Bio


Dr. Folkins specializes in the diagnosis and classification of gynecologic and obstetric disorders.

Clinical Focus


  • Anatomic and Clinical Pathology
  • Gynecologic and Obstetric Pathology

Academic Appointments


  • Associate Professor - University Medical Line, Pathology

Professional Education


  • Residency: Stanford University Pathology Residency (2010) CA
  • Medical Education: University of California San Diego School of Medicine (2005) CA
  • Board Certification: American Board of Pathology, Anatomic and Clinical Pathology (2011)
  • Fellowship: Brigham and Women's Hospital Harvard Medical School (2009) MA
  • Residency: Brigham and Women's Hospital Harvard Medical School (2008) MA

Current Research and Scholarly Interests


Dr. Folkins' interest is in gynecologic and obstetric pathology, specifically in ovarian and endometrial malignancies and placental clinical-pathologic disorders.

2023-24 Courses


All Publications


  • Clinical Features of SARS-CoV-2 Infection During Pregnancy and Associated Placental Pathologies INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GYNECOLOGICAL PATHOLOGY Ryan, E. E., Brar, N., Allard, G., Wang, A., Winn, V. D., Folkins, A., Yang, E. J., Tan, S., Hazard, F. K., Howitt, B. E. 2024; 43 (1): 15-24

    Abstract

    We reviewed the clinicopathologic findings of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-exposed placentas at our institution. We identified patients diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 during pregnancy (March-October 2020). Clinical data included gestational age at diagnosis and delivery and maternal symptoms. Hematoxylin and eosin slides were reviewed for maternal vascular malperfusion, fetal vascular malperfusion, chronic villitis, amniotic fluid infection, intervillous thrombi, fibrin deposition, and infarction. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) for coronavirus spike protein and RNA in situ hybridization (ISH) for SARS-CoV-2 was performed on a subset of blocks. A review of placentas from age-matched patients received March-October 2019 was conducted as a comparison cohort. A total of 151 patients were identified. Placentas in the 2 groups were similar in weight for gestational age and had similar rates of maternal vascular malperfusion, fetal vascular malperfusion, amniotic fluid infection, intervillous thrombi, fibrin deposition, and infarction. Chronic villitis was the only significantly different pathologic finding between cases and controls (29% of cases showed chronic villitis vs. 8% of controls, P <0.001). Overall, 146/151 (96.7%) cases were negative for IHC and 129/133 (97%) cases were negative for RNA ISH. There were 4 cases that stained positively for IHC/ISH, 2 of which showed massive perivillous fibrin deposition, inflammation, and decidual arteriopathy. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-positive patients were more likely to self-identify as Hispanic and more likely to have public health insurance. Our data suggests SARS-CoV-2 exposed placentas that stain positively for SARS-CoV-2 show abnormal fibrin deposition, inflammatory changes, and decidual arteriopathy. The group of patients with clinical COVID-19 are more likely to show chronic villitis. IHC and ISH evidence of viral infection is rare.

    View details for DOI 10.1097/PGP.0000000000000948

    View details for Web of Science ID 001124179400010

    View details for PubMedID 36811832

  • In Vivo Ultrasound Molecular Imaging in the Evaluation of Complex Ovarian Masses: A Practical Guide to Correlation with Ex Vivo Immunohistochemistry. Advanced biology Antil, N., Wang, H., Kaffas, A. E., Desser, T. S., Folkins, A., Longacre, T., Berek, J., Lutz, A. M. 2023: e2300091

    Abstract

    Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women and the most lethal gynecologic cancer. It is curable when discovered at an early stage, but usually remains asymptomatic until advanced stages. It is crucial to diagnose the disease before it metastasizes to distant organs for optimal patient management. Conventional transvaginal ultrasound imaging offers limited sensitivity and specificity in the ovarian cancer detection. With molecularly targeted ligands addressing targets, such as kinase insert domain receptor (KDR), attached to contrast microbubbles, ultrasound molecular imaging (USMI) can be used to detect, characterize and monitor ovarian cancer at a molecular level. In this article, the authors propose a standardized protocol is proposed for the accurate correlation between in- vivo transvaginal KDR-targeted USMI and ex vivo histology and immunohistochemistry in clinical translational studies. The detailed procedures of in vivo USMI and ex vivo immunohistochemistry are described for four molecular markers, CD31 and KDR with a focus on how to enable the accurate correlation between in vivo imaging findings and ex vivo expression of the molecular markers, even if not the entire tumor could can be imaged by USMI, which is not an uncommon scenario in clinical translational studies. This work aims to enhance the workflow and the accuracy of characterization of ovarian masses on transvaginal USMI using histology and immunohistochemistry as reference standards, which involves sonographers, radiologists, surgeons, and pathologists in a highly collaborative research effort of USMI in cancer.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/adbi.202300091

    View details for PubMedID 37403275

  • Rapid Deployment of Whole Slide Imaging for Primary Diagnosis in Surgical Pathology at Stanford Medicine Responding to Challenges of the COVID-19 Pandemic ARCHIVES OF PATHOLOGY & LABORATORY MEDICINE Rojansky, R., Jhun, I., Dussaq, A. M., Chirieleison, S. M., Nirschl, J. J., Born, D., Fralick, J., Hetherington, W., Kerr, A. M., Lavezo, J., Lawrence, D. B., Lummus, S., Macasaet, R., Montine, T. J., Ryan, E., Shen, J., Shoemaker, J., Tan, B., Vogel, H., Waraich, P., Yang, E., Young, A., Folkins, A. 2023; 147 (3): 359-367
  • EPIC Beaker Anatomic Pathology Implementation for a Whole Slide Image Driven Workflow at an Academic Medical Center Dussaq, A., Folkins, A. ELSEVIER SCIENCE INC. 2023: S1291
  • Neonatologist responsibility to ensure placentas are received for pathologic examination - response to comment for Criteria for placental examination for obstetric and neonatal providers. American journal of obstetrics and gynecology Roberts, D. J., Baergen, R. N., Boyd, T. K., Carreon, C. K., Duncan, V. E., Ernst, L. M., Faye-Petersen, O. M., Folkins, A. K., Hecht, J. L., Heerema-McKenney, A., Heller, D. S., Linn, R. L., Polizzano, C., Ravishankar, S., Redline, R. W., Salafia, C. M., Torous, V. F., Castro, E. C. 2023

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.01.027

    View details for PubMedID 36731816

  • Criteria for placental examination for obstetrical and neonatal providers. American journal of obstetrics and gynecology Roberts, D. J., Baergen, R. N., Boyd, T. K., Carreon, C. K., Duncan, V. E., Ernst, L. M., Faye-Petersen, O. M., Folkins, A. K., Hecht, J. L., Heerema-McKenney, A., Heller, D. S., Linn, R. L., Polizzano, C., Ravishankar, S., Redline, R. W., Salafia, C. M., Torous, V. F., Castro, E. C. 2022

    Abstract

    Pathologic examination of the placenta can provide insight into likely (and unlikely) causes of antepartum and intrapartum events, diagnoses with urgent clinical relevance, prognostic information for mother and infant, support for practice evaluation and improvement, and insight into advancing the sciences of obstetrics and neonatology. Although it is true that not all placentas require pathologic examination (although alternative opinions have been expressed), prioritization of placentas for pathologic examination should be based on vetted indications such as maternal comorbidities or pregnancy complications in which placental pathology is thought to be useful for maternal or infant care, understanding pathophysiology, or practice modifications. Herein we provide placental triage criteria for the obstetrical and neonatal provider based on publications and expert opinion of 16 placental pathologists and a pathologists' assistant, formulated using a modified Delphi approach. These criteria include indications in which placental pathology has clinical relevance, such as pregnancy loss, maternal infection, suspected abruption, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, nonreassuring fetal heart testing requiring urgent delivery, preeclampsia with severe features, or neonates with early evidence of multiorgan system failure including neurologic compromise. We encourage a focused gross examination by the provider or an attendant at delivery for all placentas and provide guidance for this examination. We recommend that any placenta that is abnormal on gross examination undergo a complete pathology examination. In addition, we suggest practice criteria for placental pathology services, including a list of critical values to be used by the relevant provider. We hope that these sets of triage indications, criteria, and practice suggestions will facilitate appropriate submission of placentas for pathologic examination and improve its relevance to clinical care.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.ajog.2022.12.017

    View details for PubMedID 36549567

  • The menstrual cycle phase impacts the detection of plasma cells and the diagnosis of chronic endometritis in endometrial biopsy specimens. Fertility and sterility Ryan, E., Tolani, A. T., Zhang, J., Cruz, G. I., Folkins, A. K., Lathi, R. B. 2022; 118 (4): 787-794

    Abstract

    OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of menstrual cycle phase on the detection of plasma cells.DESIGN: A retrospective cohort study.SETTING: Fertility clinic.PATIENT(S): Biopsies from 157 patients met criteria for inclusion, 91 in the follicular phase and 60 in the luteal phase. Patient groups were similar in body mass index and number of previous live births; however, differed in terms of age, infertility history, and biopsy indication.INTERVENTIONS: Endometrial biopsies from patients at a fertility clinic from 2018-2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Biopsies were excluded if patients had a previous chronic endometritis diagnosis, abnormal uterine cavity or were on hormone therapy. Each case was reviewed by a gynecologic pathologist for plasma cells by hematoxylin and eosin and CD138 staining. Demographic and clinical data were collected. Continuous variables were compared using Welch t test and Wilcoxon's rank sum test, and categorical variables using Pearson's chi2 test. Logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals for the association between the presence of plasma cells and cycle phase. Multinomial logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratios for nominal outcomes. Pathology reports were reviewed. Plasma cell enumeration using hematoxylin and eosin-stained sections and CD138 immunohistochemical stains (performed at the time of biopsy by a gynecologic pathologist) was recorded.MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Presence and density of plasma cells.RESULT(S): We found a higher likelihood of finding plasma cells in the follicular than in luteal phase (59.3% vs. 19.7%). There was a higher likelihood of finding plasma cells in the early (cycle days 5-8, 29 cases or 76.3% of cases with plasma cells) than in the late follicular phase (cycle days 9-14, 25 cases or 47.2%). There was a higher density of plasma cells in the follicular phase group than in the luteal phase group (25.3% vs. 1.5% scattered and 13.2% vs. 0 clusters).CONCLUSION(S): Plasma cells are more likely to be present during the follicular phase compared with the luteal phase and in the early compared with the late follicular phase. Further studies are needed to identify the optimal timing of biopsy to standardize the diagnosis.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.07.011

    View details for PubMedID 36182264

  • Rapid Deployment of Whole Slide Imaging for Primary Diagnosis in Surgical Pathology at Stanford Medicine. Archives of pathology & laboratory medicine Rojansky, R., Jhun, I., Dussaq, A. M., Chirieleison, S. M., Nirschl, J. J., Born, D., Fralick, J., Hetherington, W., Kerr, A. M., Lavezo, J., Lawrence, D. B., Lummus, S., Macasaet, R., Montine, T. J., Ryan, E., Shen, J., Shoemaker, J., Tan, B., Vogel, H., Waraich, P. S., Yang, E., Young, A., Folkins, A. 2022

    Abstract

    Stanford Pathology began stepwise subspecialty implementation of whole slide imaging (WSI) in 2018 soon after the first US Food and Drug Administration approval. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services waived the requirement for pathologists to perform diagnostic tests in Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)-licensed facilities. This encouraged rapid implementation of WSI across all surgical pathology subspecialties.To present our experience with validation and implementation of WSI at a large academic medical center encompassing a caseload of more than 50 000 cases per year.Validation was performed independently for 3 subspecialty services with a diagnostic concordance threshold above 95%. Analysis of user experience, staffing, infrastructure, and information technology was performed after department-wide expansion.Diagnostic concordance was achieved in 96% of neuropathology cases, 100% of gynecologic pathology cases, and 98% of immunohistochemistry cases. After full implementation, 8 high-capacity scanners were operational, with whole slide images generated on greater than 2000 slides per weekday, accounting for approximately 80% of histologic slides at Stanford Medicine. Multiple modifications in workflow and information technology were needed to improve performance. Within months of full implementation, most attending pathologists and trainees had adopted WSI for primary diagnosis.WSI across all surgical subspecialities is achievable at scale at an academic medical center; however, adoption required flexibility to adjust workflows and develop tailored solutions. WSI at scale supported the health and safety of medical staff while facilitating high-quality patient care and education during COVID-19 restrictions.

