1.Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor:History, Molecular Subtypes, and Risk Stratification
In Hye SONG ; Soomin AHN ; Hyung-Don KIM ; Jeong-Hyeon JO ; Jinho SHIN ; Min-Hee RYU ; Young Soo PARK
Journal of Gastric Cancer 2026;26(2):202-218
The gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is one of the most common mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. Between the 1990s and early 2000s, GIST was identified as a tumor characterized by KIT or PDGFRA mutations, resulting in imatinib being established as an effective targeted therapy. However, with advances in molecular diagnostics, approximately 10%–15% of GISTs have been reported to harbor alternative mutations, such as those in the succinate dehydrogenase subunit genes and BRAF, leading to the development of additional targeted therapies. GISTs exhibit a wide spectrum of clinical behaviors, ranging from indolent to highly aggressive, prompting the development of diverse risk classification systems. However, multiple systems remain in use, leading to inconsistent pathologic reports. Moreover, the mitotic counting method—a key factor in risk stratification—has become a major source of confusion among pathologists owing to the adoption of digital pathology and discrepancies between updated international guidelines and outdated reimbursement requirements. These inconsistencies have hindered pathologic reporting and communication between pathologists and clinicians. This review comprehensively overviews the historical background, molecular subtypes, and risk classification systems of GIST, focusing on evolving issues in mitotic rate evaluation and the application of risk classification systems in clinical practice.
2.Misinterpreted Recurrence of Autoimmune Pancreatitis as Malignant Transformation of Branch-Duct Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm
Eun Jeong KIM ; Chang Hyun KIM ; Tae Seung LEE ; Jin Ho CHOI ; In Rae CHO ; Sang Hyub LEE ; Ji Kon RYU ; Woo Hyun PAIK
Korean Journal of Pancreas and Biliary Tract 2026;31(1):13-18
This case describes a male with a history of type 1 autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) who had a concomitant branch-duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm under long-term surveillance. During follow-up, new high-risk radiologic features developed within the pancreatic cyst, raising concern for malignant transformation and ultimately leading to surgical resection. However, final histopathologic examination revealed recurrent type 1 AIP rather than malignant progression of branch-duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm, a finding that represents an uncommon and diagnostically challenging manifestation. This case suggests that when new imaging changes are observed during surveillance of pancreatic cystic lesions, clinicians should consider not only malignant transformation but also the possibility of recurrence or coexistence of underlying diseases such as AIP.
3.Prognostic Significance of Pretreatment 18F-FDG PET/CT Parameters in Patients With ER+/HER2- Metastatic Breast Cancer Treated With CDK4/6 Inhibitors Plus Endocrine Therapy
Minseung SUH ; Jeongryul RYU ; Hojin SONG ; Jae Ho JEONG ; Sangwon HAN ; Hyehyun JEONG ; Jeong Eun KIM ; Yeokyeong SHIN ; Byung-Kwan JEONG ; Hee Jin LEE ; Gyungyub GONG ; Jin-Hee AHN ; Kyung Hae JUNG ; Sung-Bae KIM ; Dae Hyuk MOON
Korean Journal of Radiology 2026;27(4):363-374
Objective:
Cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK4/6) inhibitors combined with endocrine therapy (ET) constitute the standard systemic treatment for estrogen receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor 2-negative (ER+/HER2-) metastatic breast cancer (MBC). However, treatment responses remain heterogeneous, highlighting the need for reliable prognostic markers. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic significance of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET/CT findings in this setting.
Materials and Methods:
This retrospective single-center cohort study included patients with ER+/HER2- MBC who underwent18F-FDG PET/CT before initiating CDK4/6 inhibitors plus ET between 2018 and 2023. Maximum standardized uptake value(SUVmax), whole-body metabolic tumor volume (MTV), and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) were measured. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated as the primary and secondary outcomes, respectively, using multivariable Cox models. PET parameters (SUVmax, MTV, and TLG) were analyzed as both continuous and dichotomized variables based on median values, adjusting for relevant clinical covariates.
Results:
Among the 374 patients, 82 (21.9%) presented with de novo metastatic disease, and 357 (95.5%) received CDK4/6 inhibitors as first-line therapy. In multivariable Cox analysis, all continuous PET parameters were independently associated with PFS (adjusted hazard ratio for SUVmax 1.05 [95% confidence interval 1.02–1.08]; log-transformed MTV 1.16 [1.08–1.25]; and log-transformed TLG 1.14 [1.07–1.23]) and OS (SUVmax 1.08 [1.04–1.11]; log-transformed MTV 1.24 [1.12–1.38]; and log-transformed TLG 1.22 [1.11–1.34]) with all P < 0.001. Results based on dichotomized PET parameters were similar to those obtained with continuous values: PFS (adjusted hazard ratio for SUVmax ≥ 7.6, 1.41 [1.08–1.85]; MTV ≥ 21.2 cm 3 , 1.41 [1.08–1.86]; and TLG ≥ 78.9, 1.51 [1.14–1.99]) with P ≤ 0.013 and OS (1.43 [1.01–2.04]; 1.84 [1.28– 2.66]; and 1.73 [1.20–2.50], respectively) with P ≤ 0.046.
