Non‐invasive, in vivo, characterization of cutaneous metastases using a novel multimodal RCM‐OCT imaging device: a case‐series. (4th July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bang, A.S.; Monnier, J.; Harris, U.; Garfinkel, J.; Rubinstein, G.; Iftimia, N.; Pulitzer, M.; Murray, M.; Lacouture, M.E.; Jain, M.
• Is Part Of: Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology. Volume 36:Number 11(2022)
• Page Start: 2051
• Page End: 2054
• Publication Date: 2022-07-04
• Subjects: Dermatology -- Periodicals; Sexually transmitted diseases -- Periodicals; 616.5
• DOI: 10.1111/jdv.18344
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0926-9959

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Cutaneous metastases (CM) diagnosis is clinically challenging, requiring an invasive biopsy for confirmation. A novel, RCM‐OCT device combines the advantage of horizontal high‐resolution reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) images and vertical deeper optical coherence tomography (OCT) images to aid in non‐invasive diagnosis of CM from breast cancers. Objective: Characterize CM from breast cancers using RCM‐OCT device. Methods: Seven patients suffering from breast cancers with suspicious CM were consented and imaged with RCM‐OCT device. CM features were defined by comparing with histopathology. Tumour depths were measured on OCT and on H&E‐images and correlated using statistical analysis Pearson test. 3D‐OCT images were reconstructed to enhance tumour visualization. Results: 6/7 lesions were CM from breast cancers, and one was vascular ectasia, on histopathology. CM appeared as greyish‐darkish oval to round structures within the dermis on RCM and OCT‐images. On RCM, individual tumour cells were seen, enabling identification of even small tumour foci; while, on OCT deeper tumours were detected. Inflammatory cells, dilated vessels and coarse collagen were identified in the dermis. Pearson correlation had an r 2 of 0.38 and a significant P ‐value <0.004 for depth measurements. CM from breast cancers could be differentiated from ecstatic vessels on 3D‐reconstructed OCT image. Limitation: Small sample size and lack of clinical mimickers. Conclusion: RCM‐OCT can detect CM and has potential in aiding non‐invasive diagnosis and management.