Utilización del sistema Bethesda para el diagnóstico citológico de nódulos tiroideos / Use of the Bethesda system for the cytologic diagnosis of thyroid nodules: en

Introducción: El nódulo tiroideo es un hallazgo común en la actualidad y, por sus características ecográficas, constituye una lesión distinta al parénquima glandular, con una prevalencia alta en la población general. Objetivo: Describir el uso del sistema Bethesda como método de diagnóstico de nódulos tiroideos y el grado de malignidad. Métodos: Se efectuó un estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo de 1771 pacientes con diagnóstico de nódulo tiroideo, a quienes se les realizó citología por aspiración con aguja fina en el Departamento de Anatomía Patológica del Hospital General Docente Dr. Juan Bruno Zayas Alfonso de Santiago de Cuba durante el cuatrienio 2016-2019. Resultados: En la serie predominó el grupo etario de 41-50 años y la edad media fue de 49,51±13,14 años. Asimismo, sobresalió la categoría II del sistema Bethesda (73,8 %); en tanto, de los 204 diagnosticados correspondientes a la categoría III, 111 fueron intervenidos quirúrgicamente y 29 de estos presentaron neoplasias malignas (27,6 %). El grado de malignidad osciló entre 22,8 y 36,0 %. Conclusiones: La aplicación del sistema Bethesda fue muy útil para el diagnóstico citopatológico de nódulos tiroideos y el grado de malignidad se correspondió con cifras adecuadas.

Introduction: The thyroid nodule is a common finding nowadays and, for its echographic characteristics, it constitutes a lesion different to the glandular parenchyma, with a high prevalence in the general population. Objective: To describe the use of the Bethesda system as diagnostic method of thyroid nodules and the degree of malignancy. Methods: A descriptive and retrospective study of 1 771 patients with diagnosis of thyroid nodule was carried out, who underwent fine needle aspiration cytology, in the Pathology Department of Dr. Juan Bruno Zayas Alfonso Teaching General Hospital in Santiago de Cuba during 2016-2019. Results: In the series there was a prevalence of the 41-50 age group and the mean age was of 49,51±13,14 years. Also, the category II of the Bethesda system was notable (73.8 %); as long as, of the 204 diagnosed corresponding to the category III, 111 were surgically intervened and 29 of them presented mlignancy (27.6 %). The degree of malignancy oscillated between 22.8 and 36.0 %. Conclusions: The application of the Bethesda system was very useful for the cytopathologic diagnosis of thyroid nodules and the degree of malignancy corresponded with appropriate figures.

Is the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio a marker for differentiating between benign and malignant submandibular gland masses?

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio on the differentiation of benign and malignant masses in the submandibular triangle. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated 48 patients who underwent surgery for submandibular gland masses between January 2013 and February 2023. The patient's age, gender, preoperative complete blood count and imaging findings, postoperative histopathological diagnosis, and hemogram data were analysed. Patients were evaluated according to their postoperative histopathological diagnoses and categorised into four main groups: sialolithiasis, sialadenitis, benign tumours, and malignant tumours. Benign submandibular gland disease formations were evaluated under group B and malignant tumour formations under group M. RESULTS: A preoperative fine needle aspiration biopsy was performed on 19 patients due to sialadenitis, pleomorphic adenoma, and malignant diseases other than sialolithiasis. One patient died among the patients with malignant disease and the remaining 7 patients were compared with the benign group of 40 patients regarding preoperative and postoperative neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio. In the benign group, the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio was 2.64 preoperatively and decreased to 2.34 in the first postoperative year. The preoperative neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio decreased from 4.79 to 1.77 postoperatively in the malignant group. A statistically significant difference was observed (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: This is the first study to demonstrate that the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio can be used as a biomarker in submandibular gland masses and has prognostic significance in malignant masses. In addition to fine needle aspiration biopsy results, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio can be used as a biomarker.

