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12 pages, 955 KiB  
Article
Single-Center Preliminary Experience Treating Endometrial Cancer Patients with Fiducial Markers
by Francesca Titone, Eugenia Moretti, Alice Poli, Marika Guernieri, Sarah Bassi, Claudio Foti, Martina Arcieri, Gianluca Vullo, Giuseppe Facondo, Marco Trovò, Pantaleo Greco, Gabriella Macchia, Giuseppe Vizzielli and Stefano Restaino
Life 2025, 15(8), 1218; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15081218 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 186
Abstract
Purpose: To present the findings of our preliminary experience using daily image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) supported by implanted fiducial markers (FMs) in the radiotherapy of the vaginal cuff, in a cohort of post-surgery endometrial cancer patients. Methods: Patients with vaginal cuff cancer [...] Read more.
Purpose: To present the findings of our preliminary experience using daily image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) supported by implanted fiducial markers (FMs) in the radiotherapy of the vaginal cuff, in a cohort of post-surgery endometrial cancer patients. Methods: Patients with vaginal cuff cancer requiring adjuvant radiation with external beams were enrolled. Five patients underwent radiation therapy targeting the pelvic disease and positive lymph nodes, with doses of 50.4 Gy in twenty-eight fractions and a subsequent stereotactic boost on the vaginal vault at a dose of 5 Gy in a single fraction. One patient was administered 30 Gy in five fractions to the vaginal vault. These patients underwent external beam RT following the implantation of three 0.40 × 10 mm gold fiducial markers (FMs). Our IGRT strategy involved real-time 2D kV image-based monitoring of the fiducial markers during the treatment delivery as a surrogate of the vaginal cuff. To explore the potential role of FMs throughout the treatment process, we analyzed cine movies of the 2D kV-triggered images during delivery, as well as the image registration between pre- and post-treatment CBCT scans and the planning CT (pCT). Each CBCT used to trigger fraction delivery was segmented to define the rectum, bladder, and vaginal cuff. We calculated a standard metric to assess the similarity among the images (Dice index). Results: All the patients completed radiotherapy and experienced good tolerance without any reported acute or long-term toxicity. We did not observe any loss of FMs during or before treatment. A total of twenty CBCTs were analyzed across ten fractions. The observed trend showed a relatively emptier bladder compared to the simulation phase, with the bladder filling during the delivery. This resulted in a final median Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) of 0.90, indicating strong performance. The rectum reproducibility revealed greater variability, negatively affecting the quality of the delivery. Only in two patients, FMs showed intrafractional shift > 5 mm, probably associated with considerable rectal volume changes. Target coverage was preserved due to a safe CTV-to-PTV margin (10 mm). Conclusions: In our preliminary study, CBCT in combination with the use of fiducial markers to guide the delivery proved to be a feasible method for IGRT both before and during the treatment of post-operative gynecological cancer. In particular, this approach seems to be promising in selected patients to facilitate the use of SBRT instead of BRT (brachytherapy), thanks to margin reduction and adaptive strategies to optimize dose delivery while minimizing toxicity. A larger sample of patients is needed to confirm our results. Full article
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14 pages, 830 KiB  
Article
Metastatic Patterns of Apical Lymph Node and Prognostic Analysis in Rectal and Sigmoid Colon Cancer—A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study of 2809 Cases
by Mingguang Zhang, Fuqiang Zhao, Aiwen Wu, Xiaohui Du, Lei Zhou, Shiwen Mei, Fangze Wei, Shidong Hu, Xinzhi Liu, Hua Yang, Lai Xu, Yi Xiao, Xishan Wang, Qian Liu and on behalf of the Chinese Apical Lymph Node Study Consortium
Cancers 2025, 17(14), 2389; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17142389 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 361
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The metastatic patterns of apical lymph node (ALN) in rectal and sigmoid colon cancer are currently unclear, and there is no consensus on the indications for dissection of ALN. This study aimed to analyze the impact of ALN metastasis on prognosis, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The metastatic patterns of apical lymph node (ALN) in rectal and sigmoid colon cancer are currently unclear, and there is no consensus on the indications for dissection of ALN. This study aimed to analyze the impact of ALN metastasis on prognosis, determine the metastatic patterns of ALN and provide evidence for indications of ALN dissection in rectal and sigmoid colon cancer. Methods: In this multicenter, retrospective cohort study, patients from five centers with stage I-III rectal or sigmoid colon cancer who underwent laparoscopic radical surgery with ALN dissection without neoadjuvant treatment from January 2015 to December 2019 were enrolled. Results: Among 2809 patients, the positive rate of ALN was 1.9%. The 5-year overall survival and