Farname Inc in collaboration with Iranian Society of PathologyIranian Journal of Pathology1735-530316120210101Pre-analytical Practices in the Molecular Diagnostic Tests, A Concise Review1194685910.30699/ijp.2020.124315.2357ENMaryam SotoudehAnvariMolecular Pathology and Cytogenetics Division, Pathology Department, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran0000-0003-0854-4283Atoosa GharibDepartment of Pathology, Modarres Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranMaryam AbolhasaniOncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran; Hasheminejad Kidney Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran0000-0002-3046-5429Aileen Azari-YaamMolecular Pathology and Cytogenetics Division, Pathology Department, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran0000-0002-9061-7279Farzaneh HossieniGharalariDepartment of Pathology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran0000-0002-7326-2066Moeinadin SafaviMolecular Pathology and Cytogenetics Division, Pathology Department, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran0000-0002-4042-7506Ali Zare-MirzaieDepartment of Pathology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran0000-0001-8406-0876Mohammad VaseiCell-based Therapies Research Center, Digestive Disease Research Institute, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran0000-0002-4162-136XJournal Article20200408Molecular assays for detection of nucleic acids in biologic specimens are valuable diagnostic tools supporting clinical diagnoses and therapeutic decisions. Pre-analytical errors, which occur before or during processing of nucleic acid extraction, contribute a significant role in common errors which take place in molecular laboratories. Certain practices in specimen collection, transportation, and storage can affect the integrity of nucleic acids before analysis. Applying best practices in these steps, helps to minimize those errors and leads to better decisions in patient diagnosis and treatment. Widely acceptable recommendations, which are for optimal molecular assays associated with pre-analytic variables, are limited. In this article, we have reviewed most of the important issues in sample handling from bed to bench before starting molecular tests, which can be used in diagnostic as well as research laboratories. We have addressed the most important pre-analytical points in performing molecular analysis in fixed and unfixed solid tissues, whole blood, serum, plasma, as well as most of the body fluids including urine, fecal and bronchial samples, as well as prenatal diagnosis samples.https://ijp.iranpath.org/article_46859_099d228371f5c1f9ef59b863c08fb831.pdfFarname Inc in collaboration with Iranian Society of PathologyIranian Journal of Pathology1735-530316120210101The Frequency of Human Papillomavirus Positivity in Iranian Patients with Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma20264632110.30699/ijp.2020.119344.2300ENMitra RezaeiVirology Research Center, National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranDepartment of Pathology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran0000-0002-7242-5839Mahboobeh Karimi-GalougahiTracheal Research Center, National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranAzin KheradmandDepartment of Pathology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranMihan Pourabdollah ToutkaboniRespiratory Research Center, National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranHassan Mir Mohammad SadeghiOral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranAlireza AbdollahiImam Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran0000-0002-5714-967XAmirnader Emami RazaviIran National Tumor Bank, Cancer Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran0000-0001-6811-6075Ali Safavi NainiDepartment of ENT, National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Tehran, IranFarahnaz Bidari- ZerehpooshDepartment of Pathology, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranJournal Article20200107<strong>Background & Objective:</strong> Human papillomavirus (HPV) has been associated with prognosis in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Similar to the global studies, different prevalence rates of this viral infection have been reported in Iran. Therefore, we aimed to report the prevalence of this virus and its significance in HNSCC patients.<br /><strong>Methods:</strong> Patients who were referred to the five hospitals of Tehran city from May 2018 to May 2019 were enrolled in this study. All patients were diagnosed with HNSCC based on pathologic study. The pathologic disease staging was defined, and DNAs were extracted from the fresh tissue samples via kits. After polymerase chain reaction (PCR), HPV positive samples were evaluated for determining genotypes and data analysis.<br /><strong>Results:</strong> Of the 46 patients, three patients (6.5%) had positive HPV with the following subtypes: 18 (in two patients), 52 (in three patients), 61 (in two patients), 67, and 73.