Underestimated Cervical Cancer among Women over 65 Years Old: Is It Time to Revise the Screening Target Age Group? / Câncer cervical subestimado entre mulheres com mais de 65 anos: É hora de rever a faixa etária alvo do rastreamento?

Abstract Objective To compare cytological and histological results from women > 64 years old who followed the Brazilian national cervical cancer screening guidelines with those who did not. Methods The present observational retrospective study analyzed 207 abnormal cervical smear results from women > 64 years old in a mid-sized city in Brazil over 14 years. All results were reported according to the Bethesda System. The women were divided into those who followed the screening guidelines and those who did not. Results Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance and low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion cytology results were found in 128 (62.2%) cases. Of these, 112 (87.5%) had repeated cytology with positive results. The other 79 (38.1%) with abnormal results should have been referred to colposcopy and biopsy. Out of 41 (51.9%) biopsied women, 23 (29.1%) had a confirmed diagnosis of neoplasia or precursor lesion. In contrast, among the 78 (37.7%) biopsied patients, 40 (51.3%) followed the guideline recommendations, with 9 (22.5%) positive biopsies. Of the 38 (48.7%) women who did not follow the guidelines, there were 24 (63.1%) positive results. Women who did not follow the guidelines demonstrated higher chances of cancer and precursor lesions (odds ratio [OR]: 5.904; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.188-15.932; p = 0.0002). Conclusion Women > 64 years old who did not follow the national screening protocol showed significant differences in the frequency of abnormal results and severity of diagnosis compared with those who followed the protocol.

Resumo Objetivo Comparar os resultados citológicos e histológicos de mulheres > 64 anos que seguiram as diretrizes nacionais brasileiras de rastreamento do câncer do colo do útero com aquelas que não as seguiram. Método O presente estudo observacional retrospectivo analisou 207 resultados anormais de esfregaço cervical de mulheres > 64 anos de idade em uma cidade de médio porte no Brasil durante 14 anos. Todos os resultados foram relatados de acordo com o Sistema Bethesda. As mulheres foram divididas entre as que seguiram as diretrizes de rastreamento e as que não o fizeram. Resultados Resultados citológicos com células escamosas atípicas de significado indeterminado e lesão intraepitelial escamosa de baixo grau foram encontrados em 128 (62,2%) casos. Destes, 112 (87,5%) repetiram a citologia com resultados positivos. Os outros 79 (38,1%) com resultados anormais deveriam ter sido encaminhados para colposcopia e biópsia. Das 41 (51,9%) mulheres biopsiadas, 23 (29,1%) tiveram diagnóstico confirmado de neoplasia ou lesão precursora. Em contrapartida, entre as 78 (37,7%) pacientes biopsiadas, 40 (51,3%) seguiram as recomendações da diretriz, com 9 (22,5%) biópsias positivas. Entre as 38 (48,7%) mulheres que não seguiram as orientações, houve 24 (63,1%) resultados positivos. As mulheres que não seguiram as diretrizes demonstraram maiores chances de câncer e lesões precursoras (odds ratio [OR]: 5,904; intervalo de confiança [IC] de 95%: 2,188-15,932; p = 0,0002). Conclusão Mulheres > 64 anos que não seguiram a diretriz nacional de rastreamento apresentaram diferenças significativas na frequência de resultados anormais e gravidade do diagnóstico em comparação com aquelas que seguiram a diretriz.

Relación entre ausencia de células endocervicales y citología Papanicolaou negativa en portadoras de lesiones escamosas premalignas de cuello uterino

Objetivo : Determinar la relación entre la ausencia de células endocervicales y resultados citológicos Papanicolaou falsos negativos. Material y métodos : Estudio observacional, de enfoque cuantitativo, transversal, relacional y retrospectivo realizado en el Servicio de Anatomía Patológica del Hospital General de Huacho. Se realizó la búsqueda de resultados de biopsias de cuello uterino positivos para lesiones intraepiteliales escamosas y sus respectivos resultados citológicos Papanicolaou previos durante los años 2016 al 2018. Se seleccionó los resultados negativos con ausencia de células endocervicales. Resultados : De los 158 resultados citológicos, 23 mostraron ausencia de células endocervicales y de éstos, sólo dos (8,7%) fueron reportados como negativos. En total 11 (7%) citologías fueron negativas. Conclusiones : No se encontró relación entre la ausencia de células endocervicales y resultados citológicos falsos negativos; por tanto, no influyó de manera significativa en la detección de lesiones escamosas premalignas de cuello uterino.

SUMMARY Objective : To determine the relationship between absence of endocervical cells and false negative Pap smears in patients with squamous premalignant cervix lesions. Methods : A cross sectional study was carried out at Servicio de Anatomía Patológica del Hospital General de Huacho. A search for positive cervix biopsies for squamous intraepithelial lesions and their Pap smears from 2016 to 2018 was done. Negative Pap smears with absence of endocervical cells were investigated. Results : 23 out of 158 cytology results showed absence of endocervical cells, only two (8.7%) were reported negative. Eleven cytologies were negative (7%). Conclusions : No relationship was found between absence of endocervical cells and false negative results at Pap smears. Therefore, no influence in the detection of squamous pre-malignant cells was found.

Nuestra experiencia en el manejo diagnóstico-terapéutico a corto plazo del paciente con displasia anal / Our experience in the short-term diagnostic-therapeutic management of the patient with anal dysplasia

Introducción: La neoplasia intraepitelial anal (NIA) es una lesión premaligna del carcinoma escamoso anal. Los varones VIH que tienen sexo con varones, es la población de riesgo más afectada. La citología y anuscopia son los métodos mejor aceptados para su diagnóstico, aunque es controvertido qué pacientes deben completarlo con una biopsia. Tampoco está bien establecido qué pacientes deben someterse a tratamiento y cuál es el mejor. Con este estudio, queremos exponer nuestra experiencia en el manejo diagnóstico-terapéutico de la NIA a corto plazo. Métodos: Estudio observacional retrospectivo de pacientes con riesgo de NIA con una citología anal alterada a los que se les realizó una anuscopia de alta resolución con biopsia. Tras la confirmación histológica de displasia iniciaron tratamiento con ácido tricloroacético. Se comprobó su efectividad con una citología posterior. Se analizaron las variables demográficas de la muestra y los resultados de las pruebas diagnósticas y de tratamiento. Resultados: La mayoría eran varones VIH positivos (104/115) y el 50% mantenían relaciones sexuales con otros varones. Se incluyeron 115 pacientes con citología anal alterada, de los cuales el 92% presentaron displasia en la biopsia. El 97% con atipia de significado incierto en la citología presentaron displasia histológicamente. El 60% de los pacientes normalizó la citología tras el tratamiento. Conclusión: Se debe considerar de forma sistemática la detección precoz de la NIA en poblaciones de riesgo conocidas. Cualquier anormalidad citológica debe ser biopsiada. El ácido tricloroacético puede ser un tratamiento efectivo consiguiendo un alto porcentaje de regresión, aunque actualmente la información con la que contamos es de bajo nivel de evidencia. (AU)

