Identification of potential urinary protein biomarkers in colorectal cancer: a pilot study using a proteomic approach

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the most diagnosed malignancies worldwide, and it is also the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Despite recent progress in screening programs, noninvasive accurate biomarkers are still needed in the CRC field. In this study, we evaluated and compared the urinary proteomic profiles of patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma and patients without cancer, aiming to identify potential biomarker proteins. Urine samples were collected from 9 patients with CRC and 9 patients with normal colonoscopy results. Mass spectrometry (label-free LC—MS/MS) was used to characterize the proteomic profile of the groups. Ten proteins that were differentially regulated were identified between patients in the experimental group and in the control group, with statistical significance with a p value ≤ 0.05. The only protein that presented upregulation in the CRC group was beta-2-microglobulin (B2M). Subsequent studies are needed to evaluate patients through different analysis approaches to independently verify and validate these biomarker candidates in a larger cohort sample. (AU)

Pruebas no invasivas para el tamizaje del cáncer colon: fundamentos básico-clínicos y recientes avances biotecnológicos / Non-invasive tests for colorectal cancer screening: basic-clinical fundamentals and recent biotechnological advances

Colorectal Cancer (CRC) is the third most frequent neoplasia worldwide. Despite the significant advances in surgical techniques and the development of new targeted antineoplastic therapies for this type of tumor, primary prevention and early diagnosis of malignant precursor lesions will continue to be the best strategies to reduce their incidence, morbidity, and mortality. Technologies for CRC screening can be classified into two groups, those of an invasive nature, such as colonoscopy and all its different modalities of use, and those of a non-invasive nature, such as laboratory tests and imaging. This review, will focus exclusively on non-invasive screening tests, excluding imaging. Specifically, it will address those that use depositions as a sample. This review will approach the latest international recommendations, regarding the age at which they should be used, their technical-biological bases, the two main types currently used (biochemical and immunological), and we will put into perspective their advantages and their possible disadvantages. Towards the end of this article, the most recent biotechnological developments in relation to molecular tests based on the study of blood samples, will be discussed. Although these tests are not yet in routine clinical use given their high costs, they are promising for the early detection of CRC.

El cáncer colorrectal (CCR) es la tercera neoplasia más común en todo el mundo. A pesar de los avances significativos en las técnicas quirúrgicas y en el desarrollo de nuevas terapias antineoplásicas para este tipo de tumor, la prevención primaria y el diagnóstico precoz de lesiones precursoras malignas siguen siendo las mejores estrategias para reducir la incidencia, morbilidad y mortalidad asociadas al CCR. Existen dos tipos de tecnologías para el tamizaje del CCR: las invasivas, como la colonoscopia, y las no invasivas, como los ensayos de laboratorio y la imagenología. Esta revisión, se centrará exclusivamente en las pruebas de tamizaje no invasivas que utilizan muestras de deposiciones, excluyendo las imágenes. Se abordarán las últimas recomendaciones internacionales sobre el momento etario en que se deben utilizar, sus bases técnico-biológicas, los dos principales tipos utilizados en la actualidad (bioquímico e inmunológico) y pondremos en perspectiva sus ventajas y posibles desventajas. Al final de esta revisión, se discutirá brevemente los últimos avances biotecnológicos relacionados con pruebas moleculares basadas en el estudio de muestras sanguíneas. Aunque estas pruebas aún no son de uso clínico habitual debido a sus altos costos, representan una prometedora innovación para la detección temprana del CCR.

Streptococcus gallolyticus bacteremia detected in apheresis platelets and its link to colonic neoplasms

Introduction: Streptococcus gallolyticus belongs to theStreptococcus bovis complex, and it is a common bacterium colonizing the gastrointestinal tract. Its presence in the blood may suggest an underlying pathology such as a colonic neoplasm. We report herein a case of S. bovis bacteremia in an apheresis platelet donor, review similar cases in the literature, and suggest a flowchart for the management of similar cases in other blood donation centers. Case Presentation: A 61-year-old subject presented to a Hemotherapy Service to make an apheresis platelet donation. On quality control testing, S. gallolyticus was identified in hemoculture, and the donor was called back for follow-up. At first, a new hemoculture was requested, and the patient was referred to the outpatient department of infectious diseases to further investigate pathologies associated with S. gallolyticus. A subsequent colonoscopy investigation evidenced a polypoid structure in the ascending colon. Pathology reported the resected specimen as a low-grade tubular adenoma. Conclusion: Isolation of S. bovis in blood products requires further investigation and should be managed with precision by Hemotherapy Services. A standard protocol for the management of asymptomatic patients with S. bovis positive hemoculture, with the requests of a new blood culture, a colonoscopy, and an echocardiogram is crucial, as it may ensure early diagnosis and reduce morbidity and mortality. (AU)

Determinantes de supervivencia en una cohorte de pacientes costarricenses con cáncer colorrectal / Determinants of survival in a cohort of Costa Rican patients with colorectal cancer

