Criteria for selection and classification of studies in medical events.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of study methodology and evaluation type on the selection of studies during the presentation of scientific events. METHODS: A prospective, observational, transversal approach was applied to a cohort of studies that were submitted for presentation at the 2021 Brazilian Breast Cancer Symposium. Three forms of criteria (CR) were presented. CR1 was based on six criteria (method, ethics, design, originality, promotion, and social contribution); CR2 graded the studies from 0 to 10 for each study, and CR3 was based on five criteria (presentation, method, originality, scientific knowledge, and social contribution). To evaluate the item correlation, Cronbach's alpha and factorial analysis were performed. For the evaluation of differences between the tests, we used the Kruskal-Wallis and post-hoc Dunn tests. To determine the differences in the study classifications, we used the Friedman test and Namenyi's all-pairs comparisons. RESULTS: A total of 122 studies were evaluated. There was also a good correlation with the items concerning criterion 1 (α=0.730) and 3 (α=0.937). Evaluating CR1 methodology, study design and social contribution (p=0.741) represents the main factor and CR3 methodology, and the scientific contribution (p=0.994) represents the main factor. The Kruskal-Wallis test showed differences in the results (p<0.001) for all the criteria that were used [CR1-CR2 (p<0.001), CR1-CR3 (p<0.001), and CR2-CR3 (p=0.004)]. The Friedman test showed differences in the ranking of the studies (p<0.001) for all studies (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: Methodologies that use multiple criteria show good correlation and should be taken into account when ranking the best studies.

Criteria for selection and classification of studies in medical events

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of study methodology and evaluation type on the selection of studies during the presentation of scientific events. METHODS: A prospective, observational, transversal approach was applied to a cohort of studies that were submitted for presentation at the 2021 Brazilian Breast Cancer Symposium. Three forms of criteria (CR) were presented. CR1 was based on six criteria (method, ethics, design, originality, promotion, and social contribution); CR2 graded the studies from 0 to 10 for each study, and CR3 was based on five criteria (presentation, method, originality, scientific knowledge, and social contribution). To evaluate the item correlation, Cronbach's alpha and factorial analysis were performed. For the evaluation of differences between the tests, we used the Kruskal-Wallis and post-hoc Dunn tests. To determine the differences in the study classifications, we used the Friedman test and Namenyi's all-pairs comparisons. RESULTS: A total of 122 studies were evaluated. There was also a good correlation with the items concerning criterion 1 (α=0.730) and 3 (α=0.937). Evaluating CR1 methodology, study design and social contribution (p=0.741) represents the main factor and CR3 methodology, and the scientific contribution (p=0.994) represents the main factor. The Kruskal-Wallis test showed differences in the results (p<0.001) for all the criteria that were used [CR1-CR2 (p<0.001), CR1-CR3 (p<0.001), and CR2-CR3 (p=0.004)]. The Friedman test showed differences in the ranking of the studies (p<0.001) for all studies (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: Methodologies that use multiple criteria show good correlation and should be taken into account when ranking the best studies.

Performance of three colposcopic images for the identification of squamous and glandular cervical precursor neoplasias.

PURPOSE: To evaluate prevalence and diagnostic performance of three colposcopic images to diagnose squamous and glandular cervical precursor neoplasias. METHODS: Cross-sectional study, conducted through analysis of stored digital colposcopic images. To evaluate the diagnostic performance of three images, herein named grouped glands, aceto-white villi, and atypical vessels, for detection of adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS) and cervical squamous intraepithelial neoplasias (CIN) grades 2 and 3, calculations of sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive likelihood ratio, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, and area under the curve (AUC) were made, with their respective 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: Grouped glands, aceto-white villi, and atypical vessels images had: prevalence of 21.3, 53.8, and 33.8% in patients with AIS, and 16.2, 19.5, and 9.3% in those with CIN 2 and 3; for the diagnosis of AIS, sensitivity of 21.3, 53.8, and 33.8%, specificity of 89.8, 95.2, and 94.9%, accuracy of 76.6, 87.2, and 83.1%, positive likelihood ratio of 2.1, 11.2, and 6.6, and AUC of 0.55, 0.74, and 0.64; for the diagnosis of CIN 2 and 3, sensitivity of 16.2, 19.5, and 9.3%, specificity of 89.8, 95.2, and 94.9%, accuracy of 39.4, 43.4, and 36.3%, positive likelihood ratio of 1.6, 4.1, and 1, 8, and AUC of 0.53, 0.57, and 0.52, respectively. CONCLUSION: Prevalence and accuracy of the three images were higher for the diagnosis of glandular than squamous cervical precursor neoplasias. Sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood, and AUC of aceto-white villi and atypical vessels images were higher for the diagnosis of glandular than squamous cervical precursor neoplasias.

Prognostic Role of PD-L1 Expression in Invasive Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) has been investigated in various types of cancer; however, the role of PD-L1 expression in breast cancer remains controversial. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the association of PD-L1 expression with clinicopathological variables, overall survival (OS), and disease-free survival (DFS) in invasive breast cancer. A total of 965 articles were included from CINAHL, Embase, PubMed, and Scopus databases. Of these, 22 studies encompassing 6468 cases of invasive breast cancer were included in the systematic review, and 15 articles were included in the meta-analysis. PD-L1 expression was associated with age ≥ 50 years, lymph node status-negative, progesterone receptor-negative, Ki67 ≥ 20%, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative. PD-L1 positivity was associated with worse OS (hazard ratio, HR, 2.39; 95% confidence interval, CI, 1.26-3.52; p =< 0.000); however, there was no significant improvement in DFS (HR 0.17; 95% CI -0.12-0.46; p =< 0.252). PD-L1 positivity was significantly associated with the clinicopathological characteristics of favorable and unfavorable prognoses. However, the final clinical outcome was associated with lower OS and had no significant association with DFS.