    View details for DOI 10.5858/arpa.2021-0438-OA

    View details for PubMedID 35802938

  • DICER1-associated Tumors in the Female Genital Tract: Molecular Basis, Clinicopathologic Features, and Differential Diagnosis. Advances in anatomic pathology Han, L. M., Weiel, J. J., Longacre, T. A., Folkins, A. K. 2022

    Abstract

    DICER1 syndrome is a tumor predisposition syndrome in which patients are at an increased risk of developing a wide variety of benign and malignant neoplasms with a hallmark constellation of pediatric pleuropulmonary blastoma, cystic nephroma, and thyroid lesions. DICER1 encodes an RNA endoribonuclease that is crucial to the processing of microRNA and may play a role in the maturation of Mullerian tissue. Within the gynecologic tract, germline mutations in DICER1 are associated with an array of rare tumors, including Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor, embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma of the cervix, gynandroblastoma, and juvenile granulosa cell tumor, which typically present in childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood. In addition, somatic DICER1 mutations have been described in rare gynecologic tumors such as adenosarcoma, Sertoli cell tumor, ovarian fibrosarcoma, cervical primitive neuroectodermal tumor, carcinosarcoma, and germ cell tumors. In light of the significant association with multiple neoplasms, genetic counseling should be considered for patients who present with a personal or family history of these rare DICER1-associated gynecologic tumors. This review highlights the most current understanding of DICER1 genetic alterations and describes the clinical, histopathologic, and immunohistochemical features and differential diagnoses for gynecologic tumors associated with DICER1 mutation.

    View details for DOI 10.1097/PAP.0000000000000351

    View details for PubMedID 35778792

  • Fumarate Hydratase Deficiency Should be Considered in the Differential Diagnosis of Uterine and Extrauterine Smooth Muscle Tumors of Uncertain Malignant Potential (STUMP). International journal of gynecological pathology : official journal of the International Society of Gynecological Pathologists Pors, J., Weiel, J. J., Devereaux, K. A., Folkins, A. K., Longacre, T. A. 2021

    Abstract

    Fumarate hydratase-deficient leiomyomas (dFH leiomyomas) often display atypical pathologic features yet exhibit a benign clinical course. Recent data suggest that dFH leiomyomas may be misclassified as smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential, a category that encompasses a heterogenous subgroup of uterine neoplasms with smooth muscle differentiation and atypical features that impart ambiguity regarding their expected clinical behavior. dFH leiomyomas can be seen in the context of hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell carcinoma syndrome or in the sporadic setting. In this retrospective study, we sought to examine the prevalence and clinicopathologic characteristics of dFH leiomyomas in 48 tumors previously diagnosed as smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential from 38 patients. Of these 48 tumors, 3 (6.3%) occurring in 2 patients were found to be deficient for FH by immunohistochemistry, including 1 uterine and 2 extrauterine (abdominopelvic) tumors. The 3 tumors showed histologic features typical of dFH leiomyomas, including hemangiopericytoma-like vessels, edema, macronucleoli, and atypia. Neither patient developed recurrent leiomyomas or renal cell carcinoma, and both were alive without disease at last follow-up. Our data suggest that dFH leiomyomas should be considered in the differential diagnosis of smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential, even in the context of extrauterine disease. Identification of FH deficiency in these tumors supports their classification as dFH leiomyomas despite their atypical morphologic features and/or clinical presentation. Importantly, detection of dFH in these cases may identify women at increased risk for hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell carcinoma who would benefit from genetic counseling and consideration for FH germline testing.

    View details for DOI 10.1097/PGP.0000000000000797

    View details for PubMedID 34108400

  • PRG2 and AQPEP are misexpressed in fetal membranes in placenta previa and percreta1. Biology of reproduction Zhang, E. T., Hannibal, R. L., Badillo Rivera, K. M., Song, J. H., McGowan, K., Zhu, X., Meinhardt, G., Knofler, M., Pollheimer, J., Urban, A. E., Folkins, A. K., Lyell, D. J., Baker, J. C. 2021

    Abstract

    The obstetrical conditions placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) and placenta previa are a significant source of pregnancy-associated morbidity and mortality, yet the specific molecular and cellular underpinnings of these conditions are not known. In this study, we identified misregulated gene expression patterns in tissues from placenta previa and percreta (the most extreme form of PAS) compared with control cases. By comparing this gene set with existing placental single-cell and bulk RNA-Seq datasets, we show that the upregulated genes predominantly mark extravillous trophoblasts. We performed immunofluorescence on several candidate molecules and found that PRG2 and AQPEP protein levels are upregulated in both the fetal membranes and the placental disk in both conditions. While this increased AQPEP expression remains restricted to trophoblasts, PRG2 is mislocalized and is found throughout the fetal membranes. Using a larger patient cohort with a diverse set of gestationally aged-matched controls, we validated PRG2 as a marker for both previa and PAS and AQPEP as a marker for only previa in the fetal membranes. Our findings suggest that the extraembryonic tissues surrounding the conceptus, including both the fetal membranes and the placental disk, harbor a signature of previa and PAS that is characteristic of EVTs and that may reflect increased trophoblast invasiveness.

    View details for DOI 10.1093/biolre/ioab068

    View details for PubMedID 33982062

  • Clinical Features of SARS-CoV-2 Infection During Pregnancy and Associated Placental Pathologies Brar, N., Ryan, E., Winn, V., Folkins, A., Howitt, B. SPRINGERNATURE. 2021: 656–57
  • Prospective molecular classification of endometrial carcinomas: institutional implementation, practice, and clinical experience. Modern pathology : an official journal of the United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology, Inc Devereaux, K. A., Weiel, J. J., Pors, J., Steiner, D. F., Ho, C., Charu, V., Suarez, C. J., Renz, M., Diver, E., Karam, A., Litkouhi, B., Dorigo, O., Kidd, E. A., Yang, E. J., Folkins, A. K., Longacre, T. A., Howitt, B. E. 2021

    Abstract

    The comprehensive genomic analysis of endometrial carcinoma (EC) by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) led to the discovery of four distinct and prognostically significant molecular subgroups. Molecular classification has the potential to improve risk-stratification when integrated with clinicopathologic features and has recently been included in national and international patient management EC guidelines. Thus, the adoption of molecular classification into routine pathologic and clinical practice is likely to grow significantly in the upcoming years. Establishing an efficient and standardized workflow for performing molecular classification on ECs, and reporting both the molecular and histologic findings in an integrative manner, is imperative. Here we describe our effort to implement rapid and routine molecular classification on all ECs diagnosed at our institution. To this effect, we performed immunohistochemistry as a surrogate marker for identifying genetic and/or epigenetic alterations in DNA mismatch repair (e.g., MLH1, PMS2, MSH6, MSH2), and TP53 genes. In addition, we have developed and employed a single-gene POLE SNaPshot assay, which is a rapid and analytically sensitive method for detecting select POLE exonuclease domain mutations (EDMs). We report our molecular testing workflow and integrative reporting system as well as the clinicopathologic and molecular features of 310 ECs that underwent routine molecular classification at our institution. The 310 ECs were molecularly classified as follows: 15 (5%) POLE mutant (POLEmut), 79 (25%) mismatch repair-deficient (MMRd), 135 (44%) no specific molecular profile (NSMP), and 81 (26%) p53 abnormal (p53abnl). This work provides an initial framework for implementing routine molecular classification of ECs.

    View details for DOI 10.1038/s41379-021-00963-y

    View details for PubMedID 34743187

  • Implementation of Collodion Bag Protocol to Improve Whole-slide Imaging of Scant Gynecologic Curettage Specimens. Journal of pathology informatics Jhun, I., Levy, D., Lim, H., Herrera, Q., Dobo, E., Burns, D., Hetherington, W., Macasaet, R., Young, A. J., Kong, C. S., Folkins, A. K., Yang, E. J. 2021; 12: 2

    Abstract

    Background: Digital pathology has been increasingly implemented for primary surgical pathology diagnosis. In our institution, digital pathology was recently deployed in the gynecologic (GYN) pathology practice. A notable challenge encountered in the digital evaluation of GYN specimens was high rates of scanning failure of specimens with fragmented as well as scant tissue. To improve tissue detection failure rates, we implemented a novel use of the collodion bag cell block preparation method.Materials and Methods: In this study, we reviewed 108 endocervical curettage (ECC) specimens, representing specimens processed with and without the collodion bag cell block method (n = 56 without collodion bag, n = 52 with collodion bag).Results: Tissue detection failure rates were reduced from 77% (43/56) in noncollodion bag cases to 23/52 (44%) of collodion bag cases, representing a 42% reduction. The median total area of tissue detection failure per level was 0.35 mm2 (interquartile range [IQR]: 0.14, 0.70 mm2) for noncollodion bag cases and 0.08 mm2 (IQR: 0.03, 0.20 mm2) for collodion bag cases. This represents a greater than fourfold reduction in the total area of tissue detection failure per level (P < 0.001). In addition, there were no out-of-focus levels among collodion bag cases, compared to 6/56 (11%) of noncollodion bag cases (median total area = 4.9 mm2).Conclusions: The collodion bag method significantly improved the digital image quality of fragmented/scant GYN curettage specimens, increased efficiency and accuracy of diagnostic evaluation, and enhanced identification of tissue contamination during processing. The logistical challenges and labor cost of deploying the collodion bag protocol are important considerations for feasibility assessment at an institutional level.

    View details for DOI 10.4103/jpi.jpi_82_20

    View details for PubMedID 34012706

  • Omental macrophages secrete chemokine ligands that promote ovarian cancer colonization of the omentum via CCR1. Communications biology Krishnan, V., Tallapragada, S., Schaar, B., Kamat, K., Chanana, A. M., Zhang, Y., Patel, S., Parkash, V., Rinker-Schaeffer, C., Folkins, A. K., Rankin, E. B., Dorigo, O. 2020; 3 (1): 524

    Abstract

    The omentum is the most common site of ovarian cancer metastasis. Immune cell clusters called milky spots are found throughout the omentum. It is however unknown if these immune cells contribute to ovarian cancer metastasis. Here we report that omental macrophages promote the migration and colonization of ovarian cancer cells to the omentum through the secretion of chemokine ligands that interact with chemokine receptor 1 (CCR1). We found that depletion of macrophages reduces ovarian cancer colonization of the omentum. RNA-sequencing of macrophages isolated from mouse omentum and mesenteric adipose tissue revealed a specific enrichment of chemokine ligandCCL6 in omental macrophages. CCL6 and the human homolog CCL23 were both necessary and sufficient to promote ovarian cancer migration by activating ERK1/2 and PI3K pathways. Importantly, inhibition of CCR1 reduced ovarian cancer colonization. These findings demonstrate a critical mechanism of omental macrophage induced colonization by ovarian cancer cells via CCR1 signaling.