Introduction: Anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) is a premalignant lesion of anal squamous cell carcinoma. HIV-positive males who have sex with males, are the most affected at-risk population. Cytology and anuscopy are the best accepted methods for its diagnosis, although it is controversial which patients should complete it with a biopsy. Neither which patients should undergo treatment nor which is the best treatment is not well established. With this study, we would like to present our experience in the diagnostic-therapeutic management of AIN in the short term. Methods: Retrospective observational study of patients at risk of AIN with altered anal cytology who underwent high-resolution anuscopy with biopsy. After histological confirmation of dysplasia, they started treatment with trichloroacetic acid. Its effectiveness was verified by subsequent cytology. The demographic variables of the sample and the results of both diagnostic and treatment tests were analyzed. Results: The majority were HIV-positive males (104/115) and 50% had sexual relations with other men. We included 115 patients with altered anal cytology, of whom 92% had dysplasia on biopsy. 97% with atypia of uncertain significance on cytology had histological dysplasia. Cytology normalized after treatment in 60% of patients. Conclusion: Early detection of AIN should be routinely considered in known at-risk populations. Any cytological abnormality should be biopsied. Tricholoroacetic acid can be an effective treatment achieving a high percentage of regression, although currently, the information we have is of low level of evidence. (AU)

Patrón inflamatorio de las vías aéreas en pacientes fumadores con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica / Inflammatory pattern of the airways in COPD smokers

Introducción: La enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica cursa con un patrón inflamatorio en la vía aérea que incluye neutrófilos, macrófagos, linfocitos, los cuales se pueden obtener mediante un cepillado bronquial citológico. Objetivos: Identificar patrón inflamatorio según células inflamatorias presentes en la vía aérea, mediante el cepillado bronquial citológico e índice tabáquico de paquetes/año en pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal en pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica, que concurrieron al Hospital Neumológico Benéfico-Jurídico, en el período comprendido de junio de 2018 a junio de 2019, con indicación para la realización de fibrobroncoscopía con cepillado bronquial. Resultados: El 53,1 por ciento de los pacientes corresponden al sexo masculino. Un 46,1 por ciento presentó un índice tabáquico de paquetes/año entre 21-40. Predominaron las criptas y estrías como hallazgos broncoscópicos con un 51 por ciento y 40,8 por ciento respectivamente en pacientes con índice paquetes/año mayor que 40. De los pacientes con índice paquetes/año mayor de 40 (13 para un 26,5 por ciento) presentaron hiperplasia de células basales. El 46,9 por ciento de los pacientes presentaron un patrón inflamatorio neutrofílica. Conclusiones: Se identificaron a los pacientes con EPOC que presentaron patrón inflamatorio neutrofílica en la vía aérea y elevado índice tabáquico y desde el punto de vista broncoscópico tienen varios hallazgos que sugieren cronicidad(AU)

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease presents with an inflammatory pattern in the airway that includes neutrophils, macrophages, and lymphocytes, which can be obtained by cytological bronchial brushing. Objectives: To identify inflammatory pattern according to inflammatory cells present in the airway, through cytological bronchial brushing and smoking rate of packs/year in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, who attended Benefico-Jurídico Pneumological Hospital, from June 2018 to June 2019, with an indication for fiberoptic bronchoscopy with bronchial brushing. Results: 53.1percent of the patients correspond to the male sex. 46.1percent ad a smoking rate of packs/year between 21-40. Crypts and striae predominated as bronchoscopic findings with 51percent and 40.8percent respectively in patients with a pack/year index greater than 40. Patients with a pack/year index greater than 40 (13 for 26.5percent) showed basal cell hyperplasia. 46.9percent of the patients had a neutrophilic inflammatory pattern. Conclusions: Patients with COPD who had a neutrophilic inflammatory pattern in the airway and high smoking index were identified, and from the bronchoscopic point of view they have several findings that suggest chronicity(AU)

Our experience in the short-term diagnostic-therapeutic management of the patient with anal dysplasia.

INTRODUCTION: Anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) is a premalignant lesion of anal squamous cell carcinoma. HIV-positive males who have sex with males, are the most affected at-risk population. Cytology and anuscopy are the best accepted methods for its diagnosis, although it is controversial which patients should complete it with a biopsy. Neither which patients should undergo treatment nor which is the best treatment is not well established. With this study, we would like to present our experience in the diagnostic-therapeutic management of AIN in the short term. METHODS: Retrospective observational study of patients at risk of AIN with altered anal cytology who underwent high-resolution anuscopy with biopsy. After histological confirmation of dysplasia, they started treatment with trichloroacetic acid. Its effectiveness was verified by subsequent cytology. The demographic variables of the sample and the results of both diagnostic and treatment tests were analyzed. RESULTS: The majority were HIV-positive males (104/115) and 50% had sexual relations with other men. We included 115 patients with altered anal cytology, of whom 92% had dysplasia on biopsy. 97% with atypia of uncertain significance on cytology had histological dysplasia. Cytology normalized after treatment in 60% of patients. CONCLUSION: Early detection of AIN should be routinely considered in known at-risk populations. Any cytological abnormality should be biopsied. Tricholoroacetic acid can be an effective treatment achieving a high percentage of regression, although currently, the information we have is of low level of evidence.

Características microscópicas del cérvix uterino mediante citología líquida

Introducción: La citología líquida es un método que puede contribuir a identificar de manera precoz los cambios microscópicos del cérvix uterino que pudieran progresar a la malignidad, al disminuir el número de muestras insatisfactorias en relación a la citología convencional. Objetivo: Analizar las características microscópicas identificadas mediante la citología de base líquida del cérvix uterino en mujeres atendidas en la Unidad de Bienestar Estudiantil de la Universidad Técnica de Manabí, Ecuador. Métodos : Se realizó un estudio de serie de casos donde se analizaron las características sociodemográficas, microbiológicas e histológicas procedentes de las fichas médicas de 132 mujeres que participaron en la campaña de Papanicolaou realizado durante junio de 2019. Resultados: El rango de edad predominante fue el de 19 a 33 años, residían en área urbana, 64 % de las mujeres inició la vida sexual antes o durante sus 18 años. Los hallazgos microbiológicos mostraron presencia de flora cocoide en 50 % y 100 % de las muestras manifestaron la calidad adecuada. El estudio citológico presentó, según el sistema Bethesda, 75 % de muestras negativas, con 13 % de LIE de bajo grado y 11 % de ASCUS. El fondo del frotis inflamatorio leve se presentó en 52 %, mientras los antecedentes de más de tres citologías anteriores positivas resultaron en 34 % de las féminas. No se encontró relación entre la presencia de lesión intraepitelial y la edad de las pacientes (p=0,3076). Conclusiones: El total de las muestras fueron útiles lo cual puede indicar que la citología de base líquida ofrece una mayor calidad del diagnóstico histológico.