cancer-specific survival rate for patients with metastatic ALN were 37.5% and 41.0%, respectively. ALN metastasis was the independent risk factor for poor prognosis. Tumor size ≥5 cm (OR = 2.32, 95% CI: 1.30–4.13, p = 0.004), signet ring cell cancer/mucinous adenocarcinoma (vs. poor differentiated adenocarcinoma, OR = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.08–0.45, p < 0.001; vs. moderate to well differentiated adenocarcinoma, OR = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.11–0.42, p < 0.001), T4 stage (OR = 1.93, 95% CI: 1.05–3.55, p = 0.034), N2 stage (OR = 8.86, 95% CI: 4.45–17.65, p < 0.001) and radiologic evidence of extramural venous invasion (OR = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.03–3.42, p = 0.040) were independent risk factors for ALN metastasis. The nomogram model developed by these factors achieved a good predictive performance. Conclusions: This research offered insights into the incidence, risk factors, and prognostic significance of apical lymph node metastasis in cases of rectal and sigmoid colon cancer. Additionally, the study furnished empirical support for the criteria guiding ALN dissection. Furthermore, a pragmatic risk assessment model was developed to predict ALN metastasis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Metastasis)
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18 pages, 2506 KiB  
Perspective
Early Predictive Markers and Histopathological Response to Neoadjuvant Endocrine Therapy in Postmenopausal Patients with HR+/HER2− Early Breast Cancer
by Aleksandra Konieczna and Magdalena Rosinska
Cancers 2025, 17(14), 2319; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17142319 - 12 Jul 2025
Viewed by 375
Abstract
Purpose: Neoadjuvant endocrine therapy (NET) represents a valuable treatment option for hormone receptor-positive (HR+)/HER2-negative breast cancer, particularly in postmenopausal women. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and histopathological efficacy of NET and to explore early and late changes in Ki-67 and [...] Read more.
Purpose: Neoadjuvant endocrine therapy (NET) represents a valuable treatment option for hormone receptor-positive (HR+)/HER2-negative breast cancer, particularly in postmenopausal women. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and histopathological efficacy of NET and to explore early and late changes in Ki-67 and progesterone receptor (PgR) expression as indicators of endocrine response. Methods: A prospective cohort of 127 postmenopausal patients with stage cT1–4N0–3M0 HR+/HER2− breast cancer was enrolled between 2019 and 2021. Patients received NET (mostly letrozole) for a mean of 7.7 months. In 80 cases, a second core biopsy was performed after four weeks. Tumor size, histological grade, and biomarkers (Ki-67, PgR) were assessed pre- and post-treatment. Results: NET led to a significant reduction in tumor size, with median shrinkage of 47.0% (from 32.0 mm to 17.0 mm, p < 0.0001). Breast-conserving surgery (BCS) was performed in 52.2% of patients and lymph node negativity (pN0) was observed in 50.4%. Median Ki-67 decreased from 20.0% at baseline to 5.0% after four weeks (p < 0.0001) and remained low in surgical specimens (median 5.0%, p < 0.0001). In 33.3% of patients, Ki-67 dropped below 2.7%, and 67.0% showed a concordant decrease in both Ki-67 and PgR. PgR expression declined significantly during treatment (p < 0.0001). HER2 status conversion was noted in 6.4% of patients during treatment. Pathological complete response (pCR) occurred in 3.5%, while minimal or moderate residual disease (RCB I–II) was identified in 71.3% of cases. Conclusions: NET effectively reduced tumor burden and histological aggressiveness, enabling higher rates of BCS. Early reduction in Ki-67 and PgR may serve as surrogate markers of endocrine responsiveness, supporting their use for treatment stratification and monitoring during NET in HR+/HER2− breast cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Neoadjuvant Therapy for Breast Cancer)
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13 pages, 716 KiB  
Article
Intraoperative Evaluation of Whole Sentinel Lymph Nodes Using a One-Step Nucleic Acid Amplification Assay in Endometrial Cancer: A Prospective Study
by Shinichi Togami, Nozomi Furuzono, Mika Mizuno and Hiroaki Kobayashi
Medicina 2025, 61(7), 1221; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61071221 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 249
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the one-step nucleic acid amplification (OSNA) assay for the intraoperative assessment of sentinel lymph node (SN) metastases, including micrometastases in patients with stage IA low-grade endometrial [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the one-step nucleic acid amplification (OSNA) assay for the intraoperative assessment of sentinel lymph node (SN) metastases, including micrometastases in patients with stage IA low-grade endometrial cancer. Materials and Methods: A prospective analysis was conducted on 204 patients with low-risk endometrial cancer who underwent hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and sentinel node navigation surgery. SNs were analyzed intraoperatively using the OSNA assay, and positive patients underwent systematic pelvic lymphadenectomy. Results: Among the 204 patients included, SN metastases were identified