Work

Nanoparticle-enhanced cytology: a 2025 breakthrough for rapid diagnosis of Erdheim–Chester disease

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD) is an ultra-rare non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis characterized by CD68-positive, CD1a/S100-negative histiocytes, frequently associated with BRAF V600E and MAPK pathway mutations. Diagnosis remains challenging due to its nonspecific presentation, reliance on invasive biopsies, and frequent diagnostic delays of several years. Nanoparticle (NP)-enhanced cytology, including surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, represents a promising breakthrough in 2025, enabling single-molecule sensitivity and multiplexed biomarker detection on cytology slides. NP-based imaging agents, such as Cu-Macrin for positron emission tomography, demonstrate high specificity for macrophage-rich lesions, while NP assays improve capture of circulating tumor DNA, including BRAF V600E. When integrated with AI-driven image analysis, NP-based approaches may overcome current diagnostic barriers, enabling earlier, less invasive, and more precise identification of ECD. Standardization of NP-based diagnostic protocols and continued research are essential to validate these emerging technologies and translate them into clinical practice.

Source: Annals of Medicine and Surgery

DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000004324

Authors: Awais Butt, Araj Naveed Siddiqui, Maliha Khalid, Muhammad Talha, Aminath Waafira

Institutions: Jinnah Sindh Medical University, King Edward Medical University, Maldives National University

Language: English

Topic: Histiocytic Disorders and Treatments

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,850