    View details for DOI 10.1038/s42003-020-01246-z

    View details for PubMedID 32963283

  • INTRAUTERINE PATHOLOGY IS ASSOCIATED WITH HIGHER INCIDENCE OF ENDOMETRIAL PLASMA CELL INFILTRATE. Tolani, A., Ryan, E., Folkins, A., Lathi, R. ELSEVIER SCIENCE INC. 2020: E192
  • DOES THE TIMING OF ENDOMETRIAL BIOPSY IMPACT THE DETECTION OF ENDOMETRIAL PLASMA CELLS? Tolani, A., Ryan, E., Folkins, A., Lathi, R. ELSEVIER SCIENCE INC. 2020: E192
  • Molecular Classification of Metastatic and Recurrent Endometrial Endometrioid Carcinoma Devereaux, K., Chow, S., Steiner, D., Peters-Schulze, G., Ho, C., Suarez, C., Folkins, A., Howitt, B. NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP. 2020: 1041–42
  • Fumarate Hydratase-Deficiency Should be Considered in the Differential Diagnosis of Uterine and Extra-Uterine Smooth Muscle Tumors of Uncertain Malignant Potential (STUMP) Weiel, J. J., Devereaux, K., Folkins, A., Longacre, T. NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP. 2020: 1155–56
  • Immediate intraoperative sentinel lymph node analysis by frozen section is predictive of lymph node metastasis in endometrial cancer JOURNAL OF ROBOTIC SURGERY Renz, M., Marjon, N., Devereaux, K., Raghavan, S., Folkins, A. K., Karam, A. 2020; 14 (1): 35–40
  • Prevalence of Lynch syndrome in women with mismatch repair-deficient ovarian cancer. Cancer medicine Hodan, R. n., Kingham, K. n., Cotter, K. n., Folkins, A. K., Kurian, A. W., Ford, J. M., Longacre, T. n. 2020

    Abstract

    There are limited data on the prevalence of Lynch syndrome (LS) in women with primary ovarian cancer with mismatch repair deficiency (MMR-D) by immunohistochemistry (IHC).Three hundred and eight cases of primary ovarian, fallopian, and peritoneal cancer between January 2012 and December 2019 were evaluated for MMR-D by IHC. The incidence of LS in this cohort was evaluated.MMR-D by IHC was identified in 16 of 308 (5.2%) (95% CI: 3.2%-8.3%) primary ovarian-related cancers. Most cases with MMR-D were endometrioid (n = 11, 68.7%); (95% CI: 44.2%-86.1%). MSH2/MSH6 protein loss was detected in eight cases (50.0%); (95% CI: 28.0%-72.0%) and MLH1/PMS2 protein loss was detected in four cases (25.0%); (95% CI: 9.7%-50.0%). MSH6 protein loss was detected in two cases (12.5%); (95% CI: 2.2%-37.3%) and PMS2 protein loss was detected in two cases (12.5%); (95% CI: 2.2%-37.3%). All four cases with MLH1/PMS2 protein loss had MLH1 promotor hypermethylation. All 12 women with ovarian cancer suggestive of LS underwent germline testing and 8 (66.6%); (95% CI: 38.8%-86.5%) were confirmed to have LS.Most ovarian cancers with somatic MMR-D were confirmed to have LS in this cohort. Germline testing for LS in addition to BRCA1/2 for all women with an epithelial ovarian cancer would be efficient and would approach 100% sensitivity for identifying Lynch syndrome. Utilization of a multigene panel should also be considered, given the additional non-Lynch germline mutation identified in this cohort.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/cam4.3688

    View details for PubMedID 33369189

  • Coexistence of BRAF V600E and TERT Promoter Mutations in Low-grade Serous Carcinoma of Ovary Recurring as Carcinosarcoma in a Lymph Node: Report of a Case INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GYNECOLOGICAL PATHOLOGY Tavallaee, M., Steiner, D. F., Zehnder, J. L., Folkins, A. K., Karam, A. K. 2019; 38 (4): 386–92
  • Case 2: Infant with Early Direct Hyperbilirubinemia. NeoReviews Kumbhat, N., Folkins, A., Hawksley, C., Cohen, R. 2019; 20 (6): e350–e352

    View details for DOI 10.1542/neo.20-6-e350

    View details for PubMedID 31261099

  • Low-grade Serous Neoplasia of the Female Genital Tract. Surgical pathology clinics Folkins, A. K., Longacre, T. A. 2019; 12 (2): 481–513

    Abstract

    Low-grade serous neoplasia of the gynecologic tract includes benign (serous cystadenomas), borderline, and malignant lesions (low-grade serous carcinoma). Classification of these lesions relies on rigorous attention to several pathologic features that determine the prognosis and the need for adjuvant therapy. Risk stratification of serous borderline tumor behavior based on histologic findings and criteria for low-grade serous carcinoma are the primary focus of this article, including the redesignation of invasive implants of serous borderline tumor as low-grade serous carcinoma based on the similar survival rates. The molecular underpinnings of these tumors are also discussed, including their potential for prognostication.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.path.2019.02.006

    View details for PubMedID 31097112

  • Molecular and Cellular Characterization of Placenta Previa and Accreta. Zhang, E. T., Rivera, K., Hannibal, R. L., McGowan, K., Zhu, X., Meinhardt, G., Knoefler, M., Pollheimer, J., Folkins, A., Lyell, D. J., Baker, J. C. SAGE PUBLICATIONS INC. 2019: 262A–263A
  • Immediate intraoperative sentinel lymph node analysis by frozen section is predictive of lymph node metastasis in endometrial cancer. Journal of robotic surgery Renz, M., Marjon, N., Devereaux, K., Raghavan, S., Folkins, A. K., Karam, A. 2019

    Abstract

    Sentinel lymph nodes sampling (SLN) in endometrial cancer is being evaluated as a means to gather prognostic information about lymphatic metastasis while avoiding the morbidity associated with complete lymphadenectomy. SLN ultrastaging has been advocated to identify low-volume metastases, but its value remains uncertain. This study aims to evaluate a pathological protocol for the immediate intraoperative SLN work-up using H&E staining alone. In this retrospective single-center study, patients received standardized cervical injection of indocyanine green, SLN mapping followed by pelvic lymphadenectomy with or without para-aortic lymphadenectomy. SLNs were entirely frozen, multiple H&E stained sections prepared and evaluated intraoperatively. No immunohistochemistry was performed. SLN results were compared with the complete lymphadenectomy specimen. Over 3.5 years, 90 patients were identified who underwent SLN mapping and subsequent complete pelvic lymphadenectomy. At least one SLN was detected in 79 (88%) patients. The median number of SLNs removed was 2.0. Para-aortic SLNs were detected in 7%. Final pathology showed 67% Type I tumors, 76% locally confined. The mean number of lymph nodes removed during complete lymphadenectomy was 21. In this series, only 6 patients had lymph node metastases. 5/6 were identified by the described SLN approach resulting in 83.3% sensitivity and a negative predictive value of 98.7%. Our approach permits immediate intraoperative results and helps guide the primary surgery. The immediate SLN work-up using frozen sections showed both high accuracy and negative predictive value. The comparably lower sensitivity may be related to the low number of patients with positive lymph nodes (7.6%).

    View details for PubMedID 30687881

  • Prognostic Significance of P16 Expression and P53 Expression in Primary Vaginal Cancer. International journal of gynecological pathology : official journal of the International Society of Gynecological Pathologists Nwachukwu, C. R., Harris, J. P., Chin, A. n., Von Eyben, R. n., Giaretta, S. n., Shaffer, J. L., Hiniker, S. M., Kapp, D. S., Folkins, A. K., Kidd, E. A. 2019; 38 (6): 588–96

    Abstract

    To evaluate the correlation between p16 expression and clinical outcomes in patients with primary vaginal cancer treated with definitive radiotherapy. P16 immunohistochemical was performed on 25 patient samples and recorded from pathology reports in 7 patients. P53 immunohistochemical was performed on 3 p16-negative samples. Baseline characteristics were compared using the Fisher exact test. Outcomes were compared using log-rank tests, and cox proportional hazards models. Survival and recurrence analysis was performed with the Kaplan-Meier method and cumulative incidence estimates. P16 expression was positive in 29 patients and negative in 3 patients. Two of the p16-negative tumors showed positive expression of p53. The median overall survival, progression-free survival and 2-yr cumulative incidence of recurrence were 66 mo [95% confidence interval (CI), 31-96], 34 mo (95% CI, 21-86), and 19% (95% CI, 7%-34%), respectively. P16-positive tumors had higher median overall survival and progression-free survival compared with p16-negative tumors (82 vs. 31 mo, P=0.02 and 35 vs 16 mo, P=0.04, respectively). The 2-yr cumulative incidence of recurrence was 14% for p16-positive tumors compared with 67% for p16-negative tumors (P=0.07). On univariable analysis, p16-negative status, age older than 65, and advanced stage were associated with inferior overall survival. P16 negativity is an independent predictor of inferior overall survival. P16-positive vaginal cancers have a better prognosis and decreased incidence of recurrence compared with p16-negative tumors. These prognostic findings associated with p16-negative vaginal cancers will need to be confirmed in larger patient cohorts.

    View details for DOI 10.1097/PGP.0000000000000568

    View details for PubMedID 31593028

  • Case of Metastatic Extramammary Paget Disease of the Vulva Treated Successfully With Trastuzumab Emtansine. JCO precision oncology Hsieh, G. L., English, D. P., Tu, P., Folkins, A. K., Karam, A. K. 2018; 2: 1-8

    View details for DOI 10.1200/PO.17.00204

    View details for PubMedID 35135119

  • Omentum immune microenvironment: Metastatic niche for ovarian cancer Krishnan, V., Raju, P. A., Vierkoetter, K., Patel, S., Youngyunpipatkul, J., Tallapragada, S., Schaar, B., Folkins, A. K., Herzenberg, L. A., Dorigo, O. AMER ASSOC CANCER RESEARCH. 2018
  • Case of Metastatic Extramammary Paget Disease of the Vulva Treated Successfully With Trastuzumab Emtansine JCO PRECISION ONCOLOGY Hsieh, G. L., English, D. P., Tu, P., Folkins, A. K., Karam, A. K. 2018; 2
  • Heme oxygenase-1 deficiency results in splenic T-cell dysregulation in offspring of mothers exposed to late gestational inflammation AMERICAN JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTIVE IMMUNOLOGY Ozen, M., Zhao, H., Kalish, F., Yang, Y., Folkins, A., Burd, I., Wong, R. J., Stevenson, D. K. 2018; 79 (5): e12829

    Abstract

    Infection during pregnancy can disrupt regulatory/effector immune system balance, resulting in adverse pregnancy and fetal-neonatal outcomes. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is a major regulatory enzyme in the immune system. We observed maternal immune response dysregulation during late gestational inflammation (LGI), which may be mediated by HO-1. Here, we extend these studies to examine the immune response of offspring.Pregnant wild-type (Wt) and HO-1 heterozygote (Het) dams were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or vehicle at E15.5. Pups' splenic immune cells were characterized using flow cytometry.CD3+ CD4+ CD25+ (Tregs) and CD3+ CD8+ (Teffs) T cells in Wt and Het were similar in control neonates and increased with age. We showed not only age- but also genotype-specific and long-lasting T-cell dysregulation in pups after maternal LGI. The persistent immune dysregulation, mediated by HO-1 deficiency, was reflected as a decrease in Treg FoxP3 and CD3+ CD8+ T cells, and an increase in CD4+ /CD8+ T-cell and Treg/Teff ratios in Hets compared with Wt juvenile mice after maternal exposure to LGI.Maternal exposure to LGI can result in dysregulation of splenic T cells in offspring, especially in those with HO-1 deficiency. We speculate that these immune alterations are the basis of adverse outcomes in neonates from mothers exposed to low-grade (subclinical) infections.

