1
|
Thiele B, Stein A, Schultheiß C, Paschold L, Jonas H, Goekkurt E, Rüssel J, Schuch G, Wierecky J, Sinn M, Tintelnot J, Petersen C, Rothkamm K, Vettorazzi E, Binder M. Trifluridine/Tipiracil Based Chemoradiation in locally Advanced Rectal Cancer: The Phase I/II TARC Trial. Clin Colorectal Cancer 2025; 24:11-17. [PMID: 39003182 DOI: 10.1016/j.clcc.2024.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Optimizing functional outcomes and securing long-term remissions are key goals in managing patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. In this proof-of-concept study, we set out to further optimize neoadjuvant therapy by integrating the radiosensitizer trifluridine/tipiracil and explore the potential of cell free tumor DNA (ctDNA) to monitor residual disease. METHODS About 10 patients were enrolled in the phase I dose finding part which followed a 3 + 3 dose escalation design. Tipiracil/trifluridine was administered concomitantly to radiotherapy. ctDNA monitoring was performed before and after chemoradiation with patient-individualized digital droplet PCRs. RESULTS No dose-limiting toxicities were observed at the maximum tolerated dose level of 2 × 35 mg/m² trifluridine/tipiracil. There were 9 grade 3 adverse events, of which 8 were hematologic with anemia and leukopenia. Chemoradiation yielded a pathological complete response in 1 out of 8 assessable patients, downstaging in nearly all patients, and 1 clinical complete response referred for watchful waiting. Three of 4 assessable patients with residual tumor cells at pathological assessment remained liquid biopsy positive after chemoradiation, but 1 turned negative. CONCLUSION In this exploratory phase I trial, the novel combination of neoadjuvant trifluridine/tipiracil and radiotherapy proved to be feasible, tolerable, and effective. However, the application of liquid biopsy as a potential marker for therapeutic de-escalation in the neoadjuvant setting requires additional research and prospective validation. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04177602.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Thiele
- Medical Oncology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Laboratory of Translational Immuno-Oncology, Department of Biomedicine, University and University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Alexander Stein
- Hematology-Oncology Practice Eppendorf (HOPE), Hamburg, Germany; University Cancer Center Hamburg (UCCH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Christoph Schultheiß
- Medical Oncology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Laboratory of Translational Immuno-Oncology, Department of Biomedicine, University and University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lisa Paschold
- Internal Medicine IV - Oncology/Hematology, University Hospital, Martin-Luther University, Halle, Germany
| | - Hanna Jonas
- Internal Medicine IV - Oncology/Hematology, University Hospital, Martin-Luther University, Halle, Germany
| | - Eray Goekkurt
- Hematology-Oncology Practice Eppendorf (HOPE), Hamburg, Germany; University Cancer Center Hamburg (UCCH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jörn Rüssel
- Internal Medicine IV - Oncology/Hematology, University Hospital, Martin-Luther University, Halle, Germany
| | - Gunter Schuch
- Hämatologisch- Onkologische Praxis Altona, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jan Wierecky
- Überörtliche Gemeinschaftspraxis für Innere Medizin Schwerpunkt Hämatologie, Onkologie und Palliativmedizin, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marianne Sinn
- University Cancer Center Hamburg (UCCH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Joseph Tintelnot
- University Cancer Center Hamburg (UCCH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Cordula Petersen
- University Cancer Center Hamburg (UCCH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; Department of Radiotherapy and Radiooncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kai Rothkamm
- University Cancer Center Hamburg (UCCH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; Department of Radiotherapy and Radiooncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Eik Vettorazzi
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Epidemiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mascha Binder
