Journal of Pathology and Translational Medicine

Original Article

Diagnostic proficiency test using digital cytopathology and comparative assessment of whole slide images of cytologic samples for quality assurance program in Korea: Yosep Chong, Soon Auck Hong, Hoon Kyu Oh, Soo Jin Jung, Bo-Sung Kim, Ji Yun Jeong, Ho-Chang Lee, Gyungyub Gong; J Pathol Transl Med. 2023;57(5):251-264. Published online August 24, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2023.07.17

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Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Background
The Korean Society for Cytopathology introduced a digital proficiency test (PT) in 2021. However, many doubtful opinions remain on whether digitally scanned images can satisfactorily present subtle differences in the nuclear features and chromatin patterns of cytological samples.
Methods
We prepared 30 whole-slide images (WSIs) from the conventional PT archive by a selection process for digital PT. Digital and conventional PT were performed in parallel for volunteer institutes, and the results were compared using feedback. To assess the quality of cytological assessment WSIs, 12 slides were collected and scanned using five different scanners, with four cytopathologists evaluating image quality through a questionnaire.
Results
Among the 215 institutes, 108 and 107 participated in glass and digital PT, respectively. No significant difference was noted in category C (major discordance), although the number of discordant cases was slightly higher in the digital PT group. Leica, 3DHistech Pannoramic 250 Flash, and Hamamatsu NanoZoomer 360 systems showed comparable results in terms of image quality, feature presentation, and error rates for most cytological samples. Overall satisfaction was observed with the general convenience and image quality of digital PT.
Conclusions
As three-dimensional clusters are common and nuclear/chromatin features are critical for cytological interpretation, careful selection of scanners and optimal conditions are mandatory for the successful establishment of digital quality assurance programs in cytology.

Reviews

A stepwise approach to fine needle aspiration cytology of lymph nodes: Yosep Chong, Gyeongsin Park, Hee Jeong Cha, Hyun-Jung Kim, Chang Suk Kang, Jamshid Abdul-Ghafar, Seung-Sook Lee; J Pathol Transl Med. 2023;57(4):196-207. Published online July 11, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2023.06.12

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The cytological diagnosis of lymph node lesions is extremely challenging because of the diverse diseases that cause lymph node enlargement, including both benign and malignant or metastatic lymphoid lesions. Furthermore, the cytological findings of different lesions often resemble one another. A stepwise diagnostic approach is essential for a comprehensive diagnosis that combines: clinical findings, including age, sex, site, multiplicity, and ultrasonography findings; low-power reactive, metastatic, and lymphoma patterns; high-power population patterns, including two populations of continuous range, small monotonous pattern and large monotonous pattern; and disease-specific diagnostic clues including granulomas and lymphoglandular granules. It is also important to remember the histological features of each diagnostic category that are common in lymph node cytology and to compare them with cytological findings. It is also essential to identify a few categories of diagnostic pitfalls that often resemble lymphomas and easily lead to misdiagnosis, particularly in malignant small round cell tumors, poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinomas, and nasopharyngeal undifferentiated carcinoma. Herein, we review a stepwise approach for fine needle aspiration cytology of lymphoid diseases and suggest a diagnostic algorithm that uses this approach and the Sydney classification system.

Citations

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Immunocytochemical markers, molecular testing and digital cytopathology for aspiration cytology of metastatic breast carcinoma
Joshua J. X. Li, Gary M. Tse
Cytopathology.2024; 35(2): 218. CrossRef
Response to comment on “A stepwise approach to fine needle aspiration cytology of lymph nodes”
Yosep Chong, Gyeongsin Park, Hee Jeong Cha, Hyun-Jung Kim, Chang Suk Kang, Jamshid Abdul-Ghafar, Seung-Sook Lee
Journal of Pathology and Translational Medicine.2024; 58(1): 43. CrossRef
Comment on “A stepwise approach to fine needle aspiration cytology of lymph nodes”
Elisabetta Maffei, Valeria Ciliberti, Pio Zeppa, Alessandro Caputo
Journal of Pathology and Translational Medicine.2024; 58(1): 40. CrossRef

Trouble-makers in cytologic interpretation of the uterine cervix: Eunah Shin, Jaeeun Yu, Soon Won Hong; J Pathol Transl Med. 2023;57(3):139-146. Published online May 15, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2023.04.25