Is there a relationship between preoperative cytological diagnosis and evolution in patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma? A retrospective study

ABSTRACT Objective: Cytological analysis and Bethesda classification of thyroid nodules is the standard method of diagnosing differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC). However, even for nodules with a non-malignant cytological diagnosis, there is a not insignificant risk of cancer. There are doubts whether this lack of certainty would influence patient prognosis. Our aim was to compare patients with DTC, classified according to the preoperative cytological diagnosis, regarding their evolution. Subjects and methods: A retrospective study was carried out with 108 DTC patients submitted to total thyroidectomy (TT) between 2009 and 2015, divided into three groups according to preoperative cytological diagnosis (Bethesda classification): classes I/II, III/IV, and V/VI. Groups were compared for evolution considering response to treatment at last evaluation as well as time disease free. Statistical analysis used ANOVA, chi squared, and Kaplan-Meier curves with p<0.05 considered significant. Results: Groups differed for time between nodule puncture and TT [in months; V/VI (2.35 ± 2.48) < III/IV (7.32 ± 6.34) < I/II (13.36 ± 8.9); p < 0.0001]. There was no significant difference between groups for evolution at final evaluation (disease free status; classes I/II: 71.4%; classes III/IV: 60%; classes V/VI: 66.6%; p = 0.7433), as well as time disease free (in months; classes I/II: 34.57 ± 25.82; classes III/IV: 38.04 ± 26.66; classes V/VI: 30.84 ± 26.34; p = 0.3841). Conclusions: DTC patients classified according to preoperative cytological diagnosis did not differ for evolution. Although patients with non-malignant cytological diagnoses were submitted to TT later, this did not affect the evolution of the cases.

Evaluación de nódulos tiroideos con interpretación citológica rápida en el sitio (ROSE) / Evaluation of thyroid nodules with Rapid On-Site Evaluation (ROSE)

La aspiración con aguja fina (ACAF) es una técnica ampliamente utilizada por su alta seguridad y fácil uso. Sin embargo, al usarse en conjunto con la evaluación rápida de la muestra en el sitio de la toma (ROSE, del inglés, Rapid On- Site Evaluation), disminuyen los tiempos necesarios para la evaluación y el diagnóstico, mejora la calidad de la muestra, disminuye el número de punciones por procedimiento y limita la necesidad de repetir la prueba, lo que hace que el uso combinado de ambas técnicas sea de gran utilidad y cada vez más solicitado en los servicios de imágenes diagnósticas y patología. ROSE, además, permite una clasificación adecuada del material recolectado para cultivos, estudios de citometría de flujo y pruebas moleculares. Particularmente, en los pacientes con nódulos tiroideos, la realización de ROSE durante el procedimiento de evaluación ecográfica y punción, puede garantizar que la muestra extraída sea suficiente y adecuada para el diagnóstico, y, así mismo, permite evaluar la necesidad de estudios complementarios de manera inmediata, brindando un diagnóstico rápido y preciso, disminuyendo los costos relacionados con la repetición del procedimiento y la morbilidad asociada a complicaciones por punciones múltiples

Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is a widely used technique due to its high safety and ease of use. However, when used in combination with Rapid On-Site Evaluation (ROSE), there is a reduction in the time required for evaluation and diagnosis, as well as an improvement in the sample quality, a reduction in the number of needle passes and the need to repeat the test, which makes the combined use of both techniques very useful and increasingly requested in the diagnostic imaging and pathology services. ROSE also allows a proper classification of the collected material for cultures, flow cytometry studies and molecular tests. Particularly in patients with thyroid nodules, the performance of ROSE during the ultrasound evaluation and biopsy procedure can guarantee that the sample extracted is sufficient and adequate for the diagnosis, and, likewise, an immediate evaluation for the need for complementary studies can be achieved, providing a fast and accurate diagnosis, reducing the costs related to repeating the procedure, and the morbidity associated with complications from multiple biopsies

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided sampling using core biopsy needle for diagnosis of left-lobe hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with underlying cirrhosis

Objective: The objective is to evaluate the application of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) in the diagnosis of the left-lobe hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in cirrhotic patients with contraindication to percutaneous biopsy. Materials and Methods: Thirty-eight consecutive patients with liver cirrhosis and suspected left-lobe HCC and with contraindication for percutaneous biopsy undergoing EUS-FNB between January 2011 and December 2014 were included in this study. The final diagnosis was obtained through histopathology of surgical samples or clinical and imaging results with follow-up. Using the final diagnosis as the gold standard, the diagnostic performance of EUS-FNB for HCC detection was evaluated. Results: Among 38 patients, EUS-FNB was successfully performed in 34 cases, in which adequate biopsy specimens were obtained for histopathological examination in 30. For the 30 patients with biopsy results, 25 cases were confirmed to have HCC, while five cases had benign lesions according to the final diagnosis. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy rates of EUS-FNB in the diagnosis of HCC were 88.0% (22/25), 100.0% (5/5), 100.0% (22/22), 62.5% (5/8), and 90.0% (27/30), respectively. Self-limiting bleeding occurred in three patients. Conclusions: EUS-FNB is a sensitive and safe diagnostic modality for cirrhotic patients with suspected HCC located in the left lobe, especially those for whom percutaneous biopsy is contraindicated