- Medical Oncology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Laboratory of Translational Immuno-Oncology, Department of Biomedicine, University and University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Fiorica F, Mandarà M, Giuliani J, Tebano U, Franceschetto A, Gabbani M, Rampello E, Condarelli G, Napoli G, Luca N, Mangiola D, Muraro M, Singh N, Remo A, Giorgi C, Pinton P. Circulating DNA in Rectal Cancer to Unravel the Prognostic Potential for Radiation Oncologist: A Meta-analysis. Am J Clin Oncol 2025; 48:83-91. [PMID: 39439084 DOI: 10.1097/coc.0000000000001148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Liquid biopsy, with its noninvasive nature and ability to detect tumor-specific genetic alterations, emerges as an ideal biomarker for monitoring recurrences for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). Completed studies have small sample sizes and different experimental methods. To consolidate and assess the collective evidence regarding the prognostic role of circulating DNA (ctDNA) detection in LARC patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT). METHODS Computerized bibliographic searches of MEDLINE and CANCERLIT (2000 to 2023) were supplemented with hand searches of reference lists. Study selection: studies evaluating oncological outcomes of patients with LARC treated with a nCRT comparing patients with positive and negative liquid biopsy at baseline and after nCRT. Data extraction: data on population, intervention, and outcomes were extracted from each study, in accordance with the intention to treat method, by 2 independent observers, and combined using the DerSimonian method and Laird method. RESULTS Nine studies follow inclusion criteria including 678 patients treated with nCRT. The pooled RD rate of ctDNA negative between measure at baseline and after nCRT is statistically significant 61% (95% CI: 53-70, P =0.0002). The hazard ratio (HR) of progression-free survival between ct-DNA negative and positive is significant 7.41 (95% CI: 4.87-11.289, P <0.00001). CONCLUSIONS ctDNA can identify patients with different recurrence risks following nCRT and assess prognosis in patients with LARC. Further prospective study is necessary to determine the utility of ctDNA in personalised therapy for patients with LARC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Fiorica
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Section of Radiation Oncology and Nuclear Medicine
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Section of Medical Oncology
| | - Marta Mandarà
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Section of Medical Oncology
| | - Jacopo Giuliani
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Section of Medical Oncology
| | - Umberto Tebano
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Section of Radiation Oncology and Nuclear Medicine
| | | | - Milena Gabbani
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Section of Radiation Oncology and Nuclear Medicine
| | - Elvira Rampello
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Section of Medical Oncology
| | - Giorgia Condarelli
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Section of Radiation Oncology and Nuclear Medicine
| | - Giuseppe Napoli
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Section of Radiation Oncology and Nuclear Medicine
| | - Nicoletta Luca
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Section of Radiation Oncology and Nuclear Medicine
| | | | - Marco Muraro
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Section of Radiation Oncology and Nuclear Medicine
| | - Navdeep Singh
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Section of Radiation Oncology and Nuclear Medicine
| | - Andrea Remo
- Department of Pathology, AULSS 9 Scaligera, Verona
| | - Carlotta Giorgi
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paolo Pinton
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
O'Sullivan NJ, Tohidinezhad F, Temperley HC, Ajredini M, Sokmen BK, Atabey R, Ozer L, Aytac E, Corr A, Traverso A, Meaney JF, Kelly ME. Multi-Institutional MR-Derived Radiomics to Predict Post-Exenteration Disease Recurrence in Patients With T4 Rectal Cancer. Cancer Med 2025; 14:e70699. [PMID: 39967347 PMCID: PMC11836347 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.70699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2024] [Revised: 11/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2025] [Indexed: 02/20/2025] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Local recurrence and distant metastasis remain a concern in advanced rectal cancer, with up to 10% and 20%-30% of patients suffering local and distal