Untying the Gordian knot of composite hemangioendothelioma: Discovery of novel fusions.

Composite hemangioendothelioma is a rare, locally aggressive, and rarely metastasizing vascular neoplasm which affects both children and adults. Recently, a number of gene fusions including YAP1::MAML2, PTBP1::MAML2, and EPC1::PHC2 have been detected in a small subset of cases with or without neuroendocrine expression. Herein, we present four additional cases with novel in-frame fusions. The cohort comprises two females and two males with a wide age range at diagnosis (24-80 years). Two tumors were deep involving the right brachial plexus and mediastinum, while the remaining were superficial (right plantar foot and abdominal wall). The size ranged from 1.5 to 4.8 cm in greatest dimension. Morphologically, all tumors had an admixture of at least two architectural patterns including retiform hemangioendothelioma, hemangioma, epithelioid hemangioendothelioma, or angiosarcoma. The tumors were positive for endothelial markers CD31 (3/3), ERG (4/4), and D2-40 (1/4, focal), while SMA was expressed in 2/3 highlighting the surrounding pericytes. Synaptophysin showed immunoreactivity in 2/3 cases. One patient had a local recurrence after 40 months, while two patients had no evidence of disease 4 months post-resection. Targeted RNA sequencing detected novel in-frame fusions in each of the cases: HSPG2::FGFR1, YAP1::FOXR1, ACTB::MAML2, and ARID1B::MAML2. The two cases with neuroendocrine expression occurred as superficial lesions and harbored YAP1::FOXR1 and ARID1B::MAML2 fusions. Our study expands on the molecular spectrum of this enigmatic tumor, further enhancing our current understanding of the disease.

Novel NCOA2/3-rearranged low-grade fibroblastic spindle cell tumors: A report of five cases.

Spindle cell mesenchymal neoplasms are a diverse and often challenging diagnostic group. While morphological impression is sufficient for some diagnoses, increasingly immunohistochemical and even molecular data is required to render an accurate diagnosis, which can lead to the characterization of new entities. We describe five cases of novel mesenchymal neoplasms with rearrangements in the NCOA2 and NCOA3 genes partnered with either CTCF or CRTC1. Three tumors occurred in the head and neck (palate, auditory canal), while the other two were in visceral organs (lung, urinary bladder). All cases occurred in adults (range 33-86) with a median age of 42 and fairly even sex distribution = (male-to-female = 3:2). Morphologically, they had similar features consisting of monotonous, bland spindle to ovoid cells with fascicular and reticular arrangements in a myxohyaline to collagenous stroma. However, immunophenotypically they had essentially a null phenotype, with only two tumors staining partially for CD34 and smooth muscle actin. Targeted RNA sequencing detected in-frame CTCF::NCOA2 (one case), CRTC1::NCOA2 (two cases), and CTCF::NCOA3 (two cases) fusions. Treatment was surgical resection in all cases. Local recurrence and/or distant metastases were not observed in any case (median follow-up, 7.5 months; range, 2-19 months). Given their morphologic, immunohistochemical, and molecular similarities, we believe that these cases may represent an emerging family of low-grade NCOA2/3-rearranged fibroblastic spindle cell neoplasms.

Recurrent Wnt Pathway and ARID1A Alterations in Sinonasal Olfactory Carcinoma.

Sinonasal tumors with neuroepithelial differentiation, defined by neuroectodermal elements reminiscent of olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) and epithelial features such as keratin expression or gland formation, are a diagnostically challenging group that has never been formally included in sinonasal tumor classifications. Recently, we documented that most of these neuroepithelial neoplasms have distinctive histologic and immunohistochemical findings and proposed the term "olfactory carcinoma" to describe these tumors. However, the molecular characteristics of olfactory carcinoma have not yet been evaluated. In this study, we performed targeted molecular profiling of 23 sinonasal olfactory carcinomas to further clarify their pathogenesis and classification. All tumors included in this study were composed of high-grade neuroectodermal cells that were positive for pankeratin and at least 1 specific neuroendocrine marker. A significant subset of cases also displayed rosettes and neurofibrillary matrix, intermixed glands with variable cilia, peripheral p63/p40 expression, and S100 protein-positive sustentacular cells. Recurrent oncogenic molecular alterations were identified in 20 tumors, including Wnt pathway alterations affecting CTNNB1 (n = 8) and PPP2R1A (n = 2), ARID1A inactivation (n = 5), RUNX1 mutations (n = 3), and IDH2 hotspot mutations (n = 2). Overall, these findings do demonstrate the presence of recurrent molecular alterations in olfactory carcinoma, although this group of tumors does not appear to be defined by any single mutation. Minimal overlap with alterations previously reported in ONB also adds to histologic and immunohistochemical separation between ONB and olfactory carcinoma. Conversely, these molecular findings enhance the overlap between olfactory carcinoma and sinonasal neuroendocrine carcinomas. A small subset of neuroepithelial tumors might better fit into the superseding molecular category of IDH2-mutant sinonasal carcinoma. At this point, sinonasal neuroendocrine and neuroepithelial tumors may best be regarded as a histologic and molecular spectrum that includes core groups of ONB, olfactory carcinoma, neuroendocrine carcinoma, and IDH2-mutant sinonasal carcinoma.