<br />Comparison of variables between the groups with and without HPV showed a significant difference based on the tumor’s lymphatic invasion (<em>p </em>=0.041), peripheral lymph node involvement (<em>p </em>=0.008), and histologic grade (<em>p </em>=0.011), but there was no statistically significant difference in terms of other variables such as age, primary tumor site, size, pathologic stage, vascular or perineural invasion, metastasis, smoking, and alcohol consumption.<br /><strong>Conclusion:</strong> HPV positivity is an important factor in the lymphatic invasion, peripheral lymph node involvement, and histologic grade of cases with HNSCC and should be further investigated for its effect on prognosis.https://ijp.iranpath.org/article_46321_786faeb42471d86eb44e0a73af92e77c.pdfFarname Inc in collaboration with Iranian Society of PathologyIranian Journal of Pathology1735-530316120210101Evaluation of the Relationship Between Expression of Villin and Gelsolin Genes and Axillary Lymph Node Metastasis in Patients with Breast Cancer27324692710.30699/ijp.2020.121532.2322ENArmin BorhanDepartment of Pathology, Cancer Institute of Iran, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran0000-0002-6170-7777Zohreh NozarianDepartment of Pathology, Cancer Institute of Iran, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranAlireza AbdollahiDepartment of Pathology, Cancer Institute of Iran, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran0000-0002-5714-967XReza ShahsiahDepartment of Pathology, Cancer Institute of Iran, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranHadiseh MohammadpourIran National Tumor Bank, Cancer Institute of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranArash BorhanIran National Tumor Bank, Cancer Institute of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranJournal Article20200212<strong>Background & Objective:</strong> Nowadays, actin-binding proteins such as Villin and Gelsolin have been considered to be associated with aggressive tumors. This study mainly aims to determine the relationship between Gelsolin and Villin genes expression and metastasis of axillary lymph nodes in patients with breast cancer.<br /><strong>Methods:</strong> The included population consisted of 40 confirmed cases of female breast cancer (including 20 patients with breast cancer along with axillary lymph node metastasis and 20 patients without axillary lymph node metastasis). Expression of Villin and Gelsolin genes was evaluated using Real-time PCR and pre-designed primers.<br /><strong>Results:</strong> The mean expression level of Villin in groups with and without axillary lymph node metastasis was 3.33±1.35 and 0.87±0.88, respectively (<em>p </em><0.001). The mean Gelsolin expression levels in both groups (with and without axillary lymph node metastasis) were 4.13±2.40 and 1.00±0.35, respectively (<em>p </em><0.001). The significant relationships were independent of individuals’ age.<br /><strong>Conclusion:</strong> Patients with axillary lymph node metastasis may express significant higher level of Villin and Gelsolin gens. https://ijp.iranpath.org/article_46927_7760b5a0c056b31fb40dd86d29729cd8.pdfFarname Inc in collaboration with Iranian Society of PathologyIranian Journal of Pathology1735-530316120210101Comparison of Immunohistochemistry Expression of CK7, HMWK and PSA in High-Grade Prostatic Adenocarcinoma and Bladder Transitional Cell Carcinoma33394692810.30699/ijp.2020.123998.2353ENReza GheitasiInstitute for Infectious Diseases and Infection Control, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran0000-0001-8278-685XEsmaeil SadeghiDepartment of Medicine, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, IranMohammad JafariDepartment of Pathology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, IranJournal Article20200403<strong>Background & Objective:</strong> Prostate adenocarcinoma is the most common malignancy in males, and the urothelial bladder carcinoma is also prevalent. The histological characteristic of these two tumors is very similar in high-grade cases, and their differentiation is difficult. This study was performed to compare the immunohistochemistry panel of high-grade prostate adenocarcinomas and high-grade urothelial bladder carcinomas.<br /><strong>Methods:</strong> In this cross-sectional study, 36 cases of prostate adenocarcinoma and 36 urothelial bladder carcinoma samples were collected from the pathology department of Shahid Beheshti Hospital in Hamedan. For each sample, expression of Cytokeratin 7, high-molecular-weight cytokeratin and Prostate-specific antigen markers was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Comparison of expression of these markers in high-grade bladder tumors and prostate tumors was made by SPSS 25 using Chi-square test.