Objective: To evaluate the association of tumor budding (TB) with prognostic histomorphological parameters in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and to investigate the correlation of TB intensity with epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). Material and Method: A total of 200 cases diagnosed as OSCC were selected and their TB status was reviewed using Hematoxylin and eosin (H and E) and Immunohistochemistry (IHC). Correlation with histomorphological prognostic parameters was done. Also, IHC for Vimentin and E-cadherin was performed to look for EMT. Results: On H and E examination, TB was observed in 154/200 (77%). About 88/154 (57.14%) cases showed a high TB (>5 TB/10 hpf) which increased to 100/154 (64.9%) cases on IHC staining. The intensity of TB was significantly associated with tumor grade and depth of invasion. It was also significantly associated with reduced expression for E-Cadherin and upregulation of Vimentin establishing a pathogenetic correlation between the TB and EMT. Conclusion: Therefore, our results suggest that TB is associated with poor prognosis and histologically represents EMT in OSCC which further adds to the aggressiveness of the tumor.

Background: Oral lichen planus is a T-cell-mediated chronic inflammatory disease affecting approximately 1% to 2% of the population, the etiology of which is currently unknown. The objectives of this study were to observe if senescence occurs in oral lichen planus, through the assessment of the immunohistochemical expression of a novel marker for senescence called Senescence marker protein-30 or regucalcin, and compare the expression to that in oral lichenoid reaction and non-specific inflammation. Subjects and Methods: The study material consisted of 30 cases of oral lichen planus, 15 cases of oral lichenoid reaction and 15 cases of non-specific inflammation. The number of positive cells in ten randomly selected high power fields were counted in the epithelium and the connective tissue separately and the mean was determined. Results: Mann–Whitney U test was used to statistically analyze if there was any significant difference in the expression of Senescence marker protein-30 between oral lichen planus, oral lichenoid reaction and non-specific inflammation. Even though a greater expression was seen in the oral lichen planus cases than oral lichenoid reaction, the difference in both the epithelium and connective tissue was not statistically significant. Conclusion: This study shows that in addition to the already known mechanisms like apoptosis and increased cell proliferation rates, the activated T-lymphocytes may also trigger a senescent change in the cells of oral lichen planus. As with the other mechanisms, this is also seen only in a small proportion of the cases.

Introduction: Kocuria kristinae is a commensal organism, sometimes considered as a lab contaminant, but its repeated isolation from clinical samples in immunocompromised patients should raise red flags. Materials and Methods: We confirmed the infection with re-isolation of the organism from the same site before starting treatment. For the identification of Kocuria kristinae we used IDGP cards on VITEK 2 compact system. Antibiotic susceptibility test was done manually following CLSI guidelines 2018 for Coagulase-negative staphylococci. Results: A total of 510 major head neck oncosurgeries were performed during the period of two years. Out of which 120 patients had skin and soft tissue infections. Out of these infected patients, 90 were culture positive and of these Kocuria kristinae were isolated in 12 patients. Resistance to penicillin and oxacillin is seen in all isolates. Conclusion: Kocuria kristinae should not be ignored as a commensal flora or lab contaminant in immunocompromised hosts. Its Increase in resistance pattern is a matter of concern. It is an ignored opportunistic pathogen whose detailed sensitivity test should be developed to treat patients timely and effectively.

Context: Researchers throughout the world devote enormous efforts to reveal the peculiarities of the pathogenesis of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus, however, it continues to surprise and cause the death of millions of people. Aims: This article aims to study the molecular mechanisms provoked by SARS-CoV-2, the virus-induced changes in Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) functionality, in the vascular homeostasis through CD34 expression, B-cell immunity through the expression of CD20 and CD79α, and adhesion molecules through E-cadherin. Settings and Design: This was a prospective, descriptive, and observational study. Methods and Material: A total of 15 autopsies of patients deceased by COVID-19 infection, confirmed by PCR, were performed. The lungs of all patients were examined histologically and immunohistochemically for ACE2, E-cadherin, CD34, CD20, and CD79α. Results: Immunohistological analysis showed increased ACE2 expression in all lung autopsy material affected by COVID-19 infection and we found a higher intensity of ACE2 expression than that of a healthy lung. CD20 examination reveals total deficiency of B-cells in the pulmonary parenchyma and CD79α is also absent. E-Cadherin is not expressed in the basal cellular sections where the contact elements are missing. CD34 demonstrates a desquamation of the endothelial cells, which indicates a direct damage of the vascular walls. Conclusions: We found that patients who died after severe COVID-19 had high immune deficiency and impaired intercellular communication in the parenchyma and endothelium of lung tissue, leading to severe thromboembolic complications in patients with multiple diseases.

Background: IgA anti-tissue transglutaminase-2 antibody (anti-TG2Ab) deposits in intestinal and extraintestinal organs have been used to link the respective pathological changes in these organs with celiac disease (CeD). Aims: To know if parts of intestine other than the duodenum, such as esophagus, stomach, and colon, have any pathology related to potential CeD or have mucosal IgA anti-TG2 Ab deposits. Settings and Design: A prospective case–control study conducted from April 2018 to December 2019. Materials and Methods: Nine patients with potential CeD and 27 age- and gender-matched patients with irritable bowel syndrome were recruited as cases and controls, respectively. Mucosal biopsies were collected from esophagus, stomach, duodenum, and rectosigmoid regions, histological changes were evaluated, and IgA anti-TG2 Ab deposits were analyzed in these regions by two-color immunohistochemical staining. Statistics: Data were analyzed using statistical software Stata 14.0. Results: No distinct difference in mucosal lymphocytosis were identified between biopsies of patients with potential CeD and controls at the following sites: esophagus (11.1% vs 0%, P = 0.079), stomach (14.3% vs 7.7%, P = 0.590), and rectum (20% vs 0%, P = 0.067). Co-localized IgA anti-TG2Ab deposits were observed more in potential CeD than in controls at esophagus 22.2% (2/9) vs 0%, P = 0.012; stomach 66.7% (6/9) vs 11.5% (3/26), P < 0.001; and duodenum 66.7% (6/9) vs 0%, P < 0.001 but not at rectum 0% (0/4) vs 0% (0/25). Conclusion: Although histological changes are not distinct, a subset of subjects with potential CeD has pan-intestinal involvement other than in the duodenum.