PLAG1-Rearranged Uterine Sarcomas: A Study of 11 Cases Showing a Wide Phenotypical Spectrum Not Limited to Myxoid Leiomyosarcoma-like Morphology.

PLAG1 gene fusions were recently identified in a subset of uterine myxoid leiomyosarcomas (M-LMS). However, we have encountered cases of PLAG1-rearranged uterine sarcomas lacking M-LMS-like morphology and/or any expression of smooth muscle markers. To better characterize their clinicopathologic features, we performed a multiinstitutional search that yielded 11 cases. The patients ranged in age from 34 to 72 years (mean, 57 years). All tumors arose in the uterine corpus, ranging in size from 6.5 to 32 cm (mean, 15 cm). The most common stage at presentation was pT1b (n = 6), and 3 cases had stage pT1 (unspecified), and 1 case each presented in stages pT2a and pT3b. Most were treated only with hysterectomy and adnexectomy. The follow-up (range, 7-71 months; median, 39 months) was available for 7 patients. Three cases (7-21 months of follow-up) had no evidence of disease. Three of the 4 remaining patients died of disease within 55 to 71 months, while peritoneal spread developed in the last patient, and the patient was transferred for palliative care at 39 months. Morphologically, the tumors showed a high intertumoral and intratumoral heterogeneity. M-LMS-like and epithelioid leiomyosarcoma-like morphology were present in 3 and 5 primary tumors, respectively, the remaining mostly presented as nondescript ovoid or spindle cell sarcomas. Unusual morphologic findings included prominently hyalinized stroma (n = 3), adipocytic differentiation with areas mimicking myxoid liposarcoma (n = 2), osteosarcomatous differentiation (n = 1), and undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma-like areas (n = 1). The mitotic activity ranged from 3 to 24 mitoses per 10 high-power fields (mean, 9); 3 of 10 cases showed necrosis. In 3 of 11 cases, no expression of smooth muscle actin, h-caldesmon, or desmin was noted, whereas 5 of 5 cases expressed PLAG1. By RNA sequencing, the following fusion partners were identified: PUM1, CHCHD7 (each n = 2), C15orf29, CD44, MYOCD, FRMD6, PTK2, and TRPS1 (each n = 1). One case only showed PLAG1 gene break by fluorescence in situ hybridization. Our study documents a much broader morphologic spectrum of PLAG1-rearranged uterine sarcomas than previously reported, encompassing but not limited to M-LMS-like morphology with occasional heterologous (particularly adipocytic) differentiation. As it is currently difficult to precisely define their line of differentiation, for the time being, we suggest using a descriptive name "PLAG1-rearranged uterine sarcoma."

Prevalence and implications of bilateral and solely contralateral lymph node metastases in oral squamous cell carcinoma.

OBJECTIVES: Effective management of neck in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is pivotal for oncological outcomes. Although consensus exists for ipsilateral neck dissection (ND), the necessity for contralateral ND remains controversial. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and implications of bilateral/solely contralateral (B/SC) lymph node metastases (LNMs) to determine the need for contralateral elective ND. Additionally, it examined the prevalence and implications of occult B/SC metastases. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a retrospective cohort study, 420 OSCC patients underwent primary surgical treatment following German guidelines at a tertiary center. Preoperative contrast-enhanced computed tomography was conducted, and ND adhered to a standardized approach. RESULTS: Solely contralateral metastases occurred in 0.95% of patients, with bilateral metastases observed in 7.13%. Occult B/SC metastases occurred in 3.81% of the cases. Correlation analysis revealed a statistically significant association between B/SC metastases and higher tumor stages, tumor localization at the upper jaw or floor of the mouth, proximity to the midline, ipsilateral LNMs, and lymphatic invasion (all p < 0.05). Patients with B/SC metastases showed poorer disease-free survival, with statistical significance reached in the bilateral LNMs group (p = 0.010). Similarly, a significant difference was noted in overall survival between patients with bilateral and solely ipsilateral metastases (p = 0.044). CONCLUSIONS: B/SC LNMs are rare in patients with OSCC, especially in those who present with clinico-radiologically negative ipsilateral necks. Higher rates of B/SC metastases occur in case of advanced tumors and those localized at the upper jaw or floor of the mouth. Ipsilateral LNMs significantly elevate the risk of contralateral LNMs, tripling the associated risk. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: These findings provide valuable insights for surgeons considering contralateral ND or extended adjuvant treatment for OSCC patients. However, the absence of high-level evidence from randomized controlled trials impedes the establishment of a definitive standard of care.