<br /><strong>Results:</strong> In this study, the Cytokeratin 7 positivity was seen in 88.9% of bladder cancer versus 27.8% of prostate cancer samples. High-molecular-weight cytokeratin positive immunoreactivity was noted in 55.6% of bladder cancer and 5.6% of prostate cancer samples. Prostate-specific antigen marker showed positive results in 94.4% of prostate cancer samples, but no positivity was evident in those of bladder cancer.<br /><strong>Conclusion:</strong> A panel of immunohistochemical stains can be used to differentiate high-grade prostate adenocarcinoma from urothelial bladder carcinoma in those cases which are challenging to diagnose.https://ijp.iranpath.org/article_46928_ebeb88e7509115125d7858733e2d7ab8.pdfFarname Inc in collaboration with Iranian Society of PathologyIranian Journal of Pathology1735-530316120210101Clinicopathological Significance of Tumor Stem Cell Markers ALDH1 and CD133 in Colorectal Carcinoma40504692910.30699/ijp.2020.127441.2389ENMaryam RezaeeOncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran0000-0002-2184-1250Elmira GheytanchiOncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranZahra MadjdOncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranOncopathology Research Center, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranMitra MehrazmaOncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranDepartment of Pathology, Hasheminejad Kidney Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran0000-0001-6686-2533Journal Article20200511<strong>Background & Objective:</strong> Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide with a high mortality rate. The main causes of death in patients are recurrence and metastasis which are mainly attributed to the small subpopulation of cells within tumors called cancer stem cells (CSCs). This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between the expression of AHDL1 and CD133 as CSC associated markers and clinicopathological characteristics in CRC.<br /><strong>Methods:</strong> In this cross-sectional study, a total of 483 CRC tumor samples were immunohistochemically stained for detection of CD133 and ALDH1 markers. Correlations of marker expression with clinicopathological factors were also evaluated.<br /><strong>Results:</strong> There was a significant correlation between the luminal intensity of CD133 and neural invasion (<em>p </em>=0.05) and between the cytoplasmic intensity of CD133 and metastasis (<em>p </em>=0.05). In terms of H-score, a positive significant relation was observed between cytoplasmic expression of CD133 and lymph node (<em>p </em>=0.02), neural (<em>p </em>=0.04) and vascular invasion (<em>p </em>=0.02). The ALDH1 cytoplasmic expression showed a significant correlation with tumor size (<em>p </em>=0.001).<br /><strong>Conclusion:</strong> Our findings showed that increased expression of CD133 and ALDH1 is associated with tumor progression and worse outcomes in CRC patients. These markers can be good candidates for localized targeting of CSCs using antibodies. Future researches need to be improved approaches for early detection of CRC, and treatment monitoring for CRC and other cancers.https://ijp.iranpath.org/article_46929_15565a3f4cede4ce96c2a9df8bc22186.pdfFarname Inc in collaboration with Iranian Society of PathologyIranian Journal of Pathology1735-530316120210101Prevalence and Main Determinants of BRAF V600E Mutation in Dysplastic and Congenital Nevi51564693010.30699/ijp.2020.130968.2451ENMaryam NasimiDepartment of Dermatology, Razi Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranAlireza GhanadanDepartment of Dermatopathology, Razi Hospital, Pathology Department of Cancer Institute, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranKambiz KamyabDepartment of Dermatopathology, Razi Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranVahidesadat AzhariDepartment of Dermatopathology, Razi Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranTahereh YousefiDepartment of Anatomical Pathology, Yas Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranJournal Article20200714<strong>Background & Objective:</strong> Predicting the transformation of dysplastic or congenital nevi into malignant lesions results in a significant increase in the survival of patients. Some specific gene mutations have been reported to be very helpful in this regard. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of BRAF V600E mutation in dysplastic and congenital nevi.<br /><strong>Methods:</strong> This cross-sectional study was conducted on patients with congenital (n=30) or dysplastic (n=30) nevi. For genomic analysis, the BRAF gene mutation (V600E) was evaluated using the real-time polymerase chain reaction.<br /><strong>Results:</strong> The prevalence of BRAF gene (V600E) mutation was found as 1 case (3.3%) in congenital and 8 cases (26.7%) in dysplastic nevi indicating the higher prevalence of this mutation in patients with dysplastic nevi (<em>p </em>=0.026). Moreover, in the dysplastic nevi group, the presence of BRAF gene mutation (V600E) showed a significant relationship with the severity of dysplasia as the mutation rate was 25% in mild cases, in comparison with 54.5% in moderate dysplasia cases (<em>p </em>=0.009).