Thyroid nodule core needle biopsy - current approach.

Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) guided by ultrasonography is routinely used to identify thyroid nodules prior to surgery. Although FNAB has great diagnostic accuracy and safety, it is limited by its relatively low diagnostic accuracy in follicular lesions, such as non-diagnostic or atypia of unclear significance (AUS)/follicular lesion of uncertain significance (FLUS). Additional diagnostic tests are required to overcome these challenges in evaluating thyroid nodules. Thyroid nodules can now be diagnosed with spring-activated single- or double-action needles following the introduction of core needle biopsy (CNB). CNB has the ability to address the limitations of FNAB by obtaining a sizeable tissue sample with more details on the histological structure supporting the capsule and fewer non-diagnostic effects brought on by the absence of follicular cells. Compared to repeated FNAB, CNB has been demonstrated to produce fewer ambiguous results, such as non-diagnostic or AUS/FLUS results. The Korean Endocrine Pathology Thyroid CNB Working Group issued its first set of guidelines for "Pathology Reporting of Thyroid Core Needle Biopsy" in 2015. In 2017, the Korean Society of Thyroid Radiology (KSThR) published "Core Needle Biopsy of Thyroid: 2016 Consensus Statement and Recommendations from the Korean Society of Thyroid Radiology". The main objectives of thyroid CNB are to detect individuals with thyroid illness who require surgery and to obtain a significant number of thyroid lesions with low morbidity.

Expanding the clinical and immunological phenotypes of PAX1-deficient SCID and CID patients.

Paired box 1 (PAX1) deficiency has been reported in a small number of patients diagnosed with otofaciocervical syndrome type 2 (OFCS2). We described six new patients who demonstrated variable clinical penetrance. Reduced transcriptional activity of pathogenic variants confirmed partial or complete PAX1 deficiency. Thymic aplasia and hypoplasia were associated with impaired T cell immunity. Corrective treatment was required in 4/6 patients. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation resulted in poor immune reconstitution with absent naïve T cells, contrasting with the superior recovery of T cell immunity after thymus transplantation. Normal ex vivo differentiation of PAX1-deficient CD34+ cells into mature T cells demonstrated the absence of a hematopoietic cell-intrinsic defect. New overlapping features with DiGeorge syndrome included primary hypoparathyroidism (n = 5) and congenital heart defects (n = 2), in line with PAX1 expression during early embryogenesis. Our results highlight new features of PAX1 deficiency, which are relevant to improving early diagnosis and identifying patients requiring corrective treatment.

Therapeutic modalities and clinical outcomes in a large cohort with LRBA deficiency and CTLA4 insufficiency.

BACKGROUND: LPS-responsive beige-like anchor (LRBA) deficiency (LRBA-/-) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA4) insufficiency (CTLA4+/-) are mechanistically overlapped diseases presenting with recurrent infections and autoimmunity. The effectiveness of different treatment regimens remains unknown. OBJECTIVE: Our aim was to determine the comparative efficacy and long-term outcome of therapy with immunosuppressants, CTLA4-immunoglobulin (abatacept), and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in a single-country multicenter cohort of 98 patients with a 5-year median follow-up. METHODS: The 98 patients (63 LRBA-/- and 35 CTLA4+/-) were followed and evaluated at baseline and every 6 months for clinical manifestations and response to the respective therapies. RESULTS: The LRBA-/- patients exhibited a more severe disease course than did the CTLA4+/- patients, requiring more immunosuppressants, abatacept, and HSCT to control their symptoms. Among the 58 patients who received abatacept as either a primary or rescue therapy, sustained complete control was achieved in 46 (79.3%) without severe side effects. In contrast, most patients who received immunosuppressants as primary therapy (n = 61) showed either partial or no disease control (72.1%), necessitating additional immunosuppressants, abatacept, or transplantation. Patients with partial or no response to abatacept (n = 12) had longer disease activity before abatacept therapy, with higher organ involvement and poorer disease outcomes than those with a complete response. HSCT was performed in 14 LRBA-/- patients; 9 patients (64.2%) showed complete remission, and 3 (21.3%) continued to receive immunosuppressants after transplantation. HSCT and abatacept therapy gave rise to similar probabilities of survival. CONCLUSIONS: Abatacept is superior to immunosuppressants in controlling disease manifestations over the long term, especially when started early, and it may provide a safe and effective therapeutic alternative to transplantation.