Context: The programmed death-1 (PD-1) is an immune checkpoint molecule that suppresses T-cell response. The binding of PD-1 to PD-L1/PD-L2 results cytokine production, and T-cell proliferation are reduced. Tumors expressing PD-L1 and PD-L2 escape from cytotoxic T-cells and are exposed to tumor progression. For this reason, immunotherapy has become a new option in the treatment of cancer. Aims: In this study, we examined the PD-L1 and PD-L2 expression in colorectal carcinoma (CRC), and evaluated the relationship between clinicopathological parameters and CD8+ T cells. Methods and Material: We evaluated CD8 expression in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and surrounding tumor lymphocytes with PD-L1, PD-L2 staining in tumor cells and immune cells formalin-fixed paraffin embedded samples of 124 patient diagnosed with CRC. Statistical Analysis Used: Pearson Chi-Square, Fisher Exact Chi-Square, and Pearson Exact Chi-Square analyses were used in the analysis of the cross tables. Survival distributions predicted Kaplan--Meier method and it was evaluated using log-rank statistics. Results: In our study, a significant correlation was found between PD-L1 expression and female sex and tumors with medullary morphology. No expression of PD-L2 was observed in tumors containing medullary morphology, and a statistically inverse relationship was observed between PD-L2 and the medullary component. PD-L1 positive tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes were determined to be an important predictor for recurrence-free survival. Conclusions: We believe that the evaluation of these parameters may be useful in the selection of patients who will benefit from immunotherapy in CRC cases.

Aim: In this study, it was aimed to investigate the prognostic importance of Tumor budding (TB) in Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas(PDAC) and its correlation with histopathological findings according to the International Tumor Budding Consensus Conference(ITBCC) grading. Material and Methods: A total of 75 patients diagnosed with PDAC were included in this study. The demographic features of the cases (age, sex) and the macroscopic features of the tumors (localization,size) were obtained from the electronic archive system. All Hematoxylin-Eosin-stained sections were re-evaluated in terms of differentiation, presence of lymphovascular (LVI) and perineural invasion(PNI), surgical margin positivity, primary tumor(pT), lymph node metastasis(LNM) and tumor budding. Statistically, Chi-square test, cox-regression and Kaplan-Meier test were performed. Results:Thirty four of the cases were female and 41 were male. The mean age was 64.21±9.71years. The degree of TB was TB-few in 17 cases, TB-moderate in 25cases, and TB-high in 33cases. LVI, PNI, LNM and TB-high were poor prognostic factors. Moreover, TB-high was related with poor differantiation,LVI,PNI,LNM and short survival time. Tumor budding was independent negative prognostic factor in multivariable model analyzes. Conclusion: ITBCC scoring can also be used in PDACs. In addition, high tumor budding was a poor prognostic feature and might be a target for tumor-specific treatments as it could be a predictive finding for the locally invasive character of the tumor. Evaluation and grading of TB thought to represent EMT may be a histological feature that can be used in tumor selection for advanced molecular methods to identify subtypes that may be associated with poor prognosis and drug resistance.

Background: Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the heart of invasion. EMT associated with cancer progression and metastasis is known as type III EMT. Beta-catenin, E-cadherin, and MMP9 markers of EMT are routinely employed for diagnostic purposes. Aims: We employed these markers to study EMT by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in gall bladder cancer (GBC) with respect to depth of tumor invasion, clinical outcome, and disease-free survival. Settings and Design: This was a prospective case-control study. Material and Methods: Seventy gall bladders were included (50 GBC and 20 CC). After detailed histology, immunoexpression was studied in terms of percentage and strength of expression. Statistics Analysis Used: Expression was compared between CC and GBC by Student t test and analysis of variance. Kaplan–Meier was used for survival analysis, and the extent of agreement (“Kappa”) was calculated. Results and Conclusions: The age of incidence of GBC was 49.40 (+11.6) years with female predominance (F:M = 4:1). In 88% (44/50) of GBC, the fundus was involved. Moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma was most frequent [54%; 27/50]. Significant downregulation of E-cadherin (P = 0.022) and beta-catenin (P < 0.001) and upregulation in MMP9 (P < 0.001) were seen in GBC with respect to CC with significant association among them. MMP9 expression was significantly associated with higher tumor stage but with chemotherapeutic response. Our results display that epithelial-mesenchymal transition type III plays a role in GBC invasion. MMP9 overexpression and loss of membranous beta-catenin may be considered a marker for poor clinical outcomes and advanced disease.

Background: CXCL13, B-lymphocyte chemoattractant, has been associated with many diseases and cancers. One of the malignancies that CXCL13 has been investigated is clear cell renal cell carcinomas which are the most common subtype of renal cancers. Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate the immunohistochemical staining patterns of CXCL13 in clear cell renal cell carcinomas and to determine its relationship with pathological tumor stage, risk factors, and prognostic parameters. Materials and Methods: In this study, 99 patients who underwent partial/radical nephrectomy diagnosed with clear cell renal cell carcinoma were included. Four micron sections were taken from paraffin embedded blocks containing sufficient tumor and kidney tissue. Samples were immunohistochemically stained with CXCL13 antibody. During microscopic examination, CXCL13 positive stained cells in ten high magnification fields were counted and evaluated using a semiquantitative H score: 3 × strongly stained + 2 × moderately stained + 1 × weakly stained. The cut-off value was set as 40 for values between 0 and 300. The low and high stained groups were compared with prognostic parameters and risk factors. Statistics: The difference of continuous variables between the two groups was examined with the t test and the distribution of categorical variables with the Chi-square test. A value of P < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: The number of lymphocytes stained with CXCL13 in the tumor was higher than in the normal kidney parenchyma (p = 0.07). Intratumoral lymphocytes were highly stained with CXCL13 in 57.5% of pT3 cases and 31.7% of pT1 cases. The amount of intratumoral lymphocytes stained with CXCL13 increased in advanced pathological stages (p = 0.05). Nonsmoking cases were mostly in the low staining group (p = 0.06). Conclusion: The relationship we found between advanced pathological stage and intratumoral CXCL13 staining in our study suggests that CXCL13 has a prognostic value in this cancer.

