Journal of Pathology and Translational Medicine

Review Articles

A comprehensive review of ossifying fibromyxoid tumor: insights into its clinical, pathological, and molecular landscape: Kyriakos Chatzopoulos, Antonia Syrnioti, Mohamed Yakoub, Konstantinos Linos; J Pathol Transl Med. 2026;60(1):6-19. Published online January 14, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2025.10.02

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Abstract PDF: Ossifying fibromyxoid tumor (OFMT) is a rare mesenchymal neoplasm first described in 1989. It typically arises in the superficial soft tissues of the extremities as a slow-growing, painless mass. Histologically, it is commonly characterized by a multilobular architecture composed of uniform epithelioid cells embedded in a fibromyxoid matrix, often surrounded by a rim of metaplastic bone. While classic cases are readily identifiable, the tumor's histopathological heterogeneity can mimic a range of benign and malignant neoplasms, posing significant diagnostic challenges. Molecularly, most OFMTs harbor PHF1 rearrangements, commonly involving fusion partners such as EP400, MEAF6, or TFE3. This review underscores the importance of an integrated diagnostic approach- incorporating histopathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular data- to accurately classify OFMT and distinguish it from its mimics. Expanding awareness of its morphologic and molecular spectrum is essential for precise diagnosis, optimal patient management, and a deeper understanding of this enigmatic neoplasm.

Solitary fibrous tumor: an updated review: Joon Hyuk Choi; J Pathol Transl Med. 2026;60(1):20-46. Published online December 29, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2025.10.08

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Abstract PDF: Solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) is a fibroblastic neoplasm characterized by a branching, thin-walled dilated staghorn-shaped (hemangiopericytoma-like) vasculature and a NAB2::STAT6 gene fusion. SFTs can occur in almost any anatomical location, including superficial and deep soft tissues, visceral organs, and bone. They most commonly occur in extrapleural locations, equally affect both sexes, and are typically present in adults. Although metastasis is rare, SFTs frequently show local recurrence. The diagnosis of SFTs is difficult because of their broad histological and morphological overlap with other neoplasms. An accurate diagnosis is important for guiding disease management and prognosis. Despite advances in molecular diagnostics and therapeutic strategies, the biological complexity and unpredictable clinical behavior of SFTs present significant challenges. This review provides an updated overview of SFT, with a focus on its molecular genetics, histopathological features, and diagnostic considerations.

Original Article

E-cadherin expression and tumor-stroma ratio as prognostic biomarkers of peritoneal recurrence in advanced gastric cancer: a digital image analysis-based stratification study: Somang Lee, Binnari Kim; J Pathol Transl Med. 2025;59(6):408-420. Published online November 6, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2025.08.27

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Abstract PDF: Background
Gastric cancer remains a significant global health burden, with a high peritoneal recurrence rates after curative surgery. E-cadherin and the tumor-stroma ratio (TSR) have been proposed as prognostic indicators, but their combined prognostic utility remains unclear. Methods: This retrospective study included 130 patients with T3/T4a gastric cancer who underwent curative gastrectomy at Ulsan University Hospital between 2014 and 2019. Immunohistochemistry for E-cadherin and Vimentin was performed. Digital image analysis using QuPath’s object classifier quantified E-cadherin expression and TSR. Results: Low E-cadherin expression was associated with diffuse-type histology and advanced T stage. Low TSR was linked to younger age, female sex, and XELOX treatment. In Kaplan-Meier analysis, low TSR showed a non-significant trend toward higher peritoneal recurrence (p = .054), while low E-cadherin expression was significantly associated with increased peritoneal recurrence (p = .002). Combined biomarker analysis also revealed a significant difference in recurrence-free survival (RFS) among the four groups (p = .005); patients with both high TSR and high E-cadherin expression experienced the most favorable RFS. In multivariable analysis, E-cadherin expression remained the only independent predictor of peritoneal recurrence (high vs. low; hazard ratio, 0.348; 95% confidence interval, 0.149 to 0.816; p = .015). Conclusions: E-cadherin and TSR reflect distinct tumor biology such as epithelial integrity and stromal composition, and their combined evaluation improves prognostic stratification. Digital image analysis enhances reproducibility and objectivity, supporting their integration into clinical workflows.

Review Article

Breast schwannoma: review of entity and differential diagnosis: Sandra Ixchel Sanchez, Ashley Cimino-Mathews; J Pathol Transl Med. 2025;59(6):353-360. Published online November 3, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2025.08.12

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Abstract PDF: Schwannomas are benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors composed of Schwann cells, which uncommonly involve the breast. Most breast schwannomas are clinically present as a superficial palpable breast mass but may also be detected on screening mammography. Excision is the preferred treatment if symptomatic, and these are not known to recur. Histomorphology is similar to other anatomic sites: bland spindle cells with wavy nuclei, nuclear palisading (Verocay bodies), variably hypercellular (Antoni A) and hypocellular (Antoni B) areas, myxoid stroma, hyalinized vessels and variable cystic degeneration. Classic immunohistochemistry is diffuse and strong labeling for S100 and Sox10. Notable diagnostic pitfalls specific to the breast include myofibroblastoma, particularly the palisaded variant, and fascicular pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia.

