A logarithmic model for hormone receptor-positive and breast cancer patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the predictive importance of the previously validated log(ER)*log(PgR)/Ki-67 predictive model in a larger patient population. METHODS: Patients with hormone receptor positive/HER-2 negative and clinical node positive before chemotherapy were included. Log(ER)*log(PgR)/Ki-67 values of the patients were determined, and the ideal cutoff value was calculated using a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. It was analyzed with a logistic regression model along with other clinical and pathological characteristics. RESULTS: A total of 181 patients were included in the study. The ideal cutoff value for pathological response was 0.12 (area under the curve=0.585, p=0.032). In the univariate analysis, no statistical correlation was observed between luminal subtype (p=0.294), histological type (p=0.238), clinical t-stage (p=0.927), progesterone receptor level (p=0.261), Ki-67 cutoff value (p=0.425), and pathological complete response. There was a positive relationship between numerical increase in age and residual disease. As the grade of the patients increased, the probability of residual disease decreased. Patients with log(ER)*log(PgR)/Ki-67 above 0.12 had an approximately threefold increased risk of residual disease when compared to patients with 0.12 and below (odds ratio: 3.17, 95% confidence interval: 1.48-6.75, p=0.003). When age, grade, and logarithmic formula were assessed together, the logarithmic formula maintained its statistical significance (odds ratio: 2.47, 95% confidence interval: 1.07-5.69, p=0.034). CONCLUSION: In hormone receptor-positive breast cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy, the logarithmic model has been shown in a larger patient population to be an inexpensive, easy, and rapidly applicable predictive marker that can be used to predict response.

Cáncer de mama metastásico y embarazo: reporte de caso / Metastatic breast cancer and pregnancy: a case report

Resumen ANTECEDENTES: El cáncer de mama es la segunda neoplasia maligna más común asociada con el embarazo. Su tratamiento es complejo debido a los riesgos en el feto en el contexto del tratamiento de la madre. CASO CLÍNICO: Paciente de 28 años, enviada del Hospital Naval de Chetumal, Quintana Roo, con 13.1 semanas de embarazo por fecha de la última menstruación. En la tomografía computada se advirtió la existencia de un derrame pleural del 70%, otro pericárdico y sospecha de metástasis osteoblástica a la columna torácica. En la exploración física se encontró con dinámica ventilatoria, amplexión y amplexación disminuida derecha, hipoventilación interescapular y basal derecha, con disminución a la trasmisión de voz, submatidez basal derecha y, hacia el lado izquierdo, un murmullo vesicular. Los estudios citoquímico y citológico de líquido pericárdico y pleural se reportaron positivos para malignidad. En la resonancia magnética de la columna se encontraron lesiones sugerentes de actividad tumoral en los cuerpos vertebrales T12 a L5. Debido al avanzado estado metastásico del cáncer se propuso la interrupción del embarazo con el propósito de no retrasar el tratamiento. El perfil biológico reportó: inmunofenotipo triple negativo (receptores de estrógeno y progesterona: negativo, HER2: negativo en células neoplásicas). Se le indicó tratamiento con quimioterapia sistémica (carboplatino-paclitaxel). CONCLUSIÓN: El diagnóstico de cáncer de mama durante el embarazo dificulta la detección e interpretación de las anormalidades mamarias, retrasa el diagnóstico, permite el crecimiento del tumor y se incrementa el riesgo metastásico de la enfermedad. El tratamiento oncológico adecuado y su valoración multidisciplinaria son decisivos para favorecer la supervivencia.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is the second most common malignancy associated with pregnancy. Its treatment is complex due to fetal risks in the context of treatment of the mother. CLINICAL CASE: 28-year-old patient, referred from the Naval Hospital of Chetumal, Quintana Roo, with 13.1 weeks of pregnancy by date of last menstrual period. The CT scan showed a 70% pleural effusion, another pericardial effusion and suspicion of osteoblastic metastasis to the thoracic spine. Physical examination showed ventilatory dynamics, decreased right amplexion and amplexation, interscapular and right basal hypoventilation, with decreased voice transmission, right basal submatitis and, to the left side, a vesicular murmur. Cytochemical and cytological studies of pericardial and pleural fluid were positive for malignancy. MRI of the spine showed lesions suggestive of tumor activity in the vertebral bodies T12 to L5. Due to the advanced metastatic stage of the cancer, termination of pregnancy was proposed in order not to delay treatment. The biological profile reported: triple negative immunophenotype (estrogen and progesterone receptors: negative, HER2: negative in neoplastic cells). Treatment with systemic chemotherapy (carboplatin-paclitaxel) was indicated. CONCLUSION: The diagnosis of breast cancer during pregnancy hinders the detection and interpretation of breast abnormalities, delays diagnosis, allows tumor growth and increases the metastatic risk of the disease. Adequate oncologic treatment and its multidisciplinary assessment are decisive in favoring survival.

Immunohistochemical and clinicopathologic features of estrogen receptor-negative, progesterone receptor-positive, HER-2 negative breast carcinomas

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Currently, there is an ongoing debate whether progesterone receptor positive and estrogen receptor negative breast carcinomas represent a true distinct subtype of tumor or a mere immunohistochemical artifact. In this study, we conducted an immunohistochemistry panel with the antibodies TFF1, EGFR, and CK5 to reclassify this phenotype in a luminal or basal-like subtype. METHODS: Tumors estrogen receptor -/progesterone receptor +, Her-2 - from a large population of breast cancer patients were selected to be studied. Immunohistochemistry with the antibodies TFF1, EGFR, and CK5 was performed. Tumors showing positivity for TFF1, regardless of EGFR and CK5 results, were classified as luminal-like carcinomas. Those lesions that were negative for TFF1, but were positive for EGFR and/or CK5, were classified as basal-like triple-negative carcinomas. When the three markers were negative, tumors were classified as undetermined. Clinical pathologic characteristics of patients and tumor recurrence were evaluated. RESULTS: Out of 1188 breast carcinomas investigated, 30 cases (2.5%) presented the estrogen receptor -/progesterone receptor +/HER2- phenotype. Of them, 27 tumors (90%) were classified as basal-like triple-negative carcinomas, one as luminal-like (3.3%), and two as undetermined tumors (6.7%). The mean follow-up for the study group was 27.7 (2.7 to 50) months. Out of the 26 patients, 6 had cancer recurrence: 2 local and 4 systemic recurrences. The average time for recurrence was 17 (8 to 38) months. CONCLUSION: Estrogen receptor -/progesterone receptor +/tumors exhibit aggressive behavior, similar to triple-negative tumors. An appropriate categorization of these tumors should be made to improve their therapeutic management.