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Abstract PDF

The development and standardization of cytologic screening of the uterine cervix has dramatically decreased the prevalence of squamous cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix. Advances in the understanding of biology of human papillomavirus have contributed to upgrading the histologic diagnosis of the uterine cervix; however, cytologic screening that should triage those that need further management still poses several difficulties in interpretation. Cytologic features of high grade intraepithelial squamous lesion (HSIL) mimics including atrophy, immature metaplasia, and transitional metaplasia, and glandular lesion masquerades including tubal metaplasia and HSIL with glandular involvement are described with accentuation mainly on the differential points. When the cytologic features lie in a gray zone between the differentials, the most important key to the more accurate interpretation is sticking to the very basics of cytology; screening the background and cellular architecture, and then scrutinizing the nuclear and cytoplasmic details.

Citations

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Cytological features of human papillomavirus‐infected immature squamous metaplastic cells from cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2
Mitsuaki Okodo, Kaori Okayama, Koji Teruya, Ruku Shinohara, Shuichi Mizuno, Rei Settsu, Yasuyoshi Ishii, Masahiko Fujii, Hirokazu Kimura, Mizue Oda
Journal of Medical Virology.2023;[Epub] CrossRef

Biomarker testing of cytology specimens in personalized medicine for lung cancer patients: Hyojin Kim, Jin-Haeng Chung; J Pathol Transl Med. 2022;56(6):326-333. Published online November 9, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2022.10.17

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Abstract PDF

Every patient with advanced non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) should be tested for targetable driver mutations and gene arrangements that may open avenues for targeted therapy. As most patients with NSCLC in the advanced stage of the disease are not candidates for surgery, these tests have to be performed on small biopsies or cytology samples. A growing number of other genetic changes with targetable mutations may be treatable in the near future. To identify patients who might benefit from novel targeted therapy, relevant markers should be tested in an appropriate context. In addition, immunotherapy of lung cancer is guided by the status of programmed death-ligand 1 expression in tumor cells. The variety and versatility of cytological specimen preparations offer significant advantages for molecular testing; however, they frequently remain underused. Therefore, evaluating the utility and adequacy of cytologic specimens is important, not only from a lung cancer diagnosis, but also for the large number of ancillary studies that are necessary to provide appropriate clinical management. A large proportion of lung cancers is diagnosed by aspiration or exfoliative cytology specimens; thus, optimizing strategies to triage and best use the tissue for diagnosis and biomarker studies forms a critical component of lung cancer management. In this review, we discuss the opportunities and challenges of using cytologic specimens for biomarker testing of lung cancer and the role of cytopathology in the molecular era.

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Molecular testing of cytology specimens: Issues in specimen adequacy and clinical utility
Ghulam Ghous, Komal Ijaz, Magda Esebua, Lester J. Layfield
Diagnostic Cytopathology.2024; 52(2): 123. CrossRef
The updated College of American Pathologists principles of analytic validation of immunohistochemical assays: A step forward for cytopathology
Sinchita Roy‐Chowdhuri
Cancer Cytopathology.2024;[Epub] CrossRef

Noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features: its updated diagnostic criteria, preoperative cytologic diagnoses and impact on the risk of malignancy: Hee Young Na, So Yeon Park; J Pathol Transl Med. 2022;56(6):319-325. Published online November 9, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2022.09.29

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Abstract PDF

Due to the extremely indolent behavior, a subset of noninvasive encapsulated follicular variant papillary thyroid carcinomas has been classified as “noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features (NIFTP)” since 2016 and is no longer considered carcinoma. Since the introduction of this new terminology, changes and refinements have been made in diagnostic criteria. Initially, the incidence of NIFTP was estimated substantial. However, the reported incidence of NIFTP varies greatly among studies and regions, with higher incidence in North American and European countries than in Asian countries. Thus, the changes in the risk of malignancy (ROM) in the Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology (TBSRTC) differ inevitably among regions. Because more conservative surgery is recommended for NIFTPs, distinguishing NIFTPs from papillary thyroid carcinomas in preoperative fine-needle aspiration cytology became one of the major concerns. This review will provide comprehensive overview of updates on diagnostic criteria, actual incidence and preoperative cytologic diagnoses of NIFTP, and its impact on the ROM in TBSRTC.