Diagnostic accuracy of contrast-enhanced computed tomography in assessing bone invasion in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) in detecting bone invasion in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients and to explore clinicopathological factors associated with its reliability. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 417 patients underwent preoperative contrast-enhanced CT followed by radical surgery. The presence or absence of bone invasion served as the outcome variable, with histopathologic examination of the resection specimen considered the gold standard. Statistical analyses, comprising correlation analyses and the determination of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV), were conducted. RESULTS: CT exhibited 76.85% sensitivity, 82.20% specificity, 47.14% PPV, and 89.67% NPV. False-positive and false-negative rates were 11.27% and 5.99%, respectively. Artifacts affected assessment in 44 patients, but not in those with bone invasion. Tumor size, depth of invasion (DOI), tumor localization at the upper jaw, lymphatic invasion, and perineural invasion correlated with incorrect identification of bone invasion (Chi-square, p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Despite utilizing thin-section CT, notable false-positive and false-negative results persisted. Patients with T3 tumors, DOI ≥ 10 mm, or upper jaw tumors are at higher risk for misidentification of bone invasion. Combining multiple methods may enhance diagnostic accuracy, and the integration of artificial intelligence or tracking electrolyte disturbances by tumor depth profiling shows promise for further assessment of bone invasion before histopathology. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Surgeons should consider these insights when planning tumor resection. Supplementary imaging may be warranted in cases with high risk factors for misidentification. Further methodological advancements are crucial for enhancing diagnostic precision.

Occult metastasis is no burden factor in oral squamous cell carcinoma patients when adhering to a standardized approach in neck dissection.

OBJECTIVES: Management of the neck in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is pivotal to oncologic control and survival. However, there is controversy regarding necessity of neck dissection (ND) in patients with clinically node-negative neck. We aimed to assess risk factors for occult metastasis and to explore whether the presence of occult lymph node metastases (LNMs) has an impact on recurrence and survival. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was performed including patients with primary OSCC who underwent radical tumor resection and ND in a high-volume center adhering to the prevailing German guideline. The ND was performed according to a standardized approach. RESULTS: Four hundred twenty-one patients with primary surgically treated OSCC were included. The incidence of occult metastasis was 14.49%. A pathological T stage > 1 (multivariate analysis, odds ratio (OR) 3.958, p = 0.042) and the presence of extranodal extension in LNMs (multivariate analysis, OR 0.287, p = 0.020) were identified as independent risk factors for occult metastasis. When comparing patients with and without occult metastasis, there were no significant differences in terms of progression-free survival (log-rank, p = 0.297) and overall survival (log-rank, p = 0.320). There were no cases of ipsilateral neck recurrence. One patient developed contralateral neck metastasis; however, he initially presented with a unilateral pT1 pN0 tumor. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, our findings suggest that conducting a standardized approach in ND should be applied in terms of management of the neck in order to maintain survival rates and to prevent neck recurrence in OSCC patients. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: None of the risk factors for occult metastasis can be reliably assessed preoperatively. Although elective ND does not guarantee the complete prevention of neck recurrence, it increases the likelihood of either timely removal of micrometastases or strengthens the justification for adjuvant therapy. Consequently, this approach leads to improvements in clinical outcomes.

TFG::MET-rearranged soft tissue tumor: A rare infantile neoplasm with a distinct low-grade triphasic morphology.