Context: Ewing sarcoma (ES) are malignant small round cell tumors (MSRCT) characterized by rearrangements of EWSR1 gene. Although gold standard for diagnosis is detection of specific fusion genes by molecular testing, these ancillary tests are costly and only available in limited number of settings. There is a persuasive evidence for reliability of NKX2.2 immunohistochemistry (IHC) as a surrogate marker for EWSR1 gene rearrangement in ES. Aims: The aim of this study is to correlate the NKX2.2 immuno-expression with genetically confirmed ES cases and also to assess the reliability and accuracy of NKX2.2 along with combined positivity of NXX2.2 and CD99 in diagnosing ES and differentiating it from other relevant histological mimics. Settings and Design: The present study is a retrospective study conducted over a period of 6-year duration in a tertiary cancer care center. Methods and Material: We evaluated NKX2.2 immunoexpression in 35 genetically confirmed cases of ES and also in pertaining differential entities (n = 58) of ES including rhabdomyosarcoma (n = 20), lymphoblastic lymphoma (n = 14), Wilms tumor (n = 10), poorly differentiated synovial sarcoma (n = 4), small-cell osteosarcoma (n = 4), neuroblastoma (n = 5), and mesenchymal chondrosarcoma (n = 1). CD99 was performed in the category of MSRCTs showing NKX2.2 positivity to evaluate combined specificity for the diagnosis of ES. Results: Of the 35 genetically confirmed cases of ES, 29 cases (83%) showed NKX2.2-positive expression (83% sensitivity). Compared to ES, NKX2.2 was positive in only 05% cases (3/58 cases) of non-ES MSRCT. Only two of five cases of neuroblastomas and one case of mesenchymal chondrosarcoma showed NKX2.2 positivity. CD99 positivity was seen in 100% of ES and in the single case of mesenchymal chondrosarcoma. All five cases (100%) of neuroblastoma were negative for CD99. Conclusions: The presented study, which is the first from an Indian oncology center, showed NKX2.2 IHC is quite reliable in diagnosis of ES in the right clinicopathological context. With remarkable sensitivity and specificity of NKX2.2 IHC for diagnosis of ES, we propose that combined positivity of CD99 and NKX2.2 IHC can obviate or minimize the need of EWSR1 gene rearrangement molecular testing for diagnosis of ES.

Objective: The present study evaluates the immunoexpression of p16 and Ki-67 in cervical squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL) and carcinomas and correlates their expression with clinicopathological features and HPV-DNA status. Material and Methods: A total 36 included cases of SIL and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) were subjected to p16 and Ki-67 immunostaining. p16 staining was evaluated depending on grading, distribution, localization pattern, intensity and IHC score. Ki-67 expression was graded based on percentage of positive cells. Results: Incidence of HSIL and SCC cases was found to be significantly increased with parity > 5. p16 grade III diffuse nucleocytoplasmic immunostaining was observed in 62.5% LSIL, 80% HSIL and 87% SCC cases. Significant association of p16 staining intensity, IHC score and Ki-67 indices was noted with increasing grades of SILs and carcinomas. Conclusion: Our experience indicates that a combination of p16 and Ki-67 immunostaining may be useful to determine the severity of dysplastic change.

Context: Bullous pemphigoid (BP) and “Pemphigus diseases” (PD) can have overlapping clinical manifestations and accurate distinction is crucial for appropriate management. Aims: The study aimed at analyzing the utility of simple hematological markers of systemic inflammation like neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), neutrophil-to-eosinophil ratio (NER), and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in clinical decision making in the setting of clinical differentials of BP and PD in a particular case. Methods: This single-centre based retrospective observational analytical study included adult subjects newly diagnosed to have BP (n=66) or PD (n=53), confirmed with direct immune-fluorescence testing, over a period of six years. Blood counts performed using Coulter™ hematology analyser, at the time of their initial presentation, were retrieved from the hospital medical records, and the leucocyte ratios were calculated.Statistical Analysis: The data were compared between the two groups, using Mann–Whitney U test and chi-square test /Fisher's exact test. ROC curve analysis was performed to estimate cut-off values. Results: The BP group had a significantly higher NLR, total leukocyte counts (TLC), absolute eosinophil counts (AEC), and absolute lymphocyte counts (ALC), and lower NER values compared to the PD group (P < 0.05). Areas under ROC for NLR, NER, TLC, AEC, and ALC were between 0.5 and 0.7. NLR ≥ 7, AEC ≥ 2055/cumm, and TLC ≥ 15,000/cumm had a specificity of 90.6, 100, and 100% respectively for identifying BP patients out of the two groups, but with a low sensitivity of 22.7, 21, and 22.7%, respectively. Conclusions: NLR can be a valuable diagnostic adjunct in subtyping autoimmune bullous disorders, albeit in a small proportion of cases.

Introduction: In the diagnosis of malignant tumors, cytological examinations of various body fluids are useful. For the preparation of body fluid, many methods are used till date. The use of liquid-based cytology is new upcoming in the field. Aim: To examine the performance of liquid-based cytology on body cavity fluids as compared to conventional cytopreparatory techniques. Methodology: In the present study, 700 body fluid samples were processed by both liquid- based cytology (BD SurePath^™) and conventional cytopreparatory technique (Thick & Thin). The performance of both techniques was compared in terms of “smear quality” and “overall diagnostic test performance.” Results: Out of 155 body fluid samples from proven malignancy patients, 32 (20.65%) were reported as Positive for malignancy, 23 (14.84%) as Suspicious of malignancy, and 100 (64.51%) as Negative for malignancy by CS (Thick and Thin). A total of 44 (28.39%) were reported as Positive for malignancy, 12 (7.74%) as Suspicious of malignancy, and 99 (63.87%) as Negative for malignancy by LBC. Conclusion: Liquid-based cytology is advantageous over conventional techniques in cytomorphology of body fluids, but not better in sensitivity and specificity. Also saves cytopathologist's valuable time for screening.