Introduction: Liquid-based cytology is a method that can contribute to the early identification of microscopic changes in the uterine cervix that can progress to malignancy, by reducing the number of unsatisfactory samples compared to conventional cytology. Objective: To analyze the microscopic characteristics identified by liquid-based cytology of the uterine cervix in women treated at the Student Welfare Unit of the Technical University of Manabí, Ecuador. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional, retrospective and quantitative study was carried out where the sociodemographic, microbiological and histological characteristics collected in the medical records of 132 women who participated in the Pap smear campaign carried out during June 2019 were analyzed. Results: The age range that prevailed was 19 to 33 years who lived in urban areas, 64% of women began their sexual life before or at 18 years of age. The microbiological findings showed the presence of coccoid flora in 50% and 100% of the samples showed adequate quality. The cytological study presented, according to the Bethesda system, 75% of negative samples, with 13% low-grade IEL and 11% ASCUS. The background of the mild inflammatory smears was present in 52%, the history of previous positive cytology in 34% was more than three. All of the samples were useful. No relationship was found between the presence of intraepithelial lesion and the age of the patients (p=0.3076). Conclusions: CBL can ensure a higher quality of histological diagnosis by guaranteeing a greater number of useful samples.

Effect of Lubricant Use on Cervicovaginal Cytology - What's the Evidence? / Efeito do uso de lubrificante na citologia cervicovaginal - Qual a evidência?

Abstract Objective To determine if the use of lubricating gel on the speculum during the cervicovaginal cytology examination interferes with the results obtained, as well as whether it reduces reported discomfort in patients. Data sources A systematic review was carried out according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) recommendations, with a search in the Pubmed/Medline, Scielo, Cochrane Library, Embase databases of articles published between January 2011 and May 2022. The keywords used were cytology, speculum, lubricant, result, and pain. Selection of studies The initial search resulted in 306 articles, of which were excluded three because they were duplicates, 257 after reading the title and abstract and 41 after reading the full text. Thus, five articles were selected for the study: four randomized clinical trials and one metanalysis. Data collection The selection of articles was performed by two investigators. The 5 selected articles were read in full and submitted to a comparative analysis. Data synthesis Screening through cervicovaginal cytology allows for early diagnosis and reduction of associated mortality, but the procedure can be associated with pain. A small amount of aqueous lubricating gel in the speculum can be used to reduce the discomfort associated with performing cervicovaginal cytology. Conclusion The use of lubricating gel in the speculum does not seem to be associated with a change in the cytology result and reduces the discomfort associated with its insertion into the vagina.

Resumo Objetivo Determinar se o uso de gel lubrificante no espéculo durante o exame de citologia cervicovaginal interfere com os resultados obtidos e se diminui o desconforto relatado por pacientes. Fontes de dados Foi realizada uma revisão sistemática segundo as recomendações do Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), com pesquisa nas bases de dados Pubmed/Medline, Scielo, Cochrane Library, Embase, de artigos publicados entre janeiro de 2011 e julho de 2022. Utilizaram-se as palavras-chave citologia, espéculo, lubrificante, resultado e dor. Seleção dos estudos A pesquisa inicial resultou em 306 artigos, dos quais foram excluídos três por se encontrarem duplicados, 257 após a leitura do título e do resumo e 41 após a leitura integral. Assim, foram selecionados cinco artigos para o estudo: quatro ensaios clínicos aleatorizados e uma metanálise. Coleta de dados A seleção dos artigos foi realizada por dois investigadores. Os cinco artigos selecionados foram lidos na íntegra e submetidos a uma análise comparativa. Síntese dos dados O rastreio através da citologia cervicovaginal permite um diagnóstico precoce e redução da mortalidade associada, mas a sua realização pode estar associada a dor. Uma pequena quantidade de gel lubrificante aquoso pode ser utilizada no espéculo para diminuir o desconforto associado à realização da citologia cervicovaginal. Conclusão A utilização de gel lubrificante não está associada a alteração do resultado da citologia e diminui o desconforto associado à sua introdução na vagina.

Tamizaje con citología anal en mujeres con lesiones premalignas del cuello uterino / Anal cytology screening in women with premalignant lesions of the uterine cervix / Rastreamento de citologia anal em mulheres com lesões pré-malignas do colo do útero

Objetivo: nuestro objetivo principal fue evaluar la prevalencia de citología anal patológica en mujeres con antecedentes de neoplasia intraepitelial cervical. Métodos: se trata de un estudio de cohorte transversal desde mayo de 2018 a agosto de 2020 en el Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell. Se estudiaron dos cohortes: una de mujeres que tenían diagnóstico de neoplasia intraepitelial cervical y otra de control de mujeres sanas que asistieron al control, con una proporción de 2:1. Se calculó un tamaño muestral total de 205 pacientes, siendo 135 pacientes con NIC con un IC del 95%, suponiendo una prevalencia del 10% de lesiones preneoplásicas anales. El tamaño muestral de la cohorte control fue de 70 pacientes según la relación preestablecida. Resultados: se encontró asociación entre la presencia de lesiones premalignas cervicales y anomalías epiteliales detectadas en la citología anal, con un cociente de prevalencia de 1,77 (IC del 95%: 1,19-2,62) y un odds ratio de 2,69 (1,36-5,30). No se encontraron diferencias significativas en las variables de raza, tipo de relación sexual o tabaquismo. Conclusiones: nuestro estudio concluye que existe una asociación entre la neoplasia intraepitelial cervical relacionada con el VPH y la citología anal patológica.

Objective: the main objective of the study was to assess the prevalence of anal cytology in women with a history of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Method: cohort transversal study conducted from May, 2018 until August, 2020 at Pereira Rossell Hospital. Two cohorts were studied, one of which included women with a diagnosis of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and the other one included healthy women who attended their routine follow up, in a 2:1 ratio. The total size of the sample was 205 patients, 135 of which were patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (confidence interval being 95%), presuming a 10% prevalence of anal pre-neoplasic lesions. The sample size of the control cohort was 70 patients as per the pre-defined ratio. Results: a association was found between the presence of malignant lesions of the cervix and epithelial anomalies detected in the anal cytology, with a prevalence coefficient of 1.77 (CI: 95%: 1,19 - 2,62) and odds ratio of 2,69 (1,36 - 5,30). No significant differences were found between race, type of sexual relationships or smoking variables. Conclusions: our study concludes there is an association between cervical intraepithelial neoplasia related to HPV and pathological anal screening.