Nipple-sparing mastectomy in normal breast: consequence of simulation and disease anxiety

Diagnosis in psychiatry is a thorough and potentially artificial process. In this letter, we discuss this diagnostic process in the context of a young patient who underwent nipple-sparing mastectomy after falsifying a breast biopsy report revealing invasive ductal carcinoma. The secondary pathology revision was also forged by the patient and confirmed the diagnosis. The patient was summoned by the Service's board and admitted the falsification of breast cancer reports. After evaluation at the Psychiatric Service, changes in vital mood, psychosis, delusional activity and obsessive-compulsive symptoms were ruled out. In view of the growing demand for prophylactic mastectomy observed worldwide, similar cases may become more frequent.

DIFFICULTIES IN COLLECTING DATA ON DUCTAL CARCINOMA IN SITU AT A POPULATION-BASED CANCER REGISTRY / Dificuldades na coleta de dados de carcinoma ductal in situ em um Registro de Câncer de Base Populacional

Objective: To verify data-coding accuracy for ductal carcinoma in situ at the Goiânia population-based cancer registry in the Brazilian state of Goiás. Methods: Ecological time series analysis of cases coded as ductal carcinoma in situ in the state cancer database (ONCOSIS), considering data from the Goiânia population-based cancer registry, from 1994 to 2010. Results: Of 376 cases originally coded as ductal carcinoma in situ, 115 were excluded following a review of the pathology reports. These exclusions referred to cases of lobular carcinoma in situ (n=21), Paget's disease (n=4), invasive carcinoma (n=08), ductal carcinoma in situ associated with invasive carcinoma (n=14), microinvasive carcinoma (n=21), records on non-residents in Goiânia, and duplicated data (n=46). Conclusion: Many cases needed recoding and, as a consequence, altered the initial database. Standardizing pathology reports and training data collection staff are crucial steps to avoid omissions and errors when transcribing cases of ductal carcinoma in situ in a population-based cancer registry database.

Objetivo: Verificar a acurácia da codificação dos dados de carcinoma ductal in situ dentro do Registro de Câncer de Base Populacional de Goiânia, Goiás - Brasil. Métodos: Estudo ecológico de série temporal de casos codificados como carcinoma in situ da mama, pelo programa (ONCOSIS) do Registro de Câncer de Base Populacional de Goiânia, entre 1994 e 2010. Posteriormente realizou­se busca individual dos laudos histopatológicos de CDIS. Resultados: De 376 casos de CDIS, foram excluídos 115 casos após a revisão dos laudos anatomopatológicosas. As exclusões referem-se a carcinoma lobular in situ (21), Doença de Paget (4), carcinoma invasor (08); CDIS associado a carcinoma invasor (14); microinvasor (21), pacientes com endereço fora de Goiânia e dados duplicados (46). Conclusão: Há um grande número de casos que precisam ser recodificados, alterando o banco inicial. A padronização de laudos e o treinamento dos coletadores são etapas importantes para que não haja informações desconhecidas ao transcrever o CDIS para as fichas do RCBP.

Clinical and manometric investigation in constipated Chagasic patients with and without megacolon / Investigação clínica e manométrica de pacientes chagásicos constipados com e sem megacolon

ABSTRACT Background: Chagasic colopathy is the second most common digestive manifestation, and constipation is the main symptom. The absence of the Rectoanal Inhibitory Reflex plays an important role in constipation and anal manometry is crucial for appropriate evaluation. Purpose: Evaluate anal manometry findings (mainly Rectoanal Inhibitory Reflex) in Chagasic patients with chronic constipation, with and without megacolon and correlate these findings with clinical and demographic data. Methods: Cross-sectional study of patients with chronic constipation who underwent Chagasic serologic test, barium enema, and anal manometry. The absence of Rectoanal Inhibitory Reflex was evaluated using the mid-P Exact Test. Results: 64 Patients were included: 23 Chagasic patients with megacolon/megarectum (G1), 21 Chagasic patients without megacolon/megarectum (G2) and 20 non-Chagasic patients without megacolon/megarectum (G3). Chagasic patients with megacolon had a higher incidence of fecaloma (39%) compared to the other two groups (9.5% and 10% for G2 and G3, respectively, p = 0.03). Rectal capacity on manometry was statically higher for G1 patients. Rectoanal Inhibitory Reflex was absent in 91.3% of patients in G1, 47.29% in G2 and present in all patients in G3. There was a significant difference in the absence of the Rectoanal Inhibitory Reflex when comparing the groups (G1 vs. G2: p = 0.002, G1 vs. G3: p < 0.001, G2 vs. G3: p < 0.001). Conclusion: The absence of RAIR confirms the diagnosis of Chagasic colopathy and endorses surgical treatment whenever clinical treatment fails. The presence of the RAIR in patients with positive serology for Chagas disease without megacolon/megarectum might not be due chagasic colopathy and other causes should be considered.