Background: Ineffective erythropoiesis is a predominant feature in β-thalassemia major (β-TM), causing marked erythroid expansion leading to highly raised levels of growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15), which, in turn, suppresses hepcidin production in liver resulting in increased iron absorption from gut. We aim to study the serum GDF-15 in polytransfused β-TM patients and its correlation with serum ferritin and serum hepcidin. Method: Thirty-nine polytransfused β-TM children aged between 5 and 17 years and 33 age- and gender-matched healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Complete blood count, serum GDF-15, serum ferritin, and serum hepcidin were performed. Results: The mean serum GDF-15, serum hepcidin, and serum ferritin levels were 638.65 ± 306.96 pg/ml, 108.21 ± 191.30 ng/ml, and 2274.60 ± 1216.08 ng/ml, respectively, which were significantly higher than control group (P < 0.001, P = 0.003, P < 0.001, respectively). There was significant positive correlation of GDF-15 with blood transfusions (r = 0.415, P = 0.009), positive correlation with serum ferritin (r = 0.653, P = 0), and significant negative correlation with serum hepcidin (r = −0.508, P = 0.001). Conclusion: The findings of the present study suggest that GDF-15 is an important regulator of hepcidin in β-TM patients. GDF-15 and serum hepcidin together can be used to monitor iron overload and its related complications in such patients.

Context: Z score defines the shift of an observed value from the mean. Aims: By determining the direction of this shift and its absolute value for mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), one can quickly screen the hemogram for any spurious results in RBC parameters and also predict the type of anemia. This is because MCH and MCHC are derived parameters (from Hb, RBC, MCV) and thereby reflect the true as well as false changes in an erythrogram. Materials and Methods: A total of 975 hemograms were studied retrospectively. Basic statistical formulae using mean and standard deviation were applied to calculate z scores for MCH and MCHC. Results obtained were compared with the standard method and validated by an independent cohort of 100 random samples run on a different machine. Results and Statistical Analysis: Z score was found to be statistically significant (p <.001) in diagnosing iron deficiency anemias, megaloblastic anemias, hemolytic anemias, regenerative anemias, anemia of chronic disease and spurious findings. Z score was not significant (p = 0.9) in predicting beta thalassemia trait. The sensitivity was low for the differentials of microcytic hypochromic anemias. Conclusions: Despite this, Z score can be of immense help to the clinicians and pathologists in making quick interpretation of the underlying red cell abnormalities. Also, it can be used as a quality assessment tool in hematology laboratories taking pre analytical and analytical factors into account.

Introduction: Lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) are rare disorders and pose a diagnostic challenge for clinicians owing to their generalized symptomatology. In this study, we aim to classify LSDs into two broad categories, namely, Gaucher disease (GD) and Niemann–Pick/Niemann–Pick-like diseases (NP/NP-like diseases) based on the morphology of the storage cells in the bone marrow (BM) aspiration smears and trephine biopsy sections. Materials and Method: This retrospective study includes 32 BM specimens morphologically diagnosed as LSDs at our institute, in the last 10 years. Subsequently, they were subclassified into GD and NP/NP-like diseases. Further, we have compared and analyzed the clinical, hematological, and biochemical parameters for the two groups of LSDs. Results: Based on BM morphology, 59.4% (n = 19) cases were diagnosed as NP/NP-like diseases and 40.6% (n = 13) cases as GD. Abdominal distension and failure to thrive were the most common clinical manifestations in both groups of LSDs. Anemia and thrombocytopenia were frequently seen in either of the LSDs. On the assessment of metabolic profile, elevated total/direct bilirubin and liver enzymes were more commonly seen in NP/NP-like diseases when compared with GD. Conclusion: We have classified LSDs into GD and NP/NP-like diseases based on the morphology of the storage cells in the BM specimen. The hallmark findings on BM biopsy annexed with the comparative features of the two proposed categories can aid the clinician in clinching the diagnosis. Formulation of such a methodology will prove instrumental for patient care in an underresourced setting.

Context and Aims: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of biosimilar romiplostim in Indian patients with immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Settings and Design: Multicentre, retrospective observational study. Methods and Material: Patients with chronic ITP who received biosimilar romiplostim from July 2019 to March 2020 across 3 major hospitals in Guwahati, India, were included. The study outcomes were the platelet response (platelet count > 50 × 10⁹/L), time to first response, number of dose-limiting events, and the median effective dose. Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive. Results: Of 32 patients included in this analysis, majority (59.4%) were females. The mean (SD) age was 40.37 (15.79) years, and mean age at ITP diagnosis was 38.53 years. The median number of romiplostim doses were 27.5 (range: 10-42) over a period of 10 months; median romiplostim dose used was 4.2 μg/kg (range: 2.8-5 μg/kg). Platelet response was achieved as early as after one week in 9 (28.12%) patients, which continued to increase to 24 (75%) patients after the second, 30 (93.75%) patients after the third and all 32 (100%) patients after four weeks of romiplostim administration. The median platelet count was 161 × 10⁹/L. Dose reduction was done in a total of 21 patients. Thrombocytosis (46.88%), elevated liver enzymes (15.63%) and myalgia (15.63%) were the most common adverse events. Conclusions: Biosimilar romiplostim was effective in achieving and maintaining platelet response without any new safety concerns in Indian adult patients with chronic ITP. The median effective dose of romiplostim required in our patients was lower as compared with the standard prescribed dose.