Objetivo: Identificar las variables pronósticas de supervivencia global en una cohorte de pacientes costarricenses con adenocarcinoma colorrectal que fueron atendidos en el Hospital San Juan de Dios entre enero de 2010 y diciembre de 2015 y determinar sus tasas de supervivencia a los 5 años. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo en el cual se incluyó a todos los pacientes diagnosticados con adenocarcinoma de colon o recto durante el período de estudio. Se obtuvieron las variables clínicas del expediente médico y se identificaron los factores determinantes de supervivencia global mediante un método de regresión de Cox univariado y multivariante, con el cual se calculó el hazard ratio (HR) y su respectivo intervalo de confianza del 95% (IC 95%). Resultados: Se incluyó a un total de 667 pacientes con una mediana de seguimiento de 25.4 meses. La supervivencia a 5 años según estadio clínico fue de 91.7%, 60%, 44.9% y 18.9% para los estadios I, II, III y IV, respectivamente. En el análisis univariado, la edad mayor de 65 años, el bajo grado de diferenciación tumoral, un estadio clínico elevado, un pobre desempeño funcional, el origen proximal del tumor primario, un alto índice de ganglios positivos entre ganglios negativos y la ausencia de inestabilidad microsatelital fueron las variables asociadas estadísticamente a mayor riesgo de muerte. No obstante, después del ajuste multivariado, solo el estado funcional al inicio del tratamiento (HR: 4.24; IC 95%: 2.20-8.19; p<0.001 para la comparación de estado funcional 0 vs. 1 y 2) y la edad mayor de 65 años (HR: 1.90; IC 95%: 1.03-3.53; p=0.014) se asociaron independientemente a mortalidad. Conclusión: La edad avanzada (mayor de 65 años) y el estadio funcional fueron las variables independientes asociadas a supervivencia en la cohorte estudiada. Descriptores: neoplasias del colon, Costa Rica, mortalidad, pronóstico, supervivenciaObjetivo: Identificar las variables pronósticas de supervivencia global en una cohorte de pacientes costarricenses con adenocarcinoma colorrectal que fueron atendidos en el Hospital San Juan de Dios entre enero de 2010 y diciembre de 2015 y determinar sus tasas de supervivencia a los 5 años. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo en el cual se incluyó a todos los pacientes diagnosticados con adenocarcinoma de colon o recto durante el período de estudio. Se obtuvieron las variables clínicas del expediente médico y se identificaron los factores determinantes de supervivencia global mediante un método de regresión de Cox univariado y multivariante, con el cual se calculó el hazard ratio (HR) y su respectivo intervalo de confianza del 95% (IC 95%). Resultados: Se incluyó a un total de 667 pacientes con una mediana de seguimiento de 25.4 meses. La supervivencia a 5 años según estadio clínico fue de 91.7%, 60%, 44.9% y 18.9% para los estadios I, II, III y IV, respectivamente. En el análisis univariado, la edad mayor de 65 años, el bajo grado de diferenciación tumoral, un estadio clínico elevado, un pobre desempeño funcional, el origen proximal del tumor primario, un alto índice de ganglios positivos entre ganglios negativos y la ausencia de inestabilidad microsatelital fueron las variables asociadas estadísticamente a mayor riesgo de muerte. No obstante, después del ajuste multivariado, solo el estado funcional al inicio del tratamiento (HR: 4.24; IC 95%: 2.20-8.19; p<0.001 para la comparación de estado funcional 0 vs. 1 y 2) y la edad mayor de 65 años (HR: 1.90; IC 95%: 1.03-3.53; p=0.014) se asociaron independientemente a mortalidad. Conclusión: La edad avanzada (mayor de 65 años) y el estadio funcional fueron las variables independientes asociadas a supervivencia en la cohorte estudiada.

Aim: To identify prognostic variables of overall survival in a cohort of Costa Rican patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma who were treated at the San Juan de Dios Hospital between January 2010 and December 2015. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted with all patients diagnosed with colorectal adenocarcinoma during the study period. Clinical variables were obtained from medical records. Determinants of overall survival were identified by a Cox univariate and multivariate regression analysis, with its respective hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (IC 95%). Results: A total of 667 patients were included in this study. Median follow-up was 25.4 months. Five-year survival according to clinical stage was 91.7%, 60%, 44.9% and 18.9% for stages I, II, III, and IV, respectively. In the univariate analysis, age greater than 65 years, tumor grade, dvanced clinical stage, poor performance status, proximal location of the primary tumor, a high index of positive nodes and negative retrieved nodes, and the absence of microsatelital instability were statistically associated to death. However, after adjustment for potential confounders, only the performance status at the beginning of treatment (HR: 3.06; IC 95%: 1.65-5.69; p<0.001 for the comparison of ECOG 0 vs 1 and 2.) and age older than 65 years (HR: 1.64, IC 95%: 1.10-2.43; p=0.014) were independently associated with overall survival. Conclusion: Functional status at the time of diagnosis and clinical stage were the independent variables associated to survival in the studied cohort.