Conclusion
Pretreatment 18F-FDG PET/CT parameters are independent prognostic markers in patients with ER+/HER2- MBC receiving CDK4/6 inhibitors with ET, supporting their potential utility in risk stratification.
4.Safe use of hepatitis B surface antigenpositive grafts in liver transplantation:A nationwide study based on the KOTRY data
Sujin GANG ; YoungRok CHOI ; Kwang-Woong LEE ; Bong-Wan KIM ; Dong-Sik KIM ; Yang Won NAH ; Jongman KIM ; Jae Geun LEE ; Je Ho RYU ; Jaehong JEONG ; Geun HONG
Annals of Liver Transplantation 2026;6(1):41-55
Background:
In the era of nucleoside analogs (NA), we investigated the safety of using hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-positive grafts in liver transplantation (LT) using nationwide KOTRY data.
Methods:
Among 4,265 adult LTs in the KOTRY registry (April 2014–January 2020), 20 (0.5%) used HBsAg(+) grafts. The S(+) group was compared with HBsAg-nega-tive groups, both HBcAb(+) (C[+]) and HBcAb(−) (SC[−]), using 1:1 propensity scorematching. Patient and graft survival were evaluated using Kaplan–Meier analysis.Cox regression was used to identify prognostic factors.
Results:
No significant differences were observed in patient or graft survival be-tween S(+) and C(+) or SC(−) groups. Key prognostic factors for patient survivalincluded age, HCC, MELD score, ascites, and encephalopathy. For graft survival, HCC, preoperative HCC treatment, MELD score, ascites, and encephalopathy were significant. HBV recurrence occurred in the S(+) group, but did not compromise outcomes.
Conclusion
In HBV-endemic regions, HBsAg(+) liver grafts can be safely used to expand the donor pool without compromising LT outcomes when combined with appropriate prophylaxis.
5.Recent advances in single-port robotic thyroidectomy:evolution, techniques, and clinical outcomes
Jin Kyong KIM ; Dong Wook KIM ; Jae Sang RYU ; Sungkeun KANG ; Eun Jin KIM ; Sang-Wook KANG ; Jong Ju JEONG ; Kee-Hyun NAM ; Woong Youn CHUNG
Annals of Surgical Treatment and Research 2026;110(1):3-11
Robotic thyroidectomy has progressed from multiport to single-port (SP) platforms to minimize invasiveness and improve cosmesis. The da Vinci SP system (Intuitive Surgical) combines a flexible 3-dimensional endoscope with 3 wristed instruments in a single 2.5-cm cannula-enabled concealed remote access route and mitigates external arm collisions.This review synthesized PubMed-indexed reports (2020–2025) on SP robotic thyroidectomy using the following approaches:transaxillary variants, SP areolar, retroauricular/facelift (SP-hairline variants), and transoral approach. We focused on technical refinement, learning curves, and clinical outcomes. We highlight technical refinements and clinical outcomes across access routes. Contemporary series indicate that SP thyroidectomy is feasible and safe in well-selected patients, with high cosmetic satisfaction and operative metrics comparable to those of multiport cohorts. Among the SP routes, transaxillary variants have the most mature peer-reviewed reporting and are therefore discussed in greater detail. Early applications of SP-assisted lateral neck dissection have also been described. The limitations of current SP platforms include constrained counter-traction, reduced internal workspace, and incomplete integration of advanced energy devices.Nonetheless, ongoing device innovations and the growing global experience suggest that SP systems will increasingly shape endocrine neck surgeries.