Context: Coinfection and superadded infections in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been reported on multiple series. The emerging second wave of the pandemic has come with a lot of changes, especially in developing countries like India. One of such changes is sudden, significant rise in mucormycosis cases. Aims: To find out clinicopathological association of invasive mucormycosis with COVID-19 infection status and immunocompromised state. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional study done at a tertiary care centre. Methods and Material: All cases admitted in the dedicated mucormycosis ward between 1-06-2021 and 15-06-2021 were included in the study. The cases were admitted with suspicion of mucormycosis. The histopathological results were correlated with KOH mount and radiological reports. The clinicopathological association of occurrence of mucormycosis in post-covid and non-COVID patients along with other risk factors. Statistical Analysis Used: Odds ratio, chi square test were used to find the association using MS Excel 2010 and SPSS. Results: Thirty-six (81.82%) cases were of the post-COVID status, and 8 cases were non-COVID status. Out of 36 post-COVID patients, 33 (91.67%) showed evidence of invasive mucormycosis and of 8 non-COVIDpatients, 7 had evidence of mucormycosis (odds ratio = 1.57). Out of the total diagnosed cases of mucormycosis, 21 (52.5%) patients were known cases of diabetes mellitus (DM), and 7 (17.5%) cases of newly diagnosed hyperglycemia. Thirty (75%) patients out of 40 had some form of immunocompromised state. This shows statistically significant association of DM and immunocompromised state with the occurrence of mucormycosis in post-COVID patients (chi square value² = 6.891, P value = 0.008). Twenty-five patients had the history of steroid use during the treatment of COVID-19. Conclusions: The infection with COVID-19 definitely increases the odds of contracting mucormycosis, but most of the cases had diabetes mellitus. So, it is possible that COVID-19 virus predisposes individuals to invasive fungal infection by precipitating DM.

Background: Mucormycosis, once a rare fungal disease, has now shown a surge in cases, and its epidemiology in India is intriguing. Rising incidence confers the necessity of defining the demography of the population at risk, early diagnosis, and recommendations for the management of mucormycosis in patients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infection. Aims: To study the clinico-epidemological profile, risk factors, and histopathological features of COVID-19-associated Mucormycosis (CAM). Setting and Design: This is a retrospective observational study. Material and Methods: Fifty-six biopsy specimens taken from patients of COVID-19 with clinical suspicion of mucormycosis were included. Results: Diabetes mellitus, corticosteroids, and oxygen therapy were the most common risk factors associated with CAM. The mean duration between the onset of symptoms of COVID-19 and onset of CAM was 25.2 ± 15.3 days. Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) was present in 24.5% of the cases, with a survival rate of 58.3%. Histopathology showed tissue invasion by branching broad-based, pale, fungal hyphae consistent with mucor in 49 (87.5%) cases. Inflammation was acute neutrophilic type in 61.2% of the patients with a survival rate of 63.33%. The survival rate with chronic non-granulomatous and chronic granulomatous was 100% and 81.8%, respectively. Conclusion: Keeping a high index of suspicion for mucormycosis in COVID-19 by all medical fraternities of the health community in the existence of risk factors is the need of the hour for prompt diagnosis. Biopsy of antral necrotic tissue should be performed immediately after suspicion for histopathological study to confirm the diagnosis of mucormycosis and predict prognosis depending on the type of inflammation incited, fungal morphology, load, and necrosis.

Background: The epidemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been rapidly spreading on a global scale affecting many countries and territories. There is rapid onset of generalized inflammation resulting in acute respiratory distress syndrome. We, thus, aimed to explore the potential of immune-inflammatory parameters in predicting the severity of COVID-19. Materials and Methods: Age, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH), C-reaction protein (CRP), and procalcitonin (PCT) of 611 patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 were investigated and compared. Patients were divided on the basis of severity and survival into two groups. Data were expressed as mean or median values and percentages. The receiver operating characteristic curve was applied to determine the optimal cut-off values of these biomarkers. Results: The median age was 50 years and the male to female ratio was 3.7:1. The mean NLR, LMR, PLR, LDH, CRP, and Procalcitonin for the non-severe group were 4.16, 10.8, 133.7, 666.1, 49.9, and 0.15, respectively. In the severe group mean values of the above-mentioned immune-inflammatory markers were 17.8, 4.69, 268.2, 1277, 158.6, and 3.05, respectively. Elevated levels were significantly associated with disease severity. In ROC curve analysis, NLR had the largest area under the curve at 0.923 with the highest specificity (0.83) and sensitivity (0.88). Conclusion: This study shows that NLR, PLR, LDH, CRP, and Procalcitonin may be a rapid, widely available, useful predictive factor for determining the severity of COVID-19 patients.

Background and Objectives: Pathology is a broad subject consisting of various branches, such as hematology, clinical pathology, biochemistry, histopathology, cytology, blood banking, and others. All the subspecialties are difficult to cover in depth in a 3-year MD Pathology course and curriculum. Hence, it was decided to investigate whether the MD Pathology curriculum is able to meet the challenges of today's laboratory medicine practice. So, a survey was conducted among newly qualified pathologists who have passed their exam within last 5 years. Purpose was to know their views about MD Pathology curriculum with special emphasis on challenges they face during their day-to-day practice. Materials and Methods: Study is designed as cross-sectional survey conducted via web-based Google forms questionnaire. Study population is pathologists qualified within last 5 years. A convenience sample of eligible pathologists was taken by sending a web-based Google form to various pathology groups on social media apps. Data were collected in the Google spreadsheet software and various responses were summarized as percentages, graphs, and pie-charts as necessary. Chi square test was used to find the significance of difference in responses from government, private, and deemed university respondents. Results: Different numbers of responses were received to different survey questions. Out of 187 respondents, 65 (34.8%) worked in a hospital-based laboratory, 61 (32.6%) did jobs in a private laboratory, 49 (26.2%) worked in a medical college, and 37 (19.8%) worked in their own private laboratories. Out of 193 respondents, 158 (81.9%) were working in hematology, 149 (77.2%) in clinical pathology, 139 (72%) in cytopathology, 118 (61.7%) in histopathology, whereas 103 (53.4%) worked in clinical biochemistry, and least number of respondents, i.e., 38 (19.7%) were working in blood bank. Almost all the respondents had overlapping work in hematology and other areas. The level of confidence rated by the respondents was best in hematology, followed by clinical pathology; it was least for clinical biochemistry and blood bank. Out of 192 respondents, 64.1% (123) felt that the curriculum does not equip them for lab management and administration, 21.9% (42) felt that the curriculum somewhat equipped them; whereas only 14.1% (27) felt that curriculum equips them for this task. There were 191 responses to the question regarding satisfaction with MD Pathology curriculum; out of which, 51.8% (99) were not satisfied, 24.6% (47) said they may be satisfied, whereas 23.6% (45) were satisfied with the curriculum. There was no significant difference in responses from government, private, and deemed university respondents. Conclusions: The graduating MD Pathology students expressed confidence in reporting routine cases of hematology, clinical pathology, routine cytology, and histopathology. However, there is difficulty in clinical biochemistry, blood banking, and reporting of malignancies. The laboratory management and administration, communication skills, and quality assurance are also other areas of weakness. MD Pathology program needs more focus on these weaknesses, so that newly qualified graduate would feel confident in day-to-day laboratory working.

