Micro-Biopsy Forceps in the Assessment of Peritoneal Carcinomatosis: A Possible New Indication?

Clin Endosc. 2021 Jul;54(4):613-617. doi: 10.5946/ce.2020.241. Epub 2021 Mar 25.

Abstract

Peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) is defined as a metastatic involvement of the peritoneum by several other primary sites and it is characterized by a marked worsening of prognosis, with limited treatment opportunities. Subsequently, PC should be ruled out before any invasive treatment is administered. A new through-the-needle micro-biopsy forceps (MF) was recently introduced that permits micro-histology cores. In this case series, we evaluated the feasibility of MF in the assessment of PC to complete patient diagnostic work-ups. Five consecutive patients referred for endoscopic ultrasound staging were sampled using MF. Sampling was feasible in all patients with a technical success of 100%. No adverse events were reported in any cases. This technique was feasible and safe with a technical success rate of 100%. It permitted sampling of peritoneal irregularity, obtained high-quality tissue fragments in all cases, and enabled an additional assessment, i.e., immunohistochemical staining.

Keywords: Carcinomatosis; Endoscopic ultrasonography; Fine needle biopsy; Peritoneum.

Publication types

  • Case Reports