Comparison of the Effectiveness of Ultrasound Imaging and Perioperative Measurement in the Diagnosis and Characterization of Incisional Hernia.

Background: Incisional hernia (IH) is a common complication after abdominal surgery, and there is no gold standard imaging modality for its diagnosis. Although computed tomography is frequently used in clinical practice, it has limitations such as radiation exposure and relatively high cost. The aim of this study is to establish standardization and hernia typing by comparing preoperative ultrasound (US) measurements and perioperative measurements in IH cases. Methods: The patients who were operated for IH in our institution between January 2020 and March 2021 were reviewed, retrospectively. In result, 120 patients were included in the study, and the cases had preoperative US images and perioperative hernia measurements. IH was divided into three subtypes as omentum (Type I), intestinal (Type II), and mixed (Type III) according to the defect content. Results: Type I IH was detected in 91 cases, Type II IH in 14 cases, and Type III IH in 15 cases. When the diameters of IH types were compared for preoperative US and perioperative measurements, respectively, there was no statistical significance (P = 0.185 and P = 0.262). According to Spearman correlation, there was a positive very strong correlation between preoperative US measurements and perioperative measurements (ρ = 0.861 and P < 0.001). Conclusion: As stated by our results, US imaging can be performed easily and quickly, providing a reliable way to accurately detect and characterize an IH. It can also facilitate the planning of surgical intervention in IH by providing anatomical information.

Comparison of the Effectiveness of Ethanol and Radiofrequency Ablation in the Treatment of Thyroid Nodules and Their Effects on Cosmetic Scoring.

PURPOSE: In this study, we aimed to retrospectively evaluate the volumes and cosmetic scores of mixed-type and spongy-type thyroid nodules treated with ethanol and radiofrequency (RF) ablation before and after treatment. In addition, the safety and efficacy of ethanol and RF ablation treatment methods were compared. METHODS: In the radiology department, mixed-type and spongy-type benign thyroid nodules undergoing ethanol and RF ablation between February 2015 and March 2020 were evaluated retrospectively. Consequently, 50 patients who received ethanol ablation therapy and 46 patients who received RF ablation therapy were included in the study. Nodule volumes obtained in pretreatment, third-month, and sixth-month control ultrasounds were noted. Similarly, the cosmetic scores obtained pretreatment and at the sixth-month follow-up were recorded for all patients. RESULTS: All of the patients had a single nodule, and 46 patients (47.9%) received RF ablation, and 50 patients (52.1%) received ethanol ablation. The mean volume pretreatment in nodules with RF ablation was 21.41 ml, at the third-month control was 5.68 ml, and at the sixth-month control, it was 4.12 ml (p < 0.05). In ethanol ablation therapy, the mean volume pretreatment was 20.52 ml, at the third-month control was 8.76 ml and at the sixth-month control was 6.01 ml (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: A minimally invasive approach is increasingly used in the treatment of benign thyroid nodules. Our study showed that RF ablation was somewhat more successful in reducing cosmetic scores in patients with biopsy-proven benign mixed-type and spongy-type thyroid nodules, and both techniques were similarly effective in volume reduction.

Effects of glycerol and sodium pentaborate containing new formulation on sleeve gastrectomy model in rats.