Background: The first objective of the Global Action Plan proposed by the WHO in preventing and controlling Antimicrobial resistance is to improve awareness and understanding of antimicrobial resistance through effective communication, education and training. Self-directed learning is a student oriented teaching learning method ideal for imparting lasting knowledge on topics of national and global importance such as antimicrobial resistance among medical students, which will help them develop an in-depth understanding of the topic and hence the aim of this study was to develop and implement a Self Directed Learning Module on Antimicrobial Resistance. Material and Methods: The study was conducted in the department of Microbiology with the Phase 2 medical students. Four self-directed learning sessions were developed and disseminated which included case scenarios, class assignments, obtaining antibiotic history from admitted patients, brain storming sessions, final assessment and feedback from students and faculty. Results: 62 out of 80 students gave their consent for the study. 72.6% students attended all the SDL sessions. 55 students gave their final assessments and feedback and all students scored above 50% marks. More than 70% of students said that the SDL aroused curiosity about the topic, while making it interesting, interactive and enjoyable. Conclusions: The self-directed learning module on antimicrobial resistance evoked interest and enthusiastic participation among the medical students. The discussions, assignments and the brainstorming sessions helped to deepen their knowledge on this emerging threat at the local, national and global levels.

Context: TFE3 translocation renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a rare tumor that represents approximately 1% of RCC. It was classifed as a member of MiT family translocation RCCs by the World Health Organization in 2016. It is characterized by Xp11 translocation gene fusions involving TFE3. The diagnosis of TFE3 translocation RCC is based on immunohistochemical analysis and TFE3 break apart probes in FISH analysis, rather than histological characteristics and imaging examination. Aims: To determine the clinico-pathological, immuno-phenotypic, and cytogenetic characteristics of TFE3 translocation RCC. Methods and Materials: The clinical data of a 52-year-old-female patient with TFE3 translocation RCC exhibiting rare morphological characteristics was analyzed, and the tumor tissues were probed using histopathological staining, immunohistochemistry, and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). In addition, the relevant literature was reviewed. Results: This case is a TFE3 translocation RCC with rare morphological features. It composed of two types of tumor cells. TFE3 and pax-8 were diffusely and strongly expressed in both tumor cells, and they were partially positive for CAIX, RCC, CK, EMA, CD10, Vim, Melan-A, and p504s. Only 2% of the cells were positive for the proliferation marker Ki-67, and the tumor was negative for CK7, CD117, Inhibin-α, HBM45, and p53. FISH showed a positive signal for TFE3 translocation. Conclusions: This case was a TFE3 translocation RCC with rare morphological features. Through this case report, we emphasize the importance of in situ detection of TFE3 gene translocation and protein in TFE3 translocation RCC.

Pineocytoma is a rare tumor. It is rare for pineocytoma to present as leptomeningeal metastasis. We present a rare case of pineocytoma with malignant transformation and leptomeningeal metastasis after subtotal tumor resection and adjuvant radiotherapy. This case was a 58-year-old male with an unsteady gait for 2 months. Enhanced brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed a heterogeneous mass involving the pineal region. The initial pathological diagnosis of pineocytoma was confirmed after subtotal tumor resection. Two years after adjuvant radiotherapy to the primary site, the magnetic resonance imaging showed C2 and T2 metastatic lesions, with the final pathological diagnosis being pineal parenchymal tumor (PPT) with intermediate differentiation after the removal of T2 intramedullary tumor. After that adjuvant radiotherapy at the cervical and thoracic spinal cord was completed. There was no recurrence of the tumor 1 year after the radiotherapy. We report a rare case of pineocytoma with malignant transformation to PPT with intermediate differentiation and leptomeningeal dissemination.

Ovarian Sertoli Leydig cell tumors (SLCT) accounts for less than 0.5% of all ovarian malignancies. The incidence of primary extra-ovarian SLCT is extremely rare with reported cases occurring in young adult women till now. We report case of primary retroperitoneal extra-ovarian SLCT in a seven-year girl child without any hormonal manifestation. She presented with complaint of left side abdominal swelling associated with intermittent pain for a duration of six months. CT scan revealed a huge retroperitoneal space-occupying lesion abutting the dorsal vertebrae and present posterior to pancreas, spleen and left kidney. The tumor was diagnosed as extraovarian Sertoli Leydig cell tumor with intermediate differentiation on histopathology and immunohistochemistry.

An epithelioid trophoblastic tumor (ETT) is an extremely rare gestational trophoblastic tumor. Cases of ETT present with abnormal vaginal bleeding in women of reproductive age group with marginally elevated beta human chorionic gonadotrophin (B-hCG) levels. Here, we describe a series of four patients (all were females) including histomorphology, immunoprofiles, and diagnostic difficulty of this rare entity. All cases were in their reproductive age group. The mean pre-treatment hCG level was 665.24 (mIU/mL). Microscopically, all cases had a tumor showing an epithelioid appearance arranged in large nests and sheets. Individual tumor cells were round to polygonal with abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm, with central vesicular nuclei and prominent nucleoli. Areas of hemorrhage, necrosis, and intercellular hyaline-like material deposition were identified in all cases (100%). Immunohistochemically, tumor cells in all cases showed diffuse positivity for AE1/AE3 and p63 (100%). GATA3 was available in one case (25%), which was positive in the tumor cells. In one case (25%), hPL was focally positive, and in one case (25%), it was negative. SALL4 was performed in two cases (50%) and was negative in tumor cells. The mean Ki67 labeling index was 19.2 (range 10–30%). All four patients underwent surgical intervention and were treated with hysterectomy. The mean follow-up in this series was 39.4 months (range 6–70), and all patients are alive to date with a mean survival of 32.8 months (range, 4–67).