progression, respectively. Radiomics refers to a novel technology that extracts and analyses quantitative imaging features from images, which can be subsequently used to develop and test clinical models predictive of outcomes. We aim to develop and test an MRI-based radiomics nomogram predictive of disease recurrence in patients with T4 rectal cancer. METHODS We conducted a multi-institutional retrospective analysis of 55 patients with T4 rectal cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by exenterative surgery. Radiomic features were extracted from pre-treatment T2-weighted MRI scans and used to construct predictive models. The top-performing radiomic signatures were identified, and internal validation with 1000 bootstrap samples was performed to calculate optimism-corrected performance measures. RESULTS Two radiomic signatures were identified as strong predictors of post-operative disease recurrence. The best-performing model achieved an optimism-corrected AUC of 0.75, demonstrating good discriminative ability. Calibration plots showed a satisfactory fit of the predictions to the actual rates, and decision curve analyses confirmed the positive net benefit of the models. CONCLUSION The MRI-based radiomics nomogram provides a promising tool for predicting disease recurrence in T4 rectal cancer patients post-exenteration. This model could improve risk stratification and guide more personalized treatment strategies. Further studies with larger cohorts and external validation are needed to confirm these findings and enhance the model's generalizability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niall J. O'Sullivan
- Department of RadiologySt. James's HospitalDublinIreland
- School of MedicineTrinity College DublinDublinIreland
- Centre for Advanced Medical Imaging (CAMI)St. James's HospitalDublinIreland
| | - Fariba Tohidinezhad
- Department of Radiation Oncology (Maastro Clinic), School for Oncology and Reproduction (GROW)Maastricht University Medical CentreMaastrichtthe Netherlands
| | - Hugo C. Temperley
- Department of RadiologySt. James's HospitalDublinIreland
- School of MedicineTrinity College DublinDublinIreland
| | - Mirac Ajredini
- Acibadem UniversityAtakent Hospital Gastrointestinal Oncology UnitIstanbulTurkey
| | | | - Rumeysa Atabey
- Acibadem UniversityAtakent Hospital Gastrointestinal Oncology UnitIstanbulTurkey
| | - Leyla Ozer
- Acibadem UniversityAtakent Hospital Gastrointestinal Oncology UnitIstanbulTurkey
| | - Erman Aytac
- Acibadem UniversityAtakent Hospital Gastrointestinal Oncology UnitIstanbulTurkey
| | - Alison Corr
- Department of RadiologySt. James's HospitalDublinIreland
| | - Alberto Traverso
- School of MedicineLibera Università Vita‐Salute San RaffaeleMilanItaly
| | - James F. Meaney
- Department of RadiologySt. James's HospitalDublinIreland
- School of MedicineTrinity College DublinDublinIreland
- Centre for Advanced Medical Imaging (CAMI)St. James's HospitalDublinIreland
| | - Michael E. Kelly
- School of MedicineTrinity College DublinDublinIreland
- Department of SurgerySt. James's HospitalDublinIreland
- Trinity St. James Cancer Institute (TSJCI)St. James's HospitalDublinIreland
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yilmaz S, Liska D, Conces ML, Tursun N, Elamin D, Ozgur I, Maspero M, Rosen DR, Khorana AA, Balagamwala EH, Amarnath SR, Valente MA, Steele SR, Krishnamurthi SS, Gorgun E. What Predicts Complete Response to Total Neoadjuvant Therapy in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer? Dis Colon Rectum 2025; 68:60-68. [PMID: 39260428 DOI: 10.1097/dcr.0000000000003395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Total neoadjuvant therapy in the treatment of stage II and III rectal cancer involves the administration of either induction or consolidation chemotherapy with chemoradiation before surgery. Total neoadjuvant therapy is associated with an increased complete response rate, which is defined as the proportion of patients who either had a pathological complete response after surgery or sustained a clinical complete response for at least 1 year under surveillance. OBJECTIVE To identify the predictors of complete response to total neoadjuvant therapy and compare different diagnostic tools in predicting complete response. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTINGS A single tertiary care center. PATIENTS Patients with stage II and III rectal cancer who were diagnosed between January 2015 and December 2021. INTERVENTION Total neoadjuvant therapy. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Complete response rate, predictors of complete response, sensitivity and specificity of sigmoidoscopy, and MRI in predicting complete response. RESULTS One hundred nineteen patients (mean age 56 [±11.3] years, 47 [39.5%] women, 100 [84%] stage III rectal cancer) were included. The median tumor size was 5.1 (4-6.5) cm, and 63 (52.9%) were low rectal tumors. Twenty-one patients (17.6%) had extramural vascular invasion and 62 (52.1%) had elevated CEA at baseline. One hundred eight patients (90.8%) received consolidation chemotherapy. After total neoadjuvant therapy, 88 of 119 patients (73.9%) underwent surgery, of whom 20 (22.7%) had pathological complete response. Thirty-one patients (26.1%) underwent watch-and-wait, of whom 24 (77.4%) had sustained clinical complete response. Overall, the complete response rate was 37%. Low rectal tumors (OR 1.5 [95% CI, 1.03-2.4], p = 0.04) and absence of extramural vascular invasion (OR 2.2 [95% CI, 1.1-5.6], p = 0.01) were predictors of complete response. In predicting complete response, sigmoidoscopy was more sensitive (76.0% vs 62.5%) and specific (72.5% vs 69.2%) than MRI. The specificity further increased when 2 techniques were combined (82.5%). LIMITATIONS Retrospective study. CONCLUSIONS The complete response rate after total neoadjuvant therapy was 37%. Low rectal tumors and the absence of extramural vascular invasion were predictors of complete response. Sigmoidoscopy was better in predicting incomplete response, whereas combination (MRI and sigmoidoscopy) was better in predicting complete response. See Video Abstract. QU PREDICE LA RESPUESTA COMPLETA A LA TERAPIA NEOADYUVANTE TOTAL EN EL CNCER DE RECTO LOCALMENTE AVANZADO ANTECEDENTES:La terapia neoadyuvante total en el tratamiento del cáncer de recto en estadios II-III implica la administración de quimioterapia de inducción o de consolidación con quimio radiación antes de la cirugía. La terapia neoadyuvante total se asocia con una mayor tasa de respuesta completa, que se define como la proporción de pacientes que tuvieron una respuesta patológica completa después de la cirugía o una respuesta clínica completa sostenida al menos durante un año bajo vigilancia.OBJETIVO:Identificar los predictores de respuesta completa a la terapia neoadyuvante total y comparar diferentes herramientas de diagnóstico para predecir la respuesta completa.DISEÑO:Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo.LUGARES:Un único centro de atención terciaria.PACIENTES:Pacientes con cáncer de recto en estadio II-III diagnosticados entre enero de 2015 y diciembre de 2021.INTERVENCIÓN(S):Terapia neoadyuvante total.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Tasa de respuesta completa, predictores de respuesta completa, sensibilidad y especificidad de la sigmoidoscopia y la resonancia magnética para predecir la respuesta completa.RESULTADOS:Se incluyeron 119 pacientes [edad media 56 (±11,3) años, 47 (39,5%) mujeres, 100 (84%) cáncer de recto en estadio III]. La mediana del tamaño tumoral fue de 5,1 (4-6,5) cm, 63 (52,9%) fueron tumores rectales bajos. Veintiún (17,6%) pacientes tenían invasión vascular extramural (EMVI), 62 (52,1%) tenían CEA elevado al inicio del estudio. Ciento ocho (90,8%) pacientes recibieron quimioterapia de consolidación. Después de la TNT, 88 (73,9%) de 119 pacientes fueron intervenidos quirúrgicamente, de los cuales 20 (22,7%) tuvieron respuesta patológica completa. Treinta y un (26,1%) pacientes fueron sometidos a observación y espera, de los cuales 24 (77,4%) tuvieron una respuesta clínica completa sostenida. La tasa de respuesta completa general fue del 37%. Los tumores rectales bajos [OR 1,5 (IC 95% 1,03-2,4), p = 0,04] y la ausencia de EMVI [OR 2,2 (IC 95% 1,1-5,6), p = 0,01] fueron predictores de respuesta completa. Para predecir la respuesta completa, la sigmoidoscopia fue más sensible (76,0 % frente a 62,5 %) y específica (72,5 % frente a 69,2 %) que la resonancia magnética. La especificidad aumentó aún más cuando se combinaron dos técnicas (82,5%).LIMITACIONES:Estudio retrospectivo.CONCLUSIONES:La tasa de respuesta completa después de la terapia neoadyuvante total fue del 37%. Los tumores rectales bajos y la ausencia de EMVI fueron predictores de respuesta completa. La sigmoidoscopia fue mejor para predecir la respuesta incompleta, mientras que la combinación (MRI y sigmoidoscopia) fue mejor para predecir la respuesta completa. (Traducción-Dr Osvaldo Gauto ).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sumeyye Yilmaz