Diagnosis of advanced disease in cases of colorectal cancer in a developing country

Objectives Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer death in the world, with survival correlated with the extension of the disease at diagnosis. In many low-/middle-income countries, the incidence of CRC is increasing rapidly, while decreasing rates are observed in high-income countries. We evaluated the anatomopathological profile of 390 patients diagnosed with CRC who underwent surgical resection, over a six-year period, in the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. Results Adenocarcinomas accounted for 98% of the cases of primary colorectal tumors, and 53.8% occurred in female patients. The average age of the sample was 63.5 years, with 81.8% of individuals older than 50 years of age and 6.4% under 40 years of age. The most frequent location was the distal colon; pT3 status was found in 71% of patients, and pT4 status, in 14.4%. Angiolymphatic and lymph-node involvements were found in 48.7% and 46.9% of the cases respectively. Distant metastasis was observed in 9.2% of the patients. Advanced disease was diagnosed in almost half of the patients (48.1%). The women in the sample had poorly-differentiated adenocarcinomas (p=0.043). Patients under 60 years of age had a higher rate of lymph-node metastasis (p=0.044). Tumor budding was present in 27.2% of the cases, and it was associated with the female gender, themucinous histological type, and the depth of invasion (pT3 and pT4). Conclusions We conclude that the diagnosis of advanced disease in CRC is still a reality, with a high occurrence of aggressive prognostic factors, which results in a worse prognosis. (AU)

The possibility of early diagnosis of colorectal cancer through expression of Lncrna UCA1, Lncrna LINC00970, and Wnt genes; an in-vitro study

Colorectal cancer is the 4thcause of cancer death; with considering the growth process of this cancer and the necessity of early diagnosis, the purpose of the research is to state the LncRNA 00970, LncRNA UCAI,and the Wntgene before and after the treatment by 5-Azacytidine epigenetic medicine, to reach the biomarker in the very first steps of colorectal cancer. In this experiment, the human colon cancer cell line (HT29) treated with different concentrations of 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-aza-dC) was utilized to induce DNA demethylation; Quantitative PCR (qPCR) was used to measure LncRNA UCA1and LncRNA LINC00970 and Wntexpression. There was a significant relationship between the expression of LncRNA 00970, LncRNA UCAI,and the Wntgene and its effects on colorectal (p < 0.05). The Wntgene was treated by 1 and 10 of 5-Azacytidine epigenetic medicine, which then experienced decreases. In LncRNA UCAI and LncRNA00970 in dose 1 micromolar of 5-Azacytidine had decrement and increment of expressionrespectively that explains their efficiency but in treatment by dose 10 mM of this medicine, no significant LncRNA expression difference was detected, 5-azacitidine has a direct impact on its target genes and LncRNAs.Therefore, it can be used in the early diagnosis of colorectal cancer.

Test para el diagnóstico precoz de lesiones premalignas de colon / A Test for Early Diagnosis of Premalignant Colonic Lesions

Introducción: El cáncer colorrectal en nuestro país ocupa la tercera causa de muerte por tumores malignos y constituye un problema de salud a nivel mundial, que en la actualidad es prevenible al realizar pruebas para la detección de lesiones premalignas. Objetivo: Evaluar el valor presuntivo de lesiones premalignas colónicas en pacientes con sangre oculta en las heces. Métodos: Se realizó estudio observacional, descriptivo, transversal, en pacientes con sangre oculta en las heces, atendidos en el Servicio de Gastroenterología del Hospital Docente Clínico Quirúrgico Diez de Octubre, a los cuales se les realizó colonoscopia, en el período comprendido de enero de 2016 a enero de 2017. Para evaluar las variables se utilizó el porcentaje como medida matemática y los resultados fueron expuestos en tablas. Resultados: Al finalizar el estudio se observó un predomino del sexo femenino. La pesquisa, el cambio del hábito intestinal y las diarreas crónicas fueron las indicaciones más frecuentes de sangre oculta en heces. Los pólipos y las lesiones de aspecto malignas fueron los diagnósticos colonoscópicos más frecuentes. Las lesiones de aspecto malignas se localizaron en mayor proporción en colon izquierdo. El diagnóstico histológico más frecuente fueron los adenomas y adenocarcinomas. Conclusiones: El test de sangre oculta en heces es un método predictivo en la pesquisa de lesiones premalignas y malignas de colon en pacientes atendidos en el primer nivel de atención(AU)

Introduction: In Cuba, colorectal cancer accounts for the third cause of death by malignant tumors, while it is a worldwide health problem, currently preventable by performing tests for the detection of premalignant lesions. Objective: To evaluate the presumptive value of colonic premalignant lesions in patients with fecal occult blood. Methods: An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out in patients with fecal occult blood, who received attention in the gastroenterology service of Diez de Octubre Surgical Clinical Teaching Hospital and underwent colonoscopy, in the period from January 2016 to January 2017. To evaluate the variables, the percentage was used as a mathematical measure and the results were shown in tables. Results: At the end of the study, a predominance of the female sex was observed. Screening, change of bowel habit and chronic diarrhea were the most frequent indications of fecal occult blood. Polyps and malignant lesions were the most frequent colonoscopic diagnoses. Malignant-appearing lesions were mostly located in the left colon. The most frequent histological diagnosis was made up of adenomas and adenocarcinomas. Conclusions: The fecal occult blood test is a predictive method for the detection of premalignant and malignant lesions of the colon in patients who receive attention at the first level of care(AU)

Cirugía de urgencia en pacientes con cáncer de colon complicado en Hospital Universitario "General Calixto García" / Emergency Surgery in Patients with Complicated Colon Cancer at General Calixto García University Hospital