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Papillae, psammoma bodies, and/or many nuclear pseudoinclusions are helpful criteria but should not be required for a definitive cytologic diagnosis of papillary thyroid carcinoma: An institutional experience of 207 cases with surgical follow up
Tarik M. Elsheikh, Matthew Thomas, Jennifer Brainard, Jessica Di Marco, Erica Manosky, Bridgette Springer, Dawn Underwood, Deborah J. Chute
Cancer Cytopathology.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
ThyroSeq overview on indeterminate thyroid nodules: An institutional experience
Sam Sirotnikov, Christopher C. Griffith, Daniel Lubin, Chao Zhang, Nabil F. Saba, Dehong Li, Amanda Kornfield, Amy Chen, Qiuying Shi
Diagnostic Cytopathology.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Preoperative evaluation of thyroid nodules – Diagnosis and management strategies
Tapoi Dana Antonia, Lambrescu Ioana Maria, Gheorghisan-Galateanu Ancuta-Augustina
Pathology - Research and Practice.2023; 246: 154516. CrossRef
Reevaluating diagnostic categories and associated malignancy risks in thyroid core needle biopsy
Chan Kwon Jung
Journal of Pathology and Translational Medicine.2023; 57(4): 208. CrossRef
Strategies for Treatment of Thyroid Cancer
Deepika Yadav, Pramod Kumar Sharma, Rishabha Malviya, Prem Shankar Mishra
Current Drug Targets.2023; 24(5): 406. CrossRef
Identification of NIFTP-Specific mRNA Markers for Reliable Molecular Diagnosis of Thyroid Tumors
So-Yeon Lee, Jong-Lyul Park, Kwangsoon Kim, Ja Seong Bae, Jae-Yoon Kim, Seon-Young Kim, Chan Kwon Jung
Endocrine Pathology.2023; 34(3): 311. CrossRef

The application of high-throughput proteomics in cytopathology: Ilias P. Nikas, Han Suk Ryu; J Pathol Transl Med. 2022;56(6):309-318. Published online November 9, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2022.08.30

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Abstract PDF

High-throughput genomics and transcriptomics are often applied in routine pathology practice to facilitate cancer diagnosis, assess prognosis, and predict response to therapy. However, the proteins rather than nucleic acids are the functional molecules defining the cellular phenotype in health and disease, whereas genomic profiling cannot evaluate processes such as the RNA splicing or posttranslational modifications and gene expression does not necessarily correlate with protein expression. Proteomic applications have recently advanced, overcoming the issue of low depth, inconsistency, and suboptimal accuracy, also enabling the use of minimal patient-derived specimens. This review aims to present the recent evidence regarding the use of high-throughput proteomics in both exfoliative and fine-needle aspiration cytology. Most studies used mass spectrometry, as this is associated with high depth, sensitivity, and specificity, and aimed to complement the traditional cytomorphologic diagnosis, in addition to identify novel cancer biomarkers. Examples of diagnostic dilemmas subjected to proteomic analysis included the evaluation of indeterminate thyroid nodules or prediction of lymph node metastasis from thyroid cancer, also the differentiation between benign and malignant serous effusions, pancreatic cancer from autoimmune pancreatitis, non-neoplastic from malignant biliary strictures, and benign from malignant salivary gland tumors. A few cancer biomarkers—related to diverse cancers involving the breast, thyroid, bladder, lung, serous cavities, salivary glands, and bone marrow—were also discovered. Notably, residual liquid-based cytology samples were suitable for satisfactory and reproducible proteomic analysis. Proteomics could become another routine pathology platform in the near future, potentially by using validated multi-omics protocols.

Citations

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Identification of NIFTP-Specific mRNA Markers for Reliable Molecular Diagnosis of Thyroid Tumors
So-Yeon Lee, Jong-Lyul Park, Kwangsoon Kim, Ja Seong Bae, Jae-Yoon Kim, Seon-Young Kim, Chan Kwon Jung
Endocrine Pathology.2023; 34(3): 311. CrossRef

Original Article

Current status of cytopathology practice in Korea: impact of the coronavirus pandemic on cytopathology practice: Soon Auck Hong, Haeyoen Jung, Sung Sun Kim, Min-Sun Jin, Jung-Soo Pyo, Ji Yun Jeong, Younghee Choi, Gyungyub Gong, Yosep Chong; J Pathol Transl Med. 2022;56(6):361-369. Published online October 27, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2022.09.21

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Abstract PDF Supplementary Material