Case Study

Clinicopathological characteristics of digestive system angioleiomyomas: case report and literature review: Georgios Kalliopitsas, Christos Topalidis, Constantine Halkias, Theodora Gkeka, Konstantinos Sapalidis, Triantafyllia Koletsa; J Pathol Transl Med. 2025;59(6):453-459. Published online October 28, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2025.08.04

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Abstract PDF: Angioleiomyomas are benign soft tissue tumors originating from the vascular wall. Although angioleiomyomas mainly occur in extremities, followed by head, neck, and trunk, they can also be found throughout the digestive system and especially in the oral cavity. Herein, the fourth case of a rectal angioleiomyoma in the English literature is reported and the clinicopathological features of digestive system angioleiomyomas were investigated. In contrast to their soft tissue counterparts, digestive system angioleiomyomas mainly affect males at a slightly younger age. Angioleiomyomas are mainly asymptomatic and only rarely elicit pain. Clinicians consider angioleiomyomas infrequently and instead include more common soft tissue or epithelial tumors in their differential diagnosis. To prevent angiomyolipoma misdiagnosis, pathologists should exercise caution when examining an angioleiomyoma composed of adipose tissue, smooth muscle, and blood vessels. Pathologists, radiologists, and surgeons should be aware that angioleiomyomas can occur in the digestive system.

Original Articles

Adenomatoid odontogenic tumor: clinicopathological analysis of 34 cases from Karachi, Pakistan: Summaya Zafar, Sehar Sulaiman, Madeeha Nisar, Poonum Khan, Nasir Ud Din; J Pathol Transl Med. 2025;59(6):390-397. Published online October 16, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2025.07.11

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Abstract PDF: Background
Adenomatoid odontogenic tumor (AOT) is a benign slow-growing neoplasm of odontogenic epithelial origin that is relatively uncommon. Only a few studies have described its histological features. Hence, we aimed to describe the clinicopathological features of AOT in a cohort of patients. Methods: AOT cases diagnosed between 2009 and 2024 were searched electronically. Glass slides were retrieved from archives and were reviewed by two pathologists to record the associated morphological features. Other data including patient demographics and tumor site were collected by reviewing histopathology reports. Results: The age of patients ranged from 9 to 44 years (mean, 17.7 years), and most were female (55.9%). The maxilla (44.1%) was the most common tumor site. Histologically, a predominantly solid growth pattern (n = 34) accompanied by ducts with a cuboidal/columnar epithelial lining (n = 31), eosinophilic secretions (n = 31), calcifications (n = 31), lattice work pattern (n = 30), and cystic areas (n = 20) were observed. Less frequent features included calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumor (CEOT)–like areas (n = 13), osteodentin (n = 6), association with impacted tooth (n = 3), mucin in tubules (n = 7), fibrocollagenous stroma (n = 6), mucin in ducts (n = 3) and ossifying fibroma-like areas (n = 6). The association of ducts with a cuboidal/columnar epithelial lining, lattice work pattern, calcifications, and eosinophilic secretions with gingival tumors was statistically significant (p ≤ .05). Additionally, tooth tumors were significantly associated with CEOT-like areas (p = .03). Conclusions: Our study confirms the trends in the clinicopathological features of AOT in previous case reports. Our results suggest that AOTs usually exhibit a predominantly solid pattern with duct-like spaces. Only a few cases with CEOT-like and ossifying fibroma-like areas were observed, similar to infrequent cases reported in the past.

Categorizing high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma into clinically relevant subgroups using deep learning–based histomic clusters: Byungsoo Ahn, Eunhyang Park; J Pathol Transl Med. 2025;59(2):91-104. Published online February 18, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2024.10.23

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Abstract PDF Supplementary Material

Background
High-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSC) exhibits significant heterogeneity, posing challenges for effective clinical categorization. Understanding the histomorphological diversity within HGSC could lead to improved prognostic stratification and personalized treatment approaches. Methods: We applied the Histomic Atlases of Variation Of Cancers model to whole slide images from The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset for ovarian cancer. Histologically distinct tumor clones were grouped into common histomic clusters. Principal component analysis and K-means clustering classified HGSC samples into three groups: highly differentiated (HD), intermediately differentiated (ID), and lowly differentiated (LD). Results: HD tumors showed diverse patterns, lower densities, and stronger eosin staining. ID tumors had intermediate densities and balanced staining, while LD tumors were dense, patternless, and strongly hematoxylin-stained. RNA sequencing revealed distinct patterns in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and energy metabolism, with upregulation in the HD, downregulation in the LD, and the ID positioned in between. Survival analysis showed significantly lower overall survival for the LD compared to the HD and ID, underscoring the critical role of mitochondrial dynamics and energy metabolism in HGSC progression. Conclusions: Deep learning-based histologic analysis effectively stratifies HGSC into clinically relevant prognostic groups, highlighting the role of mitochondrial dynamics and energy metabolism in disease progression. This method offers a novel approach to HGSC categorization.