RESUMO Fundamento: A colopatia chagásica é a segunda manifestação digestiva mais comum e a constipação é o principal sintoma. A ausência do Reflexo Inibitório Retoanal desempenha um papel importante na constipação e a manometria anal é crucial para avaliação adequada. Objetivo: Avaliar os achados da manometria anal (principalmente o Reflexo Inibitório Retoanal) em pacientes chagásicos com constipação crônica, com e sem megacólon, e correlacionar esses achados com dados clínicos e demográficos.Métodos: Estudo transversal de pacientes com constipação crônica submetidos ao teste sorológico para doença de chagas, enema de bário e manometria anal. A ausência de Reflexo Inibitório Retoanal foi avaliada por meio do Teste Exato de Ponto Médio. Resultados: Foram incluídos 64 pacientes: 23 chagásicos com megacólon/megarreto (G1), 21 chagásicos sem megacólon/megarreto (G2) e 20 não chagásicos sem megacólon/megarreto (G3). Os pacientes chagásicos com megacólon apresentaram maior incidência de fecaloma (39%) em comparação aos outros dois grupos (9,5% e 10% para G2 e G3, respectivamente, p = 0,03). A capacidade retal na manometria foi estatisticamente maior nos pacientes do G1. O Reflexo Inibitório Retoanal estava ausente em 91,3% dos pacientes do G1, em 47,29% no G2 e presente em todos os pacientes do G3. Houve diferença significativa na ausência do Reflexo Inibitório Retoanal quando comparados os grupos (G1 vs. G2: p = 0,002, G1 vs. G3: p < 0,001, G2 vs. G3: p < 0,001). Conclusão: A ausência de RIRA confirma o diagnóstico de colopatia chagásica e endossa o tratamento cirúrgico sempre que o tratamento clínico falhar. A presença de RIRA em pacientes com sorologia positiva para doença de Chagas, sem megacólon/megarreto, pode não ser devida à colopatia chagásica e outras causas devem ser consideradas.

Performance of Conventional Cytology and Colposcopy for the Diagnosis of Cervical Squamous and Glandular Neoplasias.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the cytological and colposcopic performances for the diagnosis of cervical neoplasias. METHODS: Cross-sectional retrospective study with data from patients' charts. The participants underwent colposcopy, guided biopsies, and excision when needed. The cytological and colposcopic categorization followed the Bethesda System and the international colposcopic terminologies. The cytology and colposcopy performances were evaluated by sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP), positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) analyses with 95% confidence interval (95% CI). RESULTS: From 1,571 participants, a total of 1,154 (73.4%) were diagnosed with cervical squamous intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or worse (CIN 2+), 114 (7.2%) with adenocarcinoma in situ or worse (AIS+), 615 (39.2%) presented atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion or worse (ASC-H+) cytology, and 934 (59.4%) presented major or suspicious for invasion colposcopic abnormalities. The SE, SP, PPV, and NPV of ASC-H+ for diagnoses of CIN 2+ and AIS+ were, respectively: 44% (95% CI: 41-47) and 72% (95% CI: 67-76), 79% (95% CI: 77-81) and 79% (95% CI: 75-83), 88% (95% CI: 87-90) and 55% (95% CI: 50-60), and 28% (95% CI: 26-31) and 88% (95% CI: 85-91). The SE, SP, PPV, and NPV of major or suspicious for invasion colposcopic abnormalities for diagnoses of CIN 2+ and AIS+ were, respectively: 62% (95% CI: 60-65) and 86% (95% CI: 83-89), 59% (95% CI: 57-62) and 59% (95% CI: 55-64), 85% (95% CI: 83-87) and 44% (95% CI: 40-49), and 29% (95% CI: 27-32) and 92% (95% CI: 89-94). CONCLUSION: The SE analyses results of ASC-H+ and major or suspicious for invasion colposcopic abnormalities were higher for diagnoses of glandular neoplasias. These results confirm the role of cytology in identifying women at risk who will have their final diagnoses settled by colposcopy and histology.

OBJETIVO: Estimar o desempenho da citologia e colposcopia no diagnóstico das neoplasias cervicais. MéTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo de corte transversal com dados coletados em prontuários. Foram incluídas participantes que foram submetidas a colposcopia, biópsia e excisão quando necessário. A categorização da citologia e da colposcopia seguiram a terminologia de Bethesda e a classificação colposcópica internacional. Os desempenhos da citologia e colposcopia foram avaliados por análises de sensibilidade (S), especificidade (E), valor preditivo positivo (VPP) e valor preditivo negativo (VPN), com intervalos de confiança de 95% (IC 95%). RESULTADOS: Das 1.571 participantes, um total de 1.154 (73,4%) foram diagnosticadas com neoplasia intraepitelial escamosa cervical de grau 2 ou mais grave (NIC 2+), 114 (7,2%) com adenocarcinoma in situ ou mais grave (AIS+), 615 (39,2%) apresentaram células escamosas atípicas de significado indeterminado, quando não se pode excluir lesão intraepitelial de alto grau ou mais grave (ASC-H+) e 934 (59,4%) tiveram achados colposcópicos maiores ou suspeitos de invasão. Os valores de S, E, VPP e VPN das ASC-H+ para o diagnóstico de NIC 2+ e AIS+ foram, respectivamente: 44% (IC 95%: 41­47) e 72% (IC 95%: 67­76), 79% (IC 95%: 77­81) e 79% (IC 95%: 75­83), 88% (IC 95%: 87­90) e 55% (IC 95%: 50­60) e 28% (IC 95%: 26­31) e 88% (IC 95%: 85­91). Os valores de S, E, VPP e VPN dos achados colposcópicos maiores ou suspeitos de invasão para o diagnóstico de NIC 2+ e AIS+ foram, respectivamente: 62% (IC 95%: 60­65) e 86% (IC 95%: 83­89), 59% (IC 95%: 57­62) e 59% (IC 95%: 55­64), 85% (IC 95%: 83­87) e 44% (IC 95%: 40­49) e 29% (IC 95%: 27­32) e 92% (IC 95%: 89­94). CONCLUSãO: Os resultados das análises de S de ASC-H+ e achados colposcópicos maiores ou suspeitos de invasão foram mais elevados para o diagnóstico das neoplasias glandulares. Esses resultados confirmam o papel da citologia na identificação de mulheres em risco que terão seus diagnósticos definidos por colposcopia e histologia.