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - David Liska
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Madison L Conces
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Naz Tursun
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Doua Elamin
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Ilker Ozgur
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Marianna Maspero
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - David R Rosen
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Alok A Khorana
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | | | - Sudha R Amarnath
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Michael A Valente
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Scott R Steele
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | | | - Emre Gorgun
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Digestive Disease and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Curcean S, Gherman A, Tipcu A, Fekete Z, Muntean AS, Curcean A, Craciun R, Stanciu S, Irimie A. Impact of Sarcopenia on Treatment Outcomes and Toxicity in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:1606. [PMID: 39459393 PMCID: PMC11509686 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60101606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2024] [Revised: 09/18/2024] [Accepted: 09/30/2024] [Indexed: 10/28/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Sarcopenia, a condition characterized by muscle mass loss, is prevalent in up to 68% of rectal cancer patients and has been described as a negative prognostic factor, impacting overall survival and tumor response. While there are extensive data on rectal cancer globally, only a handful of studies have evaluated the role of sarcopenia in locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). Our study aimed to investigate the relationship between sarcopenia, overall response rate, and toxicity in patients who underwent total neoadjuvant treatment (TNT) for LARC. Materials and Methods: We performed a retrospective study of patients with rectal cancer treated with TNT and surgery with curative intent between 2021 and 2023 at Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuta Institute of Oncology, Cluj-Napoca. Sarcopenia was assessed on MRI images by measuring the psoas muscle area (PMA) at the level of the L4 vertebra before and after neoadjuvant therapy. The primary endpoints were the overall complete response rate (oCR) and acute toxicity. Results: This study included 50 patients with LARC. The oCR rate was 18% and was significantly associated with post-treatment sarcopenia (OR 0.08, p = 0.043). Patients who did not achieve a clinical or pathologic complete response had, on average, an 8% muscle loss during neoadjuvant therapy (p = 0.022). Cystitis and thrombocytopenia were significantly associated with post-treatment sarcopenia (p = 0.05 and p = 0.049). Conclusions: Sarcopenia and loss of psoas muscle during neoadjuvant therapy were negatively associated with tumor response in locally advanced rectal cancer. Thrombocytopenia and cystitis are more frequent in sarcopenic than non-sarcopenic patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemoradiation for rectal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Curcean
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Radiation Oncology, “Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuta” Oncology Institute, 34–36 Republicii Street, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandra Gherman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Medical Oncology, “Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuta” Oncology Institute, 34–36 Republicii Street, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandru Tipcu
- Faculty of Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Zsolt Fekete
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Radiation Oncology, “Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuta” Oncology Institute, 34–36 Republicii Street, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alina-Simona Muntean
- Department of Radiation Oncology, “Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuta” Oncology Institute, 34–36 Republicii Street, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andra Curcean
- Department of Imaging, Affidea Center, 15c Ciresilor Street, 400487 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Rares Craciun