    View details for PubMedID 29484761

  • Coexistence of BRAF V600E and TERT Promoter Mutations in Low-grade Serous Carcinoma of Ovary Recurring as Carcinosarcoma in a Lymph Node: Report of a Case. International journal of gynecological pathology : official journal of the International Society of Gynecological Pathologists Tavallaee, M., Steiner, D. F., Zehnder, J. L., Folkins, A. K., Karam, A. K. 2018

    Abstract

    Low-grade serous carcinomas only rarely coexist with or progress to high-grade tumors. We present a case of low-grade serous carcinoma with transformation to carcinosarcoma on recurrence in the lymph node. Identical BRAF V600E and telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter mutations were identified in both the original and recurrent tumor. Given that telomerase reverse transcriptase promotor mutations are thought to play a role in progression of other tumor types, the function of telomerase reverse transcriptase mutations in BRAF mutated low-grade serous carcinoma deserves investigation.

    View details for PubMedID 29620581

  • Utility of p16 Immunohistochemistry in Evaluating Negative Cervical Biopsies Following High-risk Pap Test Results AMERICAN JOURNAL OF SURGICAL PATHOLOGY Shain, A. F., Kwok, S., Folkins, A. K., Kong, C. S. 2018; 42 (1): 69–75

    Abstract

    The Lower Anogenital Squamous Terminology (LAST) Standardization Project for human papilloma virus (HPV)-associated lesions specifically recommends the use of p16 immunohistochemistry (IHC) as an adjunct to morphologic assessment of cervical biopsies interpreted as negative or low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) from patients with prior high-risk Pap test results (high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion [HSIL], atypical squamous cells cannot exclude HSIL, atypical glandular cells [AGC], or HPV16 atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance [ASC-US]). The impetus for this recommendation is to increase detection of missed high-grade disease. However, the quality of evidence supporting this recommendation was lower than that for the other LAST recommendations addressing improved consistency in the diagnosis of HSIL with the use of p16. A database search spanning 10 years identified 341 cases (encompassing 736 discrete biopsy specimens) interpreted as negative for dysplasia from 330 patients with a prior high-risk Pap result (atypical squamous cells cannot exclude HSIL, HSIL, atypical glandular cells, not otherwise specified [AGC-NOS], atypical endocervical cells--NOS [AEC-NOS], and AEC-favor neoplastic). p16 IHC was performed and detected missed abnormalities in 11/341 (3.2%) cases. The abnormalities corresponded to missed foci of HSIL (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia [CIN] 2) (n=1), SIL-indeterminate grade (n=7), atypical squamous metaplasia (n=2), and LSIL [CIN1]) (n=1). Subsequent histologic follow-up identified HSIL or greater in 6/8 (75%) p16 cases versus 20/79 (25.3%) p16 cases (P=0.0079). p16 IHC performed on biopsies interpreted as negative from patients with prior high-risk Pap test results increased the detection rate of missed SIL. A p16 result also significantly increased the likelihood of HSIL on subsequent biopsy. Although further studies are required to determine what percentage of missed HSIL justifies the additional cost, improved detection of HSIL in high-risk patients may lead to fewer diagnostic procedures and fewer patients lost to follow-up.

    View details for PubMedID 29112019

  • CONGENITAL SYPHILLIS PRESENTING AS DIRECT HYPERBILIRUBINEMIA DIAGNOSED BY PLACENTAL PATHOLOGY Kumbhat, N. P., Folkins, A., Cohen, R. BMJ PUBLISHING GROUP. 2018: 263–64
  • Extent of lymphovascular space invasion may predict lymph node metastasis in uterine serous carcinoma GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY Qian, Y., Pollom, E. L., Nwachukwu, C., Seiger, K., von Eyben, R., Folkins, A. K., Kidd, E. A. 2017; 147 (1): 24–29

    Abstract

    Emerging evidence suggests that extent of lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) predicts for risk of lymph node metastasis in endometrioid uterine cancers. However, this correlation remains unknown in the setting of uterine serous carcinoma (USC). We sought to examine the association between extent of LVSI and other histopathologic characteristics with risk of nodal metastasis for women with USC.Pathological data from all cases of uterine serous carcinoma between July 1998 to July 2015 at our institution were reviewed. Descriptive, univariate, and multivariate logistic regression analysis of selected pathologic features were performed.88 patients with USC underwent total abdominal or laparoscopic hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and selective lymphadenectomy. Surgical staging revealed the following FIGO stage distributions: I (41%), II (8%), III (32%), IV (19%). LVSI was present in 44 (50%) patients. 36 patients (41%) had LN metastases with median number of total nodes removed of 17 (range, 1-49). On univariate analysis, depth of myometrial invasion, LVSI, tumor size, and cervical stromal involvement were significantly associated with nodal involvement. In a multivariate model, LVSI (OR 6.25, 95% CI 2.2-18.0, p<0.01) and cervical stromal involvement (OR 3.33, 95% CI 1.10-10.0, p=0.03) were the only factors that remained significant. Among patients with LVSI-positive disease, extensive LVSI was associated with increased risk of nodal involvement compared to focal LVSI (90% vs 29%, p=0.04).Presence and extent of LVSI, and cervical stromal invasion are important predictors for lymph node metastasis in uterine serous carcinoma.

    View details for PubMedID 28709703

    View details for PubMedCentralID PMC5605436

  • Extent of Lymphovascular Space Invasion Predicts for Nodal Involvement in Uterine Serous Carcinoma Qian, Y., Pollom, E., Nwachukwu, C. R., Seiger, K., Von Eyben, R., Folkins, A., Kidd, E. A. ELSEVIER SCIENCE INC. 2017: E307–E308
  • Interobserver Reproducibility Among Gynecologic Pathologists in Diagnosing Heterologous Osteosarcomatous Component in Gynecologic Tract Carcinosarcomas. International journal of gynecological pathology Sangoi, A. R., Kshirsagar, M., Roma, A. A., Horvai, A. E., Chivukula, M., Ellenson, L. H., Fadare, O., Folkins, A. K., Garg, K., Hanley, K., Longacre, T. A., Haas, J., McCluggage, W. G., McKenney, J. K., Nucci, M. R., Oliva, E., Park, K. J., Parkash, V., Quick, C. M., Rabban, J. T., Rutgers, J. K., Soslow, R., Vang, R., Yemelyanova, A., Zaloudek, C., Beck, A. H. 2017

    Abstract

    Distinguishing hyalinized stroma from osteoid production by a heterologous osteosarcomatous component can be challenging in gynecologic tract carcinosarcomas. As heterologous components in a carcinosarcoma may have prognostic and therapeutic implications, it is important that these are recognized. This study examines interobserver reproducibility among gynecologic pathologists in the diagnosis of osteosarcomatous components, and its correlation with expression of the novel antibody SATB2 (marker of osteoblastic differentiation) in these osteosarcomatous foci. Digital H&E images from 20 gynecologic tract carcinosarcomas were reviewed by 22 gynecologic pathologists with a request to determine the presence or absence of an osteosarcomatous component. The 20 preselected cases included areas of classic heterologous osteosarcoma (malignant cells producing osteoid; n=10) and osteosarcoma mimics (malignant cells with admixed nonosteoid matrix; n=10). Interobserver agreement was evaluated and SATB2 scored on all 20 cases and compared with the original diagnoses. Moderate agreement (Fleiss' κ=0.483) was identified for the 22 raters scoring the 20 cases with a median sensitivity of 7/10 and a median specificity of 9/10 for the diagnosis of osteosarcoma. SATB2 showed 100% sensitivity (10/10) and 60% (6/10) specificity in discriminating classic osteosarcoma from osteosarcoma mimics. Utilizing negative SATB2 as a surrogate marker to exclude osteosarcoma, 73% (16/22) of the reviewers would have downgraded at least 1 case to not contain an osteosarcomatous component (range, 1-6 cases, median 1 case). Gynecologic pathologists demonstrate only a moderate level of agreement in the diagnosis of heterologous osteosarcoma based on morphologic grounds. In such instances, a negative SATB2 staining may assist in increasing accuracy in the diagnosis of an osteosarcomatous component.

    View details for DOI 10.1097/PGP.0000000000000329

    View details for PubMedID 28221217

  • High-Grade Endometrial Carcinomas Show Frequent Aberrant Expression of Yolk Sac Markers Barry-Holson, K., Lin, C., Folkins, A. NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP. 2017: 274A–275A
  • Low-grade Serous Carcinoma of the Ovary: Clinicopathologic Analysis of 52 Invasive Cases and Identification of a Possible Noninvasive Intermediate Lesion. American journal of surgical pathology Ahn, G., Folkins, A. K., McKenney, J. K., Longacre, T. A. 2016; 40 (9): 1165-1176

    Abstract

    Low-grade serous carcinoma (LGSC) is an uncommon but distinct histologic subtype of ovarian carcinoma. Although the histologic features and natural history of LGSC have been described in the literature, there is no robust correlative study that has specifically addressed histologic features in correlation with clinical follow-up. To refine the criteria for invasion patterns of LGSC and determine additional clinically pertinent morphologic features of LGSC predisposing to a more aggressive clinical course, the clinicopathologic features of 52 LGSCs were evaluated and compared with those of a large series of serous borderline tumors (SBT), with and without invasive implants. To qualify for LGSC, the tumor needed to demonstrate destructive invasion, nuclear atypia that was mild to moderate at most (grade 1 or 2), and a mitotic index that did not exceed 12 mitoses per 10 high-power fields. On the basis of histologic evaluation, destructive invasion was classified into 7 primary architectural patterns: (1) micropapillary and/or complex papillary; (2) compact cell nests; (3) inverted macropapillae; (4) cribriform; (5) glandular and/or cystic; (6) solid sheets with slit-like spaces; and (7) single cells. Five-year overall survival and disease-free survival for LGSC were 82% (median, 72 mo) and 47% (median, 54 mo), respectively. All the patients with fatal outcome demonstrated tumors showing invasion with predominant patterns of cribriform glands, micropapillae and/or complex papillae, or compact cell nests. Notably, 2 of 9 patients with fatal outcome had only small foci of destructive invasion (2 and 3 mm, respectively) with compact cell nests and cribriform glands as the predominant patterns. There was no statistically significant association between pattern of invasion and disease-free survival. Classic stromal microinvasion, as defined by nondestructive stromal invasion <5 mm was identified in 52% of LGSC and was statistically more frequent in LGSC than in SBT (P<0.001). In 2 LGSCs, there were areas demonstrating an intraluminal solid proliferation of tumor cells with grade 1 or 2 nuclear atypia, which we hypothesize may represent a noninvasive form of LGSC, as similar non-invasive proliferations of morphologically low-grade serous carcinomatous cells were also identified in 8 SBTs, in either solid or compact glandular/papillary formations. One patient with this isolated noninvasive pattern in SBT developed LGSC 40 months after initial operation. LGSC was typically high stage (FIGO stages II to IV, 86%) and bilateral (68%), with multiple foci of invasion (82%). Bilaterality was significantly more common in high-stage disease (P=0.009). LGSC was associated with SBT in 84% of cases, most commonly usual type (27%), followed by cribriform (18%), micropapillary (11%), or mixed cribriform and micropapillary (7%) types; focal micropapillary and/or cribriform features were present in an additional 16%. The presence of intraluminal proliferations of cells resembling LGSC occurring in SBT should prompt additional tumor sampling and assiduous evaluation of implants (if present), as this appears to represent a form of intraepithelial carcinoma, which may be associated with invasion elsewhere.

