Concordancia entre SPECT portátil y la gammagrafía convencional para detección de ganglio centinela en cáncer de mama / Concordance between freehand SPECT and conventional scintigraphy for sentinel lymph node detection in breast cancer

Introducción: La SPECT portátil puede ser una técnica de imagen útil para la planificación preoperatoria de la biopsia selectiva del ganglio centinela (BSGC) ya que permite la localización del ganglio centinela (GC) mediante imágenes tomográficas en 3D y en tiempo real y determina su profundidad, después de unos minutos de exploración. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar la correlación entre el número de GC detectados entre las imágenes de la SPECT portátil y la linfogammagrafía (LG). Materiales y métodos: Cien pacientes con diagnóstico de cáncer de mama infiltrante y sin evidencia clínica de afectación ganglionar, se sometieron prospectivamente a una BSGC. El estudio preoperatorio incluyó imágenes de SPECT portátil a los 15 min tras la inyección y de LG a los 25 y 60-90 min (precoz y tardía). Se analizó el acuerdo observado y se realizó un estudio de concordancia entre el número de GC detectados con SPECT portátil y LG. Resultados: El acuerdo observado en la detección de GC entre SPECT portátil y LG precoz fue del 72%; entre SPECT portátil y LG tardía del 85%, y entre la LG precoz y la tardía de un 87%. En el estudio de concordancia se registró una concordancia moderada entre la SPECT portátil y la LG precoz (coeficiente kappa: 0,42); una concordancia moderada-alta entre la SPECT portátil y la LG tardía (coeficiente kappa: 0,60), y una concordancia de moderada-alta entre la LG precoz y la tardía (coeficiente kappa: 0,70), sin diferencias significativas entre ellos (valor p=0,16). Conclusión: La SPECT portátil presentó una concordancia moderada-alta con los estudios de imagen convencional y podría ser una alternativa válida para el estudio prequirúrgico de la BSGC en el cáncer de mama.(AU)

Introduction: Freehand SPECT can be a useful imaging technique for preoperative planning of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) as it allows localization of the sentinel node by 3D and real-time tomographic imaging and determines its depth after a few minutes of scanning. The aim of the study was to evaluate the correlation between the number of detected SNs between freehand SPECT images and lymphoscintigraphy (LS). Materials and methods: One hundred patients with a diagnosis of invasive breast cancer and no clinical evidence of lymph node involvement prospectively underwent SLNB. The preoperative study included freehand SPECT imaging at 15min after injection and LS imaging at 25 and 60–90min after injection (early and late). The observed agreement was analyzed and a concordance study was performed between the number of SNs detected with freehand SPECT and LS. Results: The observed agreement in the detection of SNs between freehand SPECT and early LS was 72%; between freehand SPECT and late LS was 85%; and between early and late LS was 87%. In the concordance study, there was moderate concordance between freehand SPECT and early LS (kappa coefficient: 0.42); moderate-high concordance between freehand SPECT and late LS (kappa coefficient: 0.60); and moderate-high concordance between early and late LS (kappa coefficient: 0.70), with no significant differences between them (p-value=0.16). Conclusion: Freehand SPECT showed a moderate-high concordance with conventional imaging studies and could be a valid alternative for the presurgical study of SLNB in breast cancer.(AU)

Equipo multidisciplinar de cirugía radioguiada: Alternativa de cambio al paradigma actual / Multidisciplinary radio-guided surgery team: Alternative to change the current paradigm

IntroducciónAnte el aumento constante de la demanda asistencial de exploraciones relacionadas con cirugía radioguiada (CRG), nuestro hospital adoptó incluir en el equipo de CRG nuevos perfiles profesionales con el fin de reducir parcialmente el tiempo de dedicación de los médicos nucleares a esta tarea.Objetivos: Analizar el proceso de incorporación de los perfiles de Técnico Superior en Imagen para el Diagnóstico (TSID) y Enfermera Referente de Ganglio Centinela (ERGC), evaluando su despliegue en los procedimientos ligados a la técnica. Material y métodos: Análisis de la actividad de CRG durante el periodo 2018-2022, centrándolo en los procedimientos prequirúrgicos y quirúrgicos relativos a cáncer de mama (CaM) y melanoma maligno (MM), por ser aquellas patologías en las que se concentró la transferencia de competencias asistenciales. Evolución cronológica de las competencias asumidas por los diferentes perfiles durante su integración en el equipo de CRG. Resultados: La actividad asistencial de CRG durante el periodo analizado experimentó un incremento del 109%. CaM y MM son las patologías que aglutinaron con diferencia una mayor demanda asistencial. La transferencia de competencias en estas dos patologías se ha producido de manera progresiva, asumiendo en 2022 el 74% (460/622) de la fase de administración el ERGC y el 64% (333/519) de las cirugías el TSID. Conclusiones: La creación de un equipo multidisciplinar de CRG, que incluye distintos perfiles profesionales (MN, ERGC y TSID), es una eficaz estrategia para dar respuesta al incremento de la complejidad y número de todos los procedimientos relacionados con la CRG.(AU)