<br /><strong>Conclusion:</strong> According to the results, 3.3% of the patients with congenital nevi and 26.7% of the subjects with dysplastic nevi were positive for BRAF V600E mutation. Furthermore, the severity of dysplasia could have a positive relationship with the presence of the mutation.https://ijp.iranpath.org/article_46930_c7344c77e7d17394f1a0dd4e7afaafa0.pdfFarname Inc in collaboration with Iranian Society of PathologyIranian Journal of Pathology1735-530316120210101Cytogenetic Study of Patients with Primary Amenorrhea in the Northeast of Iran57614693110.30699/ijp.2020.115747.2258ENNarjes SoltaniCancer Molecular Pathology Research Center, Ghaem Medical Center Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranFarzaneh MirzaeiMedical Genetic Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran0000-0002-9963-856XHossein AyatollahiCancer Molecular Pathology Research Center, Ghaem Medical Center Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran0000-0002-4209-2543Journal Article20191130<strong>Background & Objective:</strong> Primary amenorrhea refers to the absence of menstruation in females of reproductive by age 16 when the development of secondary sexual characteristics is evident (breast development, pubic hair) or by age 14 when there are no secondary sexual characteristics are present. Primary amenorrhea can occur in several quite different reasons. Common hormonal causes of primary amenorrhea include constitutional delay, hypothalamic or pituitary disorders, chronic systemic disease, and primary ovarian insufficiency, some endocrine gland disorders, and other causes. Previous studies suggested that chromosomal abnormality is the second most common cause of amenorrhea. This report aims to measure the prevalence of the chromosomal abnormality in primary amenorrhea (PA) patients in the northeast of Iran.<br /><strong>Methods:</strong> Chromosomal study was carried out on 200 patients with clinical features. The standard method for culturing peripheral venous blood lymphocyte was to prepare metaphase chromosomes and perform routine GTG band analysis.<br /><strong>Results:</strong> The results revealed that 71% of PA had normal female karyotype (46,XX) and 29% showed different chromosomal abnormalities. The chromosomal abnormalities can be categorized into seven primary groups with or without mosaicism. 1- The most common karyotype was X chromosome aneuploidy (10.5%, n=21), 2- Male karyotype with or without structural abnormality of Y chromosome (5.5 %, n=11), 3- Mosaicism of turner karyotype and structural anomalies of X chromosome (4%, n=8), 4- Structural anomalies of the X chromosome (3.5%, n=7), 5- Mosaicism of turner karyotype and normal karyotype (3%, n=6), 6- Mosaicism of turner karyotype and male karyotype (1.5%, n=3) and 7- Super female karyotype (1%, n=2).<br /><strong>Conclusion:</strong> The present study has emphasized that early cytogenetic and timely investigation can be necessary for the evaluation of primary amenorrhea.https://ijp.iranpath.org/article_46931_89764f543ed5878bce7d3e52a675d883.pdfFarname Inc in collaboration with Iranian Society of PathologyIranian Journal of Pathology1735-530316120210101Variants of Genes Involved in Metabolism of Folate among Patients with Breast Cancer: Association of TYMS 3R Allele with Susceptibility to Breast Cancer and Metastasis62684686310.30699/ijp.2020.117676.2283ENZohreh RahimiMedical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, IranDepartment of Clinical Biochemistry, Medical School, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran0000-0001-7589-3307Maryam Bozorgi Zarini Bozorgi ZariniDepartment of Clinical Biochemistry, Kermanshah University of Medical SciencesZiba RahimiMedical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, IranEbrahim ShakibaDepartment of Clinical Biochemistry, Medical School, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, IranAsad Vaisi-RayganiFertility and Infertility Research Center, Medical School, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, IranMohammad Taher MoradiMedical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical SciencesKheirolah YariMedical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical SciencesJournal Article20191202<strong>Background & Objective:</strong> Breast cancer (BC) is known to be the most prevalent cancer among women. One-carbon metabolism (OCM) disturbance might play an important role in the etiology of BC. The present study aimed to investigate the thymidylate synthase (TYMS), 5-methyltetrahydrofolate-homocysteine methyltransferase (MTR), and methionine synthase reductase (MTRR) variants as good candidates for studying the role of genetic variants of folate metabolizing enzymes in the risk of BC.<br /><strong>Methods:</strong> The present case-control study consisted of 100 BC patients and 141 healthy females. The <em>TYMS</em> 2R/3R (rs34743033), <em>MTR</em> c.2756A>G (rs1805087), and <em>MTRR</em> c.66A>G (rs1801394) variants were detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP), and a designed amplification-refractory mutation system (ARMS) method, respectively.