    View details for DOI 10.1097/PAS.0000000000000693

    View details for PubMedID 27487741

  • GLOBAL RE-WIRING OF MOLECULAR NETWORKS IN PLACENTA ACCRETA Hannibal, R., Song, J., McGowan, K., Folkins, A., Heerema-McKenney, A., Lyell, D., Baker, J. W B SAUNDERS CO LTD. 2016: 92
  • Nomogram to Predict Risk of Lymph Node Metastases in Patients With Endometrioid Endometrial Cancer. International journal of gynecological pathology Pollom, E. L., Conklin, C. M., von Eyben, R., Folkins, A. K., Kidd, E. A. 2016; 35 (5): 395-401

    Abstract

    Pelvic lymphadenectomy in early-stage endometrial cancer is controversial, but the findings influence prognosis and treatment decisions. Noninvasive tools to identify women at high risk of lymph node metastasis can assist in determining the need for lymph node dissection and adjuvant treatment for patients who do not have a lymph node dissection performed initially. A retrospective review of surgical pathology was conducted for endometrioid endometrial adenocarcinoma at our institution. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis of selected pathologic features were performed. A nomogram to predict for lymph node metastasis was constructed. From August 1996 to October 2013, 296 patients underwent total abdominal or laparoscopic hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and selective lymphadenectomy for endometrioid endometrial adenocarcinoma. Median age at surgery was 62.7 yr (range, 24.9-93.6 yr). Median number of lymph nodes removed was 13 (range, 1-72). Of all patients, 38 (12.8%) had lymph node metastases. On univariate analysis, tumor size ≥4 cm, grade, lymphovascular space involvement, cervical stromal involvement, adnexal or serosal or parametrial involvement, positive pelvic washings, and deep (more than one half) myometrial invasion were all significantly associated with lymph node involvement. In a multivariate model, lymphovascular space involvement, deep myometrial invasion, and cervical stromal involvement remained significant predictors of nodal involvement, whereas tumor size of ≥4 cm was borderline significant. A lymph node predictive nomogram was constructed using these factors. Our nomogram can help estimate risk of nodal disease and aid in directing the need for additional surgery or adjuvant therapy in patients without lymph node surgery. Lymphovascular space involvement is the most important predictor for lymph node metastases, regardless of grade, and should be consistently assessed.

    View details for DOI 10.1097/PGP.0000000000000246

    View details for PubMedID 26598977

  • Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis as a paraneoplastic syndrome associated with ovarian dysgerminoma. Gynecologic oncology reports Nosratian-Baskovic, M., Tan, B., Folkins, A., Chisholm, K. M., Dorigo, O. 2016; 17: 38-41

    Abstract

    •Ovarian dysgerminoma associated with paraneoplastic fever, cytopenia and splenomegaly•Complete symptom resolution resulted from tumor resection and medical management•Non-hematolymphoid neoplasms are part of differential diagnosis in secondary HLH.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.gore.2016.05.013

    View details for PubMedID 27354999

    View details for PubMedCentralID PMC4909829

  • Serous Psammocarcinoma Revisited: A Single Institution Experience Barry-Holson, K., Folkins, A. K., Longacre, T. A. NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP. 2016: 275A
  • Validation of Digital Whole Slide Imaging System for Intraoperative Breast Sentinel Lymph Node Touch Prep Analysis: A Single Institution Experience Hoffmann, J., McGinnis, L., Mafnas, C. T., Ziskin, J., Folkins, A. K., Allison, K., West, R. B., Higgins, J. P., Kambham, N., Long, S. R., Tan, B. NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP. 2016: 496A
  • Placental and Clinical Characteristics of Term Small-for-Gestational-Age Neonates: A Case-Control Study PEDIATRIC AND DEVELOPMENTAL PATHOLOGY Chisholm, K. M., Folkins, A. K. 2016; 19 (1): 37-46

    Abstract

    Numerous conditions, including placental vascular compromise, can lead to small-for-gestational-age (SGA) infants. As few studies have investigated primarily term placentas from SGA infants, we compared placentas from 67 SGA infants to placentas from 67 infants with appropriate weights for gestational age (AGA) in this population, matched for gestational age and gender. Placental histology was reviewed and electronic records were queried for maternal and fetal birth data, infant morbidities, and infant follow-up weights. Comparison of these 2 cohorts showed that placentas from SGA infants were more likely to have smaller weights and thinner umbilical cords than those from AGA infants. SGA placentas had a significant increase in another uteroplacental malperfusion feature: single and multiple infarctions. Rates of preeclampsia, infant cardiac anomalies, and infant genetic abnormalities were not statistically different between groups. Fetal and maternal inflammatory responses, nongestational diabetes, and gestational hypertension were more common in the controls, but these are common indications for placental examination. No statistical differences were present for decidual vasculopathy, chronic villitis, intervillous thrombi, or meconium. More SGA neonates had hypoglycemia compared to their AGA counterparts. SGA infants tended to have decreased weights up to 7 months of age; however, the low number of infants with follow-up limited the statistical significance. This study confirms that small placental size and select features of uteroplacental malperfusion are more common in SGA versus AGA term placentas. The lack of other significant differences may be due to the inclusion of only term infants, with more severe pathology leading to preterm delivery.

    View details for DOI 10.2350/15-04-1621-OA.1

    View details for Web of Science ID 000373286000005

  • Prenatal hydrops foetalis associated with infantile free sialic acid storage disease. Journal of obstetrics and gynaecology Chock, V. Y., MILAN, K. E., Folkins, A. K., Hazard, F. K., Bernstein, J. A., Hintz, S. R. 2015; 35 (8): 850-852

    View details for DOI 10.3109/01443615.2015.1017558

    View details for PubMedID 26076308

  • A Single-Institution Study of Pathologic Predictors of Lymph Node Metastasis in Uterine Serous Carcinoma Pollom, E., Seiger, K., von Eyben, R., Folkins, A., Kidd, E. A. ELSEVIER SCIENCE INC. 2015: E270
  • Variable color Doppler sonographic appearances of retained products of conception: radiologic-pathologic correlation. Abdominal imaging Kamaya, A., Krishnarao, P. M., Folkins, A. K., Jeffrey, R. B., Desser, T. S., Maturen, K. E. 2015; 40 (7): 2683-2689

    Abstract

    Retained products of conception (RPOC) displays variable vascularity, ranging from avascular to markedly vascular on color Doppler sonography. We hypothesize that variability in sonographic vascularity may be due to histopathologic variation in the placental tissue.After institutional review board approval, sonographic images and pathologic specimens were retrospectively reviewed in 26 patients with pathologically proven RPOC. Ultrasound (US) images were scored 0-3 for the degree of vascularity by two radiologists blinded to the diagnosis. Corresponding pathologic specimens were evaluated for vascularization of chorionic villi, degree of inflammation, morphology of maternal arteries, chorionic villous preservation, and percentage of clot, membranes, chorionic villi, and decidua/myometrium. Statistical analysis, including multiple linear regression, was performed.RPOC with histologically avascular chorionic villi or those with markedly reduced vascularization had significantly lower US vascularity scores (p = 0.030) than those with chorionic villi showing normal or decreased vascularization. Sonographically avascular RPOC had a significantly lower percentage villi (p = 0.028) and higher percentage of decidua (p = 0.004) than specimens where US showed any Doppler vascularity. Histologic vascularity of villi (p = 0.049) and non-observation of maternal arteries (p = 0.001) were significant predictors of US vascularity scores in multivariate linear regression analysis, while inflammation of villi (p = 0.053) was a marginally significant predictor.Histologic vascularity of villi appears to contribute to the observed variation in sonographic vascularity. This finding may underlie known differences in clinical outcomes between sonographic vascularity groups.

    View details for DOI 10.1007/s00261-015-0424-x

    View details for PubMedID 25862548

  • Napsin A Has Utility in the Diagnosis of Clear Cell Carcinoma in the Ovary But May Be Less Valuable in the Endometrium O'Keefe, M., Longacre, T., Kong, C., Folkins, A. NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP. 2015: 300A
  • Perinatal outcomes in infants with congenitally and postnatally acquired cytomegalovirus infection Aziz, N., McDowell, M., Guo, F., Lee, H., Srinivas, N., Gutierrez, K., Benitz, W., Dekker, C., Folkins, A., Pinsky, B., Norton, M. MOSBY-ELSEVIER. 2015: S336
  • Cost and turn-around time display decreases inpatient ordering of reference laboratory tests: a time series. BMJ quality & safety Fang, D. Z., Sran, G., Gessner, D., Loftus, P. D., Folkins, A., Christopher, J. Y., Shieh, L. 2014; 23 (12): 994-1000

    Abstract

    Reference tests, also known as send-out tests, are commonly ordered laboratory tests with variable costs and turn-around times. We aim to examine the effects of displaying reference laboratory costs and turn-around times during computerised physician order entry (CPOE) on inpatient physician ordering behaviour.We conducted a prospective observational study at a tertiary care hospital involving inpatient attending physicians and residents. Physician ordering behaviour was prospectively observed between September 2010 and December 2012. An intervention was implemented to display cost and turn-around time for reference tests within our CPOE. We examined changes in the mean number of monthly physician orders per inpatient day at risk, the mean cost per order, and the average turn-around time per order.After our intervention, the mean number of monthly physician orders per inpatient day at risk decreased by 26% (51 vs 38, p<0.0001) with a decrease in mean cost per order (US$146.50 vs US$134.20, p=0.0004). There were no significant differences in mean turn-around time per order (5.6 vs 5.7 days, p=0.057). A stratified analysis of both cost and turn-around time showed significant decreases in physician ordering. The intervention projected a mean annual savings of US$330 439. Reference test cost and turn-around time variables were poorly correlated (r=0.2). These findings occurred in the setting of non-significant change to physician ordering in a control cohort of non-reference laboratory tests.Display of reference laboratory cost and turn-around time data during real-time ordering may result in significant decreases in ordering of reference laboratory tests with subsequent cost savings.