Introduction: Given the constant increase in the healthcare demand for examinations related to radio-guided surgery (RGS), our hospital adopted new professional profiles in the RGS team, in order to partially reduce the time spent by nuclear medicine physicians on this task. Aim: To analyze the process of incorporating the profiles of Superior Diagnostic Imaging Technician (TSID) and Sentinel Node Referent Nurse (ERGC), evaluating their deployment in the procedures linked to the technique. Material and methods: Analysis of RGS activity during the period 2018-2022, focusing on pre-surgical and surgical procedures related to breast cancer (BC) and malignant melanoma (MM), as they are those pathologies on which the transfer of care competencies was concentrated. Chronological evolution of the competencies assumed by the different profiles during their integration into the RGS team. Results: RGS's healthcare activity during the analyzed period experienced an increase of 109%. BC and MM were the pathologies that accounted for by far the greatest demand for care. The transfer of competencies in these two pathologies occurred in a progressive and staggered manner, with 74% (460/622) of the administration phase being carried out by the ERGC and 64% (333/519) of the surgeries by the TSID in 2022. Conclusions: The creation of a multidisciplinary RGS team that includes different professional profiles (NM, ERGC and TSID) is an effective strategy to respond to the increase in the complexity and number of all procedures related to RGS.(AU)

Reducing axillary surgery in breast cancer / Reduciendo la cirugía axilar en el cáncer de mama

This article provides a brief account of the recent evolution of the highly controversial surgical management of the positive axilla in patients with breast cancer, an issue still open to disparate surgical procedures. This short review highlights the reports that supply the rationale for current trends in reducing the aggressiveness of this surgery and discusses the course of the trials still in progress pointing in the same direction, thus supporting the principle of not performing axillary lymph node dissection for staging purposes alone.(AU)

Este artículo es un breve resumen de la reciente evolución del controvertido tratamiento quirúrgico de la axila en pacientes con cáncer de mama, que sigue estando abierto a procedimientos quirúrgicos demasiado dispares. Esta corta revisión destaca las publicaciones que constituyen la base lógica de las tendencias actuales hacia la reducción de la agresividad quirúrgica y recalca los ensayos clínicos aún en progreso apuntando en esta misma dirección, apoyando así el principio de evitar la linfadenectomía axilar solo por razones de estadiaje.(AU)

Melanoma Registry of the Spanish Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (REGESMEL): Description and Data in its First Year of Operation. / Registro de Melanoma de la Academia Española de Dermatología y Venereología (REGESMEL): descripción y datos en el primer año de funcionamiento.

INTRODUCTION: The incidence of melanoma is rising in Spain. The prognostic stages of patients with melanoma are determined by various biological factors, such as tumor thickness, ulceration, or the presence of regional or distant metastases. The Spanish Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (AEDV) has encouraged the creation of a Spanish Melanoma Registry (REGESMEL) to evaluate other individual and health system-related factors that may impact the prognosis of patients with melanoma. The aim of this article is to introduce REGESMEL and provide basic descriptive data for its first year of operation. METHODS: REGESMEL is a prospective, multicentre cohort of consecutive patients with invasive cutaneous melanoma that collects demographic and staging data as well as individual and healthcare-related baseline data. It also records the medical and surgical treatment received by patients. RESULTS: A total of 450 cases of invasive cutaneous melanoma from 19 participant centres were included, with a predominance of thin melanomas≤1mm thick (54.7%), mainly located on the posterior trunk (35.2%). Selective sentinel lymph node biopsy was performed in 40.7% of cases. Most cases of melanoma were suspected by the patient (30.4%), or his/her dermatologist (29.6%). Patients received care mainly in public health centers (85.2%), with tele-dermatology resources being used in 21.6% of the cases. CONCLUSIONS: The distribution of the pathological and demographic variables of melanoma cases is consistent with data from former studies. REGESMEL has already recruited patients from 15 Spanish provinces and given its potential representativeness, it renders the Registry as an important tool to address a wide range of research questions.

Innovación continuada en cirugía radioguiada de precisión / Continuous innovation in precision radio-guided surgery

Desde sus inicios, la medicina nuclear se ha enfrentado a cambios tecnológicos que la han obligado a modificar sus modos operativos y a adecuar sus protocolos. En el campo de la cirugía radioguiada (CRG), la incorporación de la imagen gammagráfica preoperatoria y la detección intraoperatoria con la sonda gamma proporcionó un impulso definitivo a la biopsia del ganglio centinela (GC) para convertirse en el procedimiento estándar de aplicación en el melanoma y el cáncer de mama. Las diversas innovaciones tecnológicas y la adaptación consiguiente de protocolos confluyen en lo disruptivo y lo gradual. Como ejemplos evidentes tenemos la introducción de la tomografía por emisión de fotón único/tomografía computarizada (SPECT/TC) en el campo preoperatorio y las sondas Drop-in (Lightpoint Medical Ltd; Crystal photonics, Eurorad) en el intraoperatorio. Otros aspectos innovadores con posible aplicación en la CRG se basan en la utilización de la inteligencia artificial (IA), navegación y teleasistencia (AU)

Since its origins, nuclear medicine has faced technological changes that led to modifying operating modes and adapting protocols. In the field of radioguided surgery, the incorporation of preoperative scintigraphic imaging and intraoperative detection with the gamma probe provided a definitive boost to sentinel lymph node biopsy to become a standard procedure for melanoma and breast cancer. The various technological innovations and consequent adaptation of protocols come together in the coexistence of the disruptive and the gradual. As obvious examples we have the introduction of SPECT/CT in the preoperative field and Drop-in probes in the intraoperative field. Other innovative aspects with possible application in radio-guided surgery are based on the application of artificial intelligence, navigation and telecare (AU)

Multidisciplinary radio-guided surgery team: Alternative to change the current paradigm.