<br /><strong>Results:</strong> The 3R allele of <em>TYMS</em> enhanced the risk of BC by 2.84-fold (<em>p </em><0.001). In the presence of <em>TYMS</em> 3R/3R, compared to <em>TYMS</em> 2R/3R, there was a trend toward enhancing the risk of metastasis by 4.15-fold (95% CI: 0.96-17.85, <em>p </em>=0.055). The frequencies of <em>MTR</em> c.2756A>G and <em>MTRR</em> c.66A>G variants were not significantly different among patients and controls.<br /><strong>Conclusion:</strong> We observed that the <em>TYMS</em> 3R is a risk allele for susceptibility to BC and this allele tends to increase the BC metastasis.https://ijp.iranpath.org/article_46863_ada2366d6e4658b67e4b78b93513586b.pdfFarname Inc in collaboration with Iranian Society of PathologyIranian Journal of Pathology1735-530316120210101Five-year Survival Rate of Bladder Cancer in Iran during 2001-200769744686210.30699/ijp.2020.118375.2287ENMaryam KhayamzadehCancer Research Centre, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranFereshte AliakbariMen’s Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranZahra ZolghadrDepartment of Biostatistics, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranMajid EmadeddinMen’s Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranMahsa AhadiMen’s Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranMohammadEsmaeil AkbariCancer Research Centre, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranAmir Reza AbediUrology Department, Shohada-ye Tajrish Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranShahrzad NematollahiMen’s Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran0000-0003-1248-7306Seyed Jalil HosseiniMen’s Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranJournal Article20191211<strong>Background & Objective:</strong> Bladder cancer is the fourth most common cancer in men and the most common cancer in women, comprising 8% of all males and 3% of female tumors. The present study aimed to estimate the five-year survival rates of bladder cancer in Iran.<br /><strong>Methods:</strong> Information on3,337 registered cases of bladder cancer was obtained from the Office of National Cancer Registry in the Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MOH & ME). A telephone survey was conducted to gather additional information, such as survival status, demographic, and clinical profile. Kaplan–Meier estimates of five-year survival rates were calculated according to the age of diagnosis, gender, pathological type, and provincial pole.<br /><strong>Results and Conclusion:</strong> Overall five-year survival rate was 77%. According to the pathologic type, five-year survival rates were 81%, 66%, 81%, 42%, 77%, and 82% in low-grade urothelial carcinoma, high-grade urothelial carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, undifferentiated carcinomas, Squamous Cell Carcinomas (SCCs), and other tumors, respectively. Additionally, those tumors were 93%, 88%, 81%, 64%, and 44% among patients whose average ages at diagnosis were < 50, 50–59, 60–59, 70–79, and > 80 years old, respectively. Our study revealed that age and histological type were the major prognostic factors for survival in patients with bladder cancer. Therefore, given the histologic features of the tumor and patients with advanced age, a continuous screening would be highly warranted. https://ijp.iranpath.org/article_46862_e1038f230d534d427f66b70712250fec.pdfFarname Inc in collaboration with Iranian Society of PathologyIranian Journal of Pathology1735-530316120210101Online Assessment for Pathology Residents during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Report of an Experience75784693510.30699/ijp.2020.129558.2425ENAlireza AbdollahiDepartment of Pathology, Imam Hospital Complex, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.0000-0002-5714-967XAli LabbafDepartment of Emergency Medicine, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.Mahboobeh MafinejadEducation Development Center, Health Professions Education Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.Maryam Sotoodeh-AnvariEducation Development Center, Health Professions Education Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.Farid Azmoodeh-ArdalanDepartment of Pathology, Imam Hospital Complex, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.Journal Article20200620<strong>Background & Objective:</strong> The world is facing COVID-19 pandemic, and medical education system and consequently the evaluation of students at different levels have been overshadowed. Residency students are among those affected. In the present study, we aim to share our experiences regarding holding exams for pathology residents before and during the pandemic.