in 12 patients (6%), including 10 patients with micrometastases and 2 patients with macrometastases. No metastases were detected in non-SNs in any of the 12 patients. Recurrence occurred in two patients (1%), involving the vaginal stump and pelvic cavity dissemination, but no lymph node recurrence was observed. The OSNA assay identified a proportion of micrometastases in low-risk endometrial cancer. While a direct comparison with conventional pathological ultra-staging was not performed in this study, the detection rate of micrometastases appears higher than that reported in historical controls. Conclusions: This is the first prospective study to evaluate the intraoperative use of the OSNA assay for whole SNs in endometrial cancer. The results suggest that the OSNA assay enhances the detection of micrometastases, enabling a more accurate assessment of SN metastases. In low-risk endometrial cancer, systematic pelvic lymphadenectomy may be safely omitted in patients with SN-positive micrometastases. Further prospective studies are necessary to validate these findings and support the adoption of this approach in clinical practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Oncology)
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19 pages, 1561 KiB  
Article
Prognostic Factors and Quality of Life in Vulvar Cancer Patients: 12-Year Results from a Eastern European Center
by Mihai Stanca, Henrietta Becze, Alexandra-Maria Pop, Dan Mihai Căpîlna, Szilard Leo Kiss, Cristian-Ioan Cîmpian and Mihai Emil Căpîlna
J. Pers. Med. 2025, 15(7), 266; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm15070266 - 22 Jun 2025
Viewed by 572
Abstract
Objectives: Despite the relatively high incidence of vulvar cancer, there is a noticeable lack of studies in Romania and other Eastern European countries focused on evaluating the long-term oncological outcomes and Quality of Life (QoL) for patients with this condition. Methods: A total [...] Read more.
Objectives: Despite the relatively high incidence of vulvar cancer, there is a noticeable lack of studies in Romania and other Eastern European countries focused on evaluating the long-term oncological outcomes and Quality of Life (QoL) for patients with this condition. Methods: A total of 91 patients were included in the study. The first objective was to evaluate the 5-year overall survival (OS) in patients with vulvar cancer at International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stages IA-IVA who underwent surgery, ±adjuvant radiotherapy (RT). Additionally, the study aimed to identify prognostic factors that could either positively or negatively influence survival outcomes in these patients. The second objective was to assess the QoL, conducted using validated questionnaires issued by the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer, specifically the QLQ-CX30 and QLQ-VU34. Results: The patients had an average age of 67.7 years (38–91). At the time of assessment, 51.6% of the patients were alive. Additionally, the 5-year OS was reported at 45%. The multivariate analysis indicated that age ≤ 50 years (p < 0.03), FIGO stage IB (p < 0.007), and tumor differentiation grade I (p < 0.01) were associated with improved survival rates. Conversely, age > 80 years (p < 0.05), FIGO stages IIIB (p < 0.01) and IIIC (p < 0.06), tumor size > 5 cm (p < 0.02), positive resection margins (p < 0.03), lymph node metastasis (p < 0.06), and pelvic exenteration (p < 0.002) were identified as independent negative prognostic factors. Of the 47 living patients, 32 completed the QoL questionnaires. The respondents reported a decent overall QoL score of 65.3. However, treatment-specific symptoms, such as vulvar scarring, vulvar swelling, groin lymphedema, and leg lymphedema, had a negative impact on QoL. Consequently, functional symptoms like fatigue, pain, and sleep disturbances persisted, leading to a body image perception score of 33.7 on a scale from 0 to 100. Conclusions: This study highlights decent OS and QoL outcomes. It is important to note that vulvar cancer primarily affects older women. In this study, 51.6% of patients were over 70 years old at the time of surgery. Consequently, the 5-year OS of 45% could not be attributed solely to oncological factors, as most of these patients did not die from recurrences but rather from associated comorbidities. The findings of this study provide a foundation for future randomized controlled trials aimed at further enhancing vulvar cancer patients’ care and outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Personalized Therapy and Drug Delivery)
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15 pages, 242 KiB  
Article
Efficacy of Dual Hormonal Therapy with Fulvestrant and Aromatase Inhibitors as Neoadjuvant Endocrine Treatment for Locally Advanced Breast Cancer
by Ana Majić, Žarko Bajić, Marija Ban, Ivana Tica Sedlar, Dora Čerina Pavlinović, Branka Petrić Miše, Ante Strikić, Snježana Tomić and Eduard Vrdoljak
Cancers 2025, 17(13), 2083; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17132083 - 21 Jun 2025
Viewed by 612
Abstract
Background: The role of neoadjuvant endocrine therapy (NET) in patients with luminal tumors is still not well defined in everyday clinical practice. To assess the efficacy of combination NET, we analyzed the outcomes of fulvestrant and aromatase inhibitors (AI) in combination in [...] Read more.