INTRODUCTION: Given the constant increase in the healthcare demand for examinations related to radio-guided surgery (RGS), our hospital adopted new professional profiles in the RGS team, in order to partially reduce the time spent by nuclear medicine physicians on this task. AIM: To analyze the process of incorporating the profiles of Diagnostic Imaging Technician (DIT) and Sentinel Node Referent Nurse (SNRN), evaluating their deployment in the procedures linked to the technique. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Analysis of RGS activity during the period 2018-2022, focusing on pre-surgical and surgical procedures related to breast cancer (BC) and malignant melanoma (MM), as they are those pathologies on which the transfer of care competencies was concentrated. Chronological evolution of the competencies assumed by the different profiles during their integration into the RGS team. RESULTS: RGS's healthcare activity during the analyzed period experienced an increase of 109%. BC and MM were the pathologies that accounted for by far the greatest demand for care. The transfer of competencies in these two pathologies occurred in a progressive and staggered manner, with 74% (460/622) of the administration phase being carried out by the SNRN and 64% (333/519) of the surgeries by the DIT in 2022. CONCLUSIONS: The creation of a multidisciplinary RGS team that includes different professional profiles (nuclear medicine physician [MN], ERGC and TSID) is an effective strategy to respond to the increase in the complexity and number of all procedures related to RGS.

Concordance between freehand SPECT and conventional scintigraphy for sentinel lymph node detection in breast cancer.

INTRODUCTION: Freehand SPECT can be a useful imaging technique for preoperative planning of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) as it allows localization of the sentinel node by 3D and real-time tomographic imaging and determines its depth after a few minutes of scanning. The aim of the study was to evaluate the correlation between the number of detected SNs between freehand SPECT images and lymphoscintigraphy (LS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: 100 patients with a diagnosis of invasive breast cancer and no clinical evidence of lymph node involvement prospectively underwent SLNB. The preoperative study included freehand SPECT imaging at 15min after injection and LS imaging at 25 and 60-90min after injection (early and late). The observed agreement was analyzed and a concordance study was performed between the number of SNs detected with freehand SPECT and LS. RESULTS: The observed agreement in the detection of SNs between freehand SPECT and early LS was 72%; between freehand SPECT and late LS was 85%; and between early and late LS was 87%. In the concordance study, there was moderate concordance between freehand SPECT and early LS (kappa coefficient: 0.42); moderate-high concordance between freehand SPECT and late LS (kappa coefficient: 0.60); and moderate-high concordance between early and late LS (kappa coefficient: 0.70), with no significant differences between them (p-value=0.16). CONCLUSION: Freehand SPECT showed a moderate-high concordance with conventional imaging studies and could be a valid alternative for the presurgical study of SLNB in breast cancer.

Reducing axillary surgery in breast cancer.

This article provides a brief account of the recent evolution of the highly controversial surgical management of the positive axilla in patients with breast cancer, an issue still open to disparate surgical procedures. This short review highlights the reports that supply the rationale for current trends in reducing the aggressiveness of this surgery and discusses the course of the trials still in progress pointing in the same direction, thus supporting the principle of not performing axillary lymph node dissection for staging purposes alone.

Continuous innovation in precision radio-guided surgery.

Since its origins, nuclear medicine has faced technological changes that led to modifying operating modes and adapting protocols. In the field of radioguided surgery, the incorporation of preoperative scintigraphic imaging and intraoperative detection with the gamma probe provided a definitive boost to sentinel lymph node biopsy to become a standard procedure for melanoma and breast cancer. The various technological innovations and consequent adaptation of protocols come together in the coexistence of the disruptive and the gradual. As obvious examples we have the introduction of SPECT/CT in the preoperative field and Drop-in probes in the intraoperative field. Other innovative aspects with possible application in radio-guided surgery are based on the application of artificial intelligence, navigation and telecare.

Validación de la técnica de ganglio centinela en cáncer de cuello uterino en el Hospital de la Mujer

Introducción: el cáncer de cuello (CC) uterino representa un problema de salud pública. En Uruguay ocupa el tercer lugar en incidencia en mujeres, provocando 133 fallecimientos anuales. La afectación ganglionar es uno de sus principales factores pronósticos y condiciona el tratamiento. El ganglio centinela (GC) en estadios precoces de cáncer cervicouterino es una técnica segura que permite una adecuada estadificación y reduce la morbilidad asociada a la linfadenectomía convencional. Objetivo: validar la utilización de la técnica de la biopsia GC en estadios precoces de CC como estándar de tratamiento para la detección de metástasis ganglionares en el Hospital de la Mujer. Material y método: se realizó un estudio prospectivo, longitudinal, de casos. Se incluyó a 30 usuarias con CC en estadios iniciales, en el período comprendido entre enero de 2018 y noviembre de 2022. La marcación se realizó con tecnecio 99m (99mTc). En el mismo acto quirúrgico se realizó la linfadenectomía pélvica sistemática. Resultados: se detectó GC de forma bilateral en 29 de 30 pacientes. Con una tasa de detección por región de 98,3%. En cinco pacientes se detectaron GC metastásicos, no encontrando ganglios no centinela positivos. Una de ellas correspondió a una micrometástasis detectada por ultraestadificación. La sensibilidad fue de 100%: IC95% (56,55 -100) con VPN 100% IC95% (86,68 - 100). Conclusiones: de acuerdo con los resultados arrojados por el estudio, el equipo interdisciplinario del Hospital de la Mujer está en condiciones de utilizar la biopsia de GC de cérvix como estándar de tratamiento en el CC uterino en estadio precoz.