This article presents 2 cases of TFG::MET-rearranged mesenchymal tumor, an extremely rare molecular subset among an emerging group of mesenchymal neoplasms with kinase gene (NTRK, BRAF, RET and others) alterations. Both tumors were congenital, occurred in female patients and presented as huge masses on the trunk and thigh, measuring 18 and 20 cm in the largest dimension. Both cases showed identical areas with a distinctive triphasic morphology resembling fibrous hamartoma of infancy (FHI), consisting of haphazardly arranged ovoid to spindled cells traversed by variably cellular and hyalinized fascicles admixed with (most likely non-neoplastic) adipose tissue. In other areas, a high-grade infantile fibrosarcoma/malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor-like (IFS/MPNST-like) morphology was present in both cases. While the first case co-expressed CD34 and S100 protein, the other case did not. When combined with the three previously reported MET-rearranged cases (of which two harbored TFG::MET fusion), 3/5 and 3/4 of MET-rearranged and TFG::MET fusion-associated tumors, respectively exhibited similar triphasic FHI-like low-grade morphology. This points toward the existence of a relatively distinct morphological subset among kinase-fusion-associated tumors which seems to be strongly associated with MET fusions. It seems some of these low-grade cases may transform into a high-grade variant with IFS/MPNST-like morphology as has been observed in other tumors with kinase gene fusions. While most cases seem to follow an indolent clinical course, the recognition of these tumors is clinically relevant as MET tyrosine kinase inhibitors might represent an effective treatment option for clinically aggressive or unresectable cases.

RREB1::MRTFB fusion-positive extra-glossal mesenchymal neoplasms: A series of five cases expanding their anatomic distribution and highlighting significant morphological and phenotypic diversity.

The RREB1::MRTFB (former RREB1::MKL2) fusion characterizes ectomesenchymal chondromyxoid tumors (EMCMT) of the tongue. Only five molecularly confirmed extra-glossal EMCMT cases have been reported recently; all occurring at head and neck or mediastinal sites. We herein describe five new cases including the first two extracranial/extrathoracic cases. The tumors occurred in three male and two female patients with an age ranging from 18 to 61 years (median, 28). Three tumors were located in the head and neck (jaw, parapharyngeal space, and nasopharyngeal wall) and two in the soft tissue (inguinal and presacral). The tumor size ranged from 3.3 to 20 cm (median, 7). Treatment was surgical without adjuvant treatment in all cases. Two cases were disease-free at 5 and 17 months; other cases were lost to follow-up. Histologically, the soft tissue cases shared a predominant fibromyxoid appearance, but with variable cytoarchitectural pattern (cellular perineurioma-like whorls and storiform pattern in one case and large polygonal granular cells embedded within a chondromyxoid stroma in the other). Two tumors (inguinal and parapharyngeal) showed spindled to ovoid and round cells with a moderately to highly cellular nondescript pattern. One sinonasal tumor closely mimicked nasal chondromesenchymal hamartoma (NCMH). Mitotic activity was low (0-5 mitoses/10 hpfs). Immunohistochemical findings were heterogeneous with variable expression of S100 (2/5), EMA (2/3), CD34 (1/4), desmin (1/4), and GFAP (1/3). Targeted RNA sequencing revealed the same RREB1::MRTFB fusion in all cases, with exon 8 of RREB1 being fused to exon 11 of MRTFB. This study expands the topographic spectrum of RREB1::MRTFB fusion-positive mesenchymal neoplasms, highlighting a significant morphological and phenotypic diversity. Overall, RREB1::MRTFB-rearranged neoplasms seem to fall into two subcategories: tumors with lobulated, chondroid, or myxochondroid epithelioid morphology (Cases 2 and 3) and those with more undifferentiated hypercellular spindle cell phenotype (Cases 1, 4, and 5). Involvement of extracranial/extrathoracic sites and the NCMH-like pattern are novel. The biology of these likely indolent or benign tumors remains to be verified in the future.

NR4A3 fusions characterize a distinctive peritoneal mesothelial neoplasm of uncertain biological potential with pure adenomatoid/microcystic morphology.

A focal adenomatoid-microcystic pattern is not uncommon in peritoneal mesothelioma, but tumors composed almost exclusively of this pattern are distinctly rare and have not been well characterized. A small subset of mesotheliomas (mostly in children and young adults) are characterized by gene fusions including EWSR1/FUS::ATF1, EWSR1::YY1, and NTRK and ALK rearrangements, and often have epithelioid morphology. Herein, we describe five peritoneal mesothelial neoplasms (identified via molecular screening of seven histologically similar tumors) that are pure adenomatoid/microcystic in morphology and unified by the presence of an NR4A3 fusion. Patients were three males and two females aged 31-70 years (median, 40 years). Three presented with multifocal/diffuse and two with a localized disease. The size of the individual lesions ranged from 1.5 to 8 cm (median, 4.7). The unifocal lesions originated in the small bowel mesentery and the mesosigmoid. Treatment included surgery, either alone (three) or combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (two), and neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy (one case each). At the last follow-up (6-13 months), all five patients were alive and disease-free. All tumors were morphologically similar, characterized by extensive sieve-like microcystic growth with bland-looking flattened cells lining variably sized microcystic spaces and lacked a conventional epithelioid or sarcomatoid component. Immunohistochemistry confirmed mesothelial differentiation, but most cases showed limited expression of D2-40 and calretinin. Targeted RNA sequencing revealed an NR4A3 fusion (fusion partners were EWSR1 in three cases and CITED2 and NIPBL in one case each). The nosology and behavior of this morphomolecularly defined novel peritoneal mesothelial neoplasm of uncertain biological potential and its distinction from adenomatoid variants of conventional mesothelioma merit further delineation as more cases become recognized.