Introducción: El cáncer de colon mantiene un importante impacto social y una alta morbilidad a pesar de programas de detección precoz existentes. Ocupa el cuarto lugar entre los tumores malignos y un número importante de pacientes son operados de urgencia por las complicaciones de esta enfermedad, muchas veces desconocida hasta el momento de la cirugía. Objetivo: Caracterizar la cirugía de urgencia realizada a los pacientes con diagnóstico de cáncer de colon complicado. Método: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal entre enero de 2014 y diciembre de 2016, en el Servicio de Cirugía General. La muestra fue de 96 pacientes portadores de esta entidad en el Hospital Universitario "General Calixto García". Resultados: Se analizó la incidencia según sexo, relación sexo/localización, relación localización/complicación, estadificación y mortalidad. Prevalecieron los tumores de colon en el sexo femenino y por ende fueron más frecuente las pacientes con complicaciones quirúrgicas por esta entidad en nuestro centro. Predominó la localización derecha globalmente, con predominio femenino. La oclusión intestinal fue la complicación más frecuente. Sobresalió el estadio II según TNM con un 37,5 por ciento y una mortalidad postoperatoria del 31 por ciento. Conclusiones: Nuestros datos coinciden con la tendencia nacional sobre la mayor incidencia del cáncer de colon en pacientes femeninas, son estas las que mayor tasa de morbilidad y mortalidad reportan. Seguir perfeccionando el programa de prevención y detección temprana de la entidad y su tratamiento oportuno causará la reducción de los índices que hoy se exhiben(AU)

Introduction: Colon cancer still has an important social impact and high morbidity despite existing early detection programs. It ranks fourth among malignant tumors, while a significant number of patients undergo emergency surgery for complications of this disease, many times unknown until the time of surgery. Objective: To characterize the emergency surgery performed to patients with a diagnosis of complicated colon cancer. Method: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out, between January 2014 and December 2016, in the general surgery service. The sample consisted of 96 patients with this entity and from General Calixto García University Hospital. Results: The incidence was analyzed according to sex, sex/location relationship, location/complication relationship, staging and mortality. Colon tumors prevailed in the female sex and, therefore, patients with surgical complications from this entity were more frequent in our center. There right location predominated globally, with a predominance in the female sex. Intestinal obstruction was the most frequent complication. Stage two, according to the TNM classification, stood out, accounting for 37.5 percent, together with a postoperative mortality of 31 percent. Conclusions: Our data coincide with the national trend on the highest incidence of colon cancer in female patients, who account for the highest morbidity and mortality rates. Continuing to improve the entity's prevention and early detection program, as well as its timely treatment, will bring about a reduction in the rates nowadays reported(AU)

Especificidades clínico-epidemiológicas y diagnósticas del cáncer de colon con metástasis hepáticas sincrónicas / Clinical-Epidemiological Specificities of Colon Cancer Diagnosed with Synchronic Metastasis

Introducción: El cáncer de colon se erige como la neoplasia del tubo digestivo más frecuente en la presente centuria. Objetivo: Identificar algunos factores clínicos, epidemiológicos y diagnósticos en pacientes operados de cáncer de colon con metástasis hepática sincrónica. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal de una muestra de 31 pacientes operados con diagnóstico definitivo de cáncer de colon con metástasis hepática sincrónica, en el servicio de Cirugía General del Hospital Provincial Docente "Saturnino Lora" de Santiago de Cuba durante el periodo comprendido entre 2010 y 2019. Resultados: La edad promedio fue de 63,2 años. Existió predominio de la enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal como antecedente patológico personal, y del alcoholismo como factor de riesgo. La sintomatología predominante fue dolor abdominal y cambios del hábito intestinal, así como el tumor palpable al examen físico del abdomen. La ecografía abdominal y el colon por enema fueron los procederes de diagnóstico más utilizados. Prevalecieron los tumores en el colon izquierdo a nivel del descendente. Todos los tumores malignos fueron adenocarcinomas a predominio de los moderadamente diferenciados. Conclusiones: Las edades avanzadas de la vida, así como la presencia de tabaquismo y alcoholismo son factores epidemiológicos característicos de la población de enfermos aquejados de cáncer de colon con metástasis hepática. Los elementos clínicos identificados constituyeron los habitualmente descritos en la literatura médica, aunque los estudios imaginológicos utilizados preoperatoriamente resultaron limitados para el diagnóstico del cáncer de colon con metástasis hepática sincrónica, precisándose el hallazgo de las lesiones metastásicas durante la intervención quirúrgica(AU)

Introduction: Colon cancer is the most frequent digestive-tract neoplasm in the present century. Objective: To identify some clinical, epidemiological and diagnostic factors in patients operated on for colon cancer and synchronic hepatic metastasis. Methods: An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out in a sample of 31 patients operated on with a definitive diagnosis of colon cancer and synchronic hepatic metastasis, in the general surgery service of Saturnino Provincial Teaching Hospital in Santiago de Cuba, during the period between 2010 and 2019. Results: The average age was 63.2 years. There was a predominance of inflammatory intestinal disease as a personal pathological antecedent, as well as alcoholism as a risk factor. The predominant symptoms were abdominal pain and changes in intestinal habits, as well as a tumor palpable on physical abdominal examination. Abdominal ultrasound and lower barium enema were the most used diagnostic procedures. Tumors prevailed at the level of the left descending colon. All malignant tumors were adenocarcinomas, predominantly moderately differentiated ones. Conclusions: Advanced ages of life, as well as smoking and alcoholism are characteristic epidemiological factors among the population of patients suffering from colon cancer with hepatic metastases. The clinical elements identified were those usually described in the medical literature, although the imaging studies used preoperatively were limited for the diagnosis of colon cancer with synchronic hepatic metastasis, a fact that required finding metastatic lesions during surgery(AU)