Intraocular cysticercosis with central nervous system involvement is not that rare. We report a male child with a right-sided painful blind eye who had intraocular cysticercosis and granuloma in the left frontal lobe of the brain. There was an incidental finding of chronic inflammation in the choroid of that eye supported by histopathology. Immunohistochemistry for T-cells marker and B-cells marker was variable. The patient was treated with antiparasitic, anti-epileptic medications, and oral steroids subsequently.

Neuroendocrine neoplasms are derived from the epithelial lineages mainly of respiratory tract, with predominant neuroendocrine differentiation. There are only a handful of documented cases of paranasal small cell neuroendocrine carcinomas (SNEC) with primary orbital involvement. Here, the authors describe a 33-year-old male patient with rapidly progressive swelling of the right lower lid with proptosis since 4 weeks. On contrast-MRI orbit, an ill-defined multilobulated mass measuring 3.6 × 3.1 cm with intense homogenous enhancement was seen in the right retrobulbar space involving the right ethmoid sinus. On incisional biopsy, a poorly differentiated mass containing numerous small round blue cells and scanty intervening stroma with prominent necrosis and apoptosis was seen. Immunohistochemistry was strongly positive for synaptophysin. He was diagnosed as a case of SNEC and received chemotherapy, with good response till date of 9 months of follow up. The authors present a literature review and describe challenges in management of a primary orbital SNEC.

SMARCB1 deficient sinonasal carcinomas are rare neoplasms, classified under sinonasal undifferentiated carcinomas by the fourth edition of the World Health Organization (WHO) classification of head and neck tumors. It is characterized immunohistochemically by loss of SMARCB1(INI1) expression. We are reporting the case of a 63-year-old man who was evaluated for nasal stuffiness of 3 months duration in another hospital where a radiological evaluation showed a polypoidal soft tissue lesion in the right maxillary sinus extending to the right nasal cavity and spheno-ethmoidal sinus. He underwent excision biopsy which was reported as non- keratinizing nasopharyngeal carcinoma. He was referred to our center with residual disease in spheno-ethmoidal recess for which radiotherapy was given. After completion of radiotherapy, the primary site had no residual disease, but while on follow-up he developed left sided neck nodes within 4 months of completion of treatment. Excision of the lesion was done and histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis revealed it to be metastasis from SMARCB1 deficient sinonasal carcinoma and not nasopharyngeal carcinoma as diagnosed from the other center. This case is being reported to highlight the diagnostic challenge associated with this rare entity.

Myeloid sarcoma (MS) is considered as an extramedullary manifestation of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with or without concurrent AML. It can present at any age and any site, however, nasopharynx being an extremely rare site of manifestation. MS may precede AML by weeks, months or years, thereby necessitating an early diagnosis and timely intervention and treatment. We report a case of MS in a young female who presented with nasal obstruction and epistaxis for 3 months. The present case also highlights the significance of judicious use of immunohistochemistry panel while dealing with a hematolymphoid neoplasm devoid of expression of B-cell or T cell specific markers in head and neck region.

Sarcina Ventriculi is a gram-positive anaerobic coccus rarely reported in patients with delayed gastric emptying, emphysematous gastritis, gastric ulcers, and perforation. So far, less than 30 cases of sarcina isolated from the stomach have been reported. Herein, we describe a case of a 66-year-old male with a history of persistent epigastric pain and regurgitation. The upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy revealed gastric erythema, edema, ulceration, and food bezoar. A gastric biopsy was done to rule out lymphoma. On histopathological examination, sarcina Ventriculi was identified. This organism is likely to get underreported as it may not be that obvious on routinely stained biopsies. Given its association with life-threatening illness such as emphysematous gastritis and perforation, awareness of this organism is important. It's presence in gastric biopsies must be mentioned in the report and should prompt the clinicians to investigate further for functional causes of delayed gastric emptying and gastric outlet obstruction like occult malignancy.

Naproxen is a widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) in pediatric population, used for mild-to-moderate pains, arthritis, and other immune-mediated disorders. It rarely causes clinically apparent liver injury in the adult population taking high doses of the drug over a prolonged period and is reported even rarer in pediatric population. We present a case of drug-induced liver injury (DILI) in a 13-year-old girl taking naproxen in therapeutic doses for juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. There was a complete recovery of liver function following discontinuation of naproxen therapy.

Burkholderia cepacia infections are common among immunocompromised patients but multiple reports have shown that it can affect immunocompetent patients also. We are reporting two patients with multiple liver and splenic abscesses caused by Burkholderia cepacia. First case is a 54-year-old diabetic male presenting with fever, abdominal pain, bilateral lower limb weakness, and incontinence of urine. Second case is a 41-year-old male presenting with fever and confusion. Both had liver and splenic abscesses. Pus aspirated from the abscesses grew Burkholderia cepacia. Both responded to cotrimoxazole. Our case report emphasizes growing incidence of Burkholderia cepacia in immunocompetent patients.

Biphasic squamoid alveolar renal cell carcinoma (BSARCC) is a newly emerging distinct and rare morphologic variant of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Morphological, immunohistochemical, and molecular data have shown that BSARCC is closely related to papillary RCC type 1. We report a case of Biphasic squamoid alveolar renal cell carcinoma with a rare presentation as cutaneous metastases. This variant tends to show an aggressive behavior. Hence, accurate histopathological diagnosis can help in effective treatment and for close follow-up of the patients.