Citations

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Learning Disabilities in the 21st Century: Integrating Neuroscience, Education, and Technology for Better Outcomes
Syed Mohammed Basheeruddin Asdaq, Ahmad H. Alhowail, Syed Imam Rabbani, Naira Nayeem, Syed Mohammed Emaduddin Asdaq, Faiqa Nausheen
SAGE Open.2025;[Epub] CrossRef

The combination of CDX2 expression status and tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte density as a prognostic factor in adjuvant FOLFOX-treated patients with stage III colorectal cancers: Ji-Ae Lee, Hye Eun Park, Hye-Yeong Jin, Lingyan Jin, Seung Yeon Yoo, Nam-Yun Cho, Jeong Mo Bae, Jung Ho Kim, Gyeong Hoon Kang; J Pathol Transl Med. 2025;59(1):50-59. Published online October 24, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2024.09.26

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Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Background
Colorectal carcinomas (CRCs) with caudal-type homeobox 2 (CDX2) loss are recognized to pursue an aggressive behavior but tend to be accompanied by a high density of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). However, little is known about whether there is an interplay between CDX2 loss and TIL density in the survival of patients with CRC.
Methods
Stage III CRC tissues were assessed for CDX2 loss using immunohistochemistry and analyzed for their densities of CD8 TILs in both intraepithelial (iTILs) and stromal areas using a machine learning-based analytic method.
Results
CDX2 loss was significantly associated with a higher density of CD8 TILs in both intraepithelial and stromal areas. Both CDX2 loss and a high CD8 iTIL density were found to be prognostic parameters and showed hazard ratios of 2.314 (1.050–5.100) and 0.378 (0.175–0.817), respectively, for cancer-specific survival. A subset of CRCs with retained CDX2 expression and a high density of CD8 iTILs showed the best clinical outcome (hazard ratio of 0.138 [0.023–0.826]), whereas a subset with CDX2 loss and a high density of CD8 iTILs exhibited the worst clinical outcome (15.781 [3.939–63.230]).
Conclusions
Altogether, a high density of CD8 iTILs did not make a difference in the survival of patients with CRC with CDX2 loss. The combination of CDX2 expression and intraepithelial CD8 TIL density was an independent prognostic marker in adjuvant chemotherapy-treated patients with stage III CRC.

Diagnosis of invasive encapsulated follicular variant papillary thyroid carcinoma by protein-based machine learning: Truong Phan-Xuan Nguyen, Minh-Khang Le, Sittiruk Roytrakul, Shanop Shuangshoti, Nakarin Kitkumthorn, Somboon Keelawat; J Pathol Transl Med. 2025;59(1):39-49. Published online October 24, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2024.09.14

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Abstract PDF Supplementary Material

Background
Although the criteria for follicular-pattern thyroid tumors are well-established, diagnosing these lesions remains challenging in some cases. In the recent World Health Organization Classification of Endocrine and Neuroendocrine Tumors (5th edition), the invasive encapsulated follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma was reclassified as its own entity. It is crucial to differentiate this variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma from low-risk follicular pattern tumors due to their shared morphological characteristics. Proteomics holds significant promise for detecting and quantifying protein biomarkers. We investigated the potential value of a protein biomarker panel defined by machine learning for identifying the invasive encapsulated follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma, initially using formalin- fixed paraffin-embedded samples.
Methods
We developed a supervised machine-learning model and tested its performance using proteomics data from 46 thyroid tissue samples.
Results
We applied a random forest classifier utilizing five protein biomarkers (ZEB1, NUP98, C2C2L, NPAP1, and KCNJ3). This classifier achieved areas under the curve (AUCs) of 1.00 and accuracy rates of 1.00 in training samples for distinguishing the invasive encapsulated follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma from non-malignant samples. Additionally, we analyzed the performance of single-protein/gene receiver operating characteristic in differentiating the invasive encapsulated follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma from others within The Cancer Genome Atlas projects, which yielded an AUC >0.5.
Conclusions
We demonstrated that integration of high-throughput proteomics with machine learning can effectively differentiate the invasive encapsulated follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma from other follicular pattern thyroid tumors.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Misdiagnosed follicular adenoma with 11 year postoperative liver and lung metastases a case report and literature review
Kai-Li Yang, Heng-Tong Han, Shou-Hua Li, Xiao-Xiao Li, Ze Yang, Li-Bin Ma, Yong-Xun Zhao
Discover Oncology.2025;[Epub] CrossRef

Case Studies

Primary epithelioid inflammatory myofibroblastic sarcoma of the brain with EML4::ALK fusion mimicking intra-axial glioma: a case report and brief literature review: Eric Eunshik Kim, Chul-Kee Park, Koung Mi Kang, Yoonjin Kwak, Sung-Hye Park, Jae-Kyung Won; J Pathol Transl Med. 2024;58(3):141-145. Published online May 14, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4132/jptm.2024.04.12

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