Estrogen Receptor-α Correlates with Higher Fungal Cell Number in Oral Paracoccidioidomycosis in Women.

BACKGROUND: Paracoccidioidomycosis is a neglected tropical fungal infection with great predilection for adult men, indicating the participation of female hormone estrogen in preventing paracoccidioidomycosis development in women. Estrogen has an immunologic effect leading to polarization toward the Th2 immune response, which favors the disease evolution. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate estrogen and progesterone receptors in oral paracoccidioidomycosis lesions and to verify any association with tissue fungi counting in women and men. METHODS: Thirty-two cases of chronic oral paracoccidioidomycosis were included. Immunohistochemical analyses for anti-estrogen receptor-α, anti-progesterone receptor and anti-Paracoccidioides brasiliensis antibodies were performed. The differences between women and men and the relations among the immunomarkers for each gender were also evaluated. RESULTS: A significant positive correlation was observed between estrogen receptor-α and the amount of fungi in women. In addition, estrogen receptor-α was mildly expressed in the inflammatory cells of female patients, while progesterone receptor was expressed in both genders, with similar expression between women and men. Moreover, fungi counting revealed no differences between genders. CONCLUSIONS: Estrogen receptor-α was expressed only in women and showed a positive correlation with the amount of fungi in oral paracoccidioidomycosis, while progesterone receptor was observed in both genders and exhibited no correlation with estrogen receptor-α or fungi counting.

Mammographic density among indigenous women in forested areas in the state of Amapá, Brazil: a cross-sectional study / Densidade mamográfica em mulheres indígenas de áreas da floresta do estado do Amapá, Brasil: estudo transversal

ABSTRACT CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: There is no register of breast cancer cases among indigenous populations in Brazil. The objective here was to evaluate the association of clinical and demographic characteristics with mammographic density among indigenous women. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional analytical study conducted in indigenous territories in the state of Amapá, Brazil. METHODS: Women were recruited from three indigenous territories and underwent bilateral mammography and blood collection for hormonal analysis. They were interviewed with the aid of an interpreter. Mammographic density was calculated using computer assistance, and was expressed as dense or non-dense. RESULTS: A total of 137 indigenous women were included in this study, with an average age of 50.4 years, and an average age at the menarche of 12.8 years. Half (50.3%) of the 137 participants had not reached the menopause at the time of this study. The women had had an average of 8.7 children, and only two had never breastfed. The average body mass index of the population as a whole was 25.1 kg/m2. The mammographic evaluation showed that 82% of women had non-dense breasts. The clinical characteristics associated with mammographic density were age (P = 0.0001), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) (P < 0.001) and estrogen levels (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The majority of the indigenous women had non-dense breasts. Age, menopausal status and FSH and estrogen levels were associated with mammographic density.

RESUMO CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: Não há registro de casos de câncer de mama em populações indígenas no Brasil. O objetivo foi avaliar a associação de características clínicas e demográficas com a densidade mamográfica em mulheres indígenas. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Estudo transversal, analítico, realizado em territórios indígenas no estado do Amapá, Brasil. MÉTODOS: Mulheres foram recrutadas de três territórios indígenas e submetidas a mamografia bilateral e a coleta de sangue para análise hormonal. As participantes foram entrevistadas com a ajuda de um intérprete. A densidade mamográfica foi calculada com assistência de computador, e expressa como densa ou não densa. RESULTADOS: 137 mulheres foram incluídas no estudo, com média de 50,4 anos e média de idade à menarca de 12,8 anos. Metade (50,3%) das 137 participantes não havia entrado na menopausa no momento do estudo. As mulheres tinham em média 8,7 filhos, e duas nunca haviam amamentado. O índice de massa corpórea médio da população como um todo foi de 25,1 kg/m2. A análise mamográfica mostrou que 82% das mulheres tinham mamas não densas. As características clínicas associadas com a densidade mamográfica foram idade (P = 0.0001), hormônio folículo-estimulante (FSH, P < 0,001) e níveis de estrogênio (P < 0,01). CONCLUSÕES: A maioria das indígenas tinha mamas não densas. Idade, status menopausal e níveis de estrógeno e FSH foram associados com a densidade mamográfica.

Análise dos marcadores imuno-histoquímicos associados com câncer de mama em mulheres na Região das Missões, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil / Analysis of immunohistochemical markers associated with breast cancer in women in the Region of Missions, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Objetivos: Analisar a distribuição dos subtipos moleculares de câncer de mama e correlacionar esses subtipos com o perfil etário e histológico. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo observacional, descritivo e retrospectivo. Foram incluídas 110 mulheres com diagnóstico histológico de câncer de mama e análise imuno-histoquímica no período de janeiro de 2013 a dezembro de 2015. Com base nos laudos imuno-histoquímicos, foram definidos quatro subtipos moleculares: luminal A, luminal B, HER-2+ e triplo negativo. Foi realizada análise estatística para correlacionar subtipos moleculares e tipo histológico e idade. Resultados: A idade média das participantes do estudo foi de 56,9 anos (DP=15,15), apresentando pico na faixa etária acima dos 50 anos. O tipo histológico mais frequente (66,4%) foi o carcinoma ductal invasivo (CDI). Quanto à classifica- ção molecular, o luminal B foi o mais frequente, representando 43,6% dos casos. Conclusão: Com base nos marcadores moleculares, os carcinomas da mama foram classificados em quatro subtipos e não apresentaram diferença significativa em relação ao tipo histológico nem à idade.