Performance of conventional cytology and colposcopy for the diagnosis of cervical squamous and glandular neoplasias / Desempenho da citologia convencional e da colposcopia para o diagnóstico de neoplasias cervicais escamosas e glandulares

Abstract Objective To estimate the cytological and colposcopic performances for the diagnosis of cervical neoplasias. Methods Cross-sectional retrospective study with data from patients' charts. The participants underwent colposcopy, guided biopsies, and excision when needed. The cytological and colposcopic categorization followed the Bethesda System and the international colposcopic terminologies. The cytology and colposcopy performances were evaluated by sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP), positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) analyses with 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Results From 1,571 participants, a total of 1,154 (73.4%) were diagnosed with cervical squamous intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or worse (CIN 2+), 114 (7.2%) with adenocarcinoma in situ or worse (AIS+), 615 (39.2%) presented atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion or worse (ASC-H+) cytology, and 934 (59.4%) presented major or suspicious for invasion colposcopic abnormalities. The SE, SP, PPV, and NPV of ASC-H+ for diagnoses of CIN 2+ and AIS+ were, respectively: 44% (95% CI: 41-47) and 72% (95% CI: 67-76), 79% (95% CI: 77-81) and 79% (95% CI: 75-83), 88% (95% CI: 87-90) and 55% (95% CI: 50-60), and 28% (95% CI: 26-31) and 88% (95% CI: 85-91). The SE, SP, PPV, and NPV of major or suspicious for invasion colposcopic abnormalities for diagnoses of CIN 2+ and AIS+were, respectively: 62% (95% CI: 60-65) and 86% (95% CI: 83-89), 59% (95% CI: 57-62) and 59% (95% CI: 55-64), 85% (95% CI: 83-87) and 44% (95% CI: 40-49), and 29% (95% CI: 27-32) and 92% (95% CI: 89-94). Conclusion The SE analyses results of ASC-H+ and major or suspicious for invasion colposcopic abnormalities were higher for diagnoses of glandular neoplasias. These results confirm the role of cytology in identifying women at risk who will have their final diagnoses settled by colposcopy and histology.

Resumo Objetivo Estimar o desempenho da citologia e colposcopia no diagnóstico das neoplasias cervicais. Métodos Estudo retrospectivo de corte transversal com dados coletados em prontuários. Foram incluídas participantes que foram submetidas a colposcopia, biópsia e excisão quando necessário. A categorização da citologia e da colposcopia seguiram a terminologia de Bethesda e a classificação colposcópica internacional. Os desempenhos da citologia e colposcopia foram avaliados por análises de sensibilidade (S), especificidade (E), valor preditivo positivo (VPP) e valor preditivo negativo (VPN), com intervalos de confiança de 95% (IC 95%). Resultados Das 1.571 participantes, um total de 1.154 (73,4%) foram diagnosticadas com neoplasia intraepitelial escamosa cervical de grau 2 ou mais grave (NIC 2+), 114 (7,2%) com adenocarcinoma in situ ou mais grave (AIS+), 615 (39,2%) apresentaram células escamosas atípicas de significado indeterminado, quando não se pode excluir lesão intraepitelial de alto grau ou mais grave (ASC-H+) e 934 (59,4%) tiveram achados colposcópicos maiores ou suspeitos de invasão. Os valores de S, E, VPP e VPN das ASCH + para o diagnóstico de NIC 2+ e AIS+ foram, respectivamente: 44% (IC 95%: 41-47) e 72% (IC 95%: 67-76), 79% (IC 95%: 77-81) e 79% (IC 95%: 75-83), 88% (IC 95%: 87-90) e 55% (IC 95%: 50-60) e 28% (IC 95%: 26-31) e 88% (IC 95%: 85-91). Os valores de S, E, VPP e VPN dos achados colposcópicos maiores ou suspeitos de invasão para o diagnóstico de NIC 2+ e AIS+ foram, respectivamente: 62% (IC 95%: 60-65) e 86% (IC 95%: 83-89), 59% (IC 95%: 57-62) e 59% (IC 95%: 55-64), 85% (IC 95%: 83-87) e 44% (IC 95%: 40-49) e 29% (IC 95%: 27-32) e 92% (IC 95%: 89-94). Conclusão Os resultados das análises de S de ASC-H+ e achados colposcópicos maiores ou suspeitos de invasão foram mais elevados para o diagnóstico das neoplasias glandulares. Esses resultados confirmam o papel da citologia na identificação de mulheres em risco que terão seus diagnósticos definidos por colposcopia e histologia.