    View details for DOI 10.1136/bmjqs-2014-003053

    View details for PubMedID 25165402

  • Risk of Secondary Malignancy (Including Breast) in Patients With Mismatch-repair Protein Deficiency AMERICAN JOURNAL OF SURGICAL PATHOLOGY Clay, M. R., Allison, K. H., Folkins, A. K., Longacre, T. A. 2014; 38 (11): 1494-1500

    Abstract

    Lynch syndrome (LS) is an autosomal dominant inherited disease that is associated with an increased risk for colorectal and endometrial cancer due to germline mutations in mismatch-repair (MMR) genes. Whereas primary tumors in this syndrome are widely recognized, the relative risk(s) of secondary malignancies, particularly breast cancer, in LS patients are still poorly characterized. To provide an improved assessment of these risks, MMR status was evaluated in secondary tumors from a series of patients with index tumors of known MMR status (both proficient and deficient). A total of 1252 tumors (index tumors) and all secondary malignancies were tested for MMR by immunohistochemistry (MSH2, MSH6, MLH1, PMS2) between 1992 and 2013. Tumors with MLH1/PMS2 deficiency were tested for hypermethylation or BRAF mutation, when appropriate. Of the 1252 index tumors, 162 were MMR deficient (dMMR), and, of that subset, 32 secondary tumors were identified (19.7%). In contrast, 80 secondary tumors were identified in the proficient (intact) group (7.3%). Although secondary malignancies were more common in the dMMR group (P=0.0001), there was no trend in tumor type. Specifically, breast cancer was not overly represented in the dMMR group. When secondary tumors had dMMR, they were more likely to have deficiency in MSH2/MSH6 than in MLH1/PMS2 (P=0.01). Of the patients with tumors exhibiting dMMR, women were more likely to have a dMMR secondary tumor in this series (P=0.0001); however, breast cancer was not overly represented, and our study provides no evidence that it is more frequent in LS. MSH2/MSH6 deficiency is more commonly associated with a secondary tumor compared with MLH1/PMS2 deficiency, when methylation/BRAF status is taken into account.

    View details for Web of Science ID 000343880200005

  • Lymphovascular Space Invasion Is an Important Prognostic Factor for Lymph Node Metastases in Endometrioid Endometrial Cancer Pollom, E., Conklin, C., Von Eyben, R., Folkins, A., Kidd, E. ELSEVIER SCIENCE INC. 2014: S186–S187
  • GLOBAL REWIRING OF MOLECULAR NETWORKS IN PLACENTA PREVIA AND ACCRETE Hannibal, R., Song, J., Folkins, A., Lyell, D., Heerema-McKenney, A., Baker, J. W B SAUNDERS CO LTD. 2014: A47
  • Evaluation of serial urine viral cultures for the diagnosis of cytomegalovirus infection in neonates and infants. Pediatric and developmental pathology Chisholm, K. M., Aziz, N., McDowell, M., Guo, F. P., Srinivas, N., Benitz, W. E., Norton, M. E., Gutierrez, K., Folkins, A. K., Pinsky, B. A. 2014; 17 (3): 176-180

    Abstract

    Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common cause of congenital infection worldwide. Urine viral culture is the standard for CMV diagnosis in neonates and infants. The objectives of this study were to compare the performance of serial paired rapid shell vial cultures (SVC) and routine viral cultures (RVC), and to determine the optimal number of cultures needed to detect positive cases. From 2001 to 2011, all paired CMV SVC and RVC performed on neonates and infants less than 100 days of age were recorded. Testing episodes were defined as sets of cultures performed within 7 days of one another. A total of 1264 neonates and infants underwent 1478 testing episodes; 68 (5.4%) had at least one episode with a positive CMV culture. In episodes where CMV was detected before day 21 of life, the first specimen was positive in 100% (16/16) of cases. When testing occurred after 21 days of life, the first specimen was positive in 82.7% (43/52) of cases, requiring three cultures to reach 100% detection. The SVC was more prone to assay failure than RVC. Overall, when RVC was compared to SVC, there was 86.0% positive agreement and 99.9% negative agreement. In conclusion, three serial urine samples are necessary for detection of CMV in specimens collected between day of life 22 and 99, while one sample may be sufficient on or before day of life 21. Though SVC was more sensitive than RVC, the risk of SVC failure supports the use of multimodality testing to optimize detection.

    View details for DOI 10.2350/14-01-1432-OA.1

    View details for PubMedID 24617645

  • Risk of Secondary Malignancy (Including Breast) in Patients with Mismatch Repair Deficiency Clay, M. R., Allison, K. H., Folkins, A. K., Longacre, T. A. NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP. 2014: 279A
  • Heritable Ovarian Cancer PATHOBIOLOGY OF HUMAN DISEASE: A DYNAMIC ENCYCLOPEDIA OF DISEASE MECHANISMS Folkins, A., Longacre, T., McManus, L. M., Mitchell, R. N. 2014: 1342-1355
  • Diagnosis of Congenital CMV Using PCR Performed on Formalin-fixed, Paraffin-embedded Placental Tissue. American journal of surgical pathology Folkins, A. K., Chisholm, K. M., Guo, F. P., McDowell, M., Aziz, N., Pinsky, B. A. 2013; 37 (9): 1413-1420

    Abstract

    Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection may be asymptomatic until hearing loss manifests in childhood. Because diagnosis of congenital CMV requires viral detection within an infant's first 21 days of life, CMV polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) placental tissue provides a unique opportunity to identify congenital exposure in cases in which CMV is not initially suspected. To assess the utility of this approach, a database of all CMV cultures performed from July 2001 to March 2012 was used to identify infants in whom urine CMV cultures were obtained within 100 days of life. Corresponding placentas were then identified through the pathology database. The database was also queried to identify placentas in which CMV immunohistochemical analysis had been performed. CMV PCR was positive in FFPE placental tissue from 100% (5/5) of cases in which the first urine culture collected before the first 21 days of life was positive. Placentas from 20 infants with negative CMV urine cultures were CMV PCR negative. Interestingly, CMV was detected in 12.5% (1/8) of placentas in which the first CMV-positive urine culture was collected after the first 21 days of life. Furthermore, 4% (1/26) of placentas with chronic villitis by histology (no urine cultures available) were CMV PCR positive. In the 10 CMV PCR-positive placentas, including 3 cases of fetal demise, CMV immunohistochemistry was positive in just 6 cases. These results suggest that the confirmation of CMV exposure in utero by PCR of FFPE placental tissue provides a useful adjunct to histologic evaluation and may identify infants requiring close clinical follow-up.

    View details for DOI 10.1097/PAS.0b013e318290f171

    View details for PubMedID 23797721

  • Endometrial Clear Cell Carcinoma: Incidence and Clinicopathologic Features Lewis, G. H., Folkins, A. K., Kong, C. S., Kempson, R. L., Longacre, T. A. NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP. 2013: 286A
  • Histopathologic Changes in Progesterone-Treated Endometrial Hyperplasia and Carcinoma Pan, L. Y., Folkins, A. K., Longacre, T. A. NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP. 2013: 291A
  • Hereditary gynaecological malignancies: advances in screening and treatment HISTOPATHOLOGY Folkins, A. K., Longacre, T. A. 2013; 62 (1): 2-30

    Abstract

    In the last two decades there have been significant advances in our understanding of female genital tract tumours. The discovery of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes in ovarian cancer and the mismatch repair genes in endometrial carcinoma has revolutionized our approach to the diagnosis and screening of women for ovarian and uterine cancers. This review discusses the pathogenesis of these two hereditary syndromes in depth and explains how the molecular genetics is tailoring the manner in which these diseases are diagnosed and potentially treated. Other, less common hereditary conditions associated with gynaecological tract manifestations, such as Cowden syndrome, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, Gorlin syndrome and hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell carcinoma, are also summarized briefly.

    View details for DOI 10.1111/his.12028

    View details for Web of Science ID 000312533600002

    View details for PubMedID 23240667

  • Diagnosis of perinatal cytomegalovirus infection via serial daily rapid urine viral culture Aziz, N., Guo, F., McDowell, M., Folkins, A., Norton, M., Benitz, W., Pinsky, B. MOSBY-ELSEVIER. 2012: S270
  • The impact of tissue block sampling on the detection of p53 signatures in fallopian tubes from women with BRCA 1 or 2 mutations (BRCA+) and controls MODERN PATHOLOGY Mehra, K. K., Chang, M. C., Folkins, A. K., Raho, C. J., Lima, J. F., Yuan, L., Mehrad, M., Tworoger, S. S., Crum, C. P., Saleemuddin, A. 2011; 24 (1): 152-156

    Abstract

    The tubal p53 signature is a putative precursor to pelvic serous carcinoma, but its frequencies in women with inherited mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes (BRCA+) and controls has been controversial. An initial section and two levels (100-200 μm) from every block in BRCA+ (24) and control tubes (40) were stained for p53. The frequency of p53 signatures was computed between the populations and across the three levels from each block, and analyzed by Fisher exact test. A total of 17 (71%) BRCA+ and 20 (50%) control tubes were p53 signature positive (P=0.12); 21 and 16% of all tissue blocks sectioned harbored signatures (P=0.29), and 76 and 67% were found in the fimbria. In 49 and 32% of p53 signature positive cases in the two groups, the p53 signatures were not discovered until the second or third round of sectioning. In all, 38 and 40% of BRCA+ and control subjects harbored p53 signatures in more than one focus in a single block. In one case (BRCA+), a highly atypical proliferation was identified in one serial section. The p53 signatures are more common than previously reported and the frequency of detection increases as a function of sectioning through the tissue block, both in absolute frequency and in numbers of p53 signatures detected in a given block. There is a trend for a higher absolute frequency of p53 signatures (71 vs 50%; P=0.12) in BRCA+ subjects, but this is not reflected in a greater average number of p53 signatures or positive blocks per case. This study underscores the importance of systematic immunohistochemical examination of fallopian tubes when conducting epidemiological studies that compare the frequency of p53 signatures in different populations. Attention to this detail is critical when exploring risk factors germane to early serous carcinogenesis.

    View details for DOI 10.1038/modpathol.2010.171

    View details for Web of Science ID 000285868900017

    View details for PubMedID 20871594

  • Evaluation of vascular space involvement in endometrial adenocarcinomas: laparoscopic vs abdominal hysterectomies 98th Annual Meeting of the United-States-and-Canadian-Academy-of-Pathology Folkins, A. K., Nevadunsky, N. S., Saleemuddin, A., Jarboe, E. A., Muto, M. G., Feltmate, C. M., Crum, C. P., Hirsch, M. S. NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP. 2010: 1073–79

    Abstract

    Recent reports have described 'vascular pseudoinvasion' in total laparoscopic hysterectomies with endometrial carcinoma. To better understand this phenomenon, we compared pathologic findings in these laparoscopic and total abdominal hysterectomies performed for uterine endometrioid adenocarcinoma. Reports from 58 robotically assisted laparoscopic and 39 abdominal hysterectomies with grade 1 or 2 endometrioid endometrial adenocarcinomas were reviewed for stage, depth of invasion, vascular space involvement, uterine weight, and lymph node metastases. In addition, attention was given to possible procedural artifacts, including vertical endomyometrial clefts, and inflammatory debris, benign endometrial glands, and disaggregated tumor cells in vascular spaces. All foci with vascular involvement were reviewed by three gynecologic pathologists. Nine of the 58 (16%) laparoscopic and 3 of the 39 (7%) abdominal hysterectomies contained vascular space involvement based on the original pathology reports (P-value=0.0833). No one histologic feature consistently distinguished laparoscopic from abdominal cases on blind review of the available cases. Disaggregated intravascular tumor cells were significantly associated with reported vascular involvement in both procedures (P-values<0.001 and 0.016), most of which were corroborated on review. Laparoscopic procedures tend to have a higher index of vascular involvement, which is associated with lower stage, fewer lymph node metastases, and less myometrial invasion; however, pathologists cannot consistently determine the procedure on histologic findings alone. Moreover, there is significant inter-observer variability in distinguishing true from artifactual vascular space involvement, even among pathologists at the same institution. The clinical significance of apparent true vascular space involvement seen adjacent to artifacts is unclear, as is the impact of laparoscopic hysterectomy on recurrence risk.

