Molecular Dx Significance 3/10

First TP53-Mutant Low-Grade Papillary Schneiderian Carcinoma Documented Without DEK::AFF2 Fusion

A case report of sinonasal low-grade papillary Schneiderian carcinoma identified a TP53 R175H mutation by targeted DNA sequencing in the absence of the canonical DEK::AFF2 fusion. The finding demonstrates genetic heterogeneity within this rare entity and emphasizes the need for comprehensive molecular workup combining sequencing and FISH for accurate diagnosis.

The original study

Low-grade papillary Schneiderian carcinoma with TP53 mutation: a case report and review of the literature.

Authors
Yuzawa S, Michizuka T, Kakisaka R, Ono Y, Hayashi M, Takahara M, et al.
Journal
Diagnostic pathology
Type
Review, Case Reports, Journal Article
PMID
37041626
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Original abstract

BACKGROUND: Low-grade papillary Schneiderian carcinoma (LGPSC) is a relatively new entity of the sinonasal tract and is characterized by a bland morphology simulating sinonasal papilloma, invasive growth pattern with pushing borders, and aggressive clinical behavior with multiple recurrences and metastatic potential. Recently, DEK::AFF2 fusions were identified in LGPSC. However, some LPGSCs lack DEK::AFF2 fusion, and the molecular features of these tumors have not been clarified. CASE PRESENTATION: A 69-year-old man presented with a discharge of pus from his left cheek. Computed tomography revealed a mass involving the left maxillary sinus, ethmoid sinus, and nasal cavity with the destruction of the orbital wall. The biopsy specimens showed that the tumor had a predominantly exophytic, papillary growth and did not have an apparent stromal invasion. The tumor was composed of multilayered epithelium that showed bland morphology with a round to polygonal shape, abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm, and uniform nuclei. Dense neutrophilic infiltrates were focally present. Immunohistochemically, CK5/6 was strongly and diffusely positive, and p16 was negative. p63 was mainly positive in the basal layer, and EMA was predominantly expressed in the outermost cell layer. DNA-based targeted sequencing showed TP53 R175H mutation, whereas neither EGFR nor KRAS mutation was identified. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and fluorescence in situ hybridization revealed no DEK::AFF2 fusion. CONCLUSIONS: We describe the first case of TP53-mutant LGPSC and review the literature. LGPSC is a genetically heterogeneous entity, and the recognition of this rare entity and comprehensive assessment of clinicopathological and molecular findings are crucial for the correct pathological diagnosis and clinical management.