Malignant undifferentiated epithelioid neoplasms with MAML2 rearrangements: A clinicopathologic study of seven cases demonstrating a heterogenous entity.

Among mesenchymal tumors, MAML2 gene rearrangements have been described in a subset of composite hemangioendothelioma and myxoinflammatory fibroblastic sarcoma (MIFS). However, we have recently encountered MAML2-related fusions in a group of seven undifferentiated malignant epithelioid neoplasms that do not fit well to any established pathologic entities. The patients included five males and two female, aged 41-71 years old (median 65 years). The tumors involved the deep soft tissue of extremities (hip, knee, arm, hand), abdominal wall, and the retroperitoneum. Microscopically, the tumors consisted of solid sheets of atypical epithelioid to histiocytoid cells with abundant cytoplasm. Prominent mitotic activity and necrosis were present in 4 cases. In 3 cases, the cells displayed hyperchromatic nuclei or conspicuous macronucleoli, and were admixed with background histiocytoid cells and a lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate. By immunohistochemistry (IHC), the neoplastic cells had a nonspecific phenotype. On targeted RNA sequencing, MAML2 was the 3' partner and fused to YAP1 (4 cases), ARHGAP42 (2 cases), and ENDOD1 (1 case). Two cases with YAP1::MAML2 harbored concurrent RAF kinase fusions (RBMS3::RAF1 and AGK::BRAF, respectively). In 2 cases with targeted DNA sequencing, mutations in TP53, RB1 and PTEN were detected in 1 case, and PDGFRB mutations, CCNE1 amplifications and CDKN2A/2B deletion were detected in another case, which showed strong and diffuse PDGFRB expression by IHC. Of the 4 cases with detailed clinical history (median follow-up period 8 months), three developed distant metastatic disease (one of which died of disease); one case remained free of disease 3 years following surgical excision. In conclusion, we describe a heterogeneous series of MAML2-rearranged undifferentiated malignant epithelioid neoplasms, a subset of which may overlap with a recently described MIFS variant with YAP1::MAML2 fusions, further expanding the clinicopathologic spectrum of mesenchymal neoplasms with recurrent MAML2 gene rearrangements.

GAB1::ABL1 fusions define a distinctive soft tissue neoplasm, with variable perineurial differentiation, and a predilection for children and young adults.

Although well known as a fusion partner in hematological malignancies, fusion genes involving the ABL proto-oncogene 1 (ABL1), mapping to chromosomal region 9q34.12, have only been anecdotally reported in five soft tissue tumors. These neoplasms have been variously reported as perineurioma, angiofibroma, and solitary fibrous tumor, and all have harbored a GAB1::ABL1 gene fusion; however, the nosology and clinicopathological characteristics of soft tissue tumors carrying this rare fusion have not been delineated. We herein describe eight tumors containing the GAB1::ABL1 fusion and review previously reported cases in a series to define their morphological spectrum, address immunohistochemical evidence for a line of differentiation, with special reference to the presence or absence of a perineurial immunophenotype, and gather insight into their behavior. The patients included four females and four males, aged 13-37 years (median, 24 years). Two cases each originated in the shoulder area, trunk, hands, and lower extremities, with a size range of 1.5-8 cm (median, 3.4 cm). Four tumors were deep and four superficial. All tumors were morphologically similar, being composed of bland fibroblast-like spindle to ovoid cells diffusely arranged in a paucivascular fibrous to fibromyxoid stroma with variable resemblance to soft tissue perineurioma. Mitotic activity was generally low (0-8 mitoses in 10 high-power fields [HPFs]; median, 1). All lesions had at least focally infiltrative margins, but they otherwise lacked pleomorphism and necrosis. Immunohistochemistry showed focal reactivity for CD34 (5/7), epithelial membrane antigen (EMA) (3/8), claudin1 (2/3), GLUT1 (4/6), and S100 (2/7); other markers, including MUC4 (0/7), desmin (0/9), and smooth muscle actin (SMA) (0/4), were negative. RNA sequencing revealed a GAB1::ABL1 fusion in all cases with exon 6 of GAB1 fused to exon 2 of ABL1. Treatments included various forms of surgical intervention in seven cases; one tumor was biopsied only. Limited follow-up was available for five patients. One tumor regrew rapidly within 1 month to 1.5 cm after an initial marginal excision and was re-excised with close margins. Four patients were disease-free at 1, 3, 14, and 25 months of follow-up. Metastases have not, to date, been observed. This series characterizes "GAB1::ABL1 fusion-positive spindle cell neoplasm" as a distinct entity, with overlapping features with soft tissue perineurioma and predilection for children and young adults.