Introduction: Cervical cancer (CC) is a public health problem. In Uruguay, it ranks third in incidence in women, causing 133 deaths annually. Lymph node involvement is one of its main prognostic factors and determines treatment. The sentinel lymph node (SLN) in early stages of cervical cancer is a safe technique that allows for adequate staging and reduces morbidity associated with conventional lymphadenectomy. Objective: To validate the use of the SLN biopsy technique in early stages of CC as the standard treatment for detecting lymph node metastases at the Women's Hospital. Method: A prospective, longitudinal case study was conducted. Thirty patients with early-stage cervical cancer between January 2018 and November 2022 were included in the study. The marking was done with Tc99. Systematic pelvic lymphadenectomy was performed in the same surgical procedure. Results: Sentinel lymph nodes were detected bilaterally in 29 out of 30 patients. With a detection rate per region of 98.3%, metastatic SLNs were detected in 5 patients, with no positive non-sentinel nodes found. One of them corresponded to a micrometastasis detected by ultra-staging. Sensitivity was 100% (95% CI 56.55,100) with a negative predictive value of 100% (95% CI 86.68, 100). Conclusions: According to the results of the study, the interdisciplinary team at the Women's Hospital is in a position to use cervical SLN biopsy as the standard treatment for early-stage cervical cancer.

Introdução: O câncer do colo do útero (CCU) representa um problema de saúde pública. No Uruguai, ocupa o terceiro lugar em incidência em mulheres, causando 133 mortes por ano. O acometimento dos linfonodos é um dos principais fatores prognósticos e condiciona o tratamento. O linfonodo sentinela (LS) em estágios iniciais do câncer do colo do útero é uma técnica segura que permite o estadiamento adequado e reduz a morbidade associada à linfadenectomia convencional. Objetivo: Validar o uso da técnica de biópsia por LS em estágios iniciais do CCU como tratamento padrão para a detecção de metástases linfonodais no Hospital da Mulher. Materiais e métodos: Foi realizado um estudo de caso prospectivo e longitudinal. Trinta usuárias com LS em estágio inicial foram incluídas no período de janeiro de 2018 a novembro de 2022. A marcação foi realizada com Tc99. A linfadenectomia pélvica sistemática foi realizada no mesmo ato cirúrgico. Resultados: O LS foi detectado bilateralmente em 29 das 30 usuárias, com uma taxa de detecção por região de 98,3%. Em 5 pacientes foram detectados LS metastáticos e não foram encontrados nódulos não-sentinela positivos. 1 deles correspondia a uma micrometástase detectada por ultrassonografia. A sensibilidade foi de 100% CI 95% (56,55,100) com NPV 100% CI 95% (86,68, 100). Conclusões: Com base nos resultados do estudo, a equipe interdisciplinar do Hospital da Mulher está em condições de usar a biópsia de LS cervical como padrão de tratamento no câncer cervical em estágio inicial.

Misleading images of ductal carcinoma in situ: 4 lymph nodes with metastasis / Imágenes equívocas de carcinoma ductal in situ: 4 ganglios linfáticos con metástasis

Since sentinel lymph node examination became routine, findings of benign ectopic breast tissue in lymph nodes have increased. We report images of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) in four lymph nodes in a 76-year-old woman with bilateral breast carcinoma. The right lumpectomy showed intermixed invasive lobular and ductal carcinoma, plus DCIS. 19 nodes were isolated in the axillary lymphadenectomy, 4 of which displayed solid and cribriform DCIS. Myosin and p63 immunohistochemical techniques were positive, suggesting an erroneous diagnosis of “metastatic DCIS”. A further three cases of DCIS in lymph nodes have been previously reported, all with a distinct layer of myoepithelial cells with actin, myosin or p63. Biologically, these images of DCIS in lymph nodes are not credible and three major hypotheses have been proposed to explain these findings: Iatrogenic Mechanical Transport, Revertant DCIS, and primary DCIS of lymph nodes. We consider the first one the most plausible explanation. Our case is unique as several, rare findings are simultaneously observed. More new cases, together with additional immunohistochemical techniques and molecular testing on previous cases, are needed to find a definitive explanation of this histologic finding.(AU)

A partir del uso rutinario del examen del ganglio centinela, los hallazgos de tejido mamario ectópico son frecuentes. Presentamos los hallazgos de carcinoma ductal in situ (CDIS) en 4 ganglios linfáticos en una mujer de 76 años con carcinoma de mama bilateral. La lumpectomía derecha mostró una mezcla de patrones de carcinomas ductal y lobular infiltrante, además de CDIS. De los 19 ganglios aislados, 4 mostraron patrones cribiformes y sólidos de CDIS. La miosina y la p63 fueron positivas, sugiriendo un diagnóstico erróneo de «CDIS metastático». En la literatura se han comunicado 3 casos adicionales de patrones de CDIS en ganglios linfáticos, mostrando capa periférica de células mioepiteliales positivas para actina, miosina o p63. Desde un punto de vista biológico, estos hallazgos de CDIS en ganglios linfáticos son discutibles, proponiéndose 3 hipótesis para explicarlo: transporte mecánico yatrogénico, CDIS revertido y CDIS primario de ganglio linfático. Creemos que la primera alternativa es la más plausible. Nuestro caso es único al mostrar, de modo conjunto, diversos hallazgos infrecuentes. El estudio de nuevos casos, así como la aplicación de técnicas inmunohistoquímicas y moleculares a casos de archivo, arrojarían datos que permitirían llegar a una explicación definitiva de este hallazgo histológico.(AU)

La linfogammagrafía in vivo de los tumores del seno nasal identifica el ganglio retrofaríngeo y el nivel I como ganglios centinela predominantes / In-vivo lymphoscintigraphy of sinonasal tumors identifies retropharyngeal node and level I as predominant sentinel nodes