From rural practice to national strategy for colorectal cancer screening in China--Mr. Zheng Shu who is a pioneer and practitioner / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Haining City and Jiashan County in Zhejiang Province are the first areas to carry out colorectal cancer screening in China, which started in the early 1970s and has been going on for more than 40 years. Meanwhile, Haining and Jiashan have also become the first batch of National Demonstration Bases for Early Diagnosis and Treatment of Colorectal Cancer. In the past 40 years, owing to Professor Zheng Shu who is brave and innovative, with an indomitable spirit, as well as the unremitting efforts and active exploration of all the team members, colorectal cancer screening which was unknown by the public and implemented with difficulties, has gradually been widely accepted and benefited the population. Today, remarkable achievements have been fulfilled in the colorectal cancer screening of Haining and Jiashan which has become the pioneer power in promoting the progress of colorectal cancer prevention and control in China and has certain influence both on China and the world. Meanwhile, a set of colorectal cancer screening strategies suitable for China has been explored and further promoted to be used nationwide, which is of great significance to the prevention and control of colorectal cancer in China. Looking forward to the future, the prevention and control of colorectal cancer in China is still difficult. We will continue to give full play to our existing advantages, not forget our original intention, move forward, explore innovation, and create greater glories!

Low miR-1273a expression predicts poor prognosis of colon cancer and facilitates tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been indicated to be frequently dysregulated in various cancers and promising biomarkers for colon cancer. The present study aimed to assess the prognostic significance and biological function of miR-1273a in colon cancer. The expression levels of miR-1273a was estimated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Kaplan-Meier survival curves and Cox regression analysis were used to evaluate the prognostic value of miR-1273a in patients of colon cancer. The effects of miR-1273a on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were investigated by cell experiments. The expression of miR-1273a was downregulated in colon cancer tissues and tumor cell lines compared with the normal controls (all P<0.001). The aberrant expression of miR-1273a was associated with vascular invasion (P=0.005), differentiation (P=0.023), lymph node metastasis (P=0.021), and TNM stage (P=0.004). The patients with low miR-1273a expression had low overall survival compared with the patients with high miR-1273a expression (log-rank P=0.002). miR-1273a was detected to be an independent prognostic biomarker for patients. Furthermore, the results of cell experiments revealed that miR-1273a downregulation promoted, while miR-1273a upregulation suppressed the cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. In conclusion, all data indicated that a downregulated expression of miR-1273a predicted poor prognosis for colon cancer and enhanced tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Thus, we suggest that methods to promote miR-1273a expression may serve as novel therapeutic strategies in colon cancer.

Higher cut-offs for the number of lymph nodes harvested do not predict better prognosis in patients with colon cancer / Pontos de corte mais altos para o número de linfonodos coletados não predizem melhor prognóstico em pacientes com câncer de cólon

ABSTRACT Background Current threshold for minimum lymph node harvest may not be adequate for appropriate staging in colon cancer and newer surgical techniques may allow more lymph nodes to be harvested. The aim of this study was to examine the prognostic role of harvesting and examining lymph nodes higher in number than the recommended threshold (≥12), in patients with colon cancer. Methods This retrospective study included 179 patients that underwent open colon resection for adenocarcinoma of the colon. A D3 resection with high vascular ligation was made so that large number of lymph nodes was removed in most patients. Differences in overall survival between below and above three cutoff points (≥18, ≥24, ≥40) were estimated. Results During median 33 months of follow-up, 45 patients died and mean overall survival was 108.7 ± 5.6 months (95% CI, 97.7-119.7). The mean number of lymph nodes harvested and examined was 44.0 ± 25.7 (median 38; range, 7-150). No significant effect was found for three different cut-off values (≥18, ≥24, or ≥40 nodes) on mean overall survival (p > 0.05 for all comparisons). The same was true for the whole study population as well as for N0 (N negative) and N1-2 (N positive) patient subgroups, when they are analyzed separately. Conclusions Our findings do not support the survival benefit of substantially higher number of lymph nodes harvested in colon cancer.

RESUMO Fundamento: O limite atual para a coleta mínima de linfonodos pode não ser adequado para o estadiamento adequado no câncer de cólon e novas técnicas cirúrgicas podem permitir que um número maior de linfonodos seja coletado. O objetivo deste estudo foi examinar o papel prognóstico da coleta e exame de linfonodos em número maior do que o limite recomendado (≥ 12), em pacientes com câncer de cólon. Método: Este estudo retrospectivo incluiu 179 pacientes submetidos à ressecção aberta de cólon para adenocarcinoma de cólon. A ressecção D3 com ligadura vascular alta foi realizada para que um grande número de linfonodos fosse removido na maioria dos pacientes. As diferenças na sobrevida global entre abaixo e acima de três pontos de corte (≥ 18, ≥ 24, ≥ 40) foram estimadas. Resultados: Durante a mediana de 33 meses de seguimento, 45 pacientes morreram e a sobrevida global média foi de 108,7 ± 5,6 meses (IC 95%: 97,7-119,7). O número médio de linfonodos coletados e examinados foi de 44,0 ± 25,7 (mediana = 38; variação: 7-150). Nenhum efeito significativo foi encontrado para três valores de corte diferentes (≥ 18, ≥ 24 ou ≥ 40 linfonodos) na sobrevida global média (p >0,05 para todas as comparações). O mesmo foi verdadeiro para toda a população do estudo, bem como para os subgrupos de pacientes N0 (N negativos) e N1-2 (N positivos), quando analisados separadamente. Conclusões: Nossos achados não apoiam o benefício na sobrevida de um número substancialmente maior de linfonodos coletados no câncer de cólon.