Objectives: To analyze the molecular subtype's breast cancer distribution and correlate them with age and histological profile. Methods: An observational, descriptive and retrospective study. One hundred and ten women with histological diagnosis of breast cancer and immunohistochemistry analysis, from January 2013 to December 2015, were included. From the reports, four molecular subtypes were defined: luminal A, luminal B, HER-2+ and triple negative. Correlations between molecular subtypes and histologic type and age were evaluated statistically. Results: The average age of the participants of the investigation was 56.9 years (SD=15.15), with a peak in the age group over 50 years. The most common histological type (66.4%) was invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC). The luminal B was the most frequent molecular subtype, representing 43.6% of cases. Conclusions: Based on molecular markers, the breast carcinomas were classified into four subtypes and showed neither significant difference regarding histologic type nor age.

Suscetibilidade à prematuridade: investigação de fatores comportamentais, genéticos, médicos e sociodemográficos / Preterm birth susceptibility: investigation of behavioral, genetic, medical and sociodemographic factors

Investigar a associação entre fatores de risco genéticos, comportamentais, biológicos e médicos e a ocorrência da prematuridade.

To investigate the association between genetic, behavioral, biological and medical risk factors and the occurrence of preterm birth.

Perfil epidemiológico dos subtipos moleculares de carcinoma ductal da mama em população de pacientes em Salvador, Bahia / Epidemiological profile of molecular subtypes of breast ductal carcinoma in patients population in Salvador, Bahia

Objetivo: Avaliar o perfil dos subtipos moleculares do câncer de mama em uma população de pacientes de duas clínicas privadas de Salvador, Bahia: o Núcleo da Mama e o Núcleo de Oncologia da Bahia. Metodologia: Estudo de corte transversal que incluiu pacientes do sexo feminino com diagnóstico aná- tomo-patológico de carcinoma invasivo sem tipo especial (ductal invasor). Foram excluídas as pacientes com história de câncer prévio, exceto câncer de pele não melanoma; com dados clínicos anteriores ao tratamento sistêmico indisponíveis e sem laudo de imuno-histoquímica. Foi realizada classificação do câncer de mama com base no subtipo molecular em quatro padrões principais: luminal A, luminal B, HER2+ e triplo-negativo. Frequências e proporções foram estabelecidas para cada um dos subtipos moleculares. Outros dados clínicos e laboratoriais também foram colhidos para estabelecer o perfil da população estudada. Resultados: Foram recrutadas 59 pacientes entre dezembro de 2012 e maio de 2014, com idade média de 56,9 anos. O subtipo molecular mais comum na amostra foi o luminal B, com 35 casos (59,3%), seguido do luminal A, (11 casos; 18,6%), triplo-negativo (6 casos, 10,2%) e HER2+ (7 casos; 11,9%). Conclusões: Corroborando outros estudos realizados em população brasileira, o subtipo luminal B é o mais comum encontrado nesta amostra de pacientes de Salvador, Bahia. O achado ajuda a confirmar o padrão atípico do país em relação ao descrito na literatura internacional, com importantes implicações terapêuticas e prognósticas.

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate breast cancer molecular subtype distribution in a female population of two private centers in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil: Núcleo da Mama e o Núcleo de Oncologia da Bahia. Methodology: This is a cross-sectional study involving female patients with pathological diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma not otherwise specified (NOS). Patients with history of previous cancer except non-melanoma skin câncer; clinical data prior to systemic treatment unavailable and those without immunohistochemical report were excluded from the study. Breast cancer classification was based on four main molecular subtype patterns: luminal A, luminal B, HER2 + and triple negative. Frequencies and proportions were established for each of the molecular subtypes. Other clinical and laboratory data were also collected to determine baseline characteristics of the population studied. Results: We recruited 59 patients between December 2012 and May 2014 with an average age of 56.9 years. The most common molecular subtype of the sample was luminal B subtype, with 35 cases (59.3%), followed by luminal A (11 cases; 18.6%), triple negative (6 cases, 10.2%) and HER2+ (7 cases; 11.9%). Conclusions: Similar to other studies with Brazilian population samples, luminal B subtype is the most common in this sample of patients in Salvador, Bahia. The finding helps confirm the atypical pattern of the country in relation to that described in international literature, with important therapeutic and prognostic implications.

Frequencies of interleukin-6, GST and progesterone receptor gene polymorphisms in postmenopausal women with low bone mineral density / Frequência do polimorfismo da interleucina-6, GST, e dos receptores de progesterona em mulheres na pós-menopausa com baixa densidade mineral óssea

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by low bone mineral density (BMD). Studies have shown that some of the genetic components relating to lower BMD may be detected by polymorphisms. Our aim was to evaluate the frequencies of interleukin-6, GST and progesterone receptor gene polymorphisms in postmenopausal women with low BMD. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study, conducted in a public university in São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS : We evaluated interleukin-6 (IL-6), progesterone receptor gene (PROGINS) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) polymorphisms in 110 postmenopausal women with no previous use of hormone therapy. Tests were performed using DNA-PCR, from oral scrapings. We used Student's t-test and a logistic regression model for statistical analysis. RESULTS : Regarding IL-6 polymorphism, 58.2% of the patients were homozygotes (GG) and 41.8% had allele C (heterozygote or mutant homozygote + GC or CC). PROGINS genotype polymorphism was absent in 79% (wild homozygote or P1/P1) and present in 20.9% (heterozygote or P1/P2). Regarding GSTM1 polymorphism, the allele (1/1) was present in 72.7% of the patients and was absent in 27.3%. We found that IL-6 polymorphism had statistically significant correlations with the L2-L4 T-score (P = 0.032) and with BMD (P = 0.005). Women with IL-6 polymorphism were 2.3 times more likely to have a L2-L4 T-score of less than -1, compared with those not presenting this polymorphism. CONCLUSION: IL-6 gene polymorphism was correlated with low BMD, whereas the PROGINS and GSTM1 polymorphisms did not show any correlation. .

CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: A osteoporose é uma desordem esquelética caracterizada por baixa densidade mineral óssea. Estudos têm demonstrado que alguns componentes genéticos relacionados com a menor densidade mineral óssea podem ser detectados por polimorfismos. Nosso objetivo foi avaliar a presença do polimorfismo de genes em mulheres pós-menopáusicas com baixa densidade mineral óssea. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Estudo transversal, conduzido em universidade pública em São Paulo, Brasil. MÉTODOS: Avaliamos os polimorfismos relacionados à interleucina-6 (IL-6), o gene receptor de progesterona (PROGINS) e glutationa S-transferase (GST) em 110 mulheres na pós-menopausa sem terapia hormonal prévia. Os testes foram realizados com DNA-PCR a partir de raspados orais. Foram utilizados teste t de Student e modelo de regressão logística para análise estatística. RESULTADOS: Em relação ao polimorfismo IL-6, 58,2% dos pacientes eram homozigotos (GG) e 41,8% tinham o alelo C (heterozigoto ou homozigoto mutante + GC ou CC). Nos genótipos do polimorfismo PROGINS, 79% estavam ausentes (homozigoto selvagem ou P1/P1) e 20,9% presentes (heterozigoto ou P1/P2). No polimorfismo do GSTM1, o alelo (1/1) estava presente em 72,7% dos pacientes e ausente em 27,3%. Encontramos significância estatística entre o polimorfismo genético da IL-6 com o T-score de L2-L4 (P = 0,032) e a densidade mineral óssea (P = 0,005). As mulheres com polimorfismo da IL-6 tiveram 2,3 vezes mais chance de ter menos de -1 na L2-L4 T-score, quando comparadas às não portadoras. CONCLUSÃO: O polimorfismo do gene da IL-6 está correlacionado com baixa densidade mineral óssea, enquanto os polimorfismos GSTM1 e PROGINS não mostraram correlação. .

Avaliação imunoistoquímica dos receptores de estrogênio e progesterona no câncer de mama, pré e pós-quimioterapia neoadjuvante / Immunohistochemical evaluation of estrogen and progesterone receptors of pre and post-neoadjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a imunoexpressão dos receptores de estrogênio e progesterona em biópsias e peças cirúrgicas de pacientes com câncer de mama pré e pós-quimioterapia neoadjuvante e correlacionar suas alterações com o padrão de resposta à quimioterapia e diagnóstico de menopausa. MÉTODOS: Selecionaram-se 47 pacientes com diagnóstico histopatológico de carcinoma primário de mama localmente avançado. Para cada paciente existiam dois blocos: o espécime da biópsia e o da ressecção cirúrgica. A partir destes blocos foi avaliada a expressão dos receptores hormonais por imunoistoquímica com a técnica da streptoavidina-biotina-imunoperoxidase e anticorpos primários anti-RE e anti-RP. A análise estatística utilizou o teste paramétrico t de Student e o não-paramétrico exato de Fisher, com nível de significância de 5%. RESULTADOS: Das 47 pacientes, 30 apresentavam imunoexpressão positiva dos receptores hormonais. Observou-se redução significativa tanto nos níveis de receptor de estrogênio e progesterona quanto em sua imunoexpressão. Em 53,3% observaram-se mudanças nos níveis expressos de receptor de estrogênio, 56,6% em receptor de progesterona, 26,6% na imunoexpressão do receptor de estrogênio e 33,3% na imunoexpressão do receptor de progesterona. Não foi encontrada significância estatística ao correlacionar-se a influência da resposta à quimioterapia e do diagnóstico de menopausa nas pacientes com a variação na expressão dos receptores hormonais. CONCLUSÃO: A quimioterapia neoadjuvante alterou significativamente a imunoexpressão dos receptores hormonais nas pacientes da amostra, reduzindo sua positividade nas células tumorais.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the immunoexpression of estrogen and progesterone receptors in biopsies and surgical specimens of patients with breast cancer before and after neoadjuvant chemotherapy and to correlate their changes with the pattern of response to chemotherapy and diagnosis of menopause. METHODS: We selected 47 patients with histological diagnosis of locally advanced primary breast carcinoma. For each patient there were two blocks: the biopsy specimen and surgical resection one. From these blocks hormone receptor expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry using the technique of streptoavidin-biotin-immunoperoxidase and anti-ER and anti-PR primary antibodies. The statistical analysis used the Student's t test and the nonparametric Fisher's exact test, with significance level of 5%. RESULTS: Of the 47 patients, 30 showed positive immunostaining for hormone receptors. There was significant reduction in the levels of both estrogen and progesterone receptors and in their immunoreactivity. In 53.3% we observed changes in levels of estrogen receptor expression, 56.6% in the progesterone receptor, 26.6% in the immunoexpression of estrogen receptor immunoreactivity and 33.3% in the immunoreactivity of the progesterone receptor. There was no statistical correlation between the influence of the response to chemotherapy and the diagnosis of menopause in women with variation in the expression of hormone receptors. CONCLUSION: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy has significantly altered hormone receptor immunoreactivity in patients in the sample, reducing its positivity in tumor cells.

Polimorfismo do receptor de progesterona como fator de risco para o parto prematuro / The progesterone receptor gene polymorphism as factor of risk for the preterm delivery

OBJETIVO: investigar a associação entre o polimorfismo do gene do receptor da progesterona (PROGINS) e o risco de parto prematuro. MÉTODOS: estudo caso-controle, para o qual foram selecionadas 57 pacientes com antecedente de parto prematuro (Grupo Caso) e 57 pacientes com parto a termo na gravidez atual e sem antecedentes de parto prematuro (Grupo Controle). Foi realizada a coleta de 10 mL de sangue por venopunção de veia periférica para extração de DNA. As genotipagens foram feitas por reação em cadeia de polimerase (PCR) nas condições de ciclagem específicas para o polimorfismo em estudo seguida de eletroforese em gel de agarose a 2 por cento. Foram determinados três genótipos: selvagem (T1/T1), heterozigoto (T1/T2) e mutado (T2/T2). As frequências genotípicas e alélicas dos dois grupos foram comparadas pelo teste do χ² adotando-se, com o nível de significância, valor p<0,05. Calculou-se ainda o Odds Ratio (OR, razão de chances) com intervalos de confiança de 95 por cento (IC95 por cento). RESULTADOS: as frequências genotípicas do alelo selvagem (T1) e alelo mutante (T2) encontradas para o polimorfismo PROGINS foram de 75,4 por cento T1/T1, 22,8 por cento T1/T2 e 1,8 por cento T2/T2 no Grupo com parto pré-termo e 80,7 por cento T1/T, 19,3 por cento T1/T2 e 0 por cento T2/T2 no Grupo com parto a termo. Não houve diferenças entre os grupos, analisando-se as frequências genotípicas e alélicas: p=0,4 (OR=0,7) e p=0,4 (OR=0,7). CONCLUSÕES: o presente estudo sugere que a presença do polimorfismo PROGINS em nossa população não está associado ao risco de parto prematuro.