Necesidad de un sistema ecográfico de estratificación del riesgo de malignidad en lesiones nodulares del tiroides / Need for an ultrasound system to stratify the risk of malignancy in nodular thyroid lesions

Introducción: El nódulo de tiroides es un frecuente problema de salud, que se ha incrementado con la mayor disponibilidad de ultrasonido diagnóstico en la atención primaria. Un adecuado sistema de estratificación del riesgo de malignidad permitiría disminuir la sobrecarga de los sistemas sanitarios, sobre todo en el contexto cubano. Se realizó una revisión en las bases Cumed, Lilacs, PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science y Scopus, con los descriptores: nódulo tiroideo, ultrasonografía y guía de práctica clínica como asunto; en español e inglés. Se seleccionaron las guías terapéuticas publicadas en los últimos 10 años, que aportaran un sistema de estratificación de riesgo de malignidad de los nódulos de tiroides por ultrasonido. Objetivos: Identificar los sistemas de estratificación del riesgo de malignidad de las lesiones nodulares del tiroides, a partir del examen ecográfico; reconocer sus coincidencias, divergencias y valorar su implementación en el contexto cubano. Desarrollo: Todos los sistemas reconocen las mismas características ecográficas de riesgo: nódulos sólidos hipo ecoicos, márgenes irregulares o espiculados, forma más alta que ancha (diámetro anteroposterior mayor que el transverso) y la presencia de micro calcificaciones; aunque ninguna de ellas por sí sola es patognomónica de cáncer de tiroides. Sin embargo, utilizan nomenclaturas y número de estadios diferentes y lo más importante, la decisión de realizar o no biopsia con aguja fina difiere en dependencia de cuál se use. Conclusiones: Se impone aplicar en Cuba alguno de estos sistemas de forma extendida y mejor aún, generar uno propio, basado en pacientes cubanos(AU)

Introduction: The thyroid nodule is a frequent health problem, which has increased with the increased availability of diagnostic ultrasound in primary care. An adequate system of stratification of the risk of malignancy would reduce the overload of health systems, especially in the Cuban context. A review was carried out in the Cumed, Lilacs, PubMed / MEDLINE, Web of Science and Scopus bases, with the descriptors: thyroid nodule, ultrasonography and clinical practice guideline as subject; In Spanish and English. The therapeutic guidelines published in the last 10 years were selected, which would provide a stratification system of risk of malignancy of the thyroid nodules by ultrasound. Objectives: To identify the stratification systems of the risk of malignancy of nodular thyroid lesions, based on the ultrasound examination; recognize their coincidences, divergences and value their implementation in the Cuban context. Development: All systems recognize the same ultrasound risk characteristics: hypo-echoic solid nodules, irregular or spiculated margins, taller than wide (anteroposterior diameter greater than transverse) and the presence of micro calcifications; although none of them alone is pathognomonic for thyroid cancer. However, they use different nomenclatures and number of stages and most importantly, the decision to perform or not a fine needle biopsy differs depending on which one is used. Conclusions: It is necessary to apply in Cuba some of these systems in an extended way and even better, generate your own, based on Cuban patients(AU)

Is the new procore 20g double forward-bevel needle capable to obtain better histological samples by endoscopic ultrasound for diagnosing solid pancreatic lesions? / A nova agulha procore 20g com bisel frontal duplo é capaz de obter melhores amostras histológicas por ecoendoscopia no diagnóstico de lesões sólidas pancreáticas?