Cáncer de colon ascendente que infiltra la pared abdominal. Reporte de un caso de inusual presentación / Ascending colon cancer that infiltrates the abdominal wall. Report of a case of unusual presentation

RESUMEN Se presenta el caso de un paciente con cáncer de colon ascendente e infiltración de la pared abdominal con tumoración proliferativa sobre la piel. Se trata de un varón de 83 años que diez meses antes de su ingreso fue operado por un absceso intraabdominal y evoluciona con una fistula colocutánea. El paciente presentaba una tumoración en flanco y fosa iliaca derecha, de 10 cm de diámetro, proliferativa, multilobulada, no dolorosa; a la biopsia resultó adenocarcinoma. La colonoscopía reveló tumoración de 6 cm en colon ascendente, la biopsia reportó adenocarcinoma medianamente diferenciado. La tomografía mostró una lesión neoformativa en colon ascendente y región cecal con dimensiones de 52x46x44 mm con un trayecto tumoral colocutáneo de 62 mm que terminaba a nivel cutáneo en una lesión ovoide de 70 mm. Se realizó colectomía derecha con resección en bloque de la pared abdominal comprometida por la tumoración. Se postula la relación entre la infiltración cutánea, y el antecedente de drenaje quirúrgico laparoscópico de un absceso intraperitoneal aparentemente causado como una complicación del cáncer de colon ascendente casi un año antes del ingreso. El drenaje utilizado sirvió de ruta para la infiltración a la pared abdominal.

ABSTRACT The case of a patient with ascending colon cancer and infiltration of the abdominal wall with a proliferative tumor on the skin is presented. This is an 83-year-old man who underwent surgery for an intra-abdominal abscess ten months before admission and develops a colocutaneous fistula. The patient presented a 10 cm diameter proliferative, multilobed, non-painful tumor on the flank and right iliac fossa; the biopsy revealed an adenocarcinoma. The colonoscopy revealed a 6 cm tumor in the ascending colon, the biopsy reported moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma. The tomography showed a neoformative lesion in the ascending colon and cecal region with dimensions of 52x46x44 mm with a 62 mm colocutaneous tumor course that ended at the cutaneous level in a 70 mm ovoid lesion. A right colectomy was performed with en bloc resection of the abdominal wall compromised by the tumor. The relationship between skin infiltration and a history of laparoscopic surgical drainage of an intraperitoneal abscess apparently caused as a complication of ascending colon cancer almost one year before admission is postulated. The drain used served as a route for infiltration into the abdominal wall.

Sincronismo colorrectal: adenocarcinoma de colon ascendente y carcinoma neuroendocrino de células pequeñas de recto / Colorectal synchronism: ascending colon adenocarcinoma and small-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the rectum

RESUMEN El cáncer colorrectal (CCR) es el tercer cáncer más frecuente en el mundo y la segunda causa de muerte de origen neoplásico. El sincronismo en CCR es de aproximadamente 3-6%. El tracto gastrointestinal es el lugar más frecuente de asiento de neoplasias neuroendocrinas (NNE), y de estos los carcinomas neuroendocrinos (CNE) son poco frecuentes. El tratamiento es un desafío, debido a la agresividad de la neoplasia y la falta de protocolos bien establecidos. Todo esto conlleva a la necesidad de un enfoque multidisciplinario, sin embargo, en la mayoría de casos el pronóstico resulta no ser el mejor. Presentamos el caso de un varón de 83 años que acude a emergencia con historia de 3 meses de diarrea, dolor perianal, pérdida ponderal y hematoquezia. El estudio endoscópico evidenció dos neoplasias y el estudio histológico confirmó la presencia de CNE de células pequeñas de recto y adenocarcinoma de colon ascendente, recibió quimioterapia sistémica sin embargo evolucionó desfavorablemente falleciendo a las 3 semanas.

ABSTRACT Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most frequent cancer in the world and the second cause of death of neoplastic origin. Synchronism in CCR is approximately 3-6%. The gastrointestinal tract is the most frequent place where neuroendocrine neoplasms (NNE) settle and a special type of these neuroendocrine carcinomas (CNE) are rare. Treatment is challenging, due to the aggressiveness of the malignancy and the lack of well-established protocols. Therefore a multidisciplinary approach is needed, however, in most cases the result is not the best. We present the case of an 83-year-old man who has an emergency with a 3-month history of diarrhea, perianal pain, weight loss, and hematochezia. The endoscopic study shows evidence of two malignancies and the histological study confirms the presence of CNE in small cells at the rectum and adenocarcinoma in the ascending colon. He underwent systematic chemotherapy, however, he evolved unfavorably, dying after 3 weeks.