PURPOSE: to investigate the association between gene polymorphism of the progesterone receptor (PROGINS) and the risk of premature birth. METHODS: In this case-control study, 57 women with previous premature delivery (Case Group) and 57 patients with delivery at term in the current pregnancy and no history of preterm delivery (Control Group) were selected. A 10 mL amount of peripheral blood was collected by venipuncture and genomic DNA was extracted followed by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) under specific conditions for this polymorphism and 2 percent agarose gel electrophoresis. The bands were visualized with an ultraviolet light transilluminator. Genotype and allele PROGINS frequencies were compared between the two groups by the χ2 test, with the level of significance set at value p<0.05. The Odds Ratio (OR) was also used, with 95 percent confidence intervals. RESULTS: PROGINS genotypic frequencies were 75.4 percent T1/T1, 22.8 percent T1/T2 and 1.8 percent T2/T2 in the Group with Preterm Delivery and 80.7 percent T1/T1, 19.3 percent T1/T2 and 0 percent T2/T2 in the term Delivery Group. There were no differences between groups when genotype and allele frequencies were analyzed: p=0.4 (OR=0.7) and p=0.4 (OR=0.7). CONCLUSIONS: the present study suggests that the presence of PROGINS polymorphism in our population does not constitute a risk factor for premature birth.

Estrogen and progesterone receptor testing in breast carcinoma: concordance of results between local and reference laboratories in Brazil / Teste de receptores de estrógeno e progesterona em carcinoma de mama: concordância dos resultados entre laboratórios locais e de referência no Brasil

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Breast cancer accounts for approximately one quarter of all cancers in females. Estrogen and progesterone receptor testing has become an essential part of the clinical evaluation of breast carcinoma patients, and accurate results are critical in identifying patients who may benefit from hormone therapy. The present study had the aim of investigating the concordance of the results from hormone receptor tests between a reference laboratory and local (or community) laboratories in Brazil. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective study at a reference pathology laboratory. METHODS: The concordance in the results from hormone receptor tests between a reference laboratory and 146 local laboratories in Brazil was compared in relation to 500 invasive breast carcinoma cases, using immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: There was concordance in 89.4 percent (447/500 cases) and 85.0 percent (425/500 cases) of the results from estrogen (κ = 0.744, P < 0.001) and progesterone (κ = 0.688, P < 0.001) receptor tests, respectively, between local and reference laboratories. This was similar to findings in other countries. The false negative rates from estrogen and progesterone receptor tests in local laboratories were 8.7 percent and 14.4 percent, respectively. The false positive rates from estrogen and progesterone receptor tests in local laboratories were 15.5 percent and 16.0 percent, respectively. CONCLUSION: Technical and result interpretation issues may explain most of the discordances in hormone receptor testing in local laboratories. Validation of estrogen and progesterone receptor tests at local laboratories, with rigorous quality control measures, is strongly recommended in order to avoid erroneous treatment of breast cancer patients.

CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: O carcinoma de mama é responsável por cerca de um quarto de todos os cânceres em mulheres. O teste de receptores de estrógeno e progesterona se tornou parte essencial da avaliação clínica de pacientes com carcinoma de mama; assim, resultados precisos são fundamentais para identificação de pacientes que podem se beneficiar da terapia hormonal. O presente estudo tem por objetivo investigar a concordância nos resultados do teste de receptores hormonais entre um laboratório referência e laboratórios locais (ou comunitários) do Brasil. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Estudo retrospectivo em laboratório referência em patologia no Brasil. MÉTODOS: A concordância nos resultados dos testes de receptores hormonais entre um laboratório referência e 146 diferentes laboratórios locais brasileiros foi comparada em 500 casos de carcinoma invasivo de mama através da imunoistoquímica. RESULTADOS: Houve concordância de 89,4 por cento (447/500 casos) e 85,0 por cento (425/500 casos) nos resultados dos testes de receptores de estrógeno (κ = 0,744, P < 0,001) e progesterona (κ = 0,688, P < 0,001), respectivamente, entre laboratórios locais e referência, similar à descrita em outros países. A taxa de resultados falso-negativos nos testes de receptores de estrógeno e progesterona em laboratórios locais foi de 8,7 por cento e 14,4 por cento, respectivamente. A taxa de resultados falso-positivos nos testes de receptores de estrógeno e progesterona em laboratórios locais foi de 15,5 por cento e 16,0 por cento, respectivamente. CONCLUSÃO: Questões técnicas e de interpretação dos resultados podem explicar a maior parte das discordâncias nos testes de receptores hormonais em laboratórios locais. A validação dos testes de receptores de estrógeno e progesterona pelos laboratórios locais com medidas de controle de qualidade rigorosas é fortemente recomendada de modo a evitar o tratamento errôneo de pacientes com carcinoma de mama.

Expresión tumoral de HER-2, receptores de estrógenos y de progesterona y su relación con características clínico-patológicas en pacientes uruguayas con cáncer de mama / Tumor expression of HER-2, estrogen and progesterone receptors and their relationship with clinical-pathological characteristics in Uruguayan patients with breast cancer