Natural history of ductal carcinoma in situ / História natural do carcinoma ductal in situ

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) has been detected more frequently in the last decades using the mammographic screening. The objective of the present study was to review the epidemiological aspects of DCIS. A bibliographic narrative review was carried out focusing on the following aspects: the epidemiology of DCIS to discuss subtypes; natural history; screening; and survival. It was possible to verify that the DCIS is currently considered a precursor lesion of breast cancer, presenting a considerable and uneven increased incidence between developed and developing countries, probably due to the inclusion of mammographic screening programs. There are controversies regarding the benefit or not of its detection, diagnosis, treatment and survival of patients with DCIS. It is concluded that the considerable increase in the incidence of DCIS raises an important discussion about the real need for its diagnosis as well as its real biological significance

carcinoma ductal in situ (CDIS) tem sido detectado com maior frequência nas últimas décadas a partir do rastreamento mamográfico. O objetivo do presente estudo foi revisar os aspectos epidemiológicos do CDIS. Foi realizada uma revisão bibliográfica narrativa enfocando os aspectos do CDIS: epidemiologia, para discussão a respeito dos subtipos; história natural; rastreamento; e sobrevida. Foi possível verificar que o CDIS é atualmente considerado como uma lesão precursora do câncer de mama e apresenta aumento considerável e desigual em sua incidência entre países desenvolvidos e em desenvolvimento, devido, provavelmente, à inclusão dos programas de rastreamento mamográfico. Há controversas quanto ao benefício ou não da detecção, do diagnóstico, do tratamento e da sobrevida de pacientes que apresentam o CDIS. Conclui-se que o aumento considerável da incidência do CDIS levanta importante discussão sobre a necessidade real de seu diagnóstico, bem como do seu real significado biológico

Complete axillary dissection without drainage for the surgical treatment of breast cancer: a randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE:: This randomized clinical trial evaluated the possibility of not draining the axilla following axillary dissection. METHODS:: The study included 240 breast cancer patients who underwent axillary dissection as part of conservative treatment. The patients were divided into two groups depending on whether or not they were subjected to axillary drainage. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01267552. RESULTS:: The median volume of fluid aspirated was significantly lower in the axillary drainage group (0.00 ml; 0.00 - 270.00) compared to the no drain group (522.50 ml; 130.00 - 1148.75). The median number of aspirations performed during conservative breast cancer treatment was significantly lower in the drainage group (0.5; 0.0 - 4.0) compared to the no drain group (5.0; 3.0 - 7.0). The total volume of serous fluid produced (the volume of fluid obtained from drainage added to the volume of aspirated fluid) was similar in the two groups. Regarding complications, two cases (2.4%) of wound dehiscence occurred in the drainage group compared to 13 cases (13.5%) in the group in which drainage was not performed, with this difference being statistically significant. Rates of infection, necrosis and hematoma were similar in both groups. CONCLUSION:: Safety rates were similar in both study groups; hence, axillary dissection can feasibly be performed without drainage. However, more needle aspirations could be required, and there could be more cases of wound dehiscence in patients who do not undergo auxiliary drainage.

Complete axillary dissection without drainage for the surgical treatment of breast cancer: a randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVE: This randomized clinical trial evaluated the possibility of not draining the axilla following axillary dissection. METHODS: The study included 240 breast cancer patients who underwent axillary dissection as part of conservative treatment. The patients were divided into two groups depending on whether or not they were subjected to axillary drainage. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01267552. RESULTS: The median volume of fluid aspirated was significantly lower in the axillary drainage group (0.00 ml; 0.00 - 270.00) compared to the no drain group (522.50 ml; 130.00 - 1148.75). The median number of aspirations performed during conservative breast cancer treatment was significantly lower in the drainage group (0.5; 0.0 - 4.0) compared to the no drain group (5.0; 3.0 - 7.0). The total volume of serous fluid produced (the volume of fluid obtained from drainage added to the volume of aspirated fluid) was similar in the two groups. Regarding complications, two cases (2.4%) of wound dehiscence occurred in the drainage group compared to 13 cases (13.5%) in the group in which drainage was not performed, with this difference being statistically significant. Rates of infection, necrosis and hematoma were similar in both groups. CONCLUSION: Safety rates were similar in both study groups; hence, axillary dissection can feasibly be performed without drainage. However, more needle aspirations could be required, and there could be more cases of wound dehiscence in patients who do not undergo auxiliary drainage.

A prospective randomized trial comparing patent blue and methylene blue for the detection of the sentinel lymph node in breast cancer patients.

INTRODUCTION:: Methylene blue is more widely available and less expensive than patent blue, with an apparently lower risk of anaphylaxis. OBJECTIVE:: The two dyes were compared regarding detection of the sentinel lymph node (SLN). METHOD:: A prospective, randomized trial involved 142 patients with invasive breast carcinoma. Sixty-nine (49.3%) assigned to patent blue (group A) and 71 (50.70%) to methylene blue (group B). Thirty-five patients (25.0%) were clinical stage III or IV; 55 (38.7%) had axillary lymph nodes affected; and 69 (49.3%) underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Two patients were excluded because the dye type was not recorded. RESULTS:: Patients and tumor characteristics were similar in both groups. SLNs were identified in 47 women (68.1%) in group A and 43 (60.6%) in group B (p=0.35). SLNs were affected in 22 cases (51.2%) in group A and 21 (48.8%) in group B (p=0.62). The SLN was the only node affected in 12 cases (54.5%) in group A and six (33.3%) in group B (p=0.18). The time and degree of difficulty involved in identifying the SLN were similar in both groups. There were no complications or allergies. CONCLUSION:: Methylene blue performed as well as patent blue in identifying the SLN in breast cancer patients.