6.Detection Ability of Quality of Life Changes and Responsiveness of the KOQUSS-40 and the EORTC QLQ-C30/STO22 in Patients Who Underwent Gastrectomy: A Prospective Comparative Study
Bang Wool EOM ; Keun Won RYU ; Ji Yeong AN ; Yun-Suhk SUH ; In CHO ; Sung Geun KIM ; Ji-Ho PARK ; Hoon HUR ; Hyung-Ho KIM ; Sang-Hoon AHN ; Sun-Hwi HWANG ; Hong Man YOON ; Ki Bum PARK ; Hyoung-Il KIM ; In-Gyu KWON ; Han-Kwang YANG ; Byoung-Jo SUH ; Sang-Ho JEONG ; Tae-Han KIM ; Oh Kyoung KWON ; Hye-Seong AHN ; Ji Yeon PARK ; Ki Young YOON ; Myoung Won SON ; Seong-Ho KONG ; Young-Gil SON ; Geum Jong SONG ; Jong Hyuk YUN ; Jung-Min BAE ; Do Joong PARK ; Sol LEE ; Jun-Young YANG ; Kyung Won SEO ; You-Jin JANG ; So Hyun KANG ; Joongyub LEE ; Hyuk-Joon LEE ;
Cancer Research and Treatment 2026;58(1):221-231
Purpose:
The aim of this study is to compare the detection ability of quality of life (QoL) changes and responsiveness of the KOrean QUality of life in Stomach cancer patients Study group (KOQUSS)-40 and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ).
Materials and Methods:
A multicenter prospective observational study was conducted to evaluate QoL changes after various gastrectomies between January 2021 and April 2022. Participants were instructed to complete the KOQUSS-40 and EORTC QLQ-C30/STO22 preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. QoL changes over time and QoL responsiveness were assessed for each questionnaire.
Results:
Data from 491 patients who underwent curative gastrectomy for gastric cancer at 22 institutions were analyzed. The summary scores of the KOQUSS-40 and EORTC QLQ-STO22 showed significant differences between the total and proximal gastrectomy groups (p=0.044 and p=0.038, respectively), but no difference was observed for the EORTC QLQ-C30. Dysphagia on the KOQUSS-40 was significantly different between the total and proximal gastrectomy groups (p=0.031); however, dysphagia on the EORTC QLQ-STO22 did not differ. The responsiveness of the KOQUSS-40 was similar to that of the EORTC QLQ in patients who experienced ≥ 10% body weight loss, but approximately 10% less in patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy than the EORTC QLQ.
Conclusion
KOQUSS-40 has several advantages over EORTC QLQ-C30/STO22 when comparing QoL between the total and proximal gastrectomy groups. The findings provide information for researchers investigating the QoL of patients who have undergone curative gastrectomy for gastric cancer.
7.Process of developing basic veterinary clinical performance guidelines based on common clinical manifestations in Korea
Kichang LEE ; Heungshik S. LEE ; Yong Jun KIM ; Incheol PARK ; Kangmoon SEO ; Seong Mok JEONG ; Kyu-Woan CHO ; Jin Young CHUNG ; Dongbin LEE ; Chun-Sik BAE ; Sung-Lim LEE ; Ki-Jeong NA ; Sooyoung CHOI ; Inseong JEONG ; Pan Dong RYU ; Sang-Soep NAHM
Journal of Veterinary Science 2026;27(2):e24-
Objective:
To explain process of developing basic veterinary clinical performance guidelines, based on frequently observable clinical manifestations, thereby supporting competencybased veterinary education in Korea.
Methods:
A structured review of learning outcomes established by Korean Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges (KAVMC) was conducted by a planning committee including veterinary educators, practitioners, and advisory members. Owner-oriented descriptions were used to frame each performance task, and each was mapped to corresponding learning outcomes. These tasks were aligned with learning outcomes recommended by the KAVMC to support the development of communication, clinical reasoning, and performance-related competencies among veterinary students, thereby enhancing day-one clinical readiness.
Results:
In total, 63 clinical manifestations for a guidebook format that can be used for clinical education were identified and categorized by organ systems that are described in language understandable to animal owners.
Conclusions
and Relevance: The basic veterinary clinical performance guidelines based on common clinical manifestations would serve as a vital component in veterinary education to reinforce core graduation competencies.
8.Higher Arterial Oxygen Levels Associated with Improved Survival in Neurocritically Ill Brain Tumor Patients
Sung-Jin LEE ; Yu Min SEONG ; Sook-young WOO ; Kwang-Hyuck LEE ; Jeong-Am RYU
Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society 2026;69(1):142-150
Objective:
: This study investigated the relationship between arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) levels in the first 24 hours of intensive care unit (ICU) admission and clinical outcomes in neurocritically ill brain tumor patients.
Methods:
: In this single-center retrospective study of 2123 brain tumor patients, we analyzed PaO2 levels from arterial blood gas samples within 24 hours of ICU admission. The primary endpoint was 28-day mortality. Analysis utilized multivariable logistic regression and inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW).