<br /><strong>Methods:</strong> This cross-sectional study was carried out in Tehran University of Medical Sciences. The online exam, which consisted of 30 multiple-choice questions, was designed and held in April 2020 to evaluate pathology residents. To assess the quality of the exam, indices such as the number of questions, highest and lowest scores, the average score, the standard deviation, the variance, Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient, standard error of measurement, discrimination index, difficulty index, number/percentage of questions on three difficulty levels of easy, normal, hard were reviewed and analyzed.<br /><strong>Results and Discussion:</strong> The average score of the participants in the January exam which was held in the university’s exam center was 16.23 (±5.03), while the average score in the online exam which was held after the onset of the pandemic was 20.86 (±5.18). The average discrimination indices in the first and second exams were 0.36 and 0.38, respectively, and the average difficulty indices in the first and second exams were 0.54 and 0.70, respectively. We found the administration of this online examination would be a positive experience. By sharing it, we hope to pave the way for similar ventures in the other departments.https://ijp.iranpath.org/article_46935_3f7c447b5c933f63f550f19178343da3.pdfFarname Inc in collaboration with Iranian Society of PathologyIranian Journal of Pathology1735-530316120210101Necrotizing Skin Findings in Coronavirus Disease 2019: A Case Report79834693410.30699/ijp.2020.128904.2408ENFatmagul KuskuDr Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital, Department of Pathology, Istanbul, TurkeyDamlanur SakizDr Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital, Department of Pathology, Istanbul, TurkeyJournal Article20200609Coronavirus is a single-stranded RNA virus that causes acute respiratory syndrome and various skin lesions. In addition, ischemic acral lesions have been reported in patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) due to coagulation disorders. We here present a case with ischemic acral lesions caused by COVID-19. The patient was 51-year old male who was hospitalized with COVID-19 pneumonia. After 28 days in the Intensive Care Unit, patient developed acroischemic lesions in the fingers and toes. In the histopathologic examination, vasculitis was observed as the infiltration of mixed-type inflammatory cells in the mid-sized muscular arteries wall. Moreover, microthrombosis was detected in small capillaries. It is clear that thrombotic lesions have occurred as a result of COVID-19 or administered treatment. Further studies are required to confirm and better characterize the skin reactions in COVID-19.https://ijp.iranpath.org/article_46934_f2b19afff3601217e49ac1137e604a08.pdfFarname Inc in collaboration with Iranian Society of PathologyIranian Journal of Pathology1735-530316120210101Gliosarcoma with Adenoid and Chondrosarcomatous Differentiation: A Case Report84894693210.30699/ijp.2020.122606.2330ENElham JafariPathology and Stem Cell Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran0000-0001-9240-9177Shiva DidehbanPathology and Stem Cell Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran0009-0001-3112-0975Shahriar DabiriPathology and Stem Cell Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran0000-0002-5922-3976Behshad MofidClinical Research Unit, Shahid Bahonar Academic Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, IranJournal Article20200304A heterogeneous group of CNS tumors are characterized by mixed neuroepithelial and mesenchymal features. Glial tumors manifesting this phenomenon are referred to as gliosarcoma. These tumors are usually mistaken for cerebral metastases or meningioma at operation. Their histological studies have revealed an admixture of gliomatous and sarcomatous tissues, which leads to a biphasic pattern. The mesenchymal component can present in different forms such as fibrosarcoma, undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma, chondro-osteogenic, and myogenic differentiation, as well as angiosarcomatous and liposarcomatous types. Squamous differentiation, <em>adenoid</em> formations and glandular structures may also be displayed.<br />Herein, we report a rare case who was admitted to the emergency room with decreased consciousness resembling methadone poisoning. Clinical work-up showed a temporoparietal mass on radiological investigation. Histopathological evaluation of the brain mass revealed a gliosarcoma with adenoid formations and a mesenchymal component, which manifested as chondrosarcomatous differentiation. Immunohistochemical studies confirmed the histologic diagnosis through positivity for EMA, GFAP, S100, and vimentin expression in different components.https://ijp.iranpath.org/article_46932_91dc58d90640f930f98d6e4eefd6fd2c.pdfFarname Inc in collaboration with Iranian Society of PathologyIranian Journal of Pathology1735-530316120210101Postoperative Extra-Cranial Metastasis of Glioblastoma: A Case Report90944693310.30699/ijp.2020.122780.2349ENAtieh ZandnejadiDepartment of Pathology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.Arezoo