wire that should also be performed at the Mammotome(R) using the same way to the tumor. Furthermore it is necessary to excise the core biopsy localization channel en bloc together with a wide tumour excision. An intraoperative histological examination of the specimen should be performed to confirm tumour-free excision borders. For this, the position of specimen should be marked by a thread and a specimen radiography should be made for the orientation of the pathologist and for documentation. A long-term follow-up of these patients under study conditions should be considered. Patients with benign diagnosis, not undergoing general anesthesia and operation with the consequences for later radiological evaluation, mostly profit from vacuum core breast biopsy. For patients with carcinoma the costs of the perioperative management increase. This should have consequences for the quality assurance of this method.

[Quality assurance in excision of suspected malignant, preoperatively marked and unmarked, breast lesions. A one-year analysis]

The breast cancer incidence is increasing for all industrial countries in the last years. Therefore the relevance of screening methods especially of mammography for early registration of suspected lesions becomes more and more important. One result of using screening methods is an increased rate of patients with lesions which are suspected for cancer but non palpable. For the background of that fact we are describing our one year experience with the therapy of cancer suspected breast lesions in 136 female patients. In 47 cases (34.6%) there was a palpable and in 89 cases (65.4%) a non-palpable lesion. The need for mammography was assured in 43 patients (48.3%) through mastopathic controls, in 23 patients (25.8%) within the frame work of a preventive first mammography and in 15 patients (16.8%) through controls after operative therapy for breast cancer. All non-palpable lesions were marked preoperatively through mammography 88.8% (n = 79), sonography 6.7% (n = 6), or through magnet resonance imaging MRI 4.7% (n = 4). Every mammographic marked case was followed by an intraoperative specimen mammography. In 16.8% (n = 15 from 89) of the non-palpable marked areas, a carcinoma was found. 16.7% (n = 3) of the detected cancers were diagnosed in an in-situ-stage, all others in an early stage (pT1-, pN0-, M0-stage) and treated. Besides the early diagnosis of breast cancer and the resulted improvement of prognosis also the rate of breast saving therapies can be increased. Reflecting our datas it should be demanded a regular screening for defined risk groups. In conclusion to improve the prognosis of breast cancer patients and reduce the risk of ablative therapies it is necessary to release a consequent marking of non-palpable cancer suspected breast lesions, a consequent aseptic handling before operation, an intraoperative mammography of the resected area and a frozen section.

[Improved prognosis in breast carcinoma by excision of non-palpable carcinoma-suspected lesions. Analysis of 319 ambulatory surgery operations]

A retrospective study is described according to which 319 outpatients had been operated on for suspected carcinoma because of breast lesion, in the course of three years in this hospital. In 113 cases (35.4%) the lesion was palpable, in 206 cases (64.6%) it was not. In the non-palpable cases, mammography was indicated in 98 patients (47.6%) undergoing controls for mastopathy, in 41 patients (19.9%) undergoing a first mammography in the course of preventive check-ups, and in 33 patients (16.0%) undergoing a check-up after operative therapy of breast cancer. Prior to operation, 84.0% (n = 173) of the non-palpable lesions were marked by mammography, 11.2% (n = 23) by sonography, and 4.8% (n = 10) by magnet resonance imaging (MRI). Intraoperative specimen mammography was made in every case marked by mammography. In 19.4% (n = 40) out of the 206 cases of marked though non-palpable focuses a tumour was found. 25% (n = 10) of all marked tumours were diagnosed and treated as in-situ stage tumours, 65% (n = 26) were diagnosed and treated as tumours in the pT1 stage. As regards the nodal stage, 85% (n = 34) of the tumours were diagnosed and treated as being pN0 tumours, and 100% (n = 40) were found to be free from any distant metastases. Consequently, for improving prognosis and, at the same time, for reducing the rate of breast amputations as a means of curative therapy of breast cancer, regular screening in defined risk groups is necessary. Surgical treatment of patients with small and non-palpable findings should be reserved for departments with marking and quick-freezing facilities.