    View details for DOI 10.1038/modpathol.2010.91

    View details for Web of Science ID 000280563900005

    View details for PubMedID 20473276

  • Utility of Chromosomal Chromogenic in Situ Hybridization as an Alternative to Flow Cytometry and Cytogenetics in the Diagnosis of Early Partial Hydatidiform Moles A Validation Study 15th World Congress on Gestational Trophoblastic Diseases Folkins, A., Cruz, L., Goldstein, D. P., Berkowitz, R. S., Crum, C., Kindelberger, D. SCI PRINTERS & PUBL INC. 2010: 275–78

    Abstract

    The introduction of p57 immunohistochemistry has aided the distinction between early complete moles (CMs) and hydropic abortus (HA), but no single technique has emerged for the distinction between early partial moles (PMs) and HA. Flow cytometry and cytogenetics have been used, but these require specialized equipment/expertise. The goal of this study is validation of chromosome in situ hybridization (CrISH), focusing on comparing the results to those obtained by cytogenetic methods.Archival paraffin blocks from molar and nonmolar gestations were retrieved. Sections were labeled with a chromosome 10 probe. Hybridization and visualization were performed using standard protocols. One hundred nuclei per sample were scored for the number ofsignals.Of 50 hydatidiform moles, 22 were PMs and 28 were CMs. The CMs showed 2 signals in 25 cases and 4 signals in 3 cases. The PMs showed 3 signals in 21 cases and 2 signals in 1 case. For the HAs there were 2 signals in 24 cases, and 1 case had 3 signals. Concordance between CrISH and flow cytometry studies for molar gestations was 95%.CrlSH is a highly effective adjunct in differentiating between PM and CM and between PM and HA. CrlSH is a simple, cost effective adjunct in evaluating molar gestations.

    View details for Web of Science ID 000280968800002

    View details for PubMedID 20795338

  • BRCA 1 or 2-Associated (BRCA plus ) Pelvic Serous Carcinomas Arise from Both the Ovaries and Fallopian Tubes: The Contrast between Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Women Schulte, S., Roh, M., Folkins, A. K., Jarboe, E. A., Garber, J., Hecht, J., Crum, C. P. NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP. 2010: 262A
  • Tubal and ovarian pathways to pelvic epithelial cancer: a pathological perspective HISTOPATHOLOGY Jarboe, E. A., Folkins, A. K., Drapkin, R., Ince, T. A., Agoston, E. S., Crum, C. P. 2009; 55 (5): 619-619
  • Epidemiologic correlates of ovarian cortical inclusion cysts (CICs) support a dual precursor pathway to pelvic epithelial cancer GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY Folkins, A. K., Saleemuddin, A., Garrett, L. A., Garber, J. E., Muto, M. G., Tworoger, S. S., Crum, C. P. 2009; 115 (1): 108-111

    Abstract

    Many ovarian carcinomas are presumed to arise within ovarian cortical inclusion cysts (CICs). This study examined the frequency of ovarian CICs in relation to epidemiologic risk factors in women with BRCA1 and BRCA2 (BRCA+) mutations.BRCA+ women who underwent risk-reducing bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy were studied (n=74). Fifteen demographic variables (e.g., age at time of surgery, age at first birth, age at menopause, body mass index (BMI), gravidity) from a review of the medical records and three pathologic variables (cystic and atretic follicles, corpora lutea) were recorded. Statistical associations were made using T-test or Chi Square analysis and logistic regression analysis for p-trend.Women whose ovaries contained 7 for more CICs were older at first birth (p=0.034), surgery (p=0.059), menopause (p=0.046) and had a higher BMI (p=0.034) than those with <7 CICs. Regression analysis revealed a significant association between CICs and increasing BMI (p=0.01).CICs correlate with greater body mass index, similar to low-grade serous and endometrioid tumors and in contrast to high-grade serous carcinoma and its putative precursor in the fallopian tube. A model is presented for ovarian and tubal pathways to pelvic cancer that are linked to different microscopic precursors with distinct epidemiologic correlates.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.ygyno.2009.06.032

    View details for Web of Science ID 000269965700021

    View details for PubMedID 19615727

  • Intercepting early pelvic serous carcinoma by routine pathological examination of the fimbria MODERN PATHOLOGY Semmel, D. R., Folkins, A. K., Hirsch, M. S., Nucci, M. R., Crum, C. P. 2009; 22 (8): 985-988

    Abstract

    Recent evidence indicates that the distal fallopian tube is the principal site of early serous cancer in women with a hereditary risk for ovarian cancer. Moreover, the fimbria is involved by early cancer in a significant minority of pelvic serous carcinomas, irrespective of whether the patient has a hereditary BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation. In addition, the distal tube has been identified occasionally as a site of concurrent endometrioid tumors in women with endometrial carcinoma. Although the risk of sporadic fimbrial tumors in otherwise healthy women without genetic risk is unknown, routine histological examination of the fimbria provides the opportunity to determine the risk of such an event. To illustrate this point, a case of a woman who underwent surgery for an ovarian fibroma is presented. The distal tube was submitted, and found to harbor a focus of serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma (STIC) with a 2-mm invasive tumor. Incidentally discovered carcinomas underscore the potential risk, albeit low, of concurrent unsuspected malignancy in the distal fallopian tube and emphasize the importance of routine pathological examination of the fimbria in all salpingectomies. The rationale for this strategy, and its potential effect on early detection and in uncovering persons or families potentially at risk for ovarian cancer, is discussed.

    View details for DOI 10.1038/modpathol.2009.64

    View details for Web of Science ID 000268540400001

    View details for PubMedID 19407856

  • Precursors to pelvic serous carcinoma and their clinical implications GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY Folkins, A. K., Jarboe, E. A., Roh, M. H., Crum, C. P. 2009; 113 (3): 391-396

    Abstract

    Pelvic serous carcinoma has traditionally been viewed as a rapidly evolving malignancy, due principally to its late stage at diagnosis and tendency for poor outcome, both in the endometrium and the upper genital tract. Recently, studies of women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations (BRCA+) undergoing risk reducing salpingo-oophorectomy have highlighted the distal fallopian tube as a common (80%) site of tumor origin and additional studies of unselected women with pelvic serous carcinoma have demonstrated that serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma may precede a significant percentage of these tumors. This review examines the serous carcinogenic spectrum in the fallopian tube, highlighting recent evidence that these tumors may follow a defined precursor that has been present for a prolonged interval. The data supporting a candidate precursor, the implications of these findings for early detection and prevention of pelvic serous carcinoma and the caveats, are discussed.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.ygyno.2009.01.013

    View details for Web of Science ID 000266320300019

    View details for PubMedID 19237187

  • Risk factors for a serous cancer precursor ("p53 signature") in women with inherited BRCA mutations GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY Saleemuddin, A., Folkins, A. K., Garrett, L., Garber, J., Muto, M. G., Crum, C. P., Tworoger, S. 2008; 111 (2): 226-232

    Abstract

    Pelvic (ovarian) serous carcinomas frequently contain p53 mutations. Recently, a candidate serous cancer precursor (the p53 signature) with p53 mutations and other features in common with serous cancer has been discovered in distal fallopian tube mucosa. This study examined the relationship of putative ovarian cancer risk factors with the presence of p53 signatures in women with BRCA mutations (BRCA+).Fallopian tubes from 75 BRCA+ women were immunostained for p53 signatures and correlated with age at first childbirth, parity, oral contraceptive use, body mass index (BMI), and BRCA subtype (1 or 2). Statistical analysis was performed with the T-test or Chi-square analysis and logistic regression adjusting for age and parity.Thirty-eight percent of the tubes contained p53 signatures, which were significantly associated with older age at first childbirth (mean 30.8 vs. 28.4 years; p=0.04) and lower parity (mean 1.4 vs. 2.2; p=0.01) in univariate analyses. The unadjusted odds ratios were 3.8 (p-trend=0.04) for first childbirth>/=30 years versus <30 and 0.2 (p-trend=0.01) for parity >/= 3 versus nulliparous women. After adjusting for age and parity, the trend for age at first childbirth became non-significant (adjusted odds ratio 3.5; p-trend=0.15), while that for parity remained significant (adjusted odds ratio 0.2; p-trend 0.02).The p53 signature is significantly associated with lower parity and possibly higher age at first childbirth, further linking this entity to serous cancer via risk factors associated with ovulation. The p53 signature merits consideration as a surrogate marker for serous cancer risk.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.ygyno.2008.07.018

    View details for Web of Science ID 000260987700012

    View details for PubMedID 18718648

  • Tubal and ovarian pathways to pelvic epithelial cancer: a pathological perspective HISTOPATHOLOGY Jarboe, E. A., Folkins, A. K., Drapkin, R., Ince, T. A., Agoston, E. S., Crum, C. P. 2008; 53 (2): 127-138

    Abstract

    Prolongation of ovarian epithelial cancer survival depends on early detection or improved responses to chemotherapy. Gains in either have been modest at best. Understanding the diverse pathogenesis of this disease is critical to early intervention or prevention. This review addresses six important variables, including (i) cell of origin, (ii) site of origin, (iii) initial genotoxic events, (iv) risks imposed by hereditary and other promoting conditions, (v) subsequent factors that promote different patterns of metastatic spread, and (vi) prospects for intervention. This review proposes two distinct pathways to pelvic epithelial cancer. The first initiates in ovarian surface epithelium (OSE), Mullerian inclusions or endometriosis in the ovary. The second arises from the endosalpinx and encompasses a subset of serous carcinomas. The serous carcinogenic sequence in the distal fallopian tube is described and contrasted with lower grade serous tumors based on tumour location, earliest genetic change and ability (or lack of) to undergo terminal (ciliated) differentiation. Ultimately, a clear understanding of tumour origin and the mechanism(s) leading to the earliest phases of the serous and endometrioid carcinogenic sequences may hold the greatest promise for designing prevention strategies and/or developing new therapies.