Background: The role of neoadjuvant endocrine therapy (NET) in patients with luminal tumors is still not well defined in everyday clinical practice. To assess the efficacy of combination NET, we analyzed the outcomes of fulvestrant and aromatase inhibitors (AI) in combination in a real-world population. Methods: This was a single-arm, retrospective longitudinal study of the total population of patients diagnosed with locoregionally advanced, clinical stage II-III, HR+ HER2-, luminal-type eBC, who were treated with the neoadjuvant combination of fulvestrant and AI between 2019 and 2024 at the Clinical University Hospital of Split, Croatia. Results: We enrolled 44 patients in the intention-to-treat (ITT) population, while 34 completed NET and surgery (per-protocol population; PPP). The median duration of NET was 11 months (interquartile range [IQR] of 9–16 months). The best radiological objective response rate (partial or complete response) was achieved by 30 (68.2%) in ITT, and 26 (76.5%) in PPP, defined by radiological examination, breast ultrasound, or MR. In the PPP, the minimal or moderate pathological response according to residual cancer burden (I or II) was observed in 29 (85.3%) patients. The median of absolute changes in Ki-67 was −5 (95% CI: −9 to 0), and the median of relative Ki67 changes was −40% (95% CI: −72% to 0%). Post-surgical Ki-67 was significantly predicted by initial Ki-67, positive lymph nodes, and time from diagnosis to the initiation of NET. Treatment was well tolerated, with no therapy discontinuation or dose reductions needed due to toxicity. The most commonly reported side effects included musculoskeletal pain (45.5%), asthenia (34.1%), and hot flashes (29.5%). Conclusions: Dual hormonal therapy with fulvestrant and AI is an active, easily given, non-toxic, promising neoadjuvant treatment in real-world patients with locally advanced luminal-type eBC who are not candidates for chemotherapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Therapy)
17 pages, 1378 KiB  
Article
Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma in Thyroid Surgical Practice: Incidental vs. Non-Incidental: A Ten-Year Comparative Study
by Amani A. Bashir, Mohamed M. El-Zaheri, Ahmad A. Bashir, Luma Fayyad, Aiman H. Obed, Dima Alkam and Abdalla Y. Bashir
Cancers 2025, 17(12), 2029; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17122029 - 18 Jun 2025
Viewed by 788
Abstract
Background/Objectives: With evolving guidelines favoring de-escalation in the management of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC), options such as active surveillance and minimally invasive procedures are now considered for patients with low-risk disease. However, a subset of PTMCs—particularly non-incidental cases—may exhibit aggressive behavior. This study [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: With evolving guidelines favoring de-escalation in the management of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC), options such as active surveillance and minimally invasive procedures are now considered for patients with low-risk disease. However, a subset of PTMCs—particularly non-incidental cases—may exhibit aggressive behavior. This study compares disease characteristics and outcomes between incidental and non-incidental PTMCs over a 10-year period. Methods: This is a single-center retrospective comparative analysis utilizing a prospectively collected database of patients referred for thyroid surgery. Results: Papillary thyroid carcinoma accounted for 86.7% of thyroid malignancies, with PTMC comprising 36.2% (137 patients). Incidental PTMC represented 109 out of 1012 patients undergoing surgery for benign thyroid disease (10.8%). Non-incidental PTMC (NIPTMC), diagnosed preoperatively and presenting clinically without coexisting thyroid disease, was identified in 28 patients (20.4%). NIPTMCs were more frequently associated with high-risk features (75% vs. 10.1%, p = 0.004), including extrathyroidal extension (21.43% vs. 7.3% p = 0.0015), positive central lymph nodes (21.43% vs. 2.8%, p = 0.0291), positive lateral lymph nodes (28.6% vs. 0% p = 0.012), and lymphovascular invasion (3.6% vs. 0%). Multifocal PTMC was seen in 37 patients (27%), of which 27 had bilobar disease. Multifocal tumors had a higher likelihood of high-risk features (48.6% vs. 14%, p = 0.007). NIPTMC was a significant predictor of multifocality (p = 0.0098). All patients underwent surgery, none opted for active surveillance. Conclusions: NIPTMC is more often associated with high-risk features and multifocality, necessitating more extensive surgery. These findings emphasize the need for careful preoperative risk stratification to guide individualized management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Metastasis)
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15 pages, 5363 KiB  
Article
Compact and Handheld SiPM-Based Gamma Camera for Radio-Guided Surgery and Medical Imaging
by Fabio Acerbi, Aramis Raiola, Cyril Alispach, Hossein Arabi, Habib Zaidi, Alberto Gola and Domenico Della Volpe
Instruments 2025, 9(2), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments9020014 - 15 Jun 2025
Viewed by 596
Abstract
In the continuous pursuit of minimally invasive interventions while ensuring a radical excision of lesions, Radio-Guided Surgery (RGS) has been for years the standard for image-guided surgery procedures, such as the Sentinel Lymph Node biopsy (SLN), Radio-guided Seed Localization (RSL), etc. In RGS, [...] Read more.