ABSTRACT Background: It is important to obtain representative histological samples of solid biliopancreatic lesions without a clear indication for resection. The role of new needles in such task is yet to be determined. Aim: To compare performance assessment between 20G double fine needle biopsy (FNB) and conventional 22G fine needle aspiration (FNA) needles for endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided biopsy. Methods: This prospective study examined 20 patients who underwent the random puncture of solid pancreatic lesions with both needles and the analysis of tissue samples by a single pathologist. Results: The ProCore 20G FNB needle provided more adequate tissue samples (16 vs. 9, p=0.039) with better cellularity quantitative scores (11 vs. 5, p=0.002) and larger diameter of the histological sample (1.51±1.3 mm vs. 0.94±0.55 mm, p=0.032) than the 22G needle. The technical success, puncture difficulty, and sample bleeding were similar between groups. The sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy were 88.9%, 100%, and 90% and 77.8%, 100%, and 78.9% for the 20G and 22G needles, respectively. Conclusions: The samples obtained with the ProCore 20G FNB showed better histological parameters; although there was no difference in the diagnostic performance between the two needles, these findings may improve pathologist performance.

RESUMO Racional: As lesões sólidas pancreáticas não ressecáveis cirurgicamente demandam boa amostragem tecidual para definição histológica e condução oncológica . O papel das novas agulhas de ecopunção no aprimoramento diagnóstico ainda necessita elucidação. Objetivo: Comparar as biópsias guiadas por ecoendoscoopia com a nova agulha 20G de bisel frontal duplo (FNB) com a agulha de aspiração fina 22G convencional. Métodos: Este estudo prospectivo avaliou 20 pacientes submetidos à punção de lesões pancreáticas sólidas com ambas agulhas e envolveu análise de amostras teciduais por um único patologista. Resultados: A agulha FNB 20G forneceu amostras de tecido mais adequadas (16 vs. 9, p=0,039) com melhores escores quantitativos de celularidade (11 vs. 5, p=0,002) e maior diâmetro máximo da amostra histológica (1,51±1,3 mm vs. 0,94±0,55 mm, p=0,032) que a agulha 22G. O sucesso técnico, dificuldade de punção e sangramento da amostra foram semelhantes entre os grupos. A sensibilidade, especificidade e acurácia diagnóstica foram 88,9%, 100% e 90% e 77,8%, 100% e 78,9% para as agulhas 20G e 22G, respectivamente. Conclusão: As amostras obtidas com a FNB 20G apresentaram melhores parâmetros histológicos, embora não tenha havido diferença no desempenho diagnóstico entre as duas agulhas.

Surgical treatment strategy in Warthin tumor of the parotid gland / Estratégia de tratamento cirúrgico no tumor de Warthin de glândula parótida

Abstract Introduction: Warthin tumors are the second most common benign tumors of the parotid gland. We examined the clinical features of Warthin tumors in our hospital, and analyzed the consistency within the literatures. Objective: The aim of this study is to analyze the clinical features of Warthin tumors in our 10-year experience of 118 Warthin tumors undergoing surgery at a single institute. Methods: From December 2006 to December 2016, 110 patients who underwent surgical treatment for Warthin tumors were identified based on their medical records. Results: A total of 118 parotid gland operations were performed in 110 patients. Almost 90% of Warthin tumors were found in males, and average patient age was 66.1 ± 6.1 years. The prevalence of smoking history was 89.1% (98/110). Eight patients (7.3%) had bilateral Warthin tumors. Seventy-seven lesions (65.3%) were located in the parotid tail portion, followed by 34 lesions in the superficial lobe (28.8%) and 7 lesions in the deep lobe (5.9%). Conclusion: We determined the appropriate extent of surgery depending on the fine needle aspiration cytology and tumor location by computed tomography scans. Partial facial dysfunction after the operation was detected in 12 cases, and facial nerve function recovered within 3 months. Only one patient experienced a recurrence, and was disease free after the re-operation. We suggest that our treatment algorithm, depending on the location of tumors and the result of fine needle aspiration cytology, can be useful to determine the appropriate extent of surgery for Warthin tumors.