A prospective randomized trial comparing patent blue and methylene blue for the detection of the sentinel lymph node in breast cancer patients / Estudo randomizado prospectivo comparando o azul patente ao azul de metileno para a detecção do linfonodo sentinela em pacientes com câncer de mama

Summary Introduction: Methylene blue is more widely available and less expensive than patent blue, with an apparently lower risk of anaphylaxis. Objective: The two dyes were compared regarding detection of the sentinel lymph node (SLN). Method: A prospective, randomized trial involved 142 patients with invasive breast carcinoma. Sixty-nine (49.3%) assigned to patent blue (group A) and 71 (50.70%) to methylene blue (group B). Thirty-five patients (25.0%) were clinical stage III or IV; 55 (38.7%) had axillary lymph nodes affected; and 69 (49.3%) underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Two patients were excluded because the dye type was not recorded. Results: Patients and tumor characteristics were similar in both groups. SLNs were identified in 47 women (68.1%) in group A and 43 (60.6%) in group B (p=0.35). SLNs were affected in 22 cases (51.2%) in group A and 21 (48.8%) in group B (p=0.62). The SLN was the only node affected in 12 cases (54.5%) in group A and six (33.3%) in group B (p=0.18). The time and degree of difficulty involved in identifying the SLN were similar in both groups. There were no complications or allergies. Conclusion: Methylene blue performed as well as patent blue in identifying the SLN in breast cancer patients.

Resumo Introdução: O azul de metileno é mais facilmente encontrado para comercialização e a um preço menor que o azul patente. Parece ainda haver menor risco de anafilaxia. Objetivo: Comparar a taxa de detecção do linfonodo sentinela com o azul patente e com o azul de metileno. Método: Foram incluídas, de forma randomizada e prospectiva, 142 pacientes com diagnóstico de carcinoma mamário invasor, que consentiram em participar livremente do estudo. Foram injetados 2 mL de azul patente (grupo A) em 69 (49,3%) mulheres e de azul de metileno (grupo B) em 71 (50,70%), em localização periareolar ou peritumoral, seguido de 5 minutos de massagem. Trinta e cinco (25,0%) apresentavam estadiamento clínico 3 ou 4, e 55 (38,7%) apresentavam a axila clinicamente comprometida. Sessenta e nove (49,3%) fizeram quimioterapia neoadjuvante. Duas pacientes não tinham anotação do corante utilizado e foram excluídas. Resultados: Os dois grupos apresentaram características das pacientes e dos tumores semelhantes. Foram detectados linfonodos sentinela em 47 (68,1%) mulheres no grupo A e em 43 (60,6%) no grupo B (p=0,35). Havia linfonodos sentinela comprometidos em 22 (51,2%) casos no grupo A e em 21 (48,8%) casos no grupo B (p=0,62). O linfonodo sentinela foi o único gânglio comprometido em 12 (54,5%) casos no grupo A e em seis (33,3%) casos no grupo B (p=0,18). O tempo e o grau de dificuldade para identificação do linfonodo sentinela foram semelhantes nos dois grupos. Não houve relato de complicações ou de alergia em nenhum dos grupos. Conclusão: A utilização do azul de metileno para a identificação do linfonodo sentinela em pacientes com câncer de mama apresenta resultados semelhantes aos do azul patente.

Is the combination of fat grafts and platelet rich plasma effective in rats?

PURPOSE:: To investigate if the association of fat grafts and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) improves graft viability in female rats. METHODS:: This is an experimental, randomized and blinded study, which involved 47 rats. Fat was harvested from the inguinal region and grafted to the cranial region. The experimental group consisted of PRP-enriched fat grafts (n=22) whilst the control group consisted of fat graft only (n=25). After a 100-day period, the animals were euthanised and the fat grafts were analyzed using scores from 0 (absent) to 4 (abundant), in optical microscopy by two independent and blinded pathologists. RESULTS:: Regarding fat graft cell viability, the PRP group scored moderate/abundant in 63% of cases and the fat graft only group scored absent/slight in 72% of cases (p=0.03). The PRP group also presented lower fat necrosis scores when compared to the fat graft only group (p=0.03). Tumors (dermoid cysts) within the fat grafts were observed in three animals in which the grafts were mixed with PRP. CONCLUSION:: Platelet-rich plasma improves the viability and integration of fat grafts in rats, but more studies are needed to fully understand the exact mechanisms that lead to this improvement and assess the safety of the method for use in humans.

Is the combination of fat grafts and platelet rich plasma effective in rats?