In the continuous pursuit of minimally invasive interventions while ensuring a radical excision of lesions, Radio-Guided Surgery (RGS) has been for years the standard for image-guided surgery procedures, such as the Sentinel Lymph Node biopsy (SLN), Radio-guided Seed Localization (RSL), etc. In RGS, the lesion has to be identified precisely, in terms of position and extension. In such a context, going beyond the current one-point probes, introducing portable but high-resolution cameras, handholdable by the surgeon, would be highly beneficial. We developed and tested a novel compact, low-power, handheld gamma camera for radio-guided surgery. This is based on a particular position-sensitive Silicon Photomultiplier (SiPM) technology—the FBK linearly graded SiPM (LG-SiPM). Within the camera, the photodetector is made up of a 3 × 3 array of 10 × 10 mm2 SiPM chips having a total area of more than 30 × 30 mm2. This is coupled with a pixelated scintillator and a parallel-hole collimator. With the LG-SiPM technology, it is possible to significantly reduce the number of readout channels to just eight, simplifying the complexity and lowering the power consumption of the readout electronics while still preserving a good position resolution. The novel gamma camera is light (weight), and it is made to be a fully stand-alone system, therefore featuring wireless communication, battery power, and wireless recharge capabilities. We designed, simulated (electrically), and tested (functionally) the first prototypes of the novel gamma camera. We characterized the intrinsic position resolution (tested with pulsed light) as being ~200 µm, and the sensitivity and resolution when detecting gamma rays from Tc-99m source measured between 134 and 481 cps/MBq and as good as 1.4–1.9 mm, respectively. Full article
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20 pages, 1733 KiB  
Article
Risk Stratification for Thyroid Malignancies in Chronic Lymphocytic Thyroiditis
by Anna Krzentowska, Aleksander Konturek, Filip Gołkowski, Anna Merklinger-Gruchała and Marcin Barczyński
Cancers 2025, 17(12), 1964; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17121964 - 12 Jun 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 477
Abstract
Background: Our study investigated the association between chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis (CLT) and thyroid cancer (TC). Methods: A retrospective review of 1670 patients who underwent thyroid surgery between October 2022 to February 2025 was performed. The clinicopathological characteristics of patients with TC [...] Read more.
Background: Our study investigated the association between chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis (CLT) and thyroid cancer (TC). Methods: A retrospective review of 1670 patients who underwent thyroid surgery between October 2022 to February 2025 was performed. The clinicopathological characteristics of patients with TC and CLT were collected. CLT was diagnosed histopathologically. Results: Patients with a positive CLT result (60.39%) compared to a negative CLT result (34.12%) had more frequently TC (p < 0.001), predominantly PTC. In univariate analysis, patients with malignancy + CLT-positive compared to malignancy + CLT-negative were found to be younger in age (p < 0.001), female gender (p < 0.001), smaller tumours focus (p = 0. 013), smaller mass of thyroid removed (p < 0.001) and more often Bethesda category V and VI (p = 0.019), true positive fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) for PTC (p = 0.009), and microcarcinoma (p = 0.021). There were no differences in multifocality, the presence of LNM, or the number of LNMs. The location of metastases at neck lymph nodes was at the borderline of significance (p = 0.065). In multivariate analysis, after accounting for Bethesda and age, CLT+ was found to increase the risk of TC by 73% (OR = 1.73; 95%CI, 1.15-2.29), while the risk of PTC increased more than 2-fold (OR = 2.12; 95% CI, 1.45–3.11). CLT had no statistically significant effect on the presence of LNM. Conclusions: We found that CLT is a risk factor for TC. One should be vigilant concerning the coexistence of these two diseases. We suggest that total thyroidectomy should be considered in patients referred for thyroid nodules and suspected CLT. However, this issue requires further research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thyroid Cancer: New Advances from Diagnosis to Therapy: 2nd Edition)
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15 pages, 307 KiB  
Article
The Role of Ultrasound as a Predictor of Malignancy in Indeterminate Thyroid Nodules—A Multicenter Study
by Reem J. Al Argan, Dania M. Alkhafaji, Feras M. Almajid, Njoud K. Alkhaldi, Zahra A. Al Ghareeb, Moutaz F. Osman, Manal A. Hasan, Safi G. Alqatari, Abrar J. Alwaheed, Fatima E. Ismaeel and Reem S. AlSulaiman
Medicina 2025, 61(6), 1082; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61061082 - 12 Jun 2025
Viewed by 622