Background
The Continuous Quality Improvement program for cytopathology in 2020 was completed during the coronavirus pandemic. In this study, we report the result of the quality improvement program.
Methods
Data related to cytopathology practice from each institute were collected and processed at the web-based portal. The proficiency test was conducted using glass slides and whole-slide images (WSIs). Evaluation of the adequacy of gynecology (GYN) slides from each institution and submission of case glass slides and WSIs for the next quality improvement program were performed.
Results
A total of 214 institutions participated in the annual cytopathology survey in 2020. The number of entire cytopathology specimens was 8,220,650, a reduction of 19.0% from the 10,111,755 specimens evaluated in 2019. Notably, the number of respiratory cytopathology specimens, including sputum and bronchial washing/ brushing significantly decreased by 86.9% from 2019, which could be attributed to the global pandemic of coronavirus disease. The ratio of cases with atypical squamous cells to squamous intraepithelial lesions was 4.10. All participating institutions passed the proficiency test and the evaluation of adequacy of GYN slides.
Conclusions
Through the Continuous Quality Improvement program, the effect of coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, manifesting with a reduction in the number of cytologic examinations, especially in respiratory-related specimen has been identified. The Continuous Quality Improvement Program of the Korean Society for Cytopathology can serve as the gold standard to evaluate the current status of cytopathology practice in Korea.

Citations

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A stepwise approach to fine needle aspiration cytology of lymph nodes
Yosep Chong, Gyeongsin Park, Hee Jeong Cha, Hyun-Jung Kim, Chang Suk Kang, Jamshid Abdul-Ghafar, Seung-Sook Lee
Journal of Pathology and Translational Medicine.2023; 57(4): 196. CrossRef
Diagnostic proficiency test using digital cytopathology and comparative assessment of whole slide images of cytologic samples for quality assurance program in Korea
Yosep Chong, Soon Auck Hong, Hoon Kyu Oh, Soo Jin Jung, Bo-Sung Kim, Ji Yun Jeong, Ho-Chang Lee, Gyungyub Gong
Journal of Pathology and Translational Medicine.2023; 57(5): 251. CrossRef

Case Study

Papillary and medullary thyroid carcinomas coexisting in the same lobe, first suspected based on fine-needle aspiration cytology: a case report: Hyun Hee Koh, Young Lyun Oh; J Pathol Transl Med. 2022;56(5):301-308. Published online September 13, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2022.08.03

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Abstract PDF

Because different types of thyroid malignancies have distinct embryological origins, coexisting tumors are rarely observed. We describe a coexisting papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) first suspected by fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC). A 57-year-old female presented with an irregular mass in the right thyroid lobe. The cytopathologic findings of fine-needle aspiration showed two components: a papillary-like arrangement consisting of cells with pale enlarged nuclei indicative of PTC and loose clusters comprised of oval cells with granular chromatin indicative of MTC. The diagnosis of a coexisting PTC and MTC was initially confirmed by calcitonin immunocytochemistry and later after total thyroidectomy. Although some surgical case reports of PTC and MTC coexisting in either the same or different lobes have been documented, a case suspected by FNAC before the surgery has rarely been reported. Because appropriate treatment and prognosis of PTC and MTC are different, cytopathologists should be aware of this rare entity.

Citations

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Dedifferentiated Leiomyosarcoma of the Uterine Corpus with Heterologous Component: Clinicopathological Analysis of Five Consecutive Cases from a Single Institution and Comprehensive Literature Review
Suyeon Kim, Hyunsik Bae, Hyun-Soo Kim
Diagnostics.2024; 14(2): 160. CrossRef

Original Article

Cytopathologic features of human papillomavirus–independent, gastric-type endocervical adenocarcinoma: Min-Kyung Yeo, Go Eun Bae, Dong-Hyun Kim, In-Ock Seong, Kwang-Sun Suh; J Pathol Transl Med. 2022;56(5):260-269. Published online September 13, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2022.07.05