Resumo Introdução: Os tumores de Warthin são os segundos tumores benignos mais comuns da glândula parótida. Avaliamos as características clínicas dos tumores de Warthin em nosso hospital e analisamos a consistência com a literatura. Objetivo: Analisar as características clínicas dos tumores de Warthin em nossa experiência de 10 anos de 118 tumores de Warthin submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico em um único instituto. Método: De dezembro de 2006 a dezembro de 2016, 110 pacientes que receberam tratamento cirúrgico para tumores de Warthin foram identificados com base em seus prontuários médicos. Resultados: Foram feitas 118 cirurgias na glândula parótida em 110 pacientes. Quase 90% dos tumores de Warthin foram encontrados em homens e a média da idade dos pacientes foi de 66,1 ± 6,1 anos. A prevalência de tabagismo foi de 89,1% (98/110). Oito pacientes (7,3%) tinham tumores de Warthin bilaterais na glândula parótida. Das lesões, 77 (65,3%) localizavam-se na porção da cauda da parótida, seguidas por 34 no lobo superficial (28,8%) e 7 no lobo profundo (5,9%). Conclusão: Determinamos a extensão apropriada da cirurgia de acordo com a punção aspirativa com agulha fina e localização do tumor por tomografia computadorizada. Disfunção facial parcial após a cirurgia foi detectada em 12 casos e a função do nervo facial foi recuperada em 3 meses. Apenas um paciente apresentou recidiva e ficou livre da doença após reoperação. Sugerimos que nosso algoritmo de tratamento, a depender da localização dos tumores e do resultado da PAAF, pode ser útil para determinar a extensão apropriada da cirurgia para os tumores de Warthin.

EVALUATION OF IMMUNOCYTOCHEMISTRY ON THE DIAGNOSIS OF PAPILLARY MAMMARY TUMORS BY FINE-NEEDLE ASPIRATION BIOPSY / Avaliação do uso da imunocitoquímica no diagnóstico dos tumores papilares mamários em punção aspirativa de agulha fina

Purposes: This study has observed the effectiveness of the immunocytochemical method on the diagnosis of papillary lesions of the breast from fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB), to validate the method that would avoid unnecessary excision of small intraductal papillomas of the breast when applied to clinical practice. Methods: Medical records and FNAB examinations were analyzed from 2003 to 2012 and subsequently a immunocytochemical examination was performed with p63 myoepithelial cell marker and Ki67 proliferative index, analyzing the specificity and sensitivity of the markers in the diagnosis of papillary lesions of the breast. Results: The immunocytochemistry of the papillary breast lesions material with immunomarkers Ki67 and p63 showed sensitivity of 78.6% and specificity of 73.33% in the identification of benign lesions. Conclusions: The combined use of these markers in FNAB of papillary mammary lesions helps in the therapeutic orientation of the disease, but further studies including a larger number of cases should be performed in order to have a better evaluation of this method.

Objetivo: Este estudo observou a efetividade do método imunocitoquímico no diagnóstico das lesões papilares de mama a partir de amostras por punção aspirativa por agulha fina (PAAF), para validar o método que, aplicado à prática clínica, evitaria a exérese desnecessária dos pequenos papilomas intraductais da mama. Métodos: Foram analisados prontuários e exames de PAAF durante o período de 2003 a 2012 e posteriormente realizado exame imunocitoquímico com marcador de célula mioepitelial p63 e índice proliferativo Ki67, analisando-se especificidade e sensibilidade dos marcadores no diagnóstico de lesões papilares da mama. Resultados: A imunocitoquímica dos materiais das lesões papilares mamárias com os imunomarcadores Ki67 e p63 apresentou sensibilidade de 78,6% e especificidade de 73,33% na identificação das lesões benignas. Conclusões: O uso combinado desses marcadores em PAAF de lesão papilar mamária auxilia na orientação terapêutica da doença, mas novos estudos incluindo um maior número de casos devem ser realizados para melhor avaliar esse método.

Acinic cell carcinoma of the parotid gland: A diagnostic dilemma on cytology

@#Introduction: Acinic cell carcinoma (ACC) represents 1-6% of parotid gland neoplasms. Case Report: We report cytomorphological features of two uncommon variants of acinic cell carcinoma. The first case was an eleven-year-old female with a nodular mass in parotid and the FNA smears demonstrated a lymphoepithelial lesion composed of epithelial tumour cells with features of acinar cells in a lymphoid background. The second case was a 62-year-old male with a large parotid mass. The FNA smears revealed presence of extracellular, acellular amyloid-like material with tumour cells arranged in follicles. Discussion: Awareness of cytomorphological features of these unusual variants of acinic cell carcinoma may help to avoid diagnostic pitfall.

Primary Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Gallbladder Diagnosed by Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Biopsy / 대한내과학회지

Squamous cell carcinoma of the gallbladder (GB) is uncommon and often presents at an advanced stage; therefore, it is associated with more aggressive behavior and a worse prognosis than those of adenocarcinoma. Herein, we report the case of an 82-year-old woman presenting a weight loss of 5 kg and epigastric discomfort over the previous 3 months. Abdominal computed tomography and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography revealed an infiltrative mass in the GB with hepatic invasion. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsy using a 20-G core needle was performed, and the pathological examination revealed keratin pearls and an intracellular bridge, which are characteristics of squamous cell differentiation consistent with squamous cell carcinoma. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsy was useful for obtaining an accurate histological diagnosis of GB masses without the need for surgery.