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Indeterminate thyroid nodules (Bethesda III and IV) are a common clinical entity that present a diagnostic challenge due to their intermediate risk of malignancy. This study aimed to evaluate the role of ultrasound in risk stratification and malignancy prediction to [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Indeterminate thyroid nodules (Bethesda III and IV) are a common clinical entity that present a diagnostic challenge due to their intermediate risk of malignancy. This study aimed to evaluate the role of ultrasound in risk stratification and malignancy prediction to support clinical decision-making and reduce unnecessary surgical interventions. Materials and Methods: This retrospective multicenter cohort study included patients aged ≥18 years who underwent thyroid surgery between 2016 and 2022 at four centers in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Only nodules with indeterminate cytology (Bethesda III or IV) were included. Data collected included demographic characteristics, thyroid function, ultrasound features, cytology results, and histopathological findings. Results: A total of 679 patients with 733 nodules were reviewed. Of these, 206 patients with 223 indeterminate nodules were included (median age: 42 years; 88.3% female). The overall malignancy rate was 46.6%. Independent predictors of malignancy included solid hypoechoic composition (OR = 2.26, p = 0.012), microcalcifications (OR = 3.07, p = 0.002), lymph node involvement (OR = 2.43, p = 0.021), American Thyroid Association (ATA) intermediate to high suspicion category (OR = 1.9, p = 0.018), and Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data Systems (TI-RADS) categories 4–5 (OR = 2.3, p = 0.003). Solid hypoechoic nodules showed 82.3% specificity and 63.0% positive predictive value (PPV); microcalcifications demonstrated 84.1% specificity and 68.4% PPV; lymph node involvement had 87.6% specificity and 68.9% PPV. The ATA and TI-RADS classifications showed higher sensitivity (63.5% and 68.0%, respectively), but lower specificity (53.1% and 52.8%, respectively). Conclusions: Ultrasound features, particularly solid hypoechoic composition, microcalcifications, and lymph node involvement, as well as ATA and TI-RADS classifications, were independent predictors of malignancy in indeterminate thyroid nodules. Although ATA and TI-RADS offered higher sensitivity, individual features demonstrated greater specificity and PPV. These findings support the use of ultrasound risk stratification to guide surgical decisions in high-risk cases and suggest that additional diagnostic evaluation may be appropriate for low-risk nodules. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology)
12 pages, 838 KiB  
Article
Impact of Para-Aortic Lymphadenectomy on Clinically FIGO Stage IIIC1 High-Grade Endometrial Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Study from Two Tertiary Centers in Korea and Taiwan
by Yen-Ling Lai, Jun-Hyeong Seo, Koping Chang, Hyun-Soo Kim, Jung Chen, Tyan-Shin Yang, Yu-Li Chen and Yoo-Young Lee
Medicina 2025, 61(6), 1079; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61061079 - 12 Jun 2025
Viewed by 705
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The therapeutic effect of para-aortic lymphadenectomy in patients with clinically para-aortic node-negative diseases remains controversial. In this study, we investigated whether combined pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy has a survival benefit compared with pelvic lymphadenectomy alone in patients with clinically [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: The therapeutic effect of para-aortic lymphadenectomy in patients with clinically para-aortic node-negative diseases remains controversial. In this study, we investigated whether combined pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy has a survival benefit compared with pelvic lymphadenectomy alone in patients with clinically FIGO stage IIIC1 high-grade endometrial cancer. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients with clinically FIGO stage IIIC1 high-grade endometrial cancer in the period between January 2000 and December 2020 at two tertiary centers. The patients were stratified according to type of lymphadenectomy and subgroup analyses performed. Kaplan–Meier analysis and a Cox proportional-hazards model were used to evaluate survival outcomes. Results: A total of 56 patients were identified. Of these patients, 18 underwent pelvic lymphadenectomy alone and 38 underwent combined pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy. After staging surgery, 34 (60.7%) patients had pathologically confirmed lymph node metastases. Within a median follow-up of 57.5 months, there were no significant differences in recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) between the two groups. In subgroup analyses, the node- and lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI)-positive patients characterized by grade 3 endometrioid histologic type (p = 0.010) or negative peritoneal washing cytology (p = 0.035) had an RFS benefit from combined pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy. Conclusions: The addition of para-aortic lymphadenectomy to pelvic lymphadenectomy did not improve survival in patients with clinically FIGO IIIC1 endometrial cancer. However, para-aortic lymphadenectomy may have RFS benefit for patients with grade 3 endometrioid histologic type and positive LVSI. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Endometrial Cancer: Biomarkers and Management)
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11 pages, 414 KiB  
Article
Route of Surgery for Sentinel Node Biopsy in Endometrial Cancer: Laparoscopy Versus Robotics
by Angela Fierro, Isabel Flores, Irene Pellicer, Maria Alonso-Espias, Virginia Garcia-Pineda, Ignacio Zapardiel and Myriam Gracia
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(12), 4013; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14124013 - 6 Jun 2025
Viewed by 546
Abstract
Background/Objective: Sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping is an accepted technique for the nodal staging of early-stage endometrial cancer. It is carried out commonly by minimally invasive approach, either by laparoscopy or robotics-assisted surgery. The primary aim of this study was to compare [...] Read more.