Objetivo: Avaliar a prevalência de citologia anal patológica em mulheres com história de neoplasia intraepitelial cervical. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo de coorte transversal de maio de 2018 a agosto de 2020, no Hospital Pereira Rossell. Foram estudadas duas coortes, uma de mulheres com diagnóstico de neoplasia intraepitelial cervical e outra de controle de mulheres saudáveis que compareceram ao controle na proporção de 2:1. Foi calculada uma amostra total de 205 pacientes, 135 pacientes com NIC com um IC de 95%, assumindo uma prevalência de 10% de lesões pré-neoplásicas anais. O tamanho da amostra da coorte controle foi de 70 pacientes de acordo com a relação pré-estabelecida. Resultados: Foi encontrada associação entre a presença de lesões pré-malignas cervicais e anormalidades epiteliais detectadas na citologia anal, com razão de prevalência de 1,77 (IC 95%: 1,19 - 2,62) e odds ratio 2,69 (1,36-5,30). Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas nas variáveis raça, tipo de relação sexual ou tabagismo. Conclusões: Nossos resultados mostram uma associação entre neoplasia intraepitelial cervical relacionada ao HPV e citologia anal patológica.

Asociación entre el inicio de la vida sexual y las lesiones intraepiteliales / Association between age at onset of active sexual life and intraepithelial lesion

Introducción: El cáncer cervicouterino inicia con una lesión precancerosa llamada displasia, pudiendo ser de bajo grado o alto grado; uno de los factores más importantes en este sentido es la edad de inicio de la vida sexual activa (IVSA). Objetivo: Conocer si existe asociación entre la edad de inicio de la vida sexual activa y la lesión intraepitelial escamosa de alto grado (LIEAG). Material y métodos: Estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo, observacional, en 52 expedientes de mujeres de 15 a 60 años, con Papanicolaou en el HGZ MF No. 1, previa autorización del CLIS 301 y el CEI 3018, con folio R-2022-301-021. Se recolectaron los datos de expedientes que cumplieron los criterios de inclusión; se realizó un análisis estadístico con frecuencias, porcentajes para variables cualitativas nominales, con medidas de tendencia central y dispersión en variables cuantitativas, con determinación de chi2 y prueba de Kruskal-Wallis, respetándose los principios de Belmont en consideración a la Justicia y Beneficencia, los principios éticos de la Declaración de Helsinki 1964 y la Ley General de Salud en México. Resultado: Al evaluar 52 expedientes de pacientes, la edad fue de 37.81 ± 9.949 años; se encontró asociación entre el IVSA y la LIEAG, sin significación estadística, de acuerdo con la prueba de chi2, con un valor de p = 0.538 (IC 95%: 0.403-0.674), y una asociación significativa por la prueba de Kruskal-Wallis entre la LIEAG y la edad de la paciente, con un valor de p = 0.019 (IC 95%: 0.000-0.057). Conclusión: El IVSA no se correlaciona con el tipo de LIEAG.

Introduction: Cervical cancer begins with a precancerous lesion called dysplasia, which can be low grade or high grade. One of the most important factors is the age at which an active sexual life begins. Objective: To know if there is an association between the age of beginning of active sexual life (BASL) and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HGSIEL). Material and methods: Descriptive, retrospective, observational study, in 52 files of women aged 15 to 60 years with Pap smear at HGZ MF No. 1, prior authorization from CLIS 301 and CEI 3018 with folio R-2022-301-021. Data were collected from files that met the inclusion criteria, a statistical analysis was carried out with frequencies, percentages for nominal qualitative variables, with measures of central tendency and dispersion in quantitative variables, with determination of chi2 and Kruskal-Wallis, respecting the principles of Belmont in consideration of Justice and Beneficence, the ethical principles of the Declaration of Helsinki 1964, the General Health Law in México. Result: When evaluating 52 patient records, the age was 37.81 ± 9.949 years, the association of BASL and HGSIEL was found without statistical significance according to the chi2 with a p = 0.538 (95% CI, 0.403-0.674) and a significant association by Kruskal-Wallis between HGSIEL and patient age, with p = 0.019 (95% CI, 0.000-0.057). Conclusion: The beginning of an active sexual life has no association with the type of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions.

Concordancia de los hallazgos citológicos, colposcópicos e histológicos en lesiones premalignas del cuello uterino / Concordance in cytological, colposcopic and histological findings in premalignant lesions of the cervix

Resumen OBJETIVO: Determinar la concordancia de los hallazgos citológicos, colposcópicos e histopatológicos en lesiones premalignas del cuello uterino. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal, retrospectivo y comparativo, efectuado en la Clínica de Displasias del Hospital General Regional 1 del estado de Querétaro, México, del 1 de enero a diciembre del 2020, con base en la información de los expedientes de mujeres con reporte citológico, colposcópico e histopatológico (biopsia) de lesión intraepitelial de bajo y alto grado. El plan de análisis estadístico incluyó intervalos de confianza para promedios y porcentajes. Se utilizó el Índice de Kappa ponderado para conocer el nivel de concordancia. RESULTADOS: Se analizaron 290 expedientes. La edad promedio de las pacientes fue 36 años, el índice de kappa ponderado fue k = 0.41 (IC95%: 0.33-0.53) para la citología y la colposcopia con un valor moderado (regular). Para la citología y la biopsia fue de k= 0.33 (IC95%: 0.22-0.49) con un valor escaso (medio). En cuanto a la colposcopia y la biopsia fue de k = 0.61 (IC95%: 0.49-0.72) con un valor de buena (sustancial) concordancia. CONCLUSIÓN: Entre la citología y la colposcopia el coeficiente de concordancia fue moderado, para la citología y la biopsia fue escaso, mientras que para la colposcopia y la biopsia fue un sustancial.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To determine the concordance in cytologic, colposcopic and histopathologic findings in premalignant lesions of the uterine cervix. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cross-sectional, retrospective and comparative study, carried out in the dysplasia clinic of the Hospital General Regional 1 of the state of Querétaro, Mexico, from January 1 to December 2020, based on information from the records of women with cytology, colposcopy and histopathology (biopsy) report with low- and high-grade intraepithelial lesion. The statistical analysis plan included confidence intervals for averages and percentages. The weighted Kappa Index was used to determine the level of concordance. RESULTS: Two hundred and ninety records were analyzed. The mean age of the patients was 36 years, the weighted kappa index was k = 0.41 (95%CI: 0.33-0.53) for cytology and colposcopy with a moderate value (fair). For cytology and biopsy, it was k= 0.33 (95%CI: 0.22-0.49) with a poor value (medium). For colposcopy and biopsy, it was k = 0.61 (95%CI: 0.49-0.72) with a value of good (substantial) agreement. CONCLUSION: Between cytology and colposcopy the concordance coefficient was moderate, for cytology and biopsy it was poor, while for colposcopy and biopsy it was a substantial.