Objetivo Evaluar mediante linfogammagrafía in vivo y con detección SPECT/TC los patrones de drenaje linfático de los tumores del seno paranasal (SPN). Confirmar o rebatir la creencia de que el ganglio linfático retrofaríngeo (GLRF) se erige en el ganglio de drenaje índice para dichos tumores. Métodos Estudio de cohorte prospectivo realizado en pacientes con tumores del SPN no tratados previamente y sin evidencia clínico-radiológica de metástasis a nivel ganglionar. La linfogammagrafía se realizó mediante la inyección peritumoral de sulfuro coloidal marcado con [99m]TcO4 y asistida por endoscopia nasal. Las inyecciones se clasificaron como anteriores o posteriores en función de una línea vertical que pasaba por el orificio del seno maxilar. Resultados Se incluyeron 17 pacientes. La linfogammagrafía identificó satisfactoriamente 17 ganglios centinelas en 15 pacientes, y no pudo evidenciarlo (fracaso de la linfogammagrafía) en 2 pacientes. Se observó que los lugares predominantes de drenaje del ganglio centinela fueron el GLRF (n=8; 47%) y el nivel I (n=7; 42%). Se identificó drenaje ocasional en el ganglio periparotídeo (n=1) y en el nivel II (n=1). Se observó drenaje linfático contralateral en 2 pacientes (en el nivel I y GLRF, respectivamente). Las inyecciones anteriores drenaron predominantemente hacia el nivel I (6/8) y a GLRF (2/8), mientras que las inyecciones posteriores drenaron predominantemente a GLRF (6/7). El riesgo relativo de que el GLRF fuera identificado como ganglio centinela fue significativamente mayor en las inyecciones administradas posteriormente respecto a las administradas anteriormente (RR: 3,43; IC 95%: 1,0-11,8; p=0,05). Conclusión El GLRF es considerado un ganglio de drenaje frecuente asociado a los tumores del seno nasal, y merece su atención rutinaria en todos los casos de tumor del seno nasal (AU)

Objective To evaluate by in vivo lymphoscintigraphy and SPECT-CT imaging, the lymphatic drainage patterns of para-nasal sinus (PNS) tumours. To confirm or refute the belief of the retropharyngeal lymph node (RPLN) being the significant draining lymph node for such tumours. Methods Prospective cohort study conducted on previously untreated PNS tumours with no clinico-radiological evidence of lymph node metastasis. Lymphoscintigraphy undertaken by nasal endoscopic assisted peritumoral injection of 99mTc sulphur colloid. Injections were classified as anterior or posterior as per a vertical line along the maxillary sinus ostium. Results Seventeen patients were included. Lymphoscintigraphy successfully identified 17 sentinel nodes in 15 patients and was unsuccessful (lymphoscintigraphy failure) in 2 patients. Predominant sites of sentinel lymphatic drainage were noted to be the RPLN (n=8; 47%) and level I (n=7; 42%). Occasional drainage was identified at the peri-parotid node (n=1) and at level II (n=1). Contralateral drainage was noted in 2 patients (level I-1 and RPLN-1). Anterior injections drained predominantly to level I (6/8) and RPLN (2/8), while posterior injections drained predominantly to the RPLN (6/7). The relative risk of RPLN being identified as the sentinel node was significantly higher for posteriorly placed injections than for anteriorly placed injections (RR: 3.43; 95% CI: 1.0-11.8; P=.05). Conclusion The RPLN is noted as a frequent draining node for sino-nasal tumours and merits routine attention in all sino-nasal tumours. The radio-colloid SPECT-CT technique described here offers an excellent in vivo technique to further explore and validate the lymphatic drainage pathways of these tumours (AU)

Misleading images of ductal carcinoma in situ: 4 lymph nodes with metastasis.

Since sentinel lymph node examination became routine, findings of benign ectopic breast tissue in lymph nodes have increased. We report images of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) in four lymph nodes in a 76-year-old woman with bilateral breast carcinoma. The right lumpectomy showed intermixed invasive lobular and ductal carcinoma, plus DCIS. 19 nodes were isolated in the axillary lymphadenectomy, 4 of which displayed solid and cribriform DCIS. Myosin and p63 immunohistochemical techniques were positive, suggesting an erroneous diagnosis of "metastatic DCIS". A further three cases of DCIS in lymph nodes have been previously reported, all with a distinct layer of myoepithelial cells with actin, myosin or p63. Biologically, these images of DCIS in lymph nodes are not credible and three major hypotheses have been proposed to explain these findings: Iatrogenic Mechanical Transport, Revertant DCIS, and primary DCIS of lymph nodes. We consider the first one the most plausible explanation. Our case is unique as several, rare findings are simultaneously observed. More new cases, together with additional immunohistochemical techniques and molecular testing on previous cases, are needed to find a definitive explanation of this histologic finding.

Contribución de la medicina nuclear en la cirugía de precisión en el cáncer de mama / Nuclear medicine contribution to precision surgery in breast cancer

La medicina nuclear ha contribuido significativamente en la cirugía de precisión en el cáncer de mama en las últimas décadas. La cirugía radioguiada (CRG) ha permitido la biopsia del ganglio centinela (GC) en la evaluación de la infiltración ganglionar regional modificando el manejo de pacientes con cáncer de mama precoz. Para la axila, el procedimiento de la biopsia del GC ha significado un decremento de complicaciones y una mejor calidad de vida en comparación con la disección de los ganglios linfáticos axilares. Originalmente, la biopsia del GC se indicó principalmente en tumores cT1-2, sin evidencia de metástasis en los ganglios linfáticos axilares. Sin embargo, en los últimos años la biopsia del GC también se está ofreciendo a pacientes con tumores grandes o multifocales, carcinoma ductal in situ, recidiva del cáncer de mama ipsilateral y a pacientes que reciben tratamiento sistémico neoadyuvante (TSN) para cirugía conservadora de mama. Paralelamente a esta evolución, varias asociaciones científicas están tratando de homogeneizar cuestiones como la elección del radiotrazador, el lugar de inyección de la mama, la estandarización de las imágenes preoperatorias y el momento de la biopsia del GC en relación con el TSN, así como el manejo de las metástasis no axilares del GC (p. ej., cadena mamaria interna). Además, la CRG se usa actualmente para lograr la extirpación de tumores de mama primarios mediante inyección intralesional de radiocoloides o mediante implantación de semillas de yodo radiactivo que también se emplean para marcar los ganglios linfáticos axilares metastásicos. Este último procedimiento contribuye a manejar la axila con ganglios positivos en combinación con la PET/TC con [18F]FDG en un esfuerzo por adaptar el tratamiento sistémico y locorregional (AU)