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Abstract PDF

Background
Gastric-type endocervical adenocarcinoma (GEA) is unrelated to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and is clinically aggressive compared with HPV-associated usual-type endocervical adenocarcinoma (UEA). The cytological diagnosis falls short of a definitive diagnosis of GEA and is often categorized as atypical glandular cells (AGCs). To improve cytologic recognition, cytological findings of HPV-independent GEA were analyzed and the results compared with HPV-associated UEA.
Methods
Cervical Papanicolaou (Pap) smears from eight patients with a histopathologic diagnosis of GEA and 12 control cases of UEA were reviewed. All slides were conventionally prepared and/or liquid-based prepared (ThinPrep) and stained following the Pap method. A mucinous background, architectural, nuclear, and cytoplasmic features were analyzed and compared with UEA.
Results
Preoperative cytologic diagnoses of the eight GEA cases were AGCs, favor neoplastic in three cases, adenocarcinoma in situ in one case, and adenocarcinoma in four cases. Cytologically, monolayered honeycomb-like sheets (p = .002) of atypical endocervical cells with vacuolar granular cytoplasm (p = .001) were extensive in GEA, and three-dimensional clusters (p = .010) were extensive in UEA. Although the differences were not statistically significant, background mucin (p = .058), vesicular nuclei (p = .057), and golden-brown intracytoplasmic mucin (p = .089) were also discriminatory findings for GEA versus UEA.
Conclusions
Although GEA is difficult to diagnose on cytologic screening, GEA can be recognized based on cytologic features of monolayered honeycomb sheets of atypical endocervical cells with abundant vacuolar cytoplasm and some golden-brown intracytoplasmic mucin. UEA cases are characterized by three-dimensional clusters.

Citations

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Risk Factors Affecting Clinical Outcomes of Low-risk Early-stage Human Papillomavirus–Associated Endocervical Adenocarcinoma Treated by Surgery Alone: Application of Silva Pattern
Bong Kyung Bae, Hyunsik Bae, Won Kyung Cho, Byoung-Gie Kim, Chel Hun Choi, Tae-Joong Kim, Yoo-Young Lee, Jeong-Won Lee, Hyun-Soo Kim, Won Park
International Journal of Gynecological Pathology.2024;[Epub] CrossRef

Review

Lymphoproliferative disorder involving body fluid: diagnostic approaches and roles of ancillary studies: Jiwon Koh, Sun Ah Shin, Ji Ae Lee, Yoon Kyung Jeon; J Pathol Transl Med. 2022;56(4):173-186. Published online July 4, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2022.05.16

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Abstract PDF

Lymphocyte-rich effusions represent benign reactive process or neoplastic condition. Involvement of lymphoproliferative disease in body cavity is not uncommon, and it often causes diagnostic challenge. In this review, we suggest a practical diagnostic approach toward lymphocyte-rich effusions, share representative cases, and discuss the utility of ancillary tests. Cytomorphologic features favoring neoplastic condition include high cellularity, cellular atypia/pleomorphism, monomorphic cell population, and frequent apoptosis, whereas lack of atypia, polymorphic cell population, and predominance of small T cells usually represent benign reactive process. Involvement of non-hematolymphoid malignant cells in body fluid should be ruled out first, followed by categorization of the samples into either small/medium-sized cell dominant or large-sized cell dominant fluid. Small/medium-sized cell dominant effusions require ancillary tests when either cellular atypia or history/clinical suspicion of lymphoproliferative disease is present. Large-sized cell dominant effusions usually suggest neoplastic condition, however, in the settings of initial presentation or low overall cellularity, ancillary studies are helpful for more clarification. Ancillary tests including immunocytochemistry, in situ hybridization, clonality test, and next-generation sequencing can be performed using cytologic preparations. Throughout the diagnostic process, proper review of clinical history, cytomorphologic examination, and application of adequate ancillary tests are key elements for successful diagnosis.

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The urgency of Burkitt lymphoma diagnosis in fluid cytology—A tertiary care experience
Soundarya Ravi, Anu K. Devi, Prabhu Manivannan, Debasis Gochhait, Rakhee Kar, Neelaiah Siddaraju
Cytopathology.2024; 35(2): 275. CrossRef
Immunocytochemistry on frozen-embedded cell block for the diagnosis of hematolymphoid cytology specimen: a straightforward alternative to the conventional cell block
Youjeong Seo, Sanzida Alam Prome, Lucia Kim, Jee Young Han, Joon Mee Kim, Suk Jin Choi
Journal of Hematopathology.2024; 17(1): 1. CrossRef
Lymphoma presenting as the first finding in pleural fluid cytology: A rare cytologic presentation
Kafil Akhtar, Gowthami Nagendhran, Anjum Ara, Masheera Akhtar
IP Archives of Cytology and Histopathology Research.2024; 8(4): 250. CrossRef

Case Study

Metastatic leiomyosarcoma of the thyroid gland: cytologic findings and differential diagnosis: Jiyeon Lee, Yunjoo Cho, Kyue Hee Choi, Inwoo Hwang, Young Lyun Oh; J Pathol Transl Med. 2021;55(5):360-365. Published online August 13, 2021; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2021.06.23