PURPOSE: The development of cutting surface leakage and postoperative peritoneal adhesions (PPA) after sleeve gastrectomy (SG) are the most serious operative complications. We investigated the effectiveness of the newly developed glycerol and sodium pentaborate containing formulation on the prevention of these complications. METHODS: Sixteen Sprague Dawley rats (mean weight 310 ± 50 g, mean age 3 months old) were divided into two groups, consisting of eight rats in each. SG and a double-layer suture technique were performed for each group. In study group, there was the mixture of 2 mL 3% glycerol plus 3% sodium pentaborate formulation, and in the control group 2 mL 0.9% NaCl was injected into the peritoneal cavity. Rats were sacrificed after 30 days, then macroscopic adhesion grade scoring and histopathological evaluations were assessed. RESULTS: Macroscopic PPA scores in the control and study groups were 2.75 ± 0.16 and 1.50 ± 0.327, respectively (p = 0.004). Histopatologic fibrosis scores in the control and study groups were 0.87 ± 0.125 and 2.00 ± 0.26, respectively (p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS: In SG operation model, glycerol plus sodium pentaborate compound decreased PPA formation and also increased stomach cut surface line fibrosis. This new formulation is hopeful for more safe SG operations.

Number of cells in parathyroid tissue in primary hyperparathyroidism cases and its relationship with serum calcium value.

BACKGROUND: The relationship between serum calcium (Ca) level to serum parathyroid hormone (PTH), phosphorus (P) levels and tissue properties of the parathyroid gland is unknown in primary hyperparathyroidism cases. Revealing this relationship may be useful for understanding the etiopathogenesis of primary hyperparathyroidism and determining the time of treatment. METHODS: Ninety patients (71 females, 19 males, age range; 27-73 years, average age; 46) who underwent single gland excision with the diagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism were studied. The patients were divided into 2 groups as serum Ca level <12 and serum Ca level ≥12. Age and sex of the patients, mean cell number of the gland, mean volume of the gland, serum levels of PTH, P, and histopathologic type of hyperplasia were evaluated. RESULTS: The mean cell number per cubic centimeter is 22.9 (10-220 range) million in all glands. Serum Ca level was <12 in 82 (91.1%) of the patients, and ≥12 in 8 (8.9%) cases. Mean cell number of the gland, mean volume of the gland, existence of cystic hyperplasia of the gland, serum levels of PTH and P were statistically significant between the 2 groups (P < .001, P < .001, P < .05, P < .001, P < .05 respectively). CONCLUSION: In primary hyperparathyroidism cases serum Ca level is not related to age and sex but directly related to proportionals to the cell number and volume of the gland and serum levels of PTH, inversely related to cystic hyperplasia and serum levels of P. Early surgical intervention should be planned since the serum Ca level will be high in large adenomas with a noncystic radiological appearance.

Clinical and functional results of radiofrequency ablation and microwave ablation in patients with benign thyroid nodules.

OBJECTIVES: To determine how well ultrasound-guidance percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and microwave ablation (MWA) performed for benign symptomatic thyroid nodules in terms of clinical and functional outcomes. METHODS: Patients who had a thyroid nodule-linked symptoms acting as dysphagia, cosmetic issues, pain, a foreign body sense, hyperthyroidism secondary to autonomous nodules, or concern of malignancy were involved in the study. The primary was the comparison in symptom scores obtained at 1, 3, and 6 months after RFA and MWA. The volume alterations in nodules and alterations in thyroid gland functions were secondary objectives. RESULTS: This prospective study carried out from November 2014 and January 2017 at the General Surgery Department, Marmara University, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey included a total of 100 nodules (50% MWA, 50% RFA). There were statistically significance in pain scores, dysphagia scores, and foreign body sensation scores at 1, 3, and 6 months after therapy in both ablation groups (p=0.0006, p=00004, p=0.0005). At the same time, there were statistically significant reductions in size and volume of the nodules for RFA and MWA (p=0.0004, p=0.0003). There was no significant difference between the RFA and MWA groups' cosmetic scoring and volume changes (p=0.68, p=0.43). CONCLUSIONS: Alternative therapies for benign symptomatic thyroid nodules include RFA and MWA. The findings of this research revealed that both approaches are safe and effective.