Introducción: el cáncer de mama (CM), principal causa de muerte por cáncer en la mujer uruguaya, constituye una enfermedad heterogénea. El estudio de la expresión tumoral del receptor del factor de crecimiento epidérmico-2 (HER2), el receptor de estrógenos (RE) y el receptor de progesterona (RP) permite reconocer subtipos con diferentes características clínico-patológicas y evolutivas. Objetivos: conocer el perfil de expresión tumoral de HER2, RE y RP y su relación con características clínico-patológicas en pacientes uruguayas con CM. Material y método: se revisaron las historias clínicas de pacientes intervenidas quirúrgicamente por CM invasivo en un período de dos años, seleccionándose las que contaban con la determinación de RE, RP y HER2 mediante inmunohistoquímica. Se comparó el perfil de expresión de estos marcadores con la edad al diagnóstico, tipo y grado histológico (GH) y estadio patológico (TNM). Resultados: se seleccionaron 197 pacientes cuyas características fueron edad media: 55 años, carcinoma ductal: 85%, GH 1-2: 59%, estadio: I-II: 75%, metástasis axilares: 51%, RE/RP+: 78%, HER2+: 10%. Se definieron tres subtipos: HER2- RE/RP+ (73%), HER2+ (10%) y triple negativo (TN) (17%). Los subtipos TN y HER2+ se asociaron con mayor grado histológico (p<0,05) y el TN con menor edad al diagnóstico (p<0,05) que el subtipo HER2-, RE/RP+. Conclusiones: el porcentaje de pacientes con CM invasivo subtipo HER2+ (10%) es menor que el reportado por otros estudios (17%-28%). En concordancia con estudios previos, los subtipos TN y HER2+ se correlacionaron con tumores más indiferenciados y el TN se presentó en pacientes más jóvenes

Summary Introduction: breast cancer, the main cause of death of Uruguayan women, is an heterogeneous disease. Study of the tumoral expression of the Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor-2 (HER2), the estrogen receptor and the progesterone receptor enables the recognition of sub-types with different clinical, and pathological characteristics and evolution. Objectives: to learn about the HER2, estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor tumoral expression profile and their relationship with clinical-pathological characteristics in Uruguayan patients with breast cancer. Method: we reviewed the medical record of patients who underwent surgery for invasive breast cancer within a two year period, and we selected those who had determination of estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor and HER2 through immune-histochemestry. We compared the expression profile of these markers with the age at the time of diagnosis, the histological type and degree and the pathological status. Results: we selected 197 patients with the following characteristics: average age: 55 years old, ductal carcinoma: 85%, histological degree 1-2: 59%; stage I-II: 75%, axillary metastasis: 51%, progesterone receptor/estrogen receptors+ (RE/RP+): 78%, HER2+: 10%. Three subtypes were defined: HER2- RE/RP+ (73%), HER2+ (10%) and triple negative (TN) (17%). Subtypes TN and HER2+ were associated with a greater histological degree (GH) (p<0,05) and the TN with lower age at the time of diagnosis than the HER2-, RE/RP+ subtype. Conclusions: the percentage of patients with HER2+ subtype invasive breast cancer (10%) is lower than the one reported in others studies. In accordance with previous studies, TN and HER2+ subtypes correlated with less differentiated tumors and TN subtype occurred in younger patients

Résumé Introduction: le cancer de sein (CS), principal responsable de mort par cancer des uruguayennes, est une maladie hétérogène. L’étude de l’expression tumorale du récepteur du facteur de croissance épidermique 2 (HER-2), le récepteur d’oestrogène (RE) et le récepteur de progestérone (RP) permet de reconnaître des sous-types à caractéristiques cliniques pathologiques et évolutives variées. Objectif: connaître le profil de expression tumorale de HER-2, RE et RP et leur lien avec des données cliniques pathologiques chez des patientes uruguayennes atteintes de cancer de sein. Matériel et méthode: on fait la révision clinique des patientes atteintes de CS ayant subi une intervention chirurgicale pour une période de deux ans, choisissant celles portant la détermination de HER-2, RP et RE par immunohistochimie. On compare le profil de manifestation de ces marqueurs à l’âge au diagnostic, type et degré histologique (GH) et stade pathologique (TNM). Résultats: 197 patientes furent sélectionnées dont voici les caractéristiques: 55 ans (moyenne), 85% carcinome ductal, 59% GH 1-2; 75% stade I- II; 51% métastase axillaire; 78% RE-RP +; 10% HER2+; trois sous-types furent définis: HER2- RE/RP+ (73%), HER2+ (10%) et triple négatif (TN) (17%). Les sous-types TN et HER2+ furent associés à un degré histologique plus grand (p<0,05) et le TN à un âge plus bas au diagnostic (p<0,05) que le sous-type HER2-, RE/RP+. Conclusions: le pourcentage de patientes avec CM invasif sous-type HER2+ (10%) est inférieur à celui reporté par d’autres études (17%-28%). En concordance avec des études préalables, les sous-types TN y HER2+ ont été mis en relation avec des tumeurs plus indifférenciées et le TN a été présent chez des patientes plus jeunes.

Resumo Introdução: o câncer de mama (CM), principal causa de morte por câncer em mulheres uruguaias, é uma doença heterogênea. O estudo da expressão tumoral do receptor do fator de crescimento epidérmico-2 (HER2), do receptor de estrógeno (RE) e do receptor de progesterona (RP) permite reconhecer subtipos com diferentes características clínico-patológicas e de evolução. Objetivos: conhecer o perfil de expressão tumoral de HER2, RE e RP e sua relação com as características clínico-patológicas em pacientes uruguaias com CM. Material e método: os prontuários de pacientes submetidas a cirurgia por CM invasivo em um período de dois anos foram revisados. Foram selecionadas as que incluíam a determinação de RE, RP e HER2 por imuno-histoquímica. O perfil de expressão destes marcadores foi comparado com a idade no momento do diagnóstico, tipo e grau histológico (GH) e estádio patológico (TNM). Resultados: foram selecionadas 197 pacientes cujas características eram idade media: 55 anos, carcinoma ductal: 85%, GH 1-2: 59%, estádio: I-II: 75%, metástases axilares: 51%, RE/RP+: 78%, HER2+: 10%. Foram definidos três subtipos: HER2- RE/RP+ (73%), HER2+ (10%) e triplo negativo (TN) (17%). Os subtipos TN e HER2+ estavam associados a um maior grau histológico (p<0,05) e o TN com menor idade no momento do diagnóstico (p<0,05) que o subtipo HER2-, RE/RP+. Conclusões: a porcentagem de pacientes com CM invasivo subtipo HER2+ (10%) é menor que o informado por outros estudos (17%-28%). No entanto houve concordância com estudos anteriores nos quais os subtipos TN e HER2+ estavam correlacionados com tumores mais indiferenciados e o TN em pacientes más jovens.