Expanding the molecular spectrum of gene fusions in endometrial stromal sarcoma: Novel subunits of the chromatin remodeling complexes PRC2 and NuA4/TIP60 as alternative fusion partners.

Endometrial stromal sarcomas (ESS) are morphologically and molecularly heterogeneous. We report novel gene fusions (EPC1::EED, EPC1::EZH2, ING3::PHF1) identified by targeted RNA sequencing in five cases. The ING3::PHF1-fusion positive ESS presented in a 58-year-old female as extrauterine mesocolonic, ovarian masses, and displayed large, monomorphic ovoid-to-epithelioid cells arranged in solid sheets. The patient remained alive with disease 13 months after surgery. The three ESS with EPC1::EED occurred in the uterine corpus in patients with a median age of 58 years (range 27-62 years). One tumor showed a uniform epithelioid nested morphology, while the other two were composed of monomorphic spindle cells in fascicles with elevated mitotic figures, focal tumor cell necrosis, and lymphovascular invasion. At a median follow-up of 20 months, two patients developed local recurrence, including one with concomitant distant metastasis, while one patient remained free of disease. All three patients were alive at the last follow-up. The EPC1::EZH2-fusion positive ESS presented in a 52-year-old female in the uterus, and displayed uniform spindled cells arranged in short fascicles, with focally elevated mitotic activity but without necrosis. The patient remained free of disease 3 months after surgery. All cases were diffusely positive for CD10; four diffusely express estrogen and progesterone receptors. Our study expands the molecular spectrum of EPC1 and PHF1-related gene fusions in ESS to include additional novel subunits of the PRC2 and/or NuA4/TIP60 complexes. These cases displayed a monomorphic epithelioid or spindled phenotype, spanning low-grade and high-grade cytomorphology, all expressing CD10 and commonly ER and PR, and are prone to local and/or distant spread.

EWSR1::POU2AF3(COLCA2) Sarcoma: An Aggressive, Polyphenotypic Sarcoma With a Head and Neck Predilection.

EWSR1::POU2AF3 (COLCA2) sarcomas are a recently identified group of undifferentiated round/spindle cell neoplasms with a predilection for the head and neck region. Herein, we report our experience with 8 cases, occurring in 5 men and 3 women (age range, 37-74 years; median, 60 years). Tumors involved the head/neck (4 cases), and one each the thigh, thoracic wall, fibula, and lung. Seven patients received multimodal therapy; 1 patient was treated only with surgery. Clinical follow-up (8 patients; range, 4-122 months; median, 32 months) showed 5 patients with metastases (often multifocal, with a latency ranging from 7 to 119 months), and 3 of them also with local recurrence. The median local recurrence-free and metastasis-free survival rates were 24 months and 29 months, respectively. Of the 8 patients, 1 died of an unknown cause, 4 were alive with metastatic disease, 1 was alive with unresectable local disease, and 2 were without disease. The tumors were composed of 2 morphologic subgroups: (1) relatively bland tumors consisting of spindled to stellate cells with varying cellularity and fibromyxoid stroma (2 cases) and (2) overtly malignant tumors composed of nests of "neuroendocrine-appearing" round cells surrounded by spindled cells (6 cases). Individual cases in the second group showed glandular, osteogenic, or rhabdomyoblastic differentiation. Immunohistochemical results included CD56 (4/4 cases), GFAP (5/8), SATB2 (4/6), keratin (AE1/AE3) (5/8), and S100 protein (4/7). RNA sequencing identified EWSR1::POU2AF3 gene fusion in all cases. EWSR1 gene rearrangement was confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridization in 5 cases. Our findings confirm the head/neck predilection and aggressive clinical behavior of EWSR1::POU2AF3 sarcomas and widen the morphologic spectrum of these rare lesions to include relatively bland spindle cell tumors and tumors with divergent differentiation.

Salivary carcinosarcoma: insight into multistep pathogenesis indicates uniform origin as sarcomatoid variant of carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma with frequent heterologous elements.