Nuclear medicine has significantly contributed to precision surgery in breast cancer in the past decades. Radioguided surgery (RGS) has enabled sentinel node (SN) biopsy in assessing regional nodal involvement modifying the management of patients with early breast cancer. For the axilla the SN procedure has resulted in fewer complications and better quality of life when compared with axillary lymph node dissection. Originally, SN biopsy principally concerned cT1-2 tumors without evidence of axillary lymph node metastases. However, in last years SN biopsy is also being offered to patients with large or multifocal tumors, ductal carcinoma in situ, ipsilateral breast cancer relapse, and to patients receiving neoadjuvant systemic treatment (NST) for breast sparing surgery. Parallel to this evolution various scientific associations are trying to homogenise issues such as radiotracer choice, breast injection site, preoperative imaging standardisation and SN biopsy timing in relation to NST as well as management of non-axillary SN metastasis (e.g. internal mammary chain). Additionally, RGS is currently used to accomplish primary breast tumour excision either by intralesional radiocolloid injection or by radioactive iodine seed implantation which is also employed to target metastatic axillary lymph nodes. This latter procedure contributes to manage the node-positive axilla in combination with 18F-FDG PET/CT in an effort to tailor systemic and loco regional treatment (AU)

Current management of patients with cutaneous melanoma with a positive sentinel lymph node / Tratamiento actual de pacientes con melanoma cutáneo y ganglio centinela positivo

Abstract Introduction : Immediate completion lymph node dissection (CLND) performed in patients with a positive sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) cutaneous melanoma is not associated with improved melanoma specific survival versus active surveillance (AS) using nodal ul trasound. Clinical practice experience and outcomes of AS and adjuvant therapy is now starting to be published in literature. Methods : Retrospective analysis of patients with a positive-SLNB between June/2017-February/2022. Impact of management on any-site recurrence free survival (RFS), isolated nodal recurrence (INR), distant metasta sis-free survival (DMFS) and melanoma-specific survival (MSS) was evaluated. Results : From 126 SLNB, 31 (24.6%) were positive: 24 received AS and 7 CLND. Twenty-one (68%) received ad juvant therapy (AS, 67% and CLND, 71%). With a median follow-up of 18 months, 10 patients developed recur rent disease with an estimated 2-yr RFS of 73% (CI95%, 0.55-0.86) (30% in AS group vs. 43% in dissection group; P = 0.65). Four died of melanoma with an estimated 2-yr MSS of 82% (CI 95%, 0.63-0.92) and no differences between AS and CLND groups (P = 0.21). Estimated 2-yr DMFS of the whole cohort was 76% (CI 95%, 0.57-0.88) with no differences between groups (P = 0.33). Conclusion : Active surveillance strategy has been adopted for most positive-SLNB cutaneous melanoma patients. Adjuvant therapy without immediate CLND was delivered in nearly 70% of patients. Our results align with outcomes of randomized control trials and previous real-world data.

Resumen Introducción : La linfadenectomía inmediata (LI) re alizada en pacientes con biopsia de ganglio centinela (BGC) positivo por melanoma cutáneo no está asociada a mejoría en la supervivencia libre de enfermedad vs. vigilancia activa (VA). Resultados oncológicos y experi encia en la práctica clínica con dicha conducta asociados a tratamiento adyuvante comienzan a ser publicados en la literatura. Métodos : Análisis retrospectivo incluyendo paci entes con BGC-positiva por melanoma cutáneo entre junio/2017-febrero/2022. Se evaluó impacto del manejo en: supervivencia libre de recurrencia (SLR), recurren cia ganglionar aislada (RGA), supervivencia libre de metástasis a distancia (SLMD) y supervivencia libre de enfermedad (SLE). Resultados : De 126 pacientes, 31 (24.6%) fueron positi vos: en 24 se realizó VA y en 7 LI. Veintiún pacientes (68%) recibieron tratamiento adyuvante (VA, 67% y LI, 71%). Con una media de seguimiento de 18 meses, 10 pacientes presentaron recurrencia de la enfermedad con una SLR estimada a 2 años del 73% (CI95%, 0.55-0.86) (30% en VA vs. 43% en LI; P = 0.65). Cuatro murieron de melanoma con una SLE a 2 años del 82% (CI 95%, 0.63-0.92); sin diferencia entre ambos grupos (P = 0.21). La SLMD a 2 años de toda la cohorte fue de 76% (CI 95%, 0.57-0.88; P = 0.33). Conclusión : La vigilancia activa se ha adoptado como conducta para la mayoría de los pacientes con BGC-positivo. El tratamiento adyuvante sin linfadenectomía inmediata se realizó en cerca del 70% de nuestra serie. Los resultados de nuestra serie son similares a los re portados en la literatura.

Nuclear medicine contribution to precision surgery in breast cancer.