Pólipos endometriais: aspectos clínicos, epidemiológicos e pesquisa de polimorfismos / Endometrial polyps: clinical and epidemiological aspects and analysis of polymorphisms

OBJETIVO: avaliar as variáveis clínicas e epidemiológicas de risco para câncer de endométrio em mulheres com pólipos endometriais na pós-menopausa, bem como a presença do polimorfismo do receptor da progesterona (PROGINS). MÉTODOS: estudo caso-controle desenhado com 160 mulheres na pós-menopausa com pólipos endometriais, comparado a Grupo Controle de 400 mulheres na pós-menopausa. A genotipagem do polimorfismo PROGINS foi determinada pala reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR). Aspectos clínicos e epidemiológicos foram comparados entre as mulheres com pólipos endometriais benignos e 118 dos controles normais. Estas variáveis foram também comparadas entre mulheres com pólipos benignos e pólipos malignos. RESULTADOS: a comparação entre o grupo de pólipos benignos e o Grupo Controle mostrou diferença significativa (p<0,05) para as varáveis: idade, raça não-branca, anos da menopausa, paridade, hipertensão arterial, uso de tamoxifeno e antecedente de câncer de mama, todas mais prevalentes no grupo de pólipos endometriais. Após o ajuste para a idade, permaneceram com diferença significativa a paridade (OR=1,1), hipertensão arterial (OR=2,2) e o antecedente de câncer de mama (OR=14,4). Houve seis casos de pólipos malignos (3,7 por cento). A frequência de sangramento para pólipos benignos e malignos foi de 23,4 e 100 por cento, respectivamente, sendo o pólipo grande encontrado em 54,5 por cento dos casos benignos e em 100 por cento dos malignos. A frequência de hipertensão arterial foi de 54,5 por cento para pólipos benignos e 83,3 por cento para pólipos malignos. As frequências do polimorfismo PROGINS T1/T1, T1/T2 e T2/T2 foram 79,9 por cento, 19,5 por cento e 0,6 por cento respectivamente para pólipos benignos e 78,8 por cento, 20,8 por cento e 0,5 por cento para o Grupo Controle. CONCLUSÕES: os pólipos endometriais se mostraram mais frequentes em mulheres de idade avançada, hipertensas e com antecedente de câncer de mama. A presença do polimorfismo PROGINS não mostrou associação significativa com pólipos endometriais. A incidência de pólipos malignos foi baixa, estando fortemente associada à presença de sangramento, tamanho grande do pólipo e hipertensão arterial.

PURPOSE: to evaluate the clinical and epidemiological risk factors for endometrial cancer in postmenopausal women with endometrial polyps, as well as the genetic polymorphism of the progesterone receptor (PROGINS). METHODS: a case-control study was designed with 160 postmenopausal women with endometrial polyps, compared to a normal Control Group of 400 postmenopausal women. The genotyping of PROGINS polymorphism was determined by the polymerase chain reaction. Clinical and epidemiological data were compared between benign endometrial polyps and 118 of the control subjects. Variables were also compared with regard to benign and malignant endometrial polyps. RESULTS: comparison of the epidemiological variables between groups showed a significant difference for age, ethnicity, time since menopause, parity, tamoxifen use, hypertension and breast cancer, all of them more prevalent in the polyp group. After adjustment for age, statistical significance remained only for parity (OR=1.1), hypertension (OR=2.2) and breast cancer (OR=14.4). There were six cases of malignant polyps (3.7 percent). The frequency of bleeding was 23.4 percent for benign polyps and 100 percent for malignant polyps, with large polyps being detected in 54.6 percent of the benign cases and in 100 of the malignnat ones. The frequency of arterial hypertension was 54.5 percent for benign polyps and 83.3 percent for the malignant ones. The frequency of PROGINS T1/T1, T1/T2 and T2/T2 polymorphism was 79.9 percent, 19.5 percent and 0.6 percent, respectively, for the polyp group, and 78.8 percent, 20.8 percent and 0.5 percent for the Control Group. CONCLUSIONS: elderly age, hypertension, and breast cancer were significantly associated with endometrial polyps. The presence of PROGINS polymorphism was not significantly associated with endometrial polyps. The incidence of malignant polyps was low and strongly associated with bleeding, large-sized polyp and arterial hypertension.

Immunohistochemical study of androgen, estrogen and progesterone receptors in salivary gland tumors

The aim of this work was to study the immunohistochemical expression of androgen receptor, estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor in pleomorphic adenomas, Warthin's tumors, mucoepidermoid carcinomas and adenoid cystic carcinomas of salivary glands. A total of 41 pleomorphic adenomas, 30 Warthin's tumors, 30 mucoepidermoid carcinomas and 30 adenoid cystic carcinomas were analyzed, and the immunohistochemical expression of these hormone receptors were assessed. It was observed that all cases were negative for estrogen and progesterone receptors. Androgen receptor was positive in 2 cases each of pleomorphic adenoma, mucoepidermoid carcinoma and adenoid cystic carcinoma. In conclusion, the results do not support a role of estrogen and progesterone in the tumorigenesis of pleomorphic adenomas, Warthin's tumors, mucoepidermoid carcinomas and adenoid cystic carcinomas. However, androgen receptors can play a role in a small set of salivary gland tumors, and this would deserve further studies.

Expressão da proteína erbB-2 e dos receptores de hormônios na transição das regiões in situ para invasora de tumores da mama / ErbB-2 expression and hormone receptor status in areas of transition from in situ to invasive ductal breast carcinoma