AIMS: The formal pathogenesis of salivary carcinosarcoma (SCS) remained unclear, both with respect to the hypothetical development from either preexisting pleomorphic adenoma (PA) or de novo and the clonal relationship between highly heterogeneous carcinomatous and sarcomatous components. METHODS AND RESULTS: We performed clinicopathological and molecular (targeted RNA sequencing) analyses on a large series of 16 cases and combined this with a comprehensive literature search (111 cases). Extensive sampling (average 11.6 blocks), combined with immunohistochemistry and molecular studies (PA-specific translocations including PLAG1 or HMGA2 proven in 6/16 cases), enabled the morphogenetic identification of PA in 15/16 cases (93.8%), by far surpassing a reported rate of 49.6%. Furthermore, we demonstrated a multistep (intraductal/intracapsular/extracapsular) adenoma-carcinoma-sarcoma-progression, based on two alternative histogenetic pathways (intraductal, 56.3%, versus myoepithelial pathway, 37.5%). Thereby, early intracapsular stages are identical to conventional carcinoma ex PA, while later extracapsular stages are dominated by secondary, frequently heterologous sarcomatous transformation with often large tumour size (>60 mm). CONCLUSION: Our findings strongly indicate that SCS (almost) always develops from PA, with a complex multistep adenoma-carcinoma-sarcoma-sequence, based on two alternative histogenetic pathways. The findings from this novel approach strongly suggest that SCS pathogenetically is a rare (3-6%), unique, and aggressive variant of carcinoma ex PA with secondary sarcomatous overgrowth. In analogy to changes of terminology in other organs, the term "sarcomatoid carcinoma ex PA with/without heterologous elements" might be more appropriate.

Datasets for reporting of soft-tissue sarcoma: recommendations from the International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting (ICCR).

AIMS: Soft-tissue tumours are rare and both accurate diagnosis and proper treatment represent a global challenge. Current treatment guidelines also recommend review by specialised pathologists. Here we report on international consensus-based datasets for the pathology reporting of biopsy and resection specimens of soft-tissue sarcomas. The datasets were produced under the auspices of the International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting (ICCR), a global alliance of international pathology and cancer organisations. METHODS AND RESULTS: According to the ICCR's guidelines for dataset development, an international expert panel consisting of pathologists, a surgical oncologist, and a medical oncologist produced a set of core and noncore data items for biopsy and resection specimens based on a critical review and discussion of current evidence. All professionals involved were subspecialised soft-tissue sarcoma experts and affiliated with tertiary referral centres. Commentary was provided for each data item to explain the rationale for selecting it as a core or noncore element, its clinical relevance, and to highlight potential areas of disagreement or lack of evidence, in which case a consensus position was formulated. Following international public consultation, the documents were finalised and ratified, and the datasets, which included a synoptic reporting guide, were published on the ICCR website. CONCLUSION: These first international datasets for soft-tissue sarcomas are aimed to promote high-quality, standardised pathology reporting. Their adoption will improve consistency of reporting, facilitate multidisciplinary communication, and enhance comparability of data, all of which will help to improve patient's management.

Massive parallel sequencing unveils homologous recombination deficiency in follicular dendritic cell sarcoma.

Standardized treatment options are lacking for patients with unresectable or multifocal follicular dendritic cell sarcoma (FDCS) and disease-related mortality is as high as 20%. Applying whole genome sequencing (WGS) in one case and whole exome sequencing (WES) in additional twelve, this study adds information on the molecular landscape of FDCS, expanding knowledge on pathobiological mechanisms and identifying novel markers of potential theragnostic significance. Massive parallel sequencing showed high frequency of mutations on oncosuppressor genes, particularly in RB1, CARS and BRCA2 and unveiled alterations on homologous recombination DNA damage repair related genes in 70% (9/13) of cases. This indicates that patients with high stage FDCS may be eligible for poly ADP ribose polymerase inhibition protocols. Low tumor mutational burden was confirmed in this study despite common PDL1 expression in FDCS arguing on the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors. CDKN2A deletion, detected by WGS and confirmed by FISH in 41% of cases (9/22) indicates that impairment of cell cycle regulation may sustain oncogenesis in FDCS. Absence of mutations in the RAS/RAF/MAPK pathway and lack of clonal hematopoiesis related mutations in FDCS sanction its differences from dendritic cell-derived neoplasms of haematopoietic derivation. WGS and WES in FDCS provides additional information on the molecular landscape of this rare tumor, proposing novel candidate genes for innovative therapeutical approaches to improve survival of patients with multifocal disease.

SWI/SNF-deficient Sinonasal Carcinomas.