Nuclear medicine has significantly contributed to precision surgery in breast cancer in the past decades. Radioguided surgery (RGS) has enabled sentinel node (SN) biopsy in assessing regional nodal involvement modifying the management of patients with early breast cancer. For the axilla the SN procedure has resulted in fewer complications and better quality of life when compared with axillary lymph node dissection. Originally, SN biopsy principally concerned cT 1-2 tumours without evidence of axillary lymph node metastases. However, in last years SN biopsy is also being offered to patients with large or multifocal tumours, ductal carcinoma in situ, ipsilateral breast cancer relapse, and to patients receiving neoadjuvant systemic treatment (NST) for breast sparing surgery. Parallel to this evolution various scientific associations are trying to homogenise issues such as radiotracer choice, breast injection site, preoperative imaging standardisation and SN biopsy timing in relation to NST as well as management of non-axillary SN metastasis (e.g. internal mammary chain). Additionally, RGS is currently used to accomplish primary breast tumour excision either by intralesional radiocolloid injection or by radioactive iodine seed implantation which is also employed to target metastatic axillary lymph nodes. This latter procedure contributes to manage the node-positive axilla in combination with 18F-FDG PET/CT in an effort to tailor systemic and loco regional treatment.

In-vivo lymphoscintigraphy of sinonasal tumors identifies retropharyngeal node and level I as predominant sentinel nodes.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate by in- vivo lymphoscintigraphy and SPECT-CT imaging, the lymphatic drainage patterns of para-nasal sinus(PNS) tumors. To confirm or refute the belief of the retropharyngeal lymph node (RPLN) being the significant draining lymph node for such tumors. METHODS: Prospective cohort study conducted on previously untreated PNS tumors with no clinico-radiological evidence of lymph node metastasis. Lymphoscintigraphy undertaken by nasal endoscopic assisted peritumoral injection of 99mTc Sulfur colloid. Injections were classified as anterior or posterior as per a vertical line along the maxillary sinus ostium. RESULTS: 17 patients were included. Lymphoscintigraphy successfully identified 17 sentinel nodes in 15 patients and was unsuccessful (lymphoscintigraphy failure) in 2 patients. Predominant sites of sentinel lymphatic drainage were noted to be the RPLN (n = 8; 47%), and Level I (n = 7; 42%). Occasional drainage was identified at the peri-parotid node(n = 1) and at Level II (n = 1). Contralateral drainage was noted in 2 patients (level I-1 and RPLN-1). Anterior injections drained predominantly to Level I (6/8) and RPLN (2/8), while posterior injections drained predominantly to the RPLN ( 6/7). The relative risk of RPLN being identified as the sentinel node was significantly higher for posteriorly placed injections than for anteriorly placed injections (RR- 3.43; 95% CI-1.0-11.8, p = 0.05). CONCLUSION: The RPLN is noted as a frequent draining node for sino-nasal tumours and merits routine attention in all sino-nasal tumors. The radio-colloid SPECT-CT technique described here offers an excellent in-vivo technique to further explore and validate the lymphatic drainage pathways of these tumours.

Estudio del ganglio centinela en el cáncer de mama por el método OSNA (One-Step Nucleic Acid Amplification) tras neoadyuvancia en el Hospital Universitario de Navarra / Sentinel lymph node study in breast cancer using the OSNA (one-step nucleic acid amplification) method after neoadjuvant treatment at Hospital Universitario de Navarra

Introducción: la biopsia selectiva de ganglio centinela (GC) es la técnica estándar para la estadificación axilar en el cáncer de mama. No hay consenso en el empleo del método OSNA (One-Step Nucleic Acid Amplification) para el análisis del GC en las pacientes que recibieron el tratamiento neoadyuvante (TNA). En este trabajo analizamos los resultados obtenidos con OSNA en estas pacientes para justificar su implantación en nuestro centro. Material y métodos: se seleccionaron 42 casos del grupo de 163 pacientes con CM tratadas con TNA en nuestro centro, a las que se realizó OSNA del GC, obteniéndose una media de 2,1 ganglios por paciente. Se analizó además la expresión de citoqueratina 19 (CK19), grado tumoral, fenotipo molecular y el grado de respuesta al TNA de estas pacientes. Se estudiaron los GC mediante técnica OSNA y los no centinelas por el método tradicional. Resultados: el grado tumoral fue 2-3 en el 97,6% de los casos, el fenotipo luminal A (17%), luminal B (38%), triple-negativo (26,1%) y HER2 (19%). La respuesta al TNA fue completa en el 59,5% de las pacientes y la expresión de CK19 no se vio modificada. Los ganglios estudiados fueron positivos en 9 pacientes (21,4%) en las que posteriormente se realizó una linfadenectomía y un único caso presentó ganglio no centinela afecto (2,3%). Conclusiones: el método OSNA para el estudio del GC tras el TNA es muy superior al método tradicional, ya que permite la detección intraoperatoria de grupo celular aislado y micrometástasis no detectables con los métodos tradicionales, evitando segundas intervenciones y falsos negativos al analizarse completo el GC, y demuestra que no se altera la expresión de CK19 con el TNA. (AU)

Background: Selective sentinel node (SN) biopsy is the standard technique for axillary staging in breast cancer (BC). There is no consensus on the use of OSNA (One-Step Acid Nucleic Amplification) method for SN in patients undergoing neoadjuvant treatment (NAT). We have studied the results obtained in our centre to justify the advantages of its implementation. Material and methods: 42 cases were selected from the group of 163 patients with BC treated with NAT, who underwent OSNA of the SN, obtaining a mean of 2.1 nodes per patient. We also analyzed cytokeratin 19 (CK19) expression, tumour grade, molecular phenotype and the degree of response to NAT in these patients. The SN were studied using the OSNA technique and non-sentinel nodes using the traditional method. Results: Tumour grade was 2-3 in 97.6% of cases, phenotype luminal A (17%), luminal B (38%), triple-negative (26.1%) and HER2 (19%). The response to NAT was complete in 59.5% of patients and CK19 expression was unchanged. The nodes studied were positive in 9 patients (21.4%) in whom lymphadenectomy was performed and only one case had a non-sentinel node involvement (2.3%). Conclusions: The OSNA method for the study of SN after NAT is far superior to the traditional method as it: It allows intraoperative detection of isolated cell group and micrometastases not detectable with traditional methods, avoiding second interventions. It avoids false negatives when the whole SN is analyzed. It shows that CK19 expression is not altered by NAT. (AU)

Biopsia selectiva de ganglio centinela en cáncer de mama, ¿está justificada la espera al resultado intraoperatorio? / Intraoperative sentinel node biopsy, is it worth the wait?