Bee stings usually result in mild allergic reactions; however, mass envenomation can cause severe complications such as rhabdomyolysis, hemolysis, shock, or multi-organ damage. Rhabdomyolysis can result in acute renal failure either by tubular obstruction by myoglobin casts or by direct cytotoxic injury. We present a case of a 12-year-old female child who presented with sudden onset anuria and hypertension following mass envenomation by bees. A renal biopsy was performed, the microscopic evaluation of which revealed tubular injury, with associated intratubular pigmented casts. The casts stained positive for myoglobin immunohistochemical stain, thus confirming a diagnosis of myoglobin cast nephropathy. The patient was given IV steroids and underwent seven sessions of hemodialysis, following which there was complete recovery of renal function.

Atrophic kidney like lesion (AKLL) is a recently described benign entity with only 14 cases reported so far. Genitourinary Pathology Society proposed inclusion of AKLL as a provisional entity in 2021. It mimics thyroid follicular-like carcinoma of kidney as it has a follicular architecture. We report a case of an 18-year-old female with detection of renal mass, while the patient was being investigated for abdominal pain. Mediastinal nodes were also enlarged with detection of necrotizing granulomas on biopsy. Histology revealed a tumor enveloped by a thick capsule with smooth muscle fibers, varying sized follicles, interspersed atrophic tubules, and calcifications. Immunohistochemically, the “cystic follicles” show WT1 +/PAX8 -/CK7-phenotype, while atrophic tubules present between “cystic follicles” harbor WT1 -/PAX8 +/CK7 + phenotype. Morphological diagnosis and differential diagnosis will be discussed.

Phyllodes tumors (PTs) are uncommon biphasic breast neoplasms constituting 0.5 to 1.0% of all breast tumors. Malignant PTs form a very small proportion of these and may metastasize, especially to the lungs and bones. Aggression and metastatic potential are accentuated in tumors exhibiting heterologous differentiation. Metastases to the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) have seldom been reported and are often confined to a segment of the digestive tract. In the absence of relevant clinical history, such patients presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms can lead to diagnostic perplexities. We report a unique case of a malignant PT with extensive osteosarcomatous differentiation and widespread metastases to the GIT.

Introduction: Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is a rare complication of chicken pox. In adults, such AIHA is due to warm antibodies. We report a case of cold antibody AIHA following chicken pox in a young female. Case Report: A 24-year-old female presented with clinical and laboratory features consistent with hemolytic anemia 5 days after the onset of chicken pox. Her hemoglobin levels dropped rapidly during the course of admission from 7.9 to 3.8 g/dL with evidence of ongoing haemolysis in the form of rising total and indirect bilirubin. Peripheral smear revealed red cell agglutinates and erythrophagocytosis. Direct Coomb's test (DCT) was positive for C3d suggesting a cold antibody AIHA. Since test for Donath Landsteiner antibody was negative, and all other tests for common causes of hemolytic anemia were noncontributory, it was presumed to be due to chicken pox. The fulminant course necessitated a short course of oral steroids to which she responded with rise in hemoglobin and no further hemolysis. Two weeks later, her peripheral smear was normal and DCT negative. Conclusion: In patients presenting with acute onset anemia following chicken pox, possibility of cold antibody AIHA must be considered and appropriate testing pursued. Despite lack of empiric evidence, short course of steroids may be beneficial if drop in hemoglobin is rapid with evidence of fulminant hemolysis, showing no abatement after first week.

“Lineage switch” is term described when leukemic cells on relapse exhibit a new phenotype, where losses of one lineage defining markers with simultaneous gain of another lineage defining markers occur. Relapse of acute leukemia is although a very common event, lineage switch occurs and reported very rarely in such cases. The pathogenesis involved in this phenomenon remains unclear; however plasticity of hematopoietic progenitor affected by intrinsic and extrinsic environmental cues can be a possible explanation. In most of the cases at the time of relapse conversion of B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) to acute myeloid leukemia (AML) occurs. Here, we presented an unusual case of 10 year old boy with AML switched to T-ALL upon relapse, which is very rare and not well documented till date in literature. The diagnosis was further supported by morphologic, cytochemistry and flowcytometric immunophenotyping (FCM-IPT). Prognosis and survival of such cases remains poor even by the use of standard chemotherapy.

Systemic mycosis raging endemic, histoplasmosis has an increasing incidence with the advent of HIV-AIDS. The authors report a case of vertebra-medullar histoplasmosis mimicking tuberculous spondylodiscitis in a patient without proven immunosuppression. This was a patient who spent 3 years in a highly endemic area. He presented with signs of transverse myelitis. MRI of the lumbar spine showed a para-vertebral tumor lesion that partially infiltrated the spinal cord. The positive diagnosis of histoplasmosis was made by histomorphology, and symptoms were reduced with administration of itraconazole. These findings show the need for a proper coding of the management of patients living or having stayed in histoplasmosis endemic areas, whether they are immunocompromised or not.

Reports on atypical human trypanosomiasis, caused by Trypanosoma lewisi, are rare and so far a total of 19 reports on human infection with animal trypanosomes, which includes nine cases from Trypanosoma lewisi exist. Trypanosoma lewisi, a Stercorarian trypanosoma of rats, is transmitted by the fecal contamination of the wound or the bite caused by rat flea Ceratophyllus fasciatus. We report here an atypical neonatal infection of T. lewisi in a 22-day-old infant from Agra. The infant presented with a history of high fever, poor appetite, and lethargy for 3 days. The hematological parameters were normal except for a low platelet count. A high C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration of 70.49 mg/L indicated marked inflammation. The Leishman-stained thin blood smears were microscopically positive for the hemoflagellate. Based on the morphological features and further confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, the hemoflagellate was identified as T. lewisi. Symptomatic treatment and antibiotic therapy helped in an uneventful recovery of the patient.

This poem points out the misdeeds of human in their journey to overpower the nature and Mother Earth through science and technology and how the greed has led to the nature growing wild and deadly against human race by this COVID-19 pandemic.