    View details for DOI 10.1111/j.1365-2559.2007.02938.x

    View details for Web of Science ID 000258504400001

    View details for PubMedID 18298580

  • Adenofibroma of the fimbria: A common entity that is indistinguishable from ovarian adenofibroma INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GYNECOLOGICAL PATHOLOGY Bossuyt, V., Medeiros, F., Drapkin, R., Folkins, A. K., Crum, C. P., Nucci, M. R. 2008; 27 (3): 390-397

    Abstract

    Fallopian tube adenofibromas (FTAs) are considered rare, but their frequency has never been determined by systematic sampling of this organ. To determine the morphological spectrum and prevalence of FTAs, we analyzed a consecutive series of fallopian tubes removed during surgery for a wide range of disorders. Fallopian tubes were completely evaluated with attention to the fimbriated end (sectioning and extensively examining the fimbria [SEE-FIM] protocol). Discrete localized subepithelial stromal proliferations with alterations in plical architecture and a glandular component were classified as FTAs. Fallopian tube adenofibromas less than 3 mm were classified as incipient adenofibromas (iFTAs). The association of FTAs with ovarian adenofibromas (OAs) was also evaluated. Twenty-six of 28 (30% overall frequency) consecutively examined bilateral fallopian tube specimens contained adenofibromas (FTAs and iFTAs); all confined to the fimbria. Twelve FTAs were identified (11 cases; 14% frequency), 3 of which exceeded 1 cm. Twenty-nine iFTAs were identified (18 cases; 20% frequency); iFTAs were multiple in 10, bilateral in 4, and associated with an FTA in 3 cases. Three (25%) of 12 OAs with completely examined fallopian tubes were associated with FTAs. Stroma in both iFTAs and FTAs was CD10 and inhibin positive, and the epithelial phenotype of both iFTAs and OAs was identical, composed of secretory and ciliated cells. The fimbrial endosalpinx and the ovarian cortex share the potential for similar specialized stromal expansions with the formation of biphasic tumors with endosalpingeal epithelial differentiation. Similar to reports of serous and endometrioid tumors in both the distal fallopian tube and ovary, FTAs highlight a shared epithelial-mesenchymal differentiation pathway in the fimbrial-ovarian region. Whether the shared tumor phenotype in these 2 organs is coincidental or interdependent bears further investigation.

    View details for DOI 10.1097/PGP.0b013e3181639a82

    View details for Web of Science ID 000257277900010

    View details for PubMedID 18580316

  • A candidate precursor to pelvic serous cancer (p53 signature) and its prevalence in ovaries and fallopian tubes from women with BRCA mutations GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY Folkins, A. K., Jarboe, E. A., Saleemuddin, A., Lee, Y., Callahan, M. J., Drapkin, R., Garber, J. E., Muto, M. G., Tworoger, S., Crum, C. P. 2008; 109 (2): 168-173

    Abstract

    Early serous carcinomas predominate in the fimbria of women with BRCA mutations (BRCA+). An entity in non-neoplastic mucosa sharing several properties of early serous carcinomas--the "p53 signature"--has been described in the distal fallopian tube and proposed as a precursor to serous carcinomas. This study compared the prevalence of p53 signatures in ovarian cortical inclusion cysts (CICs) and fallopian tubes from BRCA+ women and explored their relationship.All tissues from 75 completely excised ovaries and tubes obtained during prophylactic surgery were studied by conventional microscopy, immunostaining for p53, and in selected cases, gamma-H2AX (DNA damage). P53 signatures were defined as 12 or more consecutive p53-positive secretory cell nuclei. Their prevalence in fallopian tubes and CICs was recorded, compared to an existing database of consecutive women without a suspicion of BRCA+ or ovarian cancer, and correlated with the number of CICs.Tubal p53 signatures were detected in 29 of 75 cases (38%); 20 of 30 (66%) signatures examined were gamma-H2AX-positive. One ovary contained a small gamma-H2AX negative p53 signature on the ovarian surface; no p53 signatures were identified in CICs. The prevalence of BRCA+ p53 tubal signatures was similar to that of women with unknown BRCA status (38 v 33%). Presence of p53 signatures did not correlate with number of CICs.p53 signatures were common in the fallopian tubes of BRCA+ women, were not identified in CICs, and did not correlate with the latter. The tubal p53 signature merits serious consideration as an important early event in serous carcinogenesis in BRCA+ women.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.ygyno.2008.01.012

    View details for Web of Science ID 000256205600004

    View details for PubMedID 18342932

  • Serous carcinogenesis in the fallopian tube: A descriptive classification INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GYNECOLOGICAL PATHOLOGY Jarboe, E., Folkins, A., Nucci, M. R., Kindelberger, D., Drapkin, R., Miron, A., Lee, Y., Crum, C. P. 2008; 27 (1): 1-9

    Abstract

    The fimbria is the most common site of early serous cancer (tubal intraepithelial carcinoma or STIC) in women with BRCA mutations (BRCA+). A candidate serous cancer precursor--the p53 signature--has been found in nonneoplastic secretory cells of the fimbria, suggesting serous carcinogenesis in the tube (SCAT). This study surveyed fallopian tubes from 3 populations to characterize the morphological and immunohistochemical correlates of SCAT. The SCAT sequence was defined by strong nuclear p53 staining and DNA damage (gamma-H2AX+) in secretory cells and subdivided morphologically by (1) degree of nuclear stratification, (2) proliferative index, and (3) degree of disorganized growth. Fallopian tubes from women without a current ovarian cancer, women with BRCA mutations, and women with a coexisting pelvic serous cancer were completely examined. p53 signatures exhibited cuboidal to pseudostratified, polarized p53+ epithelial segments with variable nuclear enlargement and a MiB1 index of 0% to 30%. Tubal intraepithelial carcinomas contained from single (uncommon) to multilayered, poorly polarized, uninterrupted neoplastic cell populations that completely displaced the normal mucosa; MiB1 index exceeded 45% and was usually more than 70%. An uncommon third category, p53-positive foci with features intermediate between p53 signatures and STICs, exhibited preserved epithelial polarity, pseudostratification, incomplete replacement of the adjacent normal ciliated cells, and a MiB1 index between 40% and 75%. Transitions from 1 category to another were documented. Combined with recent reports associating STICs with pelvic serous cancer, this continuum of epithelial change validates the SCAT sequence and the fimbrial secretory cell as the site of origin for many serous carcinomas.

    View details for DOI 10.1097/pgp.0b013e31814b191f

    View details for Web of Science ID 000252124400001

    View details for PubMedID 18156967

  • Improving the Deaf community's access to prostate and testicular cancer information: a survey study BMC PUBLIC HEALTH Folkins, A., Sadler, G. R., Ko, C., Branz, P., Marsh, S., Bovee, M. 2005; 5

    Abstract

    Members of the Deaf community face communication barriers to accessing health information. To resolve these inequalities, educational programs must be designed in the appropriate format and language to meet their needs.Deaf men (102) were surveyed before, immediately following, and two months after viewing a 52-minute prostate and testicular cancer video in American Sign Language (ASL) with open text captioning and voice overlay. To provide the Deaf community with information equivalent to that available to the hearing community, the video addressed two cancer topics in depth. While the inclusion of two cancer topics lengthened the video, it was anticipated to reduce redundancy and encourage men of diverse ages to learn in a supportive, culturally aligned environment while also covering more topics within the partnership's limited budget. Survey data were analyzed to evaluate the video's impact on viewers' pre- and post-intervention understanding of prostate and testicular cancers, as well as respondents' satisfaction with the video, exposure to and use of early detection services, and sources of cancer information.From baseline to immediately post-intervention, participants' overall knowledge increased significantly, and this gain was maintained at the two-month follow-up. Men of diverse ages were successfully recruited, and this worked effectively as a support group. However, combining two complex cancer topics, in depth, in one video appeared to make it more difficult for participants to retain as many relevant details specific to each cancer. Participants related that there was so much information that they would need to watch the video more than once to understand each topic fully. When surveyed about their best sources of health information, participants ranked doctors first and showed a preference for active rather than passive methods of learning.After viewing this ASL video, participants showed significant increases in cancer understanding, and the effects remained significant at the two-month follow-up. However, to achieve maximum learning in a single training session, only one topic should be covered in future educational videos.

    View details for DOI 10.1186/1471-2458-5-63

    View details for Web of Science ID 000230793200001

    View details for PubMedID 15938751

  • Does HER2/neu expression provide prognostic information in patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma? CANCER Gandour-Edwards, R., Lara, P. N., Folkins, A. K., LaSalle, J. M., Beckett, L., Li, Y. J., Meyers, F. J., DeVere-White, R. 2002; 95 (5): 1009-1015

    Abstract

    Muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma of the bladder is a highly lethal malignancy, particularly in the setting of locally advanced or metastatic disease. Prior reports of HER2/neu (c-erbB-2 or HER2) expression in bladder carcinoma have been mixed; therefore, its value in predicting metastasis or response to therapy has not been established in this tumor type. Thus, the authors evaluated a possible correlation between HER2 expression in patients with high-grade, muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma of the bladder and outcome in patients who received paclitaxel-based chemotherapy.Archival tumor tissues from patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma who were enrolled on two clinical trials of paclitaxel-based chemotherapy regimens were analyzed for HER2/neu expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC). The authors correlated HER2 expression by IHC with clinical outcomes, such as response rate, progression free survival, and overall survival, using univariate analysis.Thirty-nine tumor specimens were assessed for HER2 expression, most of which (70%) were collected from patients with metastatic disease. All were high-grade urothelial carcinomas (transitional cell carcinomas, Grade 3). Strong HER2 expression (2+/3+) was seen in 28 patients (71%). Patients with responding disease had an HER2 expression rate of 78%, similar to the rate seen in patients with stable disease (75%). In contrast, patients with progressive disease had an HER2 expression rate of 50%, although this difference did not reach statistical significance. However, univariate analysis showed that increased HER2 expression predicted an improvement in progression free and overall survival. When HER2 status was used as a dichotomous variable, tumors with positive HER2 expression did not have any association with response or with progression free survival; however, positive HER2 status was associated significantly with a decreased risk of death (P = 0.03).This study of HER2 expression in bladder carcinoma focused on patients who were treated prospectively in a standardized fashion, unlike prior studies that have evaluated banked, archival specimens. The authors confirmed the findings of others that high-grade, muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma of the bladder has a significant rate of HER2 expression (71%). However, contrary to other reports, the current study found that HER2 expression in the context of paclitaxel-based chemotherapy decreased the risk of death significantly. Further research is warranted on the possible association of HER2 expression with chemosensitivitiy in urothelial carcinoma as well as the efficacy of HER2-targeted therapies (such as trastuzumab) for patients with high-grade, muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma of the bladder.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/cncr.10808

    View details for Web of Science ID 000177606000009

    View details for PubMedID 12209684

  • Endometriosis Malignant Transformation Review: Rhabdomyosarcoma Arising From an Endometrioma. JSLS : Journal of the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons Nezhat, C. n., Vu, M. n., Vang, N. n., Ganjoo, K. n., Karam, A. n., Folkins, A. n., Nezhat, A. n., Nezhat, F. n. ; 23 (4)

    Abstract

    Endometriosis is a widely known benign disease, but 0.5%-1% of cases are associated with malignancy. It has been linked with ovarian neoplasms, particularly endometrioid and clear cell adenocarcinoma histology. Rhabdomyosarcomas are rarely associated with endometriosis.A 35-year-old patient underwent surgical management of endometriomas to optimize infertility treatment. She later developed abdominal pain with rapid recurrence of ovarian masses. This prompted additional surgery with biopsies diagnosing ovarian rhabdomyosarcoma. Retroactive review of pathologic specimens from her prior surgery demonstrated the neoplasm originated from her prior endometrioma. Focal areas suggested possible underlying ovarian adenosarcoma with stromal overgrowth.The incidence of rhabdomyosarcoma arising from endometriosis is exceedingly rare. The accuracy of diagnosing endometriosis and ruling out neoplasm requires coordinated efforts of a multidisciplinary team, involving radiologists, pathologists, oncologists, and gynecologic surgeons.

    View details for DOI 10.4293/JSLS.2019.00038

    View details for PubMedID 31624455

    View details for PubMedCentralID PMC6791399