Endoscopic prediction of deep submucosal invasive carcinoma: validation of the narrow-band imaging international colorectal endoscopic (NICE) classification

Background: A simple endoscopic classification to accurately predict deep submucosal invasive (SM-d) carcinoma would be clinically useful.

Objective: To develop and assess the validity of the NBI international colorectal endoscopic (NICE) classification for the characterization of SM-d carcinoma.

Design: The study was conducted in 4 phases: (1) evaluation of endoscopic differentiation by NBI-experienced colonoscopists; (2) extension of the NICE classification to incorporate SM-d (type 3) by using a modified Delphi method; (3) prospective validation of the individual criteria by inexperienced participants, by using high-definition still images without magnification of known histology; and (4) prospective validation of the individual criteria and overall classification by inexperienced participants after training.

Setting: Japanese academic unit.

Main outcome measurements: Performance characteristics of the NICE criteria (phase 3) and overall classification (phase 4) for SM-d carcinoma; sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and accuracy.

Results: We expanded the NICE classification for the endoscopic diagnosis of SM-d carcinoma (type 3) and established the predictive validity of its individual components. The negative predictive values of the individual criteria for diagnosis of SM-d carcinoma were 76.2% (color), 88.5% (vessels), and 79.1% (surface pattern). When any 1 of the 3 SM-d criteria was present, the sensitivity was 94.9%, and the negative predictive value was 95.9%. The overall sensitivity and negative predictive value of a global, high-confidence prediction of SM-d carcinoma was 92%. Interobserver agreement for an overall SM-d carcinoma prediction was substantial (kappa 0.70).

Limitations: Single Japanese center, use of still images without prospective clinical evaluation.

Conclusion: The NICE classification is a valid tool for predicting SM-d carcinomas in colorectal tumors.