Eftekhar-JavadiDepartment of Pathology, Sina hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran0000-0002-8977-551XHEDIEH MORADI TABRIZTehran University of Medical Sciences0000-0002-4033-3171Journal Article20200331Glioblastoma (WHO grade IV) is the most common malignant tumor of neural tissues in adults as a primary tumor. Because of blood brain barrier and short median survival of patients with glioblastoma, metastasis of this tumor is very rare. A 46-year-old man was admitted to Sina hospital with chief complaint of headache and visual impairment. After neuro-radiologic evaluation the patient underwent surgery. Pathologic examination of the tumor confirmed the diagnosis of glioblastoma multiforme. Cytogenetic study of the tumor cells confirmed GBM IDH1 wild type with TERT mutation and EGFR amplification. Two months after surgical resection, the tumor recurred with involvement of the dura matter. After the second operation, metastasis to the pelvic cavity and cervical lymph node was found. Almost all cases of glioblastoma metastasis had undergone surgery or any manipulation; this fact suggests that iatrogenic intra-vascular seeding of tumor cells at the time of resection and disruption of blood brain barrier could cause extra-neural metastasis.https://ijp.iranpath.org/article_46933_946e10e9aed4f6e1e17665d11c2b4619.pdfFarname Inc in collaboration with Iranian Society of PathologyIranian Journal of Pathology1735-530316120210101Peer Review Publication Skills Matter for Academicians95964693610.30699/ijp.2020.129608.2426ENPayam BehzadiDepartment of Microbiology, College of Basic Sciences, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran0000-0001-5441-3976Journal Article20200621Dear Editor<br /><br /><strong><br clear="all" /></strong><br />On July 21 (Sunday) and 23 (Tuesday) 2019, I had an opportunity to hold another workshop titled “How to write a scientific paper?” for Ph.D. students in Microbiology Department, Basic Sciences Faculty, the Islamic Azad University, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Tehran, Iran. I received brilliant feedback from the participants encouraging me to publish this letter to the editor.<br />The difficult work of writing is an art like rasping and grinding a rough diamond to have a polished and smooth diamond (1) or like making a film (2). Publishing peer-reviewed papers is a criterion for evaluating academic professionals and is an effective means of forming an academic career and resume (3).<br />As we know since the ancient era, the published texts are used as public official means to communicate with diverse people and populations. According to the latest archeological studies, the first handwriting belongs to 10400 years ago discovered in Baluchestan Province, the southeast of Iran (4).<br />The primitive means of scripts have evolved and now we have high-tech tools to publish different types of scripts as softcopies and hardcopies, as well as traditional and online publications (4, 5). English as an international language may connect all people around the world. Therefore, publishing scholarly papers in English language journals promotes the visibility and citation of the papers (5, 6).<br />A strong scientific paper needs a clear roadmap, a well-designed study, and an up-to-date quality proposal. Blurry hypothesis, poor-designed study, biases, inappropriate sample size (e.g., very small and limited populations or samples), and wrong or insufficient statistical analyses are the most common reasons for the rejection of papers (6-8).<br />I as a non-native English-speaking author and reviewer believe that the non-native English-speaking authors should think, imagine, and write their manuscripts in English. Many young non-native English-speaking authors write their manuscripts in their native language and then translate into English. This is very harmful because it makes your manuscript of poor quality in academic English language, results in more probability of rejection (7). <br />Consequently, in this challenge, the authors should prepare a well-planned manuscript with a strong and clear hypothesis (it goes back to the proposal) and relevant aims. Moreover, proper statistical analyses and calculations, correspondent methodology, appropriate and precise conclusion, sharp and clear figures, and well-designed and self-explanatory tables augment the opportunity of a manuscript for acceptance (Figure 1) (4, 6, 7, 9, 10).<br /> <br />Acknowledgements<br />I have special thanks to Islamic Azad University, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Tehran, Iran for approving the perfomance of the workshop on “How to write a scientific paper?”.<br /> <br />Conflict of Interest<br />The authors confirm that there are no known conflicts of interest associated with this publication, and there has been no significant financial support for this work that could have influenced its outcome.https://ijp.iranpath.org/article_46936_3bd02bbdd09823e9e3cb942ff9044625.pdf