Measurement of hiatal surface area and other hiatus oesophageal diameters at computed tomography imaging in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease and its relationship with hiatal hernia.

BACKGROUND: The oesophageal hiatus is a long and oblique opening in the diaphragm where the thoracic section of the oesophagus passes into the abdomen. Enlarged hiatal surface and insufficiency are considered to be associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and hiatal hernia (HH). In this study, we aimed to retrospectively evaluate the relationship and the presence of GERD with HH by performing hiatal surface area (HSA) and other hiatal measurements at the thorax and abdominal computed tomography (CT) images in cases without any intra-abdominal or oesophageal surgery history. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 192 patients of GERD+ and 173 cases with GERD- as a control group were included in the study. In CT examinations of 365 patients included in the study, measurements and comments were made by an experienced radiologist in abdominal radiology. In CT scans, the following were evaluated for each case; HSA, hiatus anterior-posterior (A-P) diameter, hiatus transverse diameter, and HH types. The HSA measurement was made with the freehand region of interest in the picture archiving and communication system. RESULTS: A total of 365 cases were included in this study; there was a significant difference between the median HSA, A-P diameter, and transverse diameter measurements between GERD- and GERD+ groups (P < 0.001). A statistically significant difference was found between the presence of GERD and HH types (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: CT imaging helps investigate the presence of HH at GERD+ patients. In addition, pre-operative valuable data can be obtained from the detection of HH types and HSA measurements in cases with HH.

The importance of the Moskowitz artery as a lesser-known collateral pathway in the medial laparoscopic approach to splenic flexure mobilisation and its evaluation with preoperative computed tomography.

INTRODUCTION: The collateral pathways between the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) play an important role in colonic surgery. The most well-known are the Drummond marginal artery and Riolan's arch. The Moskowitz artery, also known as the meandering mesenteric artery, is a lesser-known collateral pathway and represents another link between SMA and IMA. The Moskowitz artery runs along the colonic mesentery floor and represents the link between the proximal segment of the middle colic artery and the ascending branch of the left colic artery. AIM: To comprehend the presence and importance of the Moskowitz artery (meandering mesenteric artery) in preoperative patients by using computed tomography (CT) studies. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed all abdominal CT images performed using intravenous contrast for any reason at the Radiology Department of Yeditepe University Hospital between April 2015 and September 2018. Patients older than 18 years with intravenous contrast (arterial and venous phases with a cross-section thickness of 0.625 mm), who underwent abdominal CT scan, and patients without any abdominal surgery were included in the study. As a result of the screening, 109 CT scans with eligibility criteria were included in this study. RESULTS: There were 109 cases in this study; 50 (45.9%) of them were male and 59 (54.1%) were female. Moskowitz artery was found in 18 (16.5%) cases; 8 were males and 10 were females. Riolan's arch was present in 30 cases, of whom 15 were male and 15 were female. In our study Moskowitz artery and Riolan's arch were monitored as separate vascular structures, and in all cases with Moskowitz artery, Riolan's arch was also present. There was a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) between the combined MCA emerging type and the presence of MA, and 12 cases with combined branch and 6 cases with single branch had Moskowitz artery. There was a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) between LCA types and the presence of MA, and the Moskowitz artery was the most common seen at type 1 LCA. CONCLUSIONS: Knowledge of the relationship between Riolan's arch and the Moskowitz artery is valuable, and preoperative evaluation of this artery may be beneficial in the presence of Riolan's arch. In addition, preoperative radiological evaluation and its importance are prominent in minimising intraoperative bleeding during splenic flexure mobilisation with a medial laparoscopic approach and reducing the risk of colorectal anastomosis leakage.

The role of ultrasound measurements and cosmetic scoring in evaluating the effectiveness of ethanol ablation in cystic thyroid nodules.