Objetivo: En nuestro centro, el estudio de la biopsia selectiva del ganglio centinela (BSGC) se realiza de forma intraoperatoria. El objetivo principal del presente trabajo es conocer qué proporción de pacientes se beneficia de la espera intraoperatoria al resultado de la BSGC. Material y métodos: Se ha realizado un análisis retrospectivo de pacientes intervenidas en nuestro centro entre el 1 de enero de 2018 y el 30 de junio de 2019. Se incluyeron mujeres con tumores T1-T2, tratadas mediante tumorectomía y BSGC estudiado mediante método one-step nucleic acid amplification (OSNA). Resultados: Se incluyeron 149 mujeres en el estudio. No se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en cuestión de datos demográficos entre el grupo tratado mediante linfadenectomía axilar (LA) y el grupo tratado exclusivamente con BSGC. Se realizaron 18 LA tras el análisis del GC estudiado de forma intraoperatoria. Solo en seis de los casos se extrajeron tres o más GC. La localización por cuadrante de la lesión, permeación linfovascular y carga tumoral total muestran diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los grupos. En el análisis multivariante, únicamente la carga tumoral total (TTL) se establece como variable independiente de necesidad de LA. Conclusiones: La obtención del resultado de la BSGC de forma diferida permite disminuir el tiempo de anestesia de las pacientes y tiempo de ocupación de quirófano, ya que en el momento actual no se realiza ningún procedimiento adicional en un elevado porcentaje de casos. (AU)

Introduction: In our institution, the study of selective sentinel node biopsy (SLNB) is performed intraoperatively. The main objective of our study is to know the proportion of patients who benefits from the waiting of the results of SLNB. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients operated on our center between January 1 st, 2018 and June 30, 2019 was carried out. We included women diagnosed with T1–T2 tumors, treated by lumpectomy and SLNB studied using OSNA method. Results: Our study included 149 women. There were not statistically significant differences in terms of demographic data between the group treated with axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) and exclusively SLNB group. After analysis of SLN intraoperatively, there were performed 18 axillary lymphadenectomies. Only in six of these 18 cases, three or more sentinel nodes were founded. The location of the tumor, the presence of lymphovascular permeation and the total tumor load (TTL) showed statistically significant differences between groups. Only the TTL was established as the independent factor of the need for ALND. Conclusions: Obtaining a deferred result of the SLNB allowed reducing the time of anesthesia and occupation of the operating room, since in a high percentage of cases an additional procedure is not performed. (AU)

Biopsia del ganglio centinela y disección axilar dirigida en mujeres con cáncer de mama y axila positiva en el momento del diagnóstico: caminando hacia el futuro / Sentinel node biopsy and targeted axillary dissection in women with positive axilla breast cancer at diagnosis: walking into the future

Objetivo: conocer la tasa de concordancia del ganglio marcado con semilla Magseed® con el ganglio centinela marcado mediante tecnecio, en las pacientes con enfermedad ganglionar en el momento del diagnóstico que han recibido tratamiento neoadyuvante. Pacientes y métodos: estudio descriptivo retrospectivo de 44 mujeres diagnosticadas de carcinoma de mama estadios cT1-4/cN1/cM0, que recibieron quimioterapia neoadyuvante entre enero 2016 y diciembre 2020, y que tras una reevaluación radiológica se realizaron una cirugía mamaria con ganglio centinela en el Hospital General Universitario de Alicante. En las pacientes cN1 con respuesta radiológica axilar completa, la detección del ganglio centinela se llevó a cabo mediante doble técnica, extrayéndose por lo menos 3 ganglios. Además, se realizó una disección axilar dirigida mediante semilla magnética Magseed®, para su correcta localización y escisión. Resultados: la tasa de concordancia al realizar la disección axilar dirigida fue del 93,2%. La tasa de respuesta completa tras la quimioterapia neoadyuvante fue del 45,45%. Conclusiones: la disección axilar dirigida mejora la estadificación axilar tras la quimioterapia neoadyuvante, ya que reduce la tasa de falsos negativos respecto a la biopsia selectiva del ganglio centinela de manera aislada. (AU)

Objectives:To know the concordance rate of the ganglion marked with Magseed® with the sentinel node marked by technetium, in patients with limph node disease at diagnosis, that had received neoadjuvant treatment. Patients and methods: Retrospective descriptive study of 44 women, diagnosed with stage cT1-4 / cN1 / cM0 breast carcinoma, who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy between January 2016 and December 2020, and who after radiological re-evaluation, have undergone breast surgery with sentinel node at the General University Hospital of Alicante. In cN1 patients with a complete axillary radiological response, detection of the sentinel node is performed using a double technique, removing at least 3 nodes. In addition, axillary dissection directed by Magseed® magnetic seed is performed, for its correct location and excision. Results: The concordance rate when performing targeted axillary dissection was 93.2%. The complete response rate after neoadjuvant chemotherapy was 45.45%. Conclusions: Targeted axillary dissection improves the axillary staging after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, since it improves the false negative rate with respect to sentinel lymph node biopsy in isolation. (AU)