The classification of poorly differentiated sinonasal carcinomas and their nonepithelial mimics has experienced tremendous developments during the last 2 decades. These recent developments paved the way for an increasingly adopted approach to a molecular-based or etiology-based refined classification of the many carcinoma variants that have been historically lumped into the sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma category. Among these new achievements, recognition of carcinoma subtypes driven by defects in the Switch/Sucrose nonfermentable (SWI/SNF) chromatin remodeling complex represents a major highlight. This resulted in a new definition of 4 sinonasal entities driven solely or predominantly by Switch/Sucrose nonfermentable complex deficiency: (1) SMARCB1(INI1)-deficient sinonasal carcinoma (lacking gland formation and frequently displaying a non-descript basaloid, and less frequently eosinophilic/oncocytoid morphology, but no features of other definable subtypes), (2) SMARCB1-deficient sinonasal adenocarcinoma (with unequivocal glands or yolk sac-like pattern), (3) SMARCA4-deficient undifferentiated (sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma-like) carcinoma (lacking glandular or squamous immunophenotypes), and (4) SMARCA4-deficient subset (~80%) of sinonasal teratocarcinosarcoma. Fortunately, diagnostic loss of all these proteins can be detected by routine immunohistochemistry, so that genetic testing is not mandatory in routine practice. This review summarizes the main demographic, clinicopathological, and molecular features of these new entities.

SWI/SNF-deficient Malignancies: Optimal Candidates for Immune-oncological Therapy?

Inactivation of different subunits of the SWItch/sucrose nonfermentable (SWI/SNF) chromatin remodeling complex has emerged as one of the most frequent genetic pathways driving a variety of neoplasms of diverse histogenesis, originating in different organs. With few exceptions, most SWI/SNF-deficient malignancies pursue a highly aggressive clinical course resulting in widespread disease dissemination either at or soon after diagnosis, ultimately causing patients' death soon after diagnosis, despite the apparently curative treatment intention. To date, no satisfactorily effective systemic chemotherapy has been established for treating these diseases. This disappointing finding underlines the urgent need for an effective systemic therapy that would enable sufficient intermediate to long-term disease control. Recently, SWI/SNF-deficiency has increasingly emerged as pivotal in cancer immunogenicity and hence a promising biomarker predicting response to immune-checkpoint inhibition therapy utilizing several recently established drugs. This review summarizes the most recent literature on this topic with emphasis on the entities that most likely represent suitable candidates for immune therapy.

Role of Surgical Pathologist for the Detection of Immuno-oncologic Predictive Factors in Non-small Cell Lung Cancers.

Until very recently, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy have been the mainstay of treatment in non-small cell carcinomas (NSCLCs). However, recent advances in molecular immunology have unveiled some of the complexity of the mechanisms regulating cellular immune responses and led to the successful targeting of immune checkpoints in attempts to enhance antitumor T-cell responses. Immune checkpoint molecules such as cytotoxic T-lymphocyte associated protein-4, programmed cell death protein-1, and programmed death ligand (PD-L) 1 have been shown to play central roles in evading cancer immunity. Thus, these molecules have been targeted by inhibitors for the management of cancers forming the basis of immunotherapy. Advanced NSCLC has been the paradigm for the benefits of immunotherapy in any cancer. Treatment decisions are made based on the expression of PD-L1 on the tumor cells and the presence or absence of driver mutations. Patients with high PD-L1 expression (≥50%) and no driver mutations are treated with single-agent immunotherapy whereas, for all other patients with a lower level of PD-L1 expression, a combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy is preferred. Thus, PD-L1 blockers are the only immunotherapeutic agents approved in advanced NSCLC without any oncogenic driver mutations. PD-L1 immunohistochemistry, however, may not be the best biomarker in view of its dynamic nature in time and space, and the benefits may be seen regardless of PD -L1 expression. Each immunotherapy molecule is prescribed based on the levels of PD-L1 expression as assessed by a Food and Drug Administration-approved companion diagnostic assay. Other biomarkers that have been studied include tumor mutational burden, the T-effector signature, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, radiomic assays, inflammation index, presence or absence of immune-related adverse events and specific driver mutations, and gut as well as local microbiome. At the current time, none of these biomarkers are routinely used in the clinical decision-making process for immunotherapy in NSCLC. However, in individual cases, they can be useful adjuncts to conventional therapy. This review describes our current understanding of the role of biomarkers as predictors of response to immune checkpoint molecules. To begin with a brief on cancer immunology in general and in NSCLC, in particular, is discussed. In the end, recent advancements in laboratory techniques for refining biomarker assays are described.