Metodología para la evaluación automatizada de la expresión del receptor de vitamina D mediante técnica inmunocitoquímica / Methodology of automated Vitamin D receptor immunocytochemical expression análisis

Introducción: la citología permite examinar células de un tejido de manera mínimamente invasiva, sin embargo, la capacidad de realizar técnicas complementarias como la inmunocitoquímica (ICQ) no está exenta de dificultades. Es el objetivo de nuestro trabajo presentar una metodología que permita la utilización de ICQ automatizada asociada a un análisis automatizado mediante técnica de patología digital. Métodos: se incluyeron 5 sujetos sanos y se obtuvieron muestras de superficie ocular utilizando un citocepillo. La muestra fue procesada de manera automatizada mediante citología en fase líquida. Posteriormente se realizó ICQ automatizada para detectar la positividad nuclear del receptor de vitamina D. Para la evaluación, se utilizaron dos métodos: cuantificación directa bajo microscopio de luz y análisis automatizado usando analizador de imágenes en las diapositivas digitales obtenidas con un Scanner. El porcentaje de positividad encontrado con ambos métodos fueron comparados utilizando la prueba de Kappa. Resultados: todas las muestras presentaron una celularidad adecuada. En todos los casos fue posible realizar ICQ automatizada, más aún, todas las muestras presentaron una calidad óptima. Al comparar ambos métodos (manual versus automatizado) se observó un nivel de acuerdo sustancial (Kappa=0,69). Conclusiones: la metodología presentada en este manuscrito permite la evaluación automatizada de marcadores inmunohistoquímicos de la superficie ocular de manera mínimamente invasiva, siendo similar al conteo manual, pero más objetivo y reproducible. Esta técnica podría ser útil para el estudio proteómico en patologías como la enfermedad por ojo seco.

Introduction: Cytology tests use small amounts of tissue samples for diagnosis as a minimally invasive technique; however, the ability to perform complementary methods such as immunocytochemistry (ICC) is not without difficulties. The aim of our work is to present a method that allows the use of automated ICC associated with an automated image analysis using digital pathology. Methods: Five healthy subjects were included, and ocular surface samples were obtained using a cytobrush. The sample was processed as liquid-based cytology. Automated ICC was subsequently performed to detect vitamin D receptor nuclear positivity. Two methods were used for evaluation: manual counting under a light microscope and automated analysis using an image analyzer on digitized slides. The percentage of positivity found in both methods was compared using the Kappa test. Results: All samples presented adequate cellularity. In all cases, it was possible to perform automated ICC; moreover, all samples presented optimal quality. When comparing both methods (manual versus automated), a substantial level of agreement was seen (Kappa=0.69). Conclusions. The method presented in this manuscript allows the minimally invasive automated evaluation of ocular surface ICC markers, being like manual counting but more objective and reproducible. This technique could be useful for proteomic study in pathologies such as dry eye disease.

A Relação entre Compartimentos de Volume Extracelular e Matriz Metaloproteinase 2 na Remodelação do Ventrículo Esquerdo após o Infarto do Miocárdio / The Relationship between Extracellular Volume Compartments and Matrix Metalloproteinases-2 in Left Ventricular Remodeling after Myocardial Infarction

Resumo Fundamento: As matrizes metaloproteinases (MMPs) podem afetar o volume extracelular (VEC) e seus compartimentos, e isso pode oferecer informações mais detalhadas sobre o mecanismo de remodelação adversa (RA) do ventrículo esquerdo (VE) após o infarto agudo do miocárdio (IM). Objetivos: Investigar o papel que as alterações (Δ) nos compartimentos de VEC (volume matriz (MVi) e volume celular (CVi)) desempenham no desenvolvimento de RA após o IM, e sua relação com as expressões de MMP-2. Métodos: Um total de noventa e dois pacientes com primeiro IM passaram por exames de imagens por ressonância magnética cardiovascular 3 Tesla realizados 2 semanas (linha de base) e 6 meses após o IM. Medimos o mapeamento T1 com sequências MOLLI. O VEC foi obtido após o realce pelo gadolínio. O VEC e a massa do VE foram usados para calcular o MVi e o CVi. A RA foi definida como um aumento de ≥ 12% no volume diastólico final do VE em 6 meses. As MMPs foram medidas usando-se um sistema de imunoensaio multiplex em grânulos no primeiro dia (linha de base) e 2 semanas após o IM. Um P valor <0,05 foi aceito como estatisticamente significativo. Resultados: Os níveis de linha de base de MVi média e VEC médio foram mais altos no grupo com RA em comparação com o grupo sem RA (42,9±6,4 vs. 39,3±8,2 %, p= 0,037; 65,2±13,7 vs. 56,7±14,7 mL/m2, p=0,010; respectivamente). Os níveis de CVi eram semelhantes entre os grupos. Foi encontrada uma correlação positiva entre os níveis de linha de base de MMP-2 e os níveis de linha de base de VEC (r=0,535, p<0,001) e MVi (r=0,549, p<0,001). O aumento dos níveis de ΔMVi foi um preditor independente da RA (RC=1,03, p=0,010). O ΔMVi teve um desempenho diagnóstico superior quando comparado ao ΔVEC na previsão do (ΔAUC: 0,215±0,07, p<0,001). Conclusão: Níveis altos de MVi estão associados à RA, e o ΔMVi foi um preditor independente de RA. Isso pode estar associado à liberação de MMP-2 devido ao aumento da resposta inflamatória.

Abstract Background: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) can affect myocardial extracellular volume (ECV) and its compartments, and this can provide more detailed information about the mechanism of adverse left ventricular (LV) remodeling (AR) after acute myocardial infarction (MI). Objectives: To investigate the role of changes (Δ) in ECV compartments (matrix volume (MVi) and cell volume (CVi)) in the development of AR after MI, and their relationship with MMP-2 expressions. Methods: Ninety-two first MI patients who underwent 3 Tesla cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging performed 2 weeks (baseline) and 6 months post-MI. We measured T1 mapping with MOLLI sequences. ECV was performed post-gadolinium enhancement. ECV and LV mass were used to calculate MVi and CVi. AR was defined as an increase of ≥ 12% in LV end-diastolic volume in 6 months. MMPs were measured using a bead-based multiplex immunoassay system at first day (baseline) and 2 weeks post-MI. P <0.05 was accepted as statistically significant. Results: Mean ECV and mean MVi baseline levels were higher in AR group compared to without AR group (42.9±6.4 vs 39.3±8.2%, p= 0.037; 65.2±13.7 vs 56.7±14.7 mL/m2, p=0.010; respectively). CVi levels was similar between groups. A positive correlation was found between baseline levels of MMP-2 and baseline levels of ECV (r=0.535, p<0.001) and MVi (r=0.549, p<0.001). Increased ΔMVi levels was independently predictor of AR (OR=1.03, p=0.010). ΔMVi had superior diagnostic performance compared to ΔECV in predicting AR (ΔAUC: 0.215±0.07, p<0.001). Conclusion: High MVi levels are associated with AR, and ΔMVi was independently predictor of AR. This may be associated with MMP-2 release due to increased inflammatory response.