Detection of cytokeratin-positive cells in bone marrow in breast cancer and colorectal carcinoma in comparison with other factors of prognosis

A prospective study is presented in which 293 patients suffering from breast cancer and colorectal carcinoma were analyzed for prognostic relevance of detected isolated disseminated tumor cells in bone marrow (IDTBM). The patients underwent surgery in the period from 1995 to 1997 and remained under observation until 1999. The monoclonal antibody A 45-B/B3 was used in the standard immuno-cytochemical method for detecting IDTBM, which represented an independent prognostic factor for survival time in patients with breast cancer or colorectal cancer. In breast cancer, when IDTBM were detected, the survival period was reduced by at least half. When disseminated tumor cells containing the A45-B/B3 antibody were detected in bone marrow, the risk of an earlier relapse of the tumor increased at least fourfold. In colorectal cancer, detection of IDTBM reduced survival time by a factor of 1.2-4.3. The risk of earlier relapse increased when disseminated tumor cells containing the A45-B/B3 antibody were detected in bone marrow by 2.8-8.1. Therefore, the use of IDTBM as an independent prognostic factor would provide an important method for determining the pathological stage of various cancers. Standardization of this technique into a generally accepted method would be especially desirable in treatment of patients with breast or colorectal cancer.

[Monstrous venous hemangioma of the retroperitoneum: problems of diagnosis]

The venal haemangioma is defined as a benign tumor consisting of veinlike vessels. The preoperative diagnosis and its inherent problems are illustrated using a coincidentally diagnosed monstrous haemangioma tumor of the retroperitonial space in a twenty year old patient. With respect to our patient, X-ray, computer tomography and angiography all failed as diagnostic tools. Only the use of Doppler sonographic flow signals suggested the presence of a haemangioma. The morphology, prognosis and clinical significance of blood vessel tumors are multifaceted. The most important differential diagnoses to the venous haemangioma are the cavernous and the capilliary haemangioma. The venous haemangioma distinguishes itself through the presence of blood vessel walls. Haemangiomas are common benign tumors. In the presence of highly developed muscular components, there exists a transition to angiomyomas and to leiomyomas. Venal haemangiomas are extremely rare in the demonstrated localisation of the retroperitoneal space. Here they can grow to monstrous preportions whilst remaining undetected. Thus the patient is under the potential danger of bleeding to death through trivial injuries. The therapy of choice remains total surgical excision. In situations of unclear clinical results with respect to preoperative diagnosis especially amongst young adults, one should at least consider the possibility of a haemangioma as the root of the problem.

[Hepatocellular carcinoma in an additional pedunculated liver lobe in the lower abdomen: differential diagnosis problems]

The case described is that of a 36 years old patient with a known tumor in her lower abdominal cavity which has been observed to increase in size for the passed 16 years. Intraoperatively, one observed a very rare finding of an extra liver lobe of the left liver lobe and located in the lower abdominal cavity. Located within is a multifocal therapeutically treatable hepatocellular cancer.

Cytokeratin-positive cells in bone marrow in comparison with other prognostic factors in colon carcinoma

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Despite the use of radical locoregional therapeutic methods and although conventional methods of diagnosis give no indication of metastases at the time of operation, distant metastases develop in approximately 50% of carcinoma patients within 5 years. While local relapses after the R0 resection of solid tumors are mainly a matter of concern for the surgeon, distant metastases can be traced back to the systemic dissemination of tumor cells at the time of operation.

PATIENTS/METHODS

A prospective study is presented in which 145 patients suffering from colon carcinoma were analyzed for the prognostic relevance of isolated disseminated tumor cells detected in the bone marrow (IDT BM). The patients were operated on between 1993 and 1997 and subsequently observed until 1999.

RESULTS

The monoclonal antibody A45-B/B3 was used with the immunocytochemical standard method for detecting IDT BM. For the purpose of cell cultivation, the cells were marked with the HEA-125 antibody and separated by means of magnetic cell sorting (MACS).

CONCLUSION

In this investigation the presence of isolated disseminated tumor cells, as indicated by the A45-B/B3 antibody, proved to be an independent prognostic factor for survival time. The risk of an earlier death increased in node-negative and metastases-free patients with the detection of IDT BM by a factor of 12.60. The detection of IDT BM also represented an independent prognostic factor for the time until advancement of the tumor. The risk of an earlier relapse increased with the detection of disseminated tumor cells in the bone marrow containing the A45-B/B3 antibody by a factor of 18.02. A generally acknowledged standardization of the method is desirable. Due to the importance of the independent prognostic IDT BM factor, this method of ascertaining the pathological stage should be established at institutions of higher learning.