Pheochromocytoma with Hypertensive Crisis Caused by Endoscopic Ultrasound-guided Tissue Sampling / 대한췌담도학회지

Although pheochromocytoma usually presents as a solid tumor, it can also present as a cystic lesion in the adrenal glands. Cystic lesions in the adrenal glands, along with hypertension, need attention to exclude pheochromocytoma. If ignored, they may lead to a hypertensive crisis with multi-organ failure. Proper preoperative preparation is important to prevent a hypertensive crisis during and after surgery. We report a case of pheochromocytoma with cystic degeneration that presented as a hypertensive crisis caused by endoscopic ultrasound-guided tissue sampling.

Negative pressure is not necessary for using fine-needle aspiration biopsy to diagnose suspected thyroid nodules: a prospective randomized study

PURPOSE: Fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) can be used to diagnose thyroid cancer and other tumors. Although FNAB without negative pressure (FNAB−P) reduces the risk of blood contamination, FNAB with negative pressure (FNAB+P) increases the sensitivity of the biopsy results. Therefore, we performed a randomized study of FNAB with or without negative pressure to identify the better diagnostic method. METHODS: Between March 2016 and February 2017, 172 consecutive patients were enrolled to investigate >0.5 cm nodules with indeterminate or suspicious malignant features. Patients were randomly assigned to the FNAB+P group (a 50 mL syringe was used to provide negative pressure) or to the FNAB−P group (passive collection of blood in the needle's hub). The 2 methods' diagnostic adequacy and quality were evaluated using an objective scoring system. The study's protocol was registered with the World Health Organization Clinical Research Information Service (http://cris.nih.go.kr/cris, KCT0001857). RESULTS: The patients were randomly assigned to the FNAB+P group (n = 86) or the FNAB−P group (n = 86). There were no significant intergroup differences in nodule position, size, age, consistency, calcification, BRAF mutation, or pathology. Evaluation of diagnostic adequacy parameters revealed no significant differences in background blood/clot (P = 0.728), amount of cellular material (P = 0.052), degree of cellular degeneration (P = 0.622), degree of cellular trauma (P = 0.979), or retention of appropriate architecture (P = 0.487). Furthermore, there was no significant intergroup difference in the diagnostic quality (P = 0.634). CONCLUSION: This prospective randomized study failed to detect significant differences in the diagnostic adequacy and quality of FNAB with or without negative pressure. Therefore, the examiner may select whichever FNAB method they prefer.

Comparison of Endoscopic Ultrasound Biopsy Needles for Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Liver Biopsy

BACKGROUND/AIMS: To compare the performance of latest commercially available endoscopic ultrasound biopsy needles. METHODS: Six latest commercially available needles were tested on a freshly harvested bovine liver; the tested needles included three 19 G, one 20 G, and two 22 G needles. Five biopsies were performed per needle with 10 mL of wet suction. The primary outcome was the number of complete portal tracts (CPTs) per needle aspirate. The secondary outcomes were the mean specimen length and mean fragment length. Analysis of variance and Tukey’s test were applied. RESULTS: All 19 G needles and the 20 G needle yielded similar mean CPTs and were superior to the SharkCore 22 G needle (p<0.001 adjusted for multiplicity). There was no statistically significant difference in total specimen length among the three 19 G needles and the 20 G needle tested. The two 22 G needles performed similarly with respect to the number of CPTs, mean fragment length, and mean specimen length (adjusted p=0.07, p=0.59, and p=0.10, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The specimen adequacy was similar among the 3 latest commercially available 19 G needles. The endoscopist may choose a larger-bore needle based on availability without concerns of specimen adequacy. Further studies are needed to assess the ease of needle use in various anatomical locations and to confirm the optimal needle design.

Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Liver Biopsy Using a Core Needle for Hepatic Solid Mass

BACKGROUND/AIMS: This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) using a core needle for hepatic solid masses (HSMs). Additionally, the study aimed to assess factors that influence the diagnostic accuracy of EUS-FNB for HSMs. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent EUS-FNB for the pathological diagnosis of HSMs was conducted between January 2013 and July 2017. The procedure had been performed using core needles of different calibers. The assessed variables were mass size, puncture route, needle type, and the number of needle passes. RESULTS: Fifty-eight patients underwent EUS-FNB for the pathologic evaluation of HSMs with a mean mass size of 21.4±9.2 mm. EUS-FNB was performed with either a 20-G (n=14), 22-G (n=29) or a 25-G core needle (n=15). The diagnostic accuracy for this procedure was 89.7%, but both specimen adequacy for histology and available immunohistochemistry stain were 91.4%. The sensitivity and specificity of EUS-FNB were 89.7% and 100%, respectively. There was one case involving bleeding as a complication, which was controlled with endoscopic hemostasis. According to the multivariate analysis, no variable was independently associated with a correct final diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: EUS-FNB with core biopsy needle is a safe and highly accurate diagnostic option for assessing HSMs. There were no variable factors associated with diagnostic accuracy.

Present and Future of Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Tissue Acquisition in Solid Pancreatic Tumors

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided tissue acquisition (EUS-TA) is a well-established method for pathological diagnosis of solid pancreatic neoplasm. It can be performed either as EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) or EUS-guided fine-needle biopsy (EUS-FNB). The incidence of adverse events related to EUS-TA is less than 1%. The factors that affect the diagnostic accuracy and specimen adequacy include the techniques used, type and size of the needle, competency of endosonographers, presence of cytopathologists/cytotechnologists, and rapid on-site examination. EUS-TA may contribute to precision medicine through obtaining tissue samples for next-generation sequencing. The current status, several clinical issues for diagnostic yield and adverse events, and future perspectives of EUS-FNA/FNB for diagnosing pancreatic neoplasm have been discussed in this review article.

Prospective Assessment of the Performance of a New Fine Needle Biopsy Device for EUS-Guided Sampling of Solid Lesions

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) remains the most common EUS-guided tissue acquisition technique. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of a new Franseen tip fine needle biopsy (FNB) device for EUSguided sampling of solid lesions and compare it with the historical FNA technique. METHODS: Acquire® 22 G FNB needle (Boston Scientific Co., Natick, MA, USA) was used for solid tumor sampling (Study group). Tissue was collected for rapid on-site evaluation, and touch and crush preparations were made. Historical EUS-FNA samples obtained using Expect® 22 G FNA needle (Boston Scientific Co.) were used as controls (Control group). All specimens were independently evaluated by two cytopathologists blinded to the formal cytopathological diagnosis. RESULTS: Mean cell block histology scores were significantly higher (p=0.046) in the FNB group (51 samples) despite a significantly lower (p < 0.001) mean number of passes compared to the FNA group (50 specimens). The overall diagnostic yields for the FNB vs. FNA groups were 96% vs. 88%. The degree of tumor differentiation was adequately assessed in all cell block qualifying lesions in the FNB group. Two patients developed post-FNB abdominal pain. CONCLUSIONS: The new Franseen tip FNB device provides histologically superior and cytologically comparable specimens to those obtained by FNA, but with fewer passes.

Predictive features for histology of gastric subepithelial lesions / Fatores preditivos da histologia nas lesões subepiteliais gástricas

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND Gastric subepithelial lesion is a relatively common diagnosis after routine upper endoscopy. The diagnostic workup of an undetermined gastric subepithelial lesion should take into consideration clinical and endoscopic features. OBJECTIVE We aimed to investigate the association between patients' characteristics, endoscopic and echographic features with the histologic diagnosis of the gastric subepithelial lesions. METHODS This is a retrospective study with 55 patients, who were consecutively diagnosed with gastric subepithelial lesions, from October 2008 to August 2011. Patients' characteristics, endoscopic and echografic features of each gastric subepithelial lesion were analysed. Histologic diagnosis provided by EUS-guided fine needle aspiration or endoscopic/surgical resection was used as gold standard. RESULTS The probability of gastrointestinal stromal tumors to be located in the cardia was low (4.5%), while for leiomyoma it was high (>95%). In addition, there was a higher risk of gastrointestinal stromal tumors in patients older than 57 years (OR 8.9; 95% CI), with lesions ≥21 mm (OR 7.15; 95% CI), located at 4th layer (OR 18.8; 95% CI), with positive Doppler sign (OR 9; 95% CI), and irregular outer border (OR 7.75; 95% CI). CONCLUSION The location of gastric subepithelial lesions in the gastric cardia lowers the risk of gastrointestinal stromal tumors. While gastric subepithelial lesions occurring in elderly patients, located in the gastric body, with positive Doppler signal and irregular outer border increase the risk of gastrointestinal stromal tumors.