Comportamiento de las alteraciones citológicas en mujeres atendidas en una IPS de la ciudad de Medellín / Behavior of cytological alterations in women treated at an IPS in the city of Medellín

Resumen Objetivo: Analizar las características relacionadas con el diagnóstico de cáncer de las pacientes que consultan una IPS de la ciudad de Medellín. Metodología: Estudio observacional analítico. La población fueron todas las mujeres atendidas en la IPS Unidad Video Diagnóstica de la Mujer, institución que se dedica a realizar confirmación diagnóstica de mujeres con citologías alteradas. Se analizaron todos los registros de la base de datos de la institución correspondientes a las mujeres que consultaron durante el período 2012- 2017, un total de 55655 mujeres. Resultados: Se analizaron los registros de 55655 usuarias, la mediana de edad fue de 40 años (RIQ 19) y el 66.1% (36812) pertenecen al régimen subsidiado. La principal indicación para la realización de la colposcopia fueron las alteraciones citológicas con un 89.8% (49984) y más frecuente fue el LIEBG 35.3% (19649). El principal cáncer diagnosticado fue el escamocelular con 0.5% (284) y los factores asociados fueron residir en el Valle de Aburrá (OR 0.60 IC 0.42-0.84) y el resultado de citología LIEAG (OR 3.31 IC 2.22-4.94). Conclusiones: Se encontró una prevalencia de cáncer de cérvix de 7.8 por cada 1000 pacientes que consultan en la IPS.

Abstract Objective: To analyze the characteristics related to the diagnosis of cancer of the patients who consult an IPS in the city of Medellín. Methodology: Analytical observational study. The population consisted of all the women treated at the IPS Unidad Video Diagnóstica de la Mujer, an institution dedicated to performing diagnostic confirmation of women with altered cytologies. All the records of the institution's database corresponding to the women who consulted during the period 2012-2017 were analyzed, a total of 55,655 women. Results: The records of 55,655 users were analyzed, the median age was 40 years (RIQ 19) and 66.1% (36,812) belonged to the subsidized regime. The main indication for performing colposcopy was cytological alterations with 89.8% (49984) and the most frequent was LIEBG 35.3% (19649). The main cancer diagnosed was squamous cells with 0.5% (284) and the associated factors were residing in the Valle de Aburrá (OR 0.60 IC 0.42-0.84) and the LIEAG cytology result (OR 3.31 IC 2.22-4.94). Conclusions: A cervical cancer prevalence of 7.8 was found for every 1000 patients who consulted the IPS.

Cáncer de cérvix: una mirada práctica / Cervical cancer, a practical view

Resumen Introducción: El cáncer de cérvix (CC) es un problema de salud pública en países desarrollados y no desarrollados; esta patología tiene repercusiones socioeconómicas en mujeres en edad reproductiva. Objetivo: Describir las características sobre métodos de prevención, tamizaje, diagnóstico y tratamiento del cáncer de cérvix. Método: Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica exhaustiva en un período de seis años (2016-2021) en la base de datos de la Fundación Universitaria del Área Andina, utilizando motores de búsqueda como Dialnet, Science Direct, Medline, LIlacs, Scopus para revisar los conceptos generales sobre cáncer de cérvix. Resultados: El CC es el segundo cáncer más frecuente en Colombia, la principal etiología del cáncer de cérvix es el virus del papiloma humano (VPH), el cual es un virus prevenible mediante la adecuada educación e información y seguimiento a sus lesiones precancerosas. Conclusión: El CC es una patología con altas tasas de mortalidad, especialmente en países en vía de desarrollo y en las infecciones asociadas a VPH de alto riesgo, afectando principalmente a mujeres en edad reproductiva y estratos socioeconómicos bajos. Los principales pilares para el manejo de esta patología siguen siendo las estrategias de salud pública, como la vacunación y realización de las pruebas de tamizaje.

Abstract Introduction: Cervical cancer (CC) is a public health problem in both developed and undeveloped countries; besides it has socio-economic repercussions in women of reproductive age. Objective: To describe the characteristics of cervical cancer prevention, screening, diagnosis, and treatment methods. Method: An exhaustive bibliographic search was carried out within a period of 6 years (2016-2021) in the database of the Fundación Universitaria del Área Andina, using search engines such as Dialnet, Science Direct, Medline, Lilacs, and Scopus to review the concepts general information about cervical cancer. Results: The main etiology of cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV) which is a preventable virus through adequate education and information and follow-up of its precancerous lesions. It is the second most frequent cancer in Colombia. Conclusion: CC is a pathology that mainly affects women of reproductive age belonging to low socioeconomic strata. This type of cancer has high mortality rates, especially in developing countries and in high-risk HPV infections. Regarding the management of this pathology, public health strategies, such as vaccination and conducting screening tests continue being the fundamental pillars.

Resultados de la aplicación del consenso cubano de prevención del cáncer anal / Results of the Application of the Cuban Consensus for Anal Cancer Prevention

Introducción: El incremento del cáncer anal en poblaciones de alto riesgo induce a la implementación de protocolos para efectuar diagnóstico precoz y seguimiento de neoplasia anal intraepitelial. Objetivo: Evaluar los resultados de la aplicación del consenso nacional de prevención del cáncer anal en Cuba. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio longitudinal prospectivo con 43 pacientes de alto riesgo de neoplasia anal intraepitelial atendidos en la consulta de Coloproctología del Hospital Universitario Clínico Quirúrgico "Comandante Manuel Fajardo", desde 2018 hasta 2019. Se evaluaron en el momento del diagnóstico y a los 6 meses. Se hicieron estudios de citología anal (normales, lesiones de bajo y alto grado, y células epidermoides atípicas de significado incierto), examen digital anorrectal y anoscopia de alta resolución (normal, tipos I-II y III). Resultados: El 53,5 por ciento de los resultados fueron normales. En los hallazgos anormales por citología anal, la lesión de bajo grado fue la de mayor porcentaje (50 por ciento). La neoplasia anal intraepitelial tipo I fue la de mayor frecuencia (52,9 por ciento). De los pacientes evolucionados a los 6 meses, la mayoría tuvo resultados anormales de citología anal (55,6 por ciento), se presentó el 70 por ciento con lesiones de bajo grado. El examen digital anorrectal fue normal en todos los casos. Los factores de riesgos predominantes fueron: sexo con penetración anal y sexo de hombres con otros hombres, incluyendo que todos habían padecido el virus del papiloma humano. Conclusiones: El protocolo permitió identificar fundamentalmente lesiones de bajo grado. Los factores de riesgo influyen en la aparición de esta neoplasia(AU)