Background/Objective: Sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping is an accepted technique for the nodal staging of early-stage endometrial cancer. It is carried out commonly by minimally invasive approach, either by laparoscopy or robotics-assisted surgery. The primary aim of this study was to compare the detection rate of SLN mapping between laparoscopic and robotic surgery. Methods: A retrospective observational study including patients operated on from February 2024 to March 2025, diagnosed with endometrial cancer who underwent hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and SLN mapping. Among a total of 60 patients, 38 (63.3%) underwent laparoscopic surgery and 22 (36.7%) robotic surgery. We compared SLN detection rate and perioperative outcomes between the two routes of approach. Results: No significant differences were observed in the overall and bilateral SLN detection rate between laparoscopic and robotic surgery (97.3% and 84.2% vs. 95.5% and 91%, respectively). Significant differences were observed in operative time, with a median of 125 vs. 110 min (p = 0.004), and in hospital stay, with a median of 3 vs. 2 days (p = 0.002), with both being shorter in the robotic surgery group. No differences were observed in terms of number of SLN detected, percentage of positive nodes, intra or postoperative complications rate, or percentage of conversion to laparotomy. Conclusions: No differences were found in SLN detection rates between laparoscopic and robotic surgery. However, robotic surgery demonstrated advantages in terms of reduced operative time and shorter hospital stay. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indocyanine Green Fluorescence in Gynecology)
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20 pages, 1136 KiB  
Article
Endobronchial Ultrasound Staging During Navigation Bronchoscopy for Peripheral Pulmonary Nodules in the Real World: Which Patients Will Benefit?
by Desi K. M. ter Woerds, Roel L. J. Verhoeven, Ad F. T. M. Verhagen, Erik H. J. G. Aarntzen and Erik H. F. M. van der Heijden
Cancers 2025, 17(10), 1700; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17101700 - 19 May 2025
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Abstract
Background/Objectives: The prevalence of lung cancer in patients with a peripheral pulmonary nodule referred for navigation bronchoscopy (NB) is high. Combining NB with a systematic EBUS for staging is common practice. We investigated the added value of performing EBUS in the population referred [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The prevalence of lung cancer in patients with a peripheral pulmonary nodule referred for navigation bronchoscopy (NB) is high. Combining NB with a systematic EBUS for staging is common practice. We investigated the added value of performing EBUS in the population referred for NB in relation to the available pre-procedural [18F]FDG-PET and CT imaging information. Methods: This single-center study evaluated all consecutive patients who underwent an NB in an academic referral center. [18F]FDG-PET and CT scoring of lymphadenopathy was based on routine [18F]FDG-PET and/or contrast-enhanced chest (ce) CT imaging reports and were correlated to outcome of systematic EBUS and subsequent surgery (when available). Results: In total, 403 patients were included for analysis of which 327 underwent EBUS (81.1%). In 138/403 patients (35%) who had positive lymph nodes on [18F]FDG-PET (86.5%) or ceCT (13.5%), 12 lung cancer patients were diagnosed with N+ disease by EBUS (8.4%). An additional nine EBUS-negative patients were diagnosed with N+ disease after surgery (5.4%). In the group of patients with imaging-negative lymph nodes (65.8%), no metastatic lymph nodes were found by EBUS, and surgery revealed occult nodal metastasis in eight patients (3.1%). Conclusions: In patients with peripheral pulmonary nodules referred for NB, EBUS may be safely omitted when [18F]FDG-PET or ceCT imaging does not indicate presence of nodal involvement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Lung Ultrasound in Cancer Patients)
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12 pages, 1658 KiB  
Article
Advances in Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Gastric Cancer Patients with Peritoneal Metastases: Current Status of Treatment and Institutional Insights
by Shin Saito, Hironori Yamaguchi, Akira Saito, Yuki Kaneko, Hideyuki Ohzawa, Shinichiro Yokota and Joji Kitayama
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(10), 3521; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14103521 - 17 May 2025
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Abstract
Introduction: Peritoneal metastasis (PM) is the most common site of recurrence following curative resection for advanced gastric cancer (GC). Along with disease progression, it can lead to complications such as intestinal obstruction, hydronephrosis, obstructive jaundice, and ascites, significantly impairing the patient’s quality of [...] Read more.