RESUMO CONTEXTO O diagnóstico das lesões subepiteliais gástricas é relativamente comum após a endoscopia digestiva alta de rotina. A posterior investigação diagnóstica de uma lesão subepitelial gástrica indeterminada deve levar em consideração os aspectos clínicos e endoscópicos. OBJETIVO O objetivo foi avaliar a associação entre as características particulares dos pacientes, endoscópicas e ecográficas dos casos de lesões subepiteliais gástricas com os seus diagnósticos histológicos finais. MÉTODOS Estudo retrospectivo com 55 pacientes, consecutivamente diagnosticados com lesão subepitelial gástrica de outubro de 2008 a agosto de 2011. As características do paciente, endoscópica e ecográfica de cada caso com lesão subepitelial gástrica foram analisadas. O diagnóstico histológico fornecido pela punção aspirativa com agulha fina guiada por ecoendoscopia e/ou a ressecção endoscópica/cirúrgica foram utilizadas como padrão-ouro. RESULTADOS A probabilidade de tumor estromal gastrintestinal ser localizado na cárdia foi baixa (4,5%), enquanto que para o leiomioma foi elevada (>95%). Além disso, houve um maior risco de tumor estromal gastrintestinal em pacientes acima de 57 anos (OR 8,9; IC 95%), com lesão ≥21 mm (OR 7,15; IC 95%), localizada na 4ª camada (OR 18,8; IC 95%), com sinal positivo no Doppler (OR 9; IC 95%), e borda externa irregular (OR 7,75; IC 95%). CONCLUSÃO A localização de uma lesão subepitelial gástrica na cárdia reduz o risco de tumor estromal gastrintestinal. Enquanto que lesões subepiteliais gástricas que ocorrem em pacientes idosos, localizadas no corpo gástrico, com sinal positivo no Doppler e com borda externa irregular aumentam significativamente o risco de tumor estromal gastrintestinal.

Actinomycosis Involving Chronic Pancreatitis: A Case Report with Literature Review / 대한소화기학회지

Actinomycosis is a slowly progressive, chronic infectious disease. It is caused by the genus Actinomyces, which are gram-positive anaerobic bacteria. It presents as a mass-like lesion, composed of bacterial nidus and characteristic granulomatous inflammatory fibrosis. As such, it has frequently been mistaken for a malignancy. Surgical resection is a common procedure in these patients prior to a definite diagnosis. Although actinomycosis can occur in a variety of regions, including oral-cervicofacial, thoracic, and abdominopelvic cavities, the involvement of the pancreas is very rare. We report a case of a 44-year-old male with a symptomatic actinomycosis caused by a mass in the tail of the pancreas. The diagnosis was made using an endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration biopsy without surgical resection. After the treatment with antibiotics, the pancreatic mass was confirmed to be resolved on the follow-up computed tomography.

Comparison of Histologic Core Portions Acquired from a Core Biopsy Needle and a Conventional Needle in Solid Mass Lesions: A Prospective Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The superiority of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) over EUS-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) remains controversial. Given the lack of studies analyzing histologic specimens acquired from EUS-FNB or EUS-FNA, we compared the proportion of the histologic core obtained from both techniques. METHODS: A total of 58 consecutive patients with solid mass lesions were enrolled and randomly assigned to the EUS-FNA or EUS-FNB groups. The opposite needle was used after the failure of core tissue acquisition using the initial needle with up to three passes. Using computerized analyses of the scanned histologic slide, the overall area and the area of the histologic core portion in specimens obtained by the two techniques were compared. RESULTS: No significant differences were identified between the two groups with respect to demographic and clinical characteristics. Fewer needle passes were required to obtain core specimens in the FNB group (p<0.001). There were no differences in the proportion of histologic core (11.8%±19.5% vs 8.0%±11.1%, p=0.376) or in the diagnostic accuracy (80.6% vs 81.5%, p=0.935) between two groups. CONCLUSIONS: The proportion of histologic core and the diagnostic accuracy were comparable between the FNB and FNA groups. However, fewer needle passes were required to establish an accurate diagnosis in EUS-FNB.