Introduction: The increase of anal cancer in high-risk populations leads to the implementation of protocols to perform early diagnosis and follow-up of anal intraepithelial neoplasia. Objective: To evaluate the results of the application of the national consensus for anal cancer prevention in Cuba. Methods: A prospective longitudinal study was conducted with 43 patients at high risk of intraepithelial anal neoplasia cared for in the coloproctology consultation at Comandante Manuel Fajardo Clinical Surgical University Hospital, from 2018 to 2019. They were evaluated at the time of diagnosis and at six months. Anal cytology studies (normal, low- and high-degree lesions, and atypical epidermoid cells of uncertain significance), anorectal digital examination and high resolution anoscopy (normal, types I-II and III) were performed. Results: 53.5 percent of the results were normal. In abnormal anal cytology findings, low-degree lesion had the highest percentage (50 percent). Anal intraepithelial neoplasia type I was the most frequent (52.9 percent). Of the patients followed up at six months, the majority had abnormal anal cytology results (55.6 percent); 70 percent had low-degree lesions. The anorectal digital examination was normal in all cases. The predominant risk factors were anal penetrative sex and male-to-male sex, including that all had had human papillomavirus. Conclusions: The protocol allowed the identification of primarily low-degree lesions. Risk factors influence the appearance of this neoplasm(AU)

Atividade educativa para a realização do exame citopatológico em profissionais do sexo, em Belo Horizonte / Educational activity for cytopathological examination of sex professionals in Belo Horizonte / Actividad educativa para examen citopatológico de profesionales del sexo en Belo Horizonte

Objetivo: Relatar a experiência da organização e efetivação de uma ação de educação em saúde para a coleta de exame citopatológico em profissionais do sexo. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo descritivo sobre o relato de experiência realizado em 2018 com profissionais do sexo em uma região de prostituição no hipercentro de Belo Horizonte. Resultados: Foram desenvolvidas ações educativas em sala de espera abordando as temáticas saúde reprodutiva e sexual da mulher, dando ênfase na importância do exame ginecológico para a prevenção do câncer do colo uterino. Foram realizados 69 exames preventivos e destes 4 (5,8%) com lesão de alto grau. Conclusão: As atividades de educação em saúde permitiu uma ampliação dos olhares para além do senso comum sobre a mulher na prostituição como também levou a uma reflexão acerca da importância da garantia do acesso as informações e serviços de saúde. (AU)

Objective: Report the experience of the organization and implementation of a health education action for the collection of cytopathological examination in sex workers. Methods: This is a descriptive study on the experience report carried out in 2018 with sex workers in a prostitution region in the Belo Horizonte hypercenter. Results: Educational actions were developed in the waiting room addressing the themes of women's reproductive and sexual health, emphasizing the importance of gynecological examination for the prevention of cervical cancer. 69 preventive exams were carried out and of these 4 (5.8%) with high grade lesion. Conclusion: Health education activities allowed an expansion of views beyond the common sense about women in prostitution, as well as led to a reflection on the importance of guaranteeing access to health information and services. (AU)

Objetivo: Informar la experiencia de la organización e implementación de una acción de educación en salud para la recolección de exámenes citopatológicos en trabajadoras sexuales. Métodos: Se trata de un estudio descriptivo del relato de experiencia realizado en 2018 con trabajadoras sexuales en una región de prostitución del hipercentro de Belo Horizonte. Resultados: En la sala de espera se desarrollaron acciones educativas que abordan los temas de salud sexual y reproductiva de la mujer, destacando la importancia del examen ginecológico para la prevención del cáncer cervicouterino. Se realizaron 69 exámenes preventivos y de estos 4 (5,8%) con lesión de alto grado. Conclusión: Las actividades de educación para la salud permitieron ampliar las visiones más allá del sentido común sobre las mujeres en la prostitución, así como propiciar una reflexión sobre la importancia de garantizar el acceso a la información y los servicios de salud. (AU)

[The importance of Hashime Murayama's illustrations for George Papanicolaou's Atlas of exfoliative cytology]. / Empoderamiento de Hashime Murayama en el Atlas de citología exfoliativa de George Papanicolaou.

The illustrations of Hashime Murayama were vital in enabling the Papanicolaou test to be understood, admired and observed worldwide, making Papanicolaou's Atlas of cytology so fundamental in the detection and prevention of cervical cancer. Murayama was a talented Japanese artist who initially worked for the National Geographic magazine; his figurative watercolours were ideal for portraying the wonders of nature. Later, he collaborated with George Papanicolaou in Cornell University as he was able to improve on the microphotography of the era; an era in which it was not yet understood why cervical cancer caused so many deaths. His illustrations captured the most intricate cellular details and his artistic legacy will always be enlightening in each display of cellular artistry as seen under the microscope.

Empoderamiento de Hashime Murayama en el Atlas de citología exfoliativa de George Papanicolaou / The importance of Hashime Murayama's illustrations for George Papanicolaou's Atlas of exfoliative cytology

Para que la prueba de Papanicolaou pudiera ser vista, comprendida y admirada por el mundo entero, fue necesario plasmar el arte desarrollado por Hashime Murayama en el Atlas que se materializó gracias a sus dibujos ilustrativos en la consolidación de esta como herramienta fundamental en la detección y la prevención del cáncer cervical. Murayama fue un virtuoso japonés con un estilo artístico figurativo que desarrolló su talento, en un principio para National Geographic, en las ilustraciones a base de acuarela que reflejaba las fascinaciones de la naturaleza, y luego, en colaboración con George Papanicolaou, en Cornell University, donde superó la microfotografía de esa época al reflejar en sus dibujos los más refinados detalles celulares, en los tiempos donde no se entendía por qué el cáncer cervical ocasionaba tantas muertes. El legado artística de Murayama estará siempre presente como información en cada visualización de los detalles celulares vistos en el microscopio.(AU)

The illustrations of Hashime Murayama were vital in enabling the Papanicolaou test to be understood, admired and observed worldwide, making Papanicolaou's Atlas of cytology so fundamental in the detection and prevention of cervical cancer. Murayama was a talented Japanese artist who initially worked for the National Geographic magazine; his figurative watercolours were ideal for portraying the wonders of nature. Later, he collaborated with George Papanicolaou in Cornell University as he was able to improve on the microphotography of the era; an era in which it was not yet understood why cervical cancer caused so many deaths. His illustrations captured the most intricate cellular details and his artistic legacy will always be enlightening in each display of cellular artistry as seen under the microscope.(AU)

Diagnóstico del carcinoma medular de tiroides / Diagnosis of medullary thyroid carcinoma