Introduction: Peritoneal metastasis (PM) is the most common site of recurrence following curative resection for advanced gastric cancer (GC). Along with disease progression, it can lead to complications such as intestinal obstruction, hydronephrosis, obstructive jaundice, and ascites, significantly impairing the patient’s quality of life. Therefore, peritoneal metastasis is considered a critical target for treatment. In general, these patients are treated with systemic chemotherapy; however, the therapeutic effect is often limited due to the anticancer agents’ poor penetration into the peritoneal cavity. We aim to identify factors associated with the best overall survival (OS) in GC patients with peritoneal metastasis. Methods: Patients with advanced GC who were diagnosed as having macroscopic PM or positive peritoneal cytology by staging laparoscopy were enrolled. We introduced intraperitoneal Paclitaxel (IP-PTX) combined with S-1 plus oxaliplatin (SOX). Gastrectomy with lymph node dissection was performed as conversion surgery when the PM showed an excellent response. Results: Ninety-six patients received IP-PTX + SOX, with a median of 16 courses. The 1- and 5-year OS rates were 70.2% and 24.5%, respectively, with a mean survival time (MST) of 20.0 months. No chemotherapy-related mortality was observed. Conversion surgery was performed in 44 patients (45.8%), with a 1-year OS rate of 100%. Conclusions: Combination chemotherapy using the IP-PTX + SOX regimen is highly effective and is recommended as induction chemotherapy for patients with PM from GC. Conversion gastrectomy should be considered following an excellent response, particularly in patients with peritoneal cancer index (PCI) scores below 20. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Gastric Cancer and Peritoneal Diseases)
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13 pages, 3212 KiB  
Case Report
Radiation-Induced Synchronous Parathyroid Carcinoma and Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma: Clinical, Morphological, and Genetic Insights
by Gábor Iványi, Alexandros Christofi, Gábor Sipka, Tamás Zombori, Levente Kuthi, Andrea Simon, Deján Dobi, György Lázár, Zsuzsanna Valkusz and Béla Iványi
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(9), 4441; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26094441 - 7 May 2025
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Abstract
The clinicopathological and molecular features of synchronous parathyroid carcinoma (PC) and thyroid carcinoma in a male patient are presented. At 11, he received mantle field radiotherapy for Hodgkin lymphoma. He had a 26-year adulthood history of recurrent nephrolithiasis treated five times with lithotripsy. [...] Read more.
The clinicopathological and molecular features of synchronous parathyroid carcinoma (PC) and thyroid carcinoma in a male patient are presented. At 11, he received mantle field radiotherapy for Hodgkin lymphoma. He had a 26-year adulthood history of recurrent nephrolithiasis treated five times with lithotripsy. At 52, he was referred to our clinic for hypercalcemia. Primary hyperparathyroidism was diagnosed (calcium: 3.46 mmol/L, parathormone: 150 pmol/L, preserved renal function, nephrolithiasis, and osteoporosis). Neck ultrasound revealed a 41 × 31 × 37 mm nodule in the left thyroid and smaller nodules in the right thyroid. Enlarged cervical lymph nodes were not observed. The large nodule was interpreted as parathyroid adenoma on 99Tc-pertechnetate scintigraphy/99Tc-MIBI scintigraphy with SPECT/CT. Total left-sided and subtotal right-sided thyroidectomy were performed. Histopathology confirmed locally invasive, low-grade PC (pT2; positive for parafibromin and E-cadherin, negative for galectin-3 and PGP9.5; wild-type expression for p53 and retinoblastoma protein; Ki-67 index 10%) and incidental papillary thyroid carcinoma (pT1b). Genetic profiling revealed no loss in CDC73, MEN1, CCND1, PIK3CA, CDH1, RB1, and TP53 genes. Deletions in CDKN2A, LATS1, ARID1A, ARID1B, RAD54L, and MUTYH genes and monosomies in nine chromosomes were identified. The tumor mutational burden and genomic instability score were low, and the tumor was microsatellite-stable. The thyroid carcinoma exhibited a TRIM24::BRAF fusion. Following surgery, the parathormone and calcium levels had normalized, and the patient underwent radioiodine treatment for thyroid cancer. The follow-up of 14 months was eventless. In summary, the clinical, laboratory, and imaging features of hyperparathyroidism taken together could have suggested malignancy, then confirmed histologically. The synchronous carcinomas were most likely caused by irradiation treatment diagnosed 41 years after exposure. It seems that the radiation injury initially induced parathyroid adenoma in young adulthood, which underwent a malignant transformation around age fifty. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Oncology)
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