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Abstract PDF

Metastatic leiomyosarcoma to the thyroid is an extremely rare occurrence, and only 18 cases have been reported. Here, we report a case of a 37-year-old woman who presented with multiple masses on the scalp. Excisional biopsy was done and the mass revealed fascicles of smooth muscle fibers which showed positive staining for smooth muscle actin, thus confirming the diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma. The patient was also found to have a 0.9 cm mass within the left thyroid. Fine-needle aspiration was done and the cytological smear showed hypercellular spindle cell clusters with hyperchromatic and large nuclei. Normal thyroid follicular cells were found within or around tumor cells. In this report, we present the cytologic findings of metastatic leiomyosarcoma to the thyroid and offer differential diagnoses of the aspirated spindle cells.

Citations

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A Rare Case of Metastatic Uterine Leiomyosarcoma to the Thyroid Gland
R. Sathish Kumar, H. Akshaykumar, C. Ramesan, J. Dipin
Indian Journal of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery.2024; 76(1): 1365. CrossRef
Neck Surgery for Non-Well Differentiated Thyroid Malignancies: Variations in Strategy According to Histopathology
Fernando López, Abir Al Ghuzlan, Mark Zafereo, Vincent Vander Poorten, K. Thomas Robbins, Marc Hamoir, Iain J. Nixon, Ralph P. Tufano, Gregory Randolph, Pia Pace-Asciak, Peter Angelos, Andrés Coca-Pelaz, Avi Khafif, Ohad Ronen, Juan Pablo Rodrigo, Álvaro
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Mesonephric-like Adenocarcinoma of the Ovary: Clinicopathological and Molecular Characteristics
Hyun Hee Koh, Eunhyang Park, Hyun-Soo Kim
Diagnostics.2022; 12(2): 326. CrossRef
Alveolar Soft Part Sarcoma of the Uterus: Clinicopathological and Molecular Characteristics
Yurimi Lee, Kiyong Na, Ha Young Woo, Hyun-Soo Kim
Diagnostics.2022; 12(5): 1102. CrossRef

Review

Thyroid fine-needle aspiration cytology in Taiwan: a nationwide survey and literature update: Chien-Chin Chen, Jen-Fan Hang, Chih-Yi Liu, Yeh-Han Wang, Chiung-Ru Lai; J Pathol Transl Med. 2020;54(5):361-366. Published online August 31, 2020; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2020.07.17

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Abstract PDF

In Taiwan, thyroid fine-needle aspiration cytology is easily accessible and reliable for evaluating thyroid nodules. The sonographic pattern plays a major role and is the deciding factor for aspiration. We conducted a nationwide survey in 2017 and it revealed that 31% of laboratories had adopted The Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology. There was a relatively high unsatisfactory rate (24.04%) and low rates of indeterminate diagnoses, including atypia of undetermined significance/follicular lesions of undetermined significance: 4.87%, and follicular neoplasm/suspicious for a follicular neoplasm: 0.35%. Moreover, the risks of malignancy in benign, atypia of undetermined significance, and suspicious for a follicular neoplasm were relatively high. These may reflect strict diagnostic criteria for indeterminate categories and better patient selection for surgery. Improvements in specimen sampling and continuing education programs are crucial. Newly-developed thyroid cytology technologies, such as immunocytochemistry, molecular testing, and computerized cytomorphometry, may further facilitate cytology diagnoses.

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Comparison of fine-needle aspiration with fine-needle capillary cytology in thyroid nodules
H Hatami, M Samsami, S Movahedinia, B Salehi, M Movahedinia, M Ardeshir
The Annals of The Royal College of Surgeons of England.2023; 105(2): 162. CrossRef
Identification of NIFTP-Specific mRNA Markers for Reliable Molecular Diagnosis of Thyroid Tumors
So-Yeon Lee, Jong-Lyul Park, Kwangsoon Kim, Ja Seong Bae, Jae-Yoon Kim, Seon-Young Kim, Chan Kwon Jung
Endocrine Pathology.2023; 34(3): 311. CrossRef
Noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features: its updated diagnostic criteria, preoperative cytologic diagnoses and impact on the risk of malignancy
Hee Young Na, So Yeon Park
Journal of Pathology and Translational Medicine.2022; 56(6): 319. CrossRef
Thyroid malignancy rates according to the Bethesda reporting system in Israel - A multicenter study
Ory Madgar, Galit Avior, Isaac Shochat, Ben-Zion Joshua, Lior Baraf, Yuval Avidor, Avi khafif, Niddal Assadi, Eran E. Alon
European Journal of Surgical Oncology.2021; 47(6): 1370. CrossRef