Introducción: El carcinoma medular de tiroides (CMT) es un tumor maligno neuroendocrino poco frecuente derivado de las células parafoliculares o células C del tiroides. En el momento del diagnóstico presentan metástasis ganglionares más del 50% y a distancia el 10%. Su pronóstico depende en gran parte del estadio del tumor, por lo que su diagnóstico temprano es fundamental.Objetivo: El objetivo de este trabajo es realizar una revisión actualizada sobre el abordaje diagnóstico del CMT.Síntesis: La ecografía es la principal herramienta en la estratificación del nódulo tiroideo, pero la mayor parte de los estudios se han centrado en el carcinoma papilar de tiroides. En el caso del CMT las características ecográficas sospechosas de malignidad suelen ser menos frecuentes y esto podría conducir a un retraso diagnóstico y terapéutico, por lo que se debe combinar con técnicas diagnósticas adicionales. En estos tumores la sensibilidad del estudio citológico del nódulo mediante punción aspiración con aguja fina generalmente es baja, y en aquellos casos de sospecha de CMT se recomienda realizar inmunohistoquímica para calcitonina y determinar la calcitonina en el aspirado de la punción. La calcitonina plasmática es el marcador más sensible para el diagnóstico de estos pacientes, pero su determinación rutinaria en el estudio del nódulo tiroideo es controvertida. Sus niveles se relacionan con la masa de células C y la presencia de metástasis ganglionares. Si son superiores a 500 pg/ml se recomienda realizar estudio de extensión con pruebas de imagen complementarias por sospecha de enfermedad metastásica. Es importante solicitar estudio genético a todos los pacientes, ya que el 25% son hereditarios formando parte de la neoplasia endocrina múltiple tipo 2 asociada a mutación en el gen RET. (AU)

Introduction: Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare neuroendocrine malignant tumor derived from the parafollicular cells or thyroid C cells. At the time of diagnosis, over 50 % of patients have lymph node metastases, and 10 % have distant metastases. Prognosis is largely dependent on tumor stage and, therefore, early diagnosis is essential. Objective: The aim of this work is to present an updated review of the diagnostic approach for MTC. Summary: Thyroid ultrasound is the main tool used for thyroid nodule stratification; however, most studies have focused on papillary thyroid carcinoma. In MTC, ultra-sonographic findings suggestive of malignancy are usually less frequent and this could delay diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, ultrasound examination should be combined with additional diagnostic techniques. The sensitivity of the fine-needle aspiration cytology is generally low for these types of tumors and when MTC is suspected, it is recommended to perform immunohistochemical for calcitonin and measurement of calcitonin in washout fluid of thyroid nodule aspirate. Serum calcitonin is the most sensitive marker for diagnosing this condition; however, its routine measurement in the evaluation of thyroid nodule is contro-versial. Serum calcitonin levels are related to C-cell mass and the presence of lymph node metastases. When these levels are above 500 pg/mL suggest distant metastatic disease and additional imaging procedures are indicated. Genetic testing should be offered to all patients because 25 % of these carcinomas are hereditary and are part of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 syndrome associated with a germline RET mutation. (AU)

Preventing Uterine Cervix Cancer: The Clinical Meaning of Atypical Glandular Cells / Prevenção do câncer do colo uterino: Significado clínico das células glandulares atípicas

Abstract Objective To determine the prevalence of the atypical glandular cells (AGCs) cytology and to analyze its clinical significance in different age ranges. Methods Retrospective observational study using computerized data from the Brazilian National Cancer Institute, including women screened between January 2002 and December 2008. The women included were those with an AGC result who were properly followed-up with colposcopy and a second cytology. Results A total of 132,147 cytopathological exams were performed during the study period. Five-hundred and thirty-three (0.4%) women with AGC cytology were identified and, of these, 69.41% (370/533) were properly referred for colposcopy and a new cytology. Most of the women (79.2%) with a 1st or 2nd AGC cytology were between the ages of 25 and 54 years. The 2nd cytology demonstrated 67.6% (250/370) of normality, 24.5% (91/370) of squamous atypia, and 6.2% (23/370) of AGC, 0.8% (3/370) adenocarcinoma in situ and 0.8% (3/370) adenocarcinoma invasor. On biopsy of the women with a second AGC cytology, 43.4% (10/23) had normal histology, 43.4% (10/23) had squamous lesions, 8.7% (2/23) had invasive adenocarcinoma, and 1.2% (1/23) had an inconclusive report. All of the women with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) or invasive adenocarcinoma (respectively 5 and 2 patients), after a 2nd AGC cytology were 25 years old or older. Conclusion The prevalence of the AGC cytology was low in the studied population. Most of the AGC cytology cases occurred in adult women between the ages of 25 and 54. Although most of the patients had normal histology after follow-up, several of them presented with squamous intraepithelial lesions or invasive adenocarcinoma.

Resumo Objetivo Determinar a prevalência de citologia com laudo de células glandulares atípicas (AGCs, na sigla em inglês) e analisar a significância clínica nas diferentes faixas etárias Métodos Estudo observacional retrospectivo, usando os dados arquivados no sistema do Instituto Nacional de Câncer no Brasil, que incluiu mulheres rastreadas entre janeiro de 2002 a dezembro de 2008. As mulheres incluídas tinham citologia com resultado de AGCs, que foram acompanhadas com colposcopia e nova citologia Resultados Um total de132,147 exames citopatológicos foram incluídos durante o período de estudo. Quinhentas e trinta e três mulheres com citologia de AGC foram identificadas e destas, 69.41% (370) foram encaminhadas para colposcopia e nova citologia. A prevalência de citologia de AGC na população estudada foi 0.4%. A maioria das mulheres (79.22%) com resultado citológico de AGC tinham idade entre 25 e 54 anos. A segunda citologia demonstrou 67.56% (250/370) de normalidade, 24.5% (91/370) de atipias escamosas, e 6.2% (23/370) de AGC. Na biopsia das mulheres com a 2ª citologia de AGC, 43.4% (10/23) tinham histologia normal, 43.4% (10/23) tinha lesões escamosas, 8.7% (2/23) tinha adenocarcinoma invasor e 1.2% (1/23) tinha laudo inconclusivo. Todas as mulheres com lesões intraepiteliais escamosas de alto grau (HSIL, na sigla em inglês) ou adenocarcinoma invasor (respectivamente 5 e 2pacientes), após a 2ª citologia com AGC, tinham 25 anos de idade ou mais. Conclusão A prevalência de citologia com AGC foi baixa na população estudada. Muitos casos de citologia com AGC apareceram em mulheres adultas, entre 25 e 54 anos de idade. Embora a maioria das pacientes tiveram histologia normal após seguimento, várias apresentaram lesões intraepiteliais escamosas ou glandulares invasoras.