OBJETIVOS: avaliar a expressão de erbB-2 e dos receptores hormonais para estrógeno e progesterona (RE/RP) nas regiões de transição entre as frações in situ e invasoras de neoplasias ductais da mama (CDIS e CDI, respectivamente). MÉTODOS: oitenta e cinco casos de neoplasias mamárias, contendo regiões contíguas de CDIS e CDI, foram selecionados. Espécimes histológicos das áreas de CDIS e de CDI foram obtidos através da técnica de tissue microarray (TMA). As expressões da erbB-2 e dos RE/RP foram avaliadas por meio de imunoistoquímica convencional. A comparação da expressão da erbB-2 e dos RE/RP nas frações in situ e invasoras da mama foi realizada com emprego do teste de McNemar. Os intervalos de confiança foram determinados em 5 por cento (p=0,05). Foram calculados coeficientes de correlação intraclasse (ICC) para avaliar a concordância na tabulação cruzada da expressão de erbB-2 e RE/RP nas frações de CDIS e CDI. RESULTADOS: a expressão da erbB-2 não diferiu entre as áreas de CDIS e CDI (p=0,38). Comparando caso a caso suas áreas de CDIS e CDI, houve boa concordância na expressão da erbB-2 (coeficiente de correlação intraclasse, ICC=0,64), dos RP (ICC = 0,71) e dos RE (ICC = 0,64). Considerando apenas tumores cujo componente in situ apresentasse áreas de necrose (comedo), o ICC para erbB-2 foi de 0,4, comparado a 0,6 no conjunto completo de casos. Os ICC não diferiram substancialmente daqueles obtidos com o conjunto completo de espécimes em relação aos RE/RP: para RE, ICC=0,7 (versus 0,7 no conjunto completo), e para RP, ICC=0,7 (versus 0,6 no conjunto completo). CONCLUSÕES: nossos achados sugerem que as expressões de erbB-2 e RE/RP não diferem nos componentes contíguos in situ e invasivo em tumores ductais da mama.

PURPOSE: to evaluate the expression of erbB-2 and of the estrogen and progesterone (ER/P) hormonal receptors in the transition regions between the in situ and the invasive fractions of ductal breast neoplasia (ISDC and IDC, respectively). METHODS: Eighty-five cases of breast neoplasia, containing contiguous ISDC and IDC areas, were selected. Histological specimens from the ISDC and the IDC areas were obtained through the tissue microarray (TMA) technique. The erbB-2 and the ER/PR expressions were evaluated through conventional immunohistochemistry. The McNemar's test was used for the comparative analysis of the expressions of erbB-2 protein and the ER/PR in the in situ and invasive regions of the tumors. The confidence intervals were set to 5 percent (p=0.05). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated to assess the cross-tabulation agreement of the erbB-2 and the ER/PR expression in the ISDC and the IDC areas. RESULTS: the erbB-2 expression has not differed between the ISDC and the IDC areas (p=0.38). Comparing the two areas in each case, there was agreement in the expression of erbB-2 (ICC=0.64), PR (ICC=0.71) and ER (ICC=0.64). Restricting the analysis to tumors with the in situ component harboring necrosis (comedo), the ICC for erbB-2 was 0.4, compared to 0.6 for the whole sample. In this select group, the ICC for PR/ER did not differ substantially from those obtained with the complete dataset: as for the ER, ICC=0.7 (versus 0.7 for the entire sample) and for PR, ICC=0.7 (versus 0.6 for the entire sample). CONCLUSIONS: our findings suggest that the erbB-2 and the ER/PR expressions do not differ in the contiguous in situ and invasive components of breast ductal tumors.

Expression of estrogen and progesterone receptor genes in endometrium, myometrium and vagina of postmenopausal women treated with estriol / Expresión de los genes receptores de estrógeno y progesterona en el endometrio, miometrio y vagina en mujeres posmenopáusicas tratadas con estriol

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Estriol is an estrogen with considerably weaker stimulatory effects on endometrial proliferation than estradiol. A study was conducted to determine the level of estrogen receptors (ERs) and progesterone receptors (PRs) in women who received 14-day vaginal estriol therapy, compared with those who did not receive this therapy. ER and PR gene expression was analyzed in the endometrium, myometrium and vagina of postmenopausal women treated with estriol. DESIGN AND SETTING: Analytical cross-sectional study, at the Research Institute of the Polish Mothers' Memorial Hospital, Lodz, Poland. METHODS: Twenty-seven postmenopausal women (57-74 years of age) were included in the study. All of them were waiting for per vaginam hysterectomy or plastic surgery on the vagina and perineum because of uterine prolapse. ER and PR gene expression was determined by means of the technique of reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RESULTS: In the estriol-treated patients, in comparison with the control group, a significant increase in ER gene expression was observed in the endometrium and vagina, while enhanced PR gene expression was found in the endometrium. However, under histological examination of the endometrium, estrogen stimulation of low and medium degree was diagnosed for 21.4 percent and 14.3 percent of the estriol-treated women, respectively. CONCLUSION: The results obtained suggest that the women who received 14 days of treatment with vaginal estriol had higher ER and PR mRNA levels. No difference between these groups regarding endometrial proliferation was observed.

CONTEXTO Y OBJETIVO: El estriol es un estrógeno con un efecto estimulatorio bastante más débil sobre la proliferación endometrial que el estradiol. Se realizó un estudio para determinar los efectos de una terapia vaginal de 14 días con estriol, sobre el nivel de receptores de estrógeno (ER) y receptores de progesterona (PR), comparado con mujeres sin esa terapia. La expresión de los genes de ER y PR se analizó en el endometrio, miometrio y vagina de mujeres posmenopáusicas tratadas con estriol. DISEÑO Y UBICACIÓN: Estudio Transversal analítico, en el Instituto de Investigación del Hospital de la Madre Polaca en Lodz, Polonia. MÉTODOS: Se incluyeron veintisiete mujeres posmenopáusicas (de 57 a 74 años) en el estudio. Todas ellas estaban en espera de una histerectomía per vaginam o de cirugía plástica de la vagina y del perineo debido a un prolapso del útero. La expresión de genes de los receptores ER y PR se estableció por la técnica de RT-PCR. RESULTS: En las pacientes tratadas con estriol en comparación con el grupo de control, se observó un aumento significativo de la expresión del gen de ER en el endometrio y la vagina, mientras que un aumento de la expresión del gen de PR se encontró en el endometrio. De todas formas, en el examen histológico del endometrio, se diagnosticó estimulación estrogénica de bajo y medio grado en el 21.4 por ciento y en el 14.3 por ciento de las mujeres tratadas con estriol, respectivamente. CONCLUSIONES: Los resultados obtenidos sugieren que un tratamiento de 14 días con estriol en pacientes, aunque aumentan el nivel de ER y de PR mRNA, tiene muy poco o ningún efecto sobre la proliferación endometrial.