[The radiological and surgical management of nonpalpable breast lesions]

In this retrospective study the results of surgical biopsy of suspected breast cancer in 319 outpatients are reported. In 113 cases (35.4%) the lesion was palpable, in 206 cases (64.6%) it was not. Concerning the nonpalpable lesions, mammography was performed in 98 patients (47.6%) for work-up of fibrocystic changes, in 41 patients (19.9%) for initial participation in a breast cancer prevention program, and in 33 patients (16.0%) for surveillance after breast conservation therapy. Prior to operation, 84.0% (n = 173) of the nonpalpable lesions were detected by mammography, 11.2% (n = 23) by sonography, and 4.8% (n = 10) by magnetic resonance imaging. Intra-operative specimen mammography was carried out in every case detected by mammography. In 19.4% (n = 40) of 206 nonpalpable lesions a malignant tumor was found. Twenty-five percent (n = 10) of all marked tumors were diagnosed and treated as in-situ stage tumors, while 65% (n = 26) were diagnosed and treated as tumors in the pT1 stage. As regards the nodal stage, 85% (n = 34) of the tumors were diagnosed and treated as pNO tumors, and 100% (n = 40) were found to be free from any distant metastases. Consequently, for improving prognosis and, at the same time, for reducing the rate of breast amputations as a means of curative therapy of breast cancer, regular screening in defined risk groups is necessary. Surgical treatment of patients with small and nonpalpable findings should be reserved for departments with marking and quick-freezing facilities.

[Peliosis hepatis: problems of differential diagnosis]

Peliosis hepatis is a syndrome manly known to internists and pathologists. It is described as roundish blood cysts up to 1 cm large to the found in the hepatic parenchyma and correlated to the hepatic sinusoids. The pathogenesis is still unclear. The presumably essential disturbance of the structure of the reticular fibres is etiologically associated with anabolic and androgenic steroid therapy. Peliosis hepatis is pathognomonic for treatment with contraceptives and for severe chronic diseases, as tuberculosis or tumour. Little is known of therapeutic methods on the diagnostic of peliosis alterations in the liver. As peliosis-type hepatic lesions are apt to involution, it is generally recommended just to wait and see, with controlling examinations for imaging diagnostics. A case is described where a female patient, aged 42, otherwise healthy, came to see the doctor for obscure pain in the upper abdomen. Sonography of the upper abdomen indicated multiple lesions. The diagnostic method is described taking into account possible malign differential diagnoses or associated malign results which finally lead to partial resection of the liver.

[Stress X-ray of the ankle joint: a cost-benefit analysis]

Over an 18-month period findings of stress X-ray of the ankle and medical records of 112 cases were analyzed retrospectively as to indications, results and therapeutic consequences. The analysis showed that critical setting of indications can reduce the frequency of stress X-ray of the ankle and thus lower the total costs. The introduction of guidelines could be advantageous at medical training institutions.

[Immunocytochemical detection of cytokeratin positive cells in human bone marrow of gastric and colorectal cancer patients]

We looked for disseminated tumour cells postoperatively in the bone marrow of 22 patients with gastric cancer and of 26 patients with colorectal cancer. On an average the follow-up was 6.5 months in the gastric cancer group and 9 months in the colorectal cancer group. In 27% of the gastric cancer group and in 30% of the colorectal cancer group follow-up aspirates were obtained. Micrometastases were detected in 96% of colorectal cancer patients and in 77% of gastric cancer patients. Both, postoperative and follow-up aspirations showed clear differences in the number of ck+ cells between the iliac crest sides. The majority of cells formed clusters from 2 to about 200 cells. In both groups no significant correlation was found between the number of tumour cells detected and the established risk factors (stage, tumour extension, lymph node involvement, distant metastasis) or the disease-free survival. In the gastric cancer group higher numbers of ck+ cells were seen in the low tumor stages I and II, as compared to stage III and IV. Besides, in this group significantly more ck+ cells were detected in younger patients (age under 63,5) than in the older group over 63,5 years. Colorectal cancer patients did not show this correlation. In follow-up aspirations the number of ck+ cells of the colorectal and also the gastric cancer group showed a tendency of rise in relapse and of fall in disease-free survival. There was a tendency of higher rates of ck+ cells in the colorectal cancer group when compared to gastric cancer patients.

[Atypical metastasis of stomach carcinoma]

We report a case of unusual metastases from a gastric cancer. In a 66 years old female with bone metastases a breast cancer was diagnosed. The patient was treated by ablative surgery and chemotherapy but died short time later. An autopsy was performed and showed a large signetring cell carcinoma of the stomach. Further a diffuse involvement of the spleen unknown until autopsy was diagnosed. Serial tissue sections of all metastatic localizations were made. Histopathology and immunostaining including oestroprogesterone receptors identified a gastric cancer as the primary malignancy. A review of the recent literature on breast metastases from gastrointestinal tumours, gastric metastases from breast cancer and the problem of second primary malignancies is given. Further we reviewed the occult metastatic spread of the spleen and the importance of splenectomy in case of total gastrectomy.