Abordaje laparoscópico simultáneo del cáncer de colon con metástasis hepáticas / Simultaneous laparoscopic approach for colon cancer and liver metastases

Antecedentes: la hemicolectomía derecha laparoscópica con abordaje suprapúbico (HDLS) y empleo de tecnología. En los pacientes con cáncer de colon con metástasis hepáticas sincrónicas (CCMHS), la resección completa del tumor primario con las metástasis es la única opción de tratamiento con intención curativa. Se conocen varios informes de series de casos en el mundo; sin embargo, no existe ningún estudio aleatorizado controlado. Objetivo: el objetivo es evaluar la factibilidad y seguridad del abordaje laparoscópico simultáneo de la resección del tumor primario de colon y de la metástasis hepática. Material y métodos: es un estudio retrospectivo; a tal fin se recolectaron todos los pacientes con sospecha de CCMHS abordados por laparoscopia con intención de resección simultánea del tumor primario de colon con las metástasis hepáticas. Se analizaron variables preoperatorias, operatorias, resultados a corto y largo plazo, y anatomopatológicas. Resultados: en el período de estudio se realizaron 89 resecciones hepáticas laparoscópicas (RHL). En 28 pacientes se realizó ‒en forma simultánea con la RHL‒ otro procedimiento, en 21 de los cuales fue una colectomía laparoscópica. El tiempo quirúrgico promedio total de los dos procedimientos llegó a 407 minutos. El promedio de días de estadía hospitalaria fue de 8 días. No hubo mortalidad en la serie, y la morbilidad global fue del 71%, pero un solo caso con morbilidad mayor. La sobrevida global y la sobrevida libre de recurrencia a los 3 años fue de 55,2% y 16,3%, respectivamente. Conclusión: Esta es la primera publicación acerca del tema en nuestro país. Podemos decir que, en casos bien seleccionados, el abordaje laparoscópico simultáneo es factible de realizar, con aceptable morbimortalidad y sin comprometer los resultados oncológicos.

Background: In patients with colorectal cancer with synchronous liver metastases (CLM), complete resection of the primary tumor with the metastases is the only option for curative treatment. Several case series have been reported but no randomized controlled trials have been published. Objective: The aim was to evaluate if the simultaneous laparoscopic resection of the primary colon tumor and liver metastases is feasible and safe. Material and methods: A retrospective study was conducted with patients with suspected CLM scheduled for simultaneous laparoscopic resection of the primary tumor of the colon and liver metastases. The preoperative and operative variables, short- and long-term outcomes and pathological variables were analyzed. Results: A total of 89 laparoscopic liver resections (LLR) were performed during the study period. In 28 patients, LLR was simultaneous with other procedures, 21 of which corresponded to laparoscopic colon resection. Mean surgical time for both procedures was 407 minutes. Mean hospital length of stay was 8 days. None of the patients died and overall morbidity rate was 71% with only one major complication. Overall survival and relapse-free survival at three years was 55.2% and 16.3%, respectively. Conclusion: This is the first publication analyzing this approach in our country. In well selected cases, the simultaneous laparoscopic approach is feasible, with low morbidity and mortality and acceptable oncological results.

Tumour sidedness and clinicopathological features of resected colon cancer in rural population of Northern Pakistan: single institutional analysis / Lateralidade tumoral e características clínico-patológicas do câncer de cólon ressecado na população rural do norte do Paquistão: análise em uma única instituição

ABSTRACT Objectives: Different clinicopathological and molecular features have been demonstrated between right and left sided colon cancers. We aimed to characterize colon cancer and sidedness among a North-Pakistani rural population diagnosed with colon cancer in our institution. Methods: Seventy patients were included in the study that received adjuvant chemotherapy at Bannu Institute of Nuclear Medicine Oncology and Radiotherapy) Bannu, Pakistan from January 2014 to December 2017. Chi-square test was used for significance of categorical variables. p-Values less than 0.05 were considered significant. Results: Mean age at diagnosis for right side colon cancer patients was 43.94 years and for left side colon cancer, it was 49.83 with no significant difference. Male patients were presented more with right (77% vs. 54%, p = 0.044) and females with predominantly left sided tumours i.e. (46% vs. 23%, p = 0.044). Right sided cancer tended to be more poorly differentiated (20% vs. 0%, p = 0.020). Mucinous adenocarcinoma was seen mostly in right sided colon cancer (37% vs. 3%, p ≤ 0.001). There were more locally advanced presentation of right side colon cancer with more node positive (83% vs. 60%, p = 0.025) and lymphovascular invasion (51% vs. 37%, p = 0.016). Sigmoid colon was the most common tumour subsite involved. Conclusion: Our study is the first report of colon cancer in a rural population in North-Pakistan. An earlier onset of tumours (44-50 years) was observed in comparison with global data.