BACKGROUND: A minimally invasive approach has been adopted to treat benign cystic nodules in recent years, with ethanol ablation (EA) being used as a more common method in routine treatment. For this study, we aimed to investigate the change of nodule volumes and cosmetic scores before and after EA in benign thyroid nodules and the effectiveness of treatment. Therefore, ultrasound data and cosmetic scores of pure cystic, mixed-type and spongy-type benign thyroid nodules undergoing EA in the last two years were reviewed retrospectively. METHODS: Archive scanning was performed for all cases that were proven benign by fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) and who underwent EA. In all 46 patients included in the study, thyroid FNAB was performed. Ultrasound images were available to assess the size and volumes at pretreatment and 3 and 6 months after EA. The cosmetic scores obtained before the procedure and at 6 months after EA were compared. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant difference when the sizes and volumes of the nodules were compared at pretreatment, 3 and 6 months follow-up (P < .001). The mean pretreatment cosmetic score was 3.09, and at 6 months, it was 1.20, with a statistically significant difference (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Recently, a minimally invasive approach has been adopted in the treatment of benign cystic nodules, with ethanol ablation becoming more common in routine treatment. Therefore, ethanol ablation is very valuable in minimising complications that may arise from surgery.

The effectiveness of ethanol ablation in the treatment of thyroglossal duct cysts in adult cases and evaluation with cosmetic scoring.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate thyroglossal duct cyst (TGDC) volumes before and after treatment with ultrasound (US) in patients who underwent ethanol ablation (EA). Besides, the usability of cosmetic scoring in TGDC cases was investigated by comparing cosmetic scores pre-treatment and after EA. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 28 TGDC cases who had EA in one session and had complete US data and cosmetic scores were included in the study. US data including TGDC diameters and volumes obtained at the pre-treatment, 3rd, 6th, and 12th month after EA were noted, respectively. Cosmetic scoring was performed pre-treatment and after EA using the WHO grading system simultaneously with US. RESULTS: At the 12th month after EA, there was 85.2% reduction in mean diameter and 95.1% reduction in mean volume in TGDC cases (p < 0.001). The mean cosmetic score pre-treatment was 2.7 ± 0.8 and the mean cosmetic score at the 12th month was 1 (p < 0.001). When the changes in TGDC volumes and cosmetic scoring after EA were compared according to gender and age, there was no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The current study demonstrated that EA can be used safely to reduce TGDC sizes and is an alternative treatment option to surgery.

Effects of glycerol and sodium pentaborate containing new formulation on sleeve gastrectomy model in rats

ABSTRACT Purpose: The development of cutting surface leakage and postoperative peritoneal adhesions (PPA) after sleeve gastrectomy (SG) are the most serious operative complications. We investigated the effectiveness of the newly developed glycerol and sodium pentaborate containing formulation on the prevention of these complications. Methods: Sixteen Sprague Dawley rats (mean weight 310 ± 50 g, mean age 3 months old) were divided into two groups, consisting of eight rats in each. SG and a double-layer suture technique were performed for each group. In study group, there was the mixture of 2 mL 3% glycerol plus 3% sodium pentaborate formulation, and in the control group 2 mL 0.9% NaCl was injected into the peritoneal cavity. Rats were sacrificed after 30 days, then macroscopic adhesion grade scoring and histopathological evaluations were assessed. Results: Macroscopic PPA scores in the control and study groups were 2.75 ± 0.16 and 1.50 ± 0.327, respectively (p = 0.004). Histopatologic fibrosis scores in the control and study groups were 0.87 ± 0.125 and 2.00 ± 0.26, respectively (p = 0.002). Conclusions: In SG operation model, glycerol plus sodium pentaborate compound decreased PPA formation and also increased stomach cut surface line fibrosis. This new formulation is hopeful for more safe SG operations.

The 'Cross-Legged Foetal Sitting Neuraxial Position': Is it Beneficial?-A Prospective Randomised Clinical Trial Via Ultrasonography.