ABSTRACT PURPOSE: To investigate if the association of fat grafts and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) improves graft viability in female rats. METHODS: This is an experimental, randomized and blinded study, which involved 47 rats. Fat was harvested from the inguinal region and grafted to the cranial region. The experimental group consisted of PRP-enriched fat grafts (n=22) whilst the control group consisted of fat graft only (n=25). After a 100-day period, the animals were euthanised and the fat grafts were analyzed using scores from 0 (absent) to 4 (abundant), in optical microscopy by two independent and blinded pathologists. RESULTS: Regarding fat graft cell viability, the PRP group scored moderate/abundant in 63% of cases and the fat graft only group scored absent/slight in 72% of cases (p=0.03). The PRP group also presented lower fat necrosis scores when compared to the fat graft only group (p=0.03). Tumors (dermoid cysts) within the fat grafts were observed in three animals in which the grafts were mixed with PRP. CONCLUSION: Platelet-rich plasma improves the viability and integration of fat grafts in rats, but more studies are needed to fully understand the exact mechanisms that lead to this improvement and assess the safety of the method for use in humans.

High-resolution computed tomography and histopathological findings in hypersensitivity pneumonitis: a pictorial essay.

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is a diffuse interstitial and granulomatous lung disease caused by the inhalation of any one of a number of antigens. The objective of this study was to illustrate the spectrum of abnormalities in high-resolution computed tomography and histopathological findings related to hypersensitivity pneumonitis. We retrospectively evaluated patients who had been diagnosed with hypersensitivity pneumonitis (on the basis of clinical-radiological or clinical-radiological-pathological correlations) and had undergone lung biopsy. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is clinically divided into acute, subacute, and chronic forms; high-resolution computed tomography findings correlate with the time of exposure; and the two occasionally overlap. In the subacute form, centrilobular micronodules, ground-glass opacities, and air trapping are characteristic high-resolution computed tomography findings, whereas histopathology shows lymphocytic inflammatory infiltrates, bronchiolitis, variable degrees of organizing pneumonia, and giant cells. In the chronic form, high-resolution computed tomography shows traction bronchiectasis, honeycombing, and lung fibrosis, the last also being seen in the biopsy sample. A definitive diagnosis of hypersensitivity pneumonitis can be made only through a multidisciplinary approach, by correlating clinical findings, exposure history, high-resolution computed tomography findings, and lung biopsy findings.

A pneumonite por hipersensibilidade é uma doença intersticial difusa, granulomatosa e de natureza inalatória, com inúmeros antígenos orgânicos e inorgânicos implicados. Nosso objetivo é ilustrar o espectro de anormalidades na tomografia de alta resolução do tórax e achados histopatológicos. Foram avaliadas, retrospectivamente, tomografias de alta resolução do tórax de pacientes com diagnóstico de pneumonite por hipersensibilidade estabelecido em correlação clínico-radiológica e clínico-radiológico-patológica em pacientes em que a biópsia esteve disponível. A pneumonite por hipersensibilidade é dividida, do ponto de vista clínico e didático, em aguda, subaguda e crônica, e as manifestações tomográficas da tomografia de alta resolução do tórax correlacionam-se com o tempo da evolução da doença, e por vezes se superpõem. Micronódulos centrolobulares, vidro fosco e aprisionamento aéreo são características tomográficas na manifestação subaguda, em que, histopatologicamente, se observam infiltrado inflamatório linfocítico, bronquiolite, graus variáveis de pneumonia em organização e células gigantes. Na fase crônica, a tomografia demonstra sinais de fibrose com bronquiolectasias de tração e eventualmente faveolamento, com predomínio superior, sendo observados também sinais de fibrose no estudo histopatológico. A abordagem multidisciplinar é definitiva no diagnóstico, que é realizado correlacionando-se as características clínicas, nexo causal de exposição, achados tomográficos e aspectos histopatológicos.

High-resolution computed tomography and histopathological findings in hypersensitivity pneumonitis: a pictorial essay / Aspectos tomográficos e histopatológicos da pneumonite por hipersensibilidade: ensaio iconográfico

Abstract Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is a diffuse interstitial and granulomatous lung disease caused by the inhalation of any one of a number of antigens. The objective of this study was to illustrate the spectrum of abnormalities in high-resolution computed tomography and histopathological findings related to hypersensitivity pneumonitis. We retrospectively evaluated patients who had been diagnosed with hypersensitivity pneumonitis (on the basis of clinical-radiological or clinical-radiological-pathological correlations) and had undergone lung biopsy. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is clinically divided into acute, subacute, and chronic forms; high-resolution computed tomography findings correlate with the time of exposure; and the two occasionally overlap. In the subacute form, centrilobular micronodules, ground-glass opacities, and air trapping are characteristic high-resolution computed tomography findings, whereas histopathology shows lymphocytic inflammatory infiltrates, bronchiolitis, variable degrees of organizing pneumonia, and giant cells. In the chronic form, high-resolution computed tomography shows traction bronchiectasis, honeycombing, and lung fibrosis, the last also being seen in the biopsy sample. A definitive diagnosis of hypersensitivity pneumonitis can be made only through a multidisciplinary approach, by correlating clinical findings, exposure history, high-resolution computed tomography findings, and lung biopsy findings.