RESUMO Objetivo: Características clínico-patológicas e moleculares distintas foram observadas em tumores de cólon no lado direito ou esquerdo. O presente estudo teve como objetivo caracterizar o câncer de cólon e sua lateralidade em uma população rural norte-paquistanesa diagnosticada com câncer de cólon nesta instituição. Métodos: O estudo incluiu 70 pacientes que foram submetidos a quimioterapia adjuvante no Instituto Bannu de Medicina Nuclear Radioterapia Oncológica (BINOR), Bannu, Paquistão, entre janeiro de 2014 e dezembro de 2017. O teste qui-quadrado foi utilizado para mensurar a significância das variáveis categóricas. Valores de p menores que 0,05 foram considerados significativos. Resultados: A média de idade ao diagnóstico entre pacientes com câncer de cólon no lado direito foi de 43,94 anos e entre aqueles com câncer de cólon no lado esquerdo, 49,83, sem diferença significativa. Os pacientes do sexo masculino apresentaram mais tumores no lado direito (77% vs. 54%, p = 0,044) e as pacientes do sexo feminino apresentaram mais tumores no lado esquerdo (46% vs. 23%, p = 0,044). Tumores mal diferenciados foram mais comumente observados no lado direito (20% vs. 0%, p = 0,020). Adenocarcinoma mucinoso foi observado principalmente em casos de tumores no lado direito (37% vs. 3%, p ≤ 0,001). A apresentação local estava mais avançada em tumores de cólon no lado direito, com mais linfonodos positivos (83% vs. 60%, p = 0,025) e invasão linfovascular (51% vs. 37%, p = 0,016). O cólon sigmoide foi o sublocal mais comum. Conclusão: O presente estudo é o primeiro relato de câncer de cólon em uma população rural no norte do Paquistão. Em comparação com dados globais, observou-se um surgimento mais precoce dos tumores (44-50 anos).

Metástasis a colon de un carcinoma de pulmón, una presentación inusual: Reporte de un caso y revisión de la literatura / Colonic metastases from carcinoma of the lung, an unusual presentation: Case report and literature review

Las metástasis sintomáticas al colon de un carcinoma de pulmón son raras, a pesar de ser una neoplasia que representa el 12,9% de la incidencia mundial de cáncer. El colon es un sitio infrecuente de metástasis, con una prevalencia reportada menor al 0,5% en pacientes con carcinomas de pulmón, existiendo en la literatura mundial pocos casos. Es inusual que sea la forma de presentación de este tipo de neoplasia. Con respecto a las manifestaciones clínicas que se reportan pueden cursar con obstrucción intestinal como síntoma cardinal. Se presenta el caso de un paciente que curso con hemorragia de vías digestivas bajas como manifestación inicial de múltiples lesiones metastásicas a colon de un carcinoma de pulmón de célula no pequeña.

The symptomatic metastasis of the colon from a pulmonary cancer is rare; however, the global incidence of pulmonary cancer is 12.9%. It is an infrequent site of metastasis, with a prevalence of less than 0.5% in patients with pulmonary cancer. One of the most common manifestation is intestinal obstruction. We present a case report of a patient with an acute lower intestinal bleeding from multiple metastasis lesion of the colon as the initial manifestation of a non-small cell lung carcinoma.

Rastreamento, diagnóstico e estadiamento do adenocarcinoma de cólon / Screening, diagnosis and staging of the colon adenocarcinoma

Introdução: O Câncer de Cólon (CC) é uma doença extremamente prevalente e letal quando não diagnosticada em tempo hábil para tratamento, o que justifica a necessidade de programas de rastreio na população. Métodos: Foram selecionados dezessete artigos das bases de dados Pubmed, Medline, Lilacs e Embase para compor uma revisão de literatura. Resultados: O objetivo do rastreamento do CC é detectar lesões precursoras (pólipos adenomatosos) ou câncer em estágio inicial, enquanto ainda são passíveis de tratamento. Pode-se utilizar diversos métodos para realizar este rastreamento, sendo a colonoscopia o exame padrão-ouro devido a capacidade de estabelecer diagnóstico histopatológico da doença e fornecer oportunidade de tratamento no mesmo procedimento em casos de lesão precursoras. O estadiamento é clínico e envolve exame físico, radiografia torácica e tomografia computadorizada (TC) de abdome e pelve. Conclusão: O CC é uma das neoplasias mais frequentes em adultos no mundo inteiro e é possivelmente curável se diagnosticado precocemente. O método padrão-ouro para rastreamento e diagnóstico é a colonoscopia, uma vez que ela permite biópsia para análise histopatológica na presença de lesão. O estadiamento deve ser feito para avaliar a extensão local e sistêmica da doença por meio do exame físico e exames complementares.

Introduction: The colorectal cancer (CC) is an extremely common disease that is lethal if not diagnosed in early stages, which justifies the need for screening in the general population. Methods: Seventeen publications from Pubmed, Medline, Embase and Lilacs databases were selected to compose a literature review. Results: The goal of screening for CC is to detect precursor lesions (polyps) or early stage cancer. There is a variety of methods available in order to perform this screening, being colonoscopy the gold standard due to the possibility of establishing both histopathological diagnosis of the disease and offering treatment in case of precursor lesions. The staging is clinical and includes physical examination, chest imaging and abdominal and pelvic CT scans. Conclusion: The CC is one of the most common cancers in adults and possibly treatable if early diagnosed. The gold standard method for screening is colonoscopy, since it allows biopsy for histopathological analysis. The staging needs to be done to assess the local and systemic extent of the disease through physical examination and complementary tests.