OBJECTIVE: The primary aim of the present study was to compare the 'cross-legged foetal sitting position' (CFSP) with the 'sitting foetal position' (SFP) sonographically. The secondary aim was to compare their comfort. METHODS: A randomised, consecutive controlled, single-blinded trial was performed in Yeditepe University. A total of 50 healthy volunteers were included in the study. Exclusion criteria were body mass index (BMI) >40 kg m-2, lumbar hernia, scoliosis, history of spine surgery, lower back pain or trauma, especially pelvic or knee problems related to arthropathy and not able to do one/both of the two position techniques. The two positioning techniques were evaluated by ultrasonography (USG) and 5-point Numerical Rating Scale (5-NRS) patient satisfaction of comfort questionnaire. Seven outcomes via USG were evaluated, subcutaneous tissue (ST), skin to spinous process (S-SP), transverse diameters of right and left paraspinal muscles (RPM and LPM), interspinous gap opening (ISGO), mean of bilateral paraspinal muscle (MPM) and CFSP-SFP change (CFSP-SFP). Stretcher comfort, position comfort, lumbar comfort (LC) and abdominal comfort (AC) were evaluated by participants with the 5-NRS. RESULTS: In the CFSP, the mean ST and S-SP were significantly (p<0.0001) shorter, and LPM, RPM and MPM were significantly (p<0.0001) wider. The mean ISGO in the CFSP was significantly (p<0.0001) broader. The CFSP was significantly more comfortable than the SFP according to the LC (p=0.02). Only ISGO was found to be significantly broader in the male participant group (p=0.01) and in the BMI ≥25 group (p=0.02) according to CFSP-SFP. CONCLUSION: Considering all ultrasonographic anatomical measurements and according to the 5-NRS related to LC, the CFSP appears to be more advantageous than the SFP as a neuraxial positioning technique.

Should Surgeons Evaluate the Anatomy of Drummond Marginal Artery and Riolan's Arch Preoperatively?

INTRODUCTION: The Drummond marginal artery and the Riolan's arch are important links between the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and inferior mesenteric artery (IMA), which provide collateral flow in case of arterial occlusion or significant stenosis. The Riolan's arch is important in colorectal surgery since it allows for vascularization of the descending colon by the SMA after ligation of the IMA at its origin, especially in cancer patients. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the presence of the Drummond marginal artery and the Riolan's arch. In addition, we assessed anatomic variants of the middle colic artery (MCA) and classified the anatomic relationships between SMA and SMV. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Following screening, 115 abdominal CT scans were included in the study. For all cases, the presence of the Drummond marginal artery and the Riolan's arch, the first diameter of these arterial structures at their origins, the first emerging diameter and anatomic variants of the MCA, and the anatomic relationships between SMA and SMV were evaluated. RESULTS: Drummond marginal artery was present in all participants (100%). The Riolan's arch was observed in 27.8% of all cases and was higher than in other studies. This can be related to the focus of this arch. In addition, we did not find any similar study in the literature that evaluated MCA origin types, SMA-SMV variants with the presence of the Drummond artery and the Riolan's arch, and the first emerging diameters of vascular structures, such as the Drummond marginal artery, the Riolan's arch, and MCA. CONCLUSION: Evaluating and stating whether the Drummond marginal artery and the Riolan's arch are seen in thin section abdominal computed tomography (CT) and CT angiographies preoperatively may help in planning appropriate resections and can reduce unwanted postoperative morbidity.

Anatomical landmarks for cochlear implantation in ossified cochleas.

PURPOSE: In this study, we aimed to introduce the facial nerve as a new anatomical landmark which can be used in ossified cochleas during cochlear implantation. We also set out to define a safe line to preserve the internal auditory canal (IAC) while drilling the basal turn of the cochlea. METHODS: Thirty patients who had temporal computed tomography (CT) were studied. The distances from the facial nerve and the round window to the IAC, carotid artery, and jugular bulb were measured in the reformatted CT images. We have created a line in the direction of the stapedial tendon from the round window to the IAC and called it ROWIAC (Round window-IAC) line. We have investigated whether this line intersects the IAC and measured the distances from this line to the IAC. RESULTS: Fifty-four temporal CT scans were included to the study. The mean distances from the facial nerve to the IAC, carotid artery, and jugular bulb were 8.8 ± 0.9, 15.0 ± 2.0, and 12.2 ± 2.9 mm, respectively. The mean distances from the round window to these structures were 3.8 ± 0.7, 9.4 ± 2.2, and 8.3 ± 2.9 mm, respectively. ROWIAC line did not intersect the IAC in any of the patients. The mean distance between this line and the IAC was 0.8 ± 0.4 mm. CONCLUSION: We propose that facial nerve and ROWIAC line can be used as potential landmarks during cochlear implantation in ossified cochleas to protect the adjacent neurovascular structures.