Resumo A pneumonite por hipersensibilidade é uma doença intersticial difusa, granulomatosa e de natureza inalatória, com inúmeros antígenos orgânicos e inorgânicos implicados. Nosso objetivo é ilustrar o espectro de anormalidades na tomografia de alta resolução do tórax e achados histopatológicos. Foram avaliadas, retrospectivamente, tomografias de alta resolução do tórax de pacientes com diagnóstico de pneumonite por hipersensibilidade estabelecido em correlação clínico-radiológica e clínico-radiológico-patológica em pacientes em que a biópsia esteve disponível. A pneumonite por hipersensibilidade é dividida, do ponto de vista clínico e didático, em aguda, subaguda e crônica, e as manifestações tomográficas da tomografia de alta resolução do tórax correlacionam-se com o tempo da evolução da doença, e por vezes se superpõem. Micronódulos centrolobulares, vidro fosco e aprisionamento aéreo são características tomográficas na manifestação subaguda, em que, histopatologicamente, se observam infiltrado inflamatório linfocítico, bronquiolite, graus variáveis de pneumonia em organização e células gigantes. Na fase crônica, a tomografia demonstra sinais de fibrose com bronquiolectasias de tração e eventualmente faveolamento, com predomínio superior, sendo observados também sinais de fibrose no estudo histopatológico. A abordagem multidisciplinar é definitiva no diagnóstico, que é realizado correlacionando-se as características clínicas, nexo causal de exposição, achados tomográficos e aspectos histopatológicos.

Doença de Paget da mama: experiência de um centro universitário / Paget's disease of the breast: experience of a university center

Objetivo: Determinar a prevalência de doença de Paget da mama (DPM) entre os casos de carcinomas ductais diagnosticados em um centro universitário, entre 2003 e 2007, descrever as características clínicas e analisar a sobrevida desses casos. Métodos: Estudo de coorte retrospectiva, por meio da revisão de prontuários médicos. Foi realizada análise de frequência para todas as variáveis e utilizada curva de Kaplan-Meier para a representação da sobrevida global. Resultados: De 278 casos de carcinomas ductais de mama, houve 14 casos de DPM, determinando prevalência de 5,0%. Um caso foi excluído da análise por apresentar dados incompletos. A média de idade ao diagnóstico foi de 57,1 (±11,2) anos. Dos casos analisados, 11 (84,6%) apresentavam tumor palpável, e 9 (69,3%), lesão do complexo aréolo-papilar (CAP). Apenas um caso não foi submetido à mastectomia, por óbito durante quimioterapia neoadjuvante. Radioterapia foi realizada em 6 casos (46,2%), quimioterapia, em 11 casos (84,6%), e endocrinoterapia, em 6 casos (46,2%). A imunoistoquímica identificou 5 casos (38,5%) com expressão de receptores hormonais e 12 casos (92,3%) com superexpressão de HER2. A sobrevida global das pacientes foi de 61,5 (±13,4) meses e não houve recidiva local após um tempo médio de seguimento de 75,8 meses. Conclusão: Observou-se prevalência de DPM associada a carcinomas invasores com estádio clínico avançado, o que possivelmente ocasionou sobrevida global inferior à observada em estudos prévios para a região.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of Paget's disease of the breast (PD) among cases of ductal carcinomas diagnosed in a university hospital between 2003 and 2007; describe clinical characteristics and analyze the survival of these cases. Methods: Retrospective cohort study, by reviewing medical records. Frequency analysis was performed for all variables and used Kaplan-Meier curve for the representation of overall survival. Results: In 278 cases of breast ductal carcinoma, 14 cases were PD determining prevalence of 5.0%. A case was excluded from analysis because of incomplete data. The mean age at diagnosis was 57.1 (±11.2) years. Of the cases analyzed, 11 (84.6%) had palpable tumor and 9 (69.3%) presented lesion of the nipple-areola complex. Only one case was not submitted to mastectomy because she died during neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Radiotherapy was performed in six cases (46.2%); chemotherapy in eleven cases (84.6%); endocrinoterapia in six cases (46.2%). Immunohistochemistry identified five cases (38.5%) with expression of hormone receptors and twelve patients (92.3%) with overexpression of HER2. The overall survival of patients was 61.5 (±13.4) months, and there was no local recurrence after a mean follow-up of 75.8 months. Conclusion: There was a prevalence of Paget's disease of the breast associated with invasive carcinomas with advanced clinical stages; which possibly resulted in overall survival rate lower than that observed in other studies for the region.

Effect of Ki-67 on Immunohistochemical Classification of Luminal A to Luminal B Subtypes of Breast Carcinoma.

It has recently been proposed to include an immunohistochemical marker of cell proliferation, Ki-67, as an element with which to classify the molecular subtypes of breast cancer. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the introduction of the Ki-67 marker on the molecular classification of breast cancer by immunohistochemistry. This study was performed on 234 cases of invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast submitted to two immunohistochemical classification panels, one including Ki-67 and the other not. The data obtained with the two classifications were correlated with well-established prognostic factors such as histologic grade, the number of lymph nodes affected and tumor size. The molecular classification without Ki-67 identified: 136 cases of luminal A (58.1%), 19 cases of luminal B (8.1%), 27 cases of human epidermal growth-factor receptor 2 overexpressing (11.5%), 27 cases of basal-like (11.5%), and 25 cases of nonbasal-like triple-negative tumors (10.7%). When Ki-67 was included, this situation changed significantly, with the following cases being identified: 72 cases of luminal A (30.8%) and 83 cases of luminal B tumors (35.5%), resulting in a Kappa score of 0.216. Evaluation of correlations between the luminal A and luminal B tumor subtypes and the selected prognostic factors showed a statistically significant difference only when Ki-67 was included and only with respect to histologic grade (p < 0.001). The new classification with Ki-67 significantly altered the prevalence of the luminal A and luminal B subtypes and improved correlation with the histologic grade.