Original Articles

Current status of cytopathology practices in Korea: annual report on the Continuous Quality Improvement program of the Korean Society for Cytopathology for 2018: Yosep Chong, Haeyoen Jung, Jung-Soo Pyo, Soon Won Hong, Hoon Kyu Oh; J Pathol Transl Med. 2020;54(4):318-331. Published online April 15, 2020; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2020.02.26

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Abstract PDF Supplementary Material

Background
The Korean Society for Cytopathology has conducted the Continuous Quality Improvement program for cytopathology laboratories in Korea since 1995. In 2018 as part of the program, an annual survey of cytologic data was administered to determine the current status of cytopathology practices in Korea. Methods: A questionnaire was administered to 211 cytopathology laboratories. Individual laboratories submitted their annual statistics regarding cytopathology practices, diagnoses of gynecologic samples, inadequacy rates, and gynecologic cytology-histology correlation review (CHCR) data for 2018. In addition, proficiency tests and sample adequacy assessments were conducted using five consequent gynecologic slides. Results: Over 10 million cytologic exams were performed in 2018, and this number has almost tripled since this survey was first conducted in 2004 (compounded annual growth rate of 7.2%). The number of non-gynecologic samples has increased gradually over time and comprised 24% of all exams. The overall unsatisfactory rate was 0.14%. The ratio of the cases with atypical squamous cells to squamous intraepithelial lesions accounted for up to 4.24. The major discrepancy rate of the CHCR in gynecologic samples was 0.52%. In the proficiency test, the major discrepancy rate was approximately 1%. In the sample adequacy assessment, a discrepancy was observed in 0.1% of cases. Conclusions: This study represents the current status of cytopathology practices in Korea, illustrating the importance of the Continuous Quality Improvement program for increasing the accuracy and credibility of cytopathologic exams as well as developing national cancer exam guidelines and government projects on the prevention and treatment of cancer.

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Diagnostic proficiency test using digital cytopathology and comparative assessment of whole slide images of cytologic samples for quality assurance program in Korea
Yosep Chong, Soon Auck Hong, Hoon Kyu Oh, Soo Jin Jung, Bo-Sung Kim, Ji Yun Jeong, Ho-Chang Lee, Gyungyub Gong
Journal of Pathology and Translational Medicine.2023; 57(5): 251. CrossRef
Recent Application of Artificial Intelligence in Non-Gynecological Cancer Cytopathology: A Systematic Review
Nishant Thakur, Mohammad Rizwan Alam, Jamshid Abdul-Ghafar, Yosep Chong
Cancers.2022; 14(14): 3529. CrossRef
Re-Increasing Trends in Thyroid Cancer Incidence after a Short Period of Decrease in Korea: Reigniting the Debate on Ultrasound Screening
Chan Kwon Jung, Ja Seong Bae, Young Joo Park
Endocrinology and Metabolism.2022; 37(5): 816. CrossRef
Current status of cytopathology practice in Korea: impact of the coronavirus pandemic on cytopathology practice
Soon Auck Hong, Haeyoen Jung, Sung Sun Kim, Min-Sun Jin, Jung-Soo Pyo, Ji Yun Jeong, Younghee Choi, Gyungyub Gong, Yosep Chong
Journal of Pathology and Translational Medicine.2022; 56(6): 361. CrossRef

Continuous quality improvement program and its results of Korean Society for Cytopathology: Yoo-Duk Choi, Hoon-Kyu Oh, Su-Jin Kim, Kyung-Hee Kim, Yun-Kyung Lee, Bo-Sung Kim, Eun-Jeong Jang, Yoon-Jung Choi, Eun-Kyung Han, Dong-Hoon Kim, Younghee Choi, Chan-Kwon Jung, Sung-Nam Kim, Kyueng-Whan Min, Seok-Jin Yoon, Hun-Kyung Lee, Kyung Un Choi, Hye Kyoung Yoon; J Pathol Transl Med. 2020;54(3):246-252. Published online April 15, 2020; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2020.02.22