Results:
: PaO2 exceeding 91.5 mmHg was defined as hyperoxia. The non-hyperoxia group showed higher 28-day mortality than the hyperoxia group (15.5% vs. 6.0%, p<0.002), a trend that persisted after IPTW adjustment (10.7% vs. 6.6%, p=0.019). In IPTW-adjusted regression, non-hyperoxia remained significant (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 3.24; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.82–5.77). Survival analysis demonstrated significantly higher survival rates in the hyperoxia group (p<0.001). Subgroup analysis revealed significant heterogeneity across tumor types (p for interaction <0.001), with protective effects observed in malignant brain tumors (adjusted OR, 3.5; 95% CI, 1.88– 6.51) and brain metastases (adjusted OR, 3.86; 95% CI, 2.31–6.44), but not in benign tumors (adjusted OR, 1.14; 95% CI, 0.22–5.87).
Conclusion
: Elevated PaO2 levels within the first 24 hours of ICU admission were associated with decreased mortality rates, suggesting oxygenation as a potential therapeutic target in brain tumor patients. The protective effects were most pronounced in patients with malignant brain tumors and brain metastases, supporting a tumor type-specific approach to oxygenation management.
9.Delayed Bleeding With Variable Presentations in Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction During Adjuvant Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine (Kadcyla) Therapy: Two Case Reports
Seong Jun RYU ; Young Seok KIM ; In Sik YUN ; Kyunghyun MIN ; Joon JEONG ; Tai Suk ROH
Journal of Breast Cancer 2026;29(2):192-201
Ado-trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1) is an effective adjuvant therapy for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive breast cancer; however, its surgical safety profile remains unclear. We observed delayed bleeding with variable and often subtle clinical manifestations during implant-based breast reconstruction (IBBR). Two patients who received adjuvant T-DM1 therapy after IBBR were retrospectively reviewed. The patient in Case 1 developed a recurrent seroma and liquefied hematoma requiring repeated aspirations, with platelet counts decreasing from 218 × 109 /L to 33 × 109 /L before expander removal.The patient in Case 2 experienced an acute massive hematoma on postoperative day (POD) 2, prior to T-DM1 initiation, which resolved after re-exploration; a temporally distinct delayed hemorrhagic event occurred on POD 175 during T-DM1 therapy after radiotherapy, accompanied by a platelet nadir of 34 × 109 /L. Both patients required plateletpheresis and prolonged drainage. Delayed bleeding during T-DM1 therapy may reflect a combination of hematological suppression and vascular vulnerability. Therefore, vigilant surveillance and cautious postoperative rehabilitation are warranted.
10.A Practical Immunohistochemistry-Based Model for Predicting Pathologic Complete Response in Estrogen Receptor-Strong Positive and HER2-Negative Breast Cancer
Su Min LEE ; Jeong Eon LEE ; Seok Jin NAM ; Seok Won KIM ; Jonghan YU ; Byung Joo CHAE ; Se Kyung LEE ; Jai Min RYU ; Eun Yoon CHO ; Hyunwoo LEE ; Woong Ki PARK
Journal of Breast Cancer 2026;29(2):128-140
Purpose:
While the benefit of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) has been established in human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive and triple-negative breast cancers, its effectiveness in achieving pathological complete response (pCR) and optimal patient selection in estrogen receptor (ER)-positive, HER2-negative breast cancers remain less clearly defined. This study aimed to identify immunohistochemistry (IHC)-based predictors of pCR and to develop a scoring model for ER-strong positive/HER2-negative breast cancer.
Methods:
Data from a prospective cohort were retrospectively analyzed. We included 522 patients with ER-strong positive/HER2-negative tumors who received NAC and surgery between 2008 and 2021. IHC markers including progesterone receptor (PR), Ki-67, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), cytokeratin 5/6 (CK5/6), and p53 were evaluated to identify predictors of pCR. Independent predictors of pCR from multivariate logistic regression were used to develop a weighted 4-point model. Model performance was assessed using receiver operating characteristic analysis. The prognostic impact of pCR was evaluated using KaplanMeier and Cox regression analyses.
Results:
Independent predictors of pCR included PR-negative status, positivity for basallike markers (EGFR or CK5/6), and Ki-67 ≥ 50%. The scoring model demonstrated good discrimination for pCR (area under the curve = 0.754). pCR rates increased stepwise, with scores of 4.9% (low), 10.7% (intermediate), and 36.2% (high). In the high-score group, pCR was significantly associated with improved disease-free survival (hazard ratio [HR], 0.09; p = 0.023) and distant metastasis-free survival (HR, 0.11; p = 0.035), whereas no significant survival differences according to pCR status were observed in the low and intermediate score groups.
Conclusion
This IHC-based model predicts pCR and helps identify subgroups in which pCR is associated with meaningful survival benefit following NAC in ER-positive/HER2-negative breast cancers. High-scoring patients may benefit from NAC, while patients with low- or intermediatescores may be better managed with surgery and endocrine therapy. This model may support personalized treatment decisions regarding NAC.

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