Progress in surgical and nonsurgical approaches for hepatocellular carcinoma treatment.

BACKGROUND: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a complex and heterogeneous malignancy, frequently occurs in the setting of a chronically diseased organ, with multiple confounding factors making its management challenging. HCC represents one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality globally with a rising trend of incidence in some of the developed countries, which indicates the need for better surgical and nonsurgical management strategies. DATA SOURCES: PubMed database was searched for relevant articles in English on the issue of HCC management. RESULTS: Surgical resection represents a potentially curative option for appropriate candidates with tumors detected at earlier stages and with well-preserved liver function. The long-term outcome of surgery is impaired by a high rate of recurrence. Surgical approaches are being challenged by local ablative therapies such as radiofrequency ablation and microwave ablation in selected patients. Liver transplantation offers potential cure for HCC and also correction of underlying liver disease, and minimizes the risk of recurrence, but is reserved for patients within a set of criteria proposed for a prudent allocation in the shortage of donor organs. Transcatheter locoregional therapies have become the palliative standard allowing local control for intermediate stage patients with noninvasive multinodular or large HCC who are beyond the potentially curative options. The significant survival benefit with the multikinase inhibitor sorafenib for advanced HCC has shifted the direction of research regarding systemic treatment toward molecular therapies targeting the disregulated pathways of hepatocarcinogenesis. Potential benefit is suggested from simultaneous or sequential multimodal therapies, and optimal combinations are being investigated. Despite the striking progress in preclinical studies of HCC immunotherapy and gene therapy, extensive clinical trials are required to achieve successful clinical applications of these innovative approaches. CONCLUSION: Treatment decisions have become increasingly complex for HCC with the availability of multiple surgical and nonsurgical therapeutic options and require a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach.

Quantitative assessment of liver fibrosis by digital image analysis: Relationship to Ishak staging and elasticity by shear-wave elastography.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the relationship between fibrosis staged by Ishak stage and quantified by digital image analysis (DIA), and to reveal the optimum performance of shear-wave elastography (SWE) using quantitative DIA measurements as a comparative histological standard. METHODS: The proportionate area (PA) of fibrosis was measured by DIA from images of the PA of trichrome-stain (TPA) of 168 chronic hepatitis patients. SWE was performed in 105 patients. The accuracy of SWE for predicting the fibrosis defined by quantitative PA thresholds (≥ 2.5%, ≥ 5%, ≥ 10% and ≥ 20%, respectively) and by Ishak stages was measured using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). RESULTS: DIA was proven to be highly reproducible (interclass correlation coefficient 0.926). The TPA range corresponding to each Ishak stage was large, widened as stages progressed, and reached its greatest extent in cirrhosis. TPA magnified at ×50 ranges 11.9-56% for Ishak stage F5-6. A good correlation between TPA and elasticity was presented for more advanced fibrosis (TPA ≥10%, rs = 0.732, P = 0.000) than milder fibrosis (TPA <10%, rs = 0.308, P = 0.006). With the advance of fibrosis either by stages or PA thresholds the discriminative accuracy of SWE gradually increased, but was less satisfactory for milder fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS: DIA may serve as a reproducible and reliable quantitative standard for surrogate tests for liver fibrosis. The performance and correlation of SWE with the fibrotic extent were better for advanced fibrosis, but less satisfactory for milder fibrosis.