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Abstract PDF

Background
Since 1995, the Korean Society for Cytopathology has overseen the Continuous Quality Improvement program for cytopathology laboratories. The Committee of Quality Improvement has carried out an annual survey of cytology data for each laboratory and set standards for proficiency tests. Methods: Evaluations were conducted four times per year from 2008 to 2018 and comprised statistics regarding cytology diagnoses of previous years, proficiency tests using cytology slides provided by the committee, assessment of adequacy of gynecology (GYN) cytology slides, and submission of cytology slides for proficiency tests. Results: A total of 206 institutes participated in 2017, and the results were as follows. The number of cytology tests increased from year to year. The ratio of liquid-based cytology in GYN gradually decreased, as most of the GYN cytology had been performed at commercial laboratories. The distribution of GYN diagnoses demonstrated nearly 3.0% as atypical squamous cells. The rate for squamous cell carcinoma was less than 0.02%. The atypical squamous cell/squamous intraepithelial lesion ratio was about 3:1 and showed an upward trend. The major discordant rate of cytology-histology in GYN cytology was less than 1%. The proficiency test maintained a major discordant rate less than 2%. The rate of inappropriate specimens for GYN cytology slides gradually decreased. Conclusions: The Continuous Quality Improvement program should be included in quality assurance programs. Moreover, these data can contribute to development of national cancer examination guidelines and facilitate cancer prevention and treatment.

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Diagnostic proficiency test using digital cytopathology and comparative assessment of whole slide images of cytologic samples for quality assurance program in Korea
Yosep Chong, Soon Auck Hong, Hoon Kyu Oh, Soo Jin Jung, Bo-Sung Kim, Ji Yun Jeong, Ho-Chang Lee, Gyungyub Gong
Journal of Pathology and Translational Medicine.2023; 57(5): 251. CrossRef
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Chan Kwon Jung, Ja Seong Bae, Young Joo Park
Endocrinology and Metabolism.2022; 37(5): 816. CrossRef
Current status of cytopathology practice in Korea: impact of the coronavirus pandemic on cytopathology practice
Soon Auck Hong, Haeyoen Jung, Sung Sun Kim, Min-Sun Jin, Jung-Soo Pyo, Ji Yun Jeong, Younghee Choi, Gyungyub Gong, Yosep Chong
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Contribution of cytologic examination to diagnosis of poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma: Na Rae Kim, Jae Yeon Seok, Yoo Seung Chung, Joon Hyop Lee, Dong Hae Chung; J Pathol Transl Med. 2020;54(2):171-178. Published online February 5, 2020; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2019.12.03

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Abstract PDF

Background
The cytologic diagnosis of poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma (PDTC) is difficult because it lacks salient cytologic findings and shares cytologic features with more commonly encountered neoplasms. Due to diverse cytologic findings and paucicellularity of PDTC, standardization of cytologic diagnostic criteria is limited. The purpose of this study is to investigate and recognize diverse thyroid findings of fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology and frozen smear cytology in diagnosis of this rare but aggressive carcinoma.
Methods
The present study included six cases of FNA cytology and frozen smears of histologically diagnosed PDTCs.
Results
PDTC showed cytologic overlap with well-differentiated thyroid carcinomas (WDTCs). Five of six cases showed dedifferentiation arising from well differentiated thyroid carcinomas. Only one de novo PDTC showed highly cellular smears composed of discohesive small cells, high nuclear/cytoplasmic (N/C) ratio, prominent micronucleoli, and irregular nuclei. Retrospectively reviewed, these findings are highly suspicious for PDTC. Cytologic findings of nuclear atypia, pleomorphism, and irregularity were frequently found, whereas scattered small cells were seen only in the de novo case.
Conclusions
Heterogeneous cytologic findings of PDTCs are shared with those of WDTCs and contribute to difficult preoperative cytologic diagnoses. Most PDTCs show dedifferentiation from WDTCs. Albeit rare, de novo PDTC should be considered with cytology showing discohesive small cells with high N/C ratio. This will enable precise diagnosis and prompt treatment of this aggressive malignancy

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Kimberly Yuang, Huda Al-Bahadili, Alan Chang
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Revisiting the cytomorphological features of poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma: a comparative analysis with indeterminate thyroid fine-needle aspiration samples
Yazeed Alwelaie, Ali Howaidi, Mohammed Tashkandi, Ahmad Almotairi, Hisham Saied, Moammar Muzzaffar, Doaa Alghamdi
Journal of the American Society of Cytopathology.2023; 12(5): 331. CrossRef
Characterization of the genomic alterations in poorly differentiated thyroid cancer
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Scientific Reports.2023;[Epub] CrossRef

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