- Department of Internal Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Gastroenterology Department, “Prof. Dr. O. Fodor” Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 400162 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Stefan Stanciu
- Faculty of Medicine, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandru Irimie
- Department of Oncological Surgery and Gynecological Oncology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes Street, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Oncological Surgery, “Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuta” Oncology Institute, 34–36 Republicii Street, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Giuliani J, Mandarà M, Muraro M, Rampello E, Franceschetto A, Fiorica F. "Defendit Numerus": A Pooled Analysis of 6145 Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer Treated with Preoperative Chemoradiotherapy. J Clin Med 2024; 13:5456. [PMID: 39336943 PMCID: PMC11432247 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13185456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2024] [Revised: 09/02/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective: The optimal management of rectal cancer remains a subject of ongoing research. This meta-analysis of individual patient data assessed the benefit of chemoradiotherapy (fluorouracil-based) in local advanced rectal cancer: disease-free survival and overall survival. Methods: We pooled the data of 6145 patients from 24 studies of rectal cancer who received neoadjuvant radiotherapy with concomitant fluorouracil or capecitabine and surgery. The PRISMA 2020 abstract checklist was followed. Individual participant survival was reconstructed with an algorithm from published Kaplan-Meier curves. Results: The median OS was not reached; the mean survival time was 135.4 months (127.9-141.5). The median DFS was 176.9 months, and the mean disease-free survival time was 122.6 months (111.7-131.9). Conclusions: We provided a benchmark for future studies on rectal cancer treatment. The present results can be used in decision-making for locally advanced rectal cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Francesco Fiorica
- Department of Oncology, Azienda ULSS 9 Scaligera, 37122 Legnago, VR, Italy; (J.G.); (M.M.); (M.M.); (E.R.); (A.F.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Bugano DDG, Santos VM, Campos-Bragagnoli A, Melo JCM, Romagnolo LGC, Barbosa Neto O, Carvalho IT, Karassawa-Helito J, Ortega CD, Tridente CF, Gerbasi LS, Tustumi F, Giovani Blasi PB, Novaes Figueiredo de Araujo M, Pandini RV, Seid VE, Portilho AS, Buosso A, Rolla F, Schettino GDPP, Araujo SEA. Brazil-TNT: A Randomized Phase 2 Trial of Neoadjuvant Chemoradiation Followed by FOLFIRINOX Versus Chemoradiation for Stage II/III Rectal Cancer. Clin Colorectal Cancer 2024; 23:238-244. [PMID: 38851990 DOI: 10.1016/j.clcc.2024.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neoadjuvant radiation and oxaliplatin-based systemic therapy (total neoadjuvant therapy-TNT) have been shown to increase response and organ-preservation rates in localized rectal cancer. However, trials have been heterogeneous regarding treatment protocols and few have used a watch-and-wait (WW) approach for complete responders. This trial evaluates if conventional long-term chemoradiation followed by consolidation of FOLFIRINOX increases complete response rates and the number of patients managed by WW. METHODS This was a pragmatic randomized phase II trial conducted in 2 Cancer Centers in Brazil that included patients with T3+ or N+ rectal adenocarcinoma. After completing a long-course 54 Gy chemoradiation with capecitabine patients were randomized 1:1 to 4 cycles of mFOLFIRINOX (Oxaliplatin 85, irinotecan 150, 5-FU 2400)-TNT-arm-or to the control arm, that did not include further neoadjuvant treatment. All patients were re-staged with dedicated pelvic magnetic resonance imaging and sigmoidoscopy 12 weeks after the end of radiation. Patients with a clinical complete response were followed using a WW protocol. The primary endpoint was complete response: clinical complete response (cCR) or pathological response (pCR). RESULTS Between April 2021 and June 2023, 55 patients were randomized to TNT and 53 to the control arm. Tumors were 74% stage 3, median distance from the anal verge was 6 cm, 63% had an at-risk circumferential margin, and 33% an involved sphincter. The rates of cCR + pCR were (31%) for TNT versus (17%) for controls (odds ratio 2.19, CI 95% 0.8-6.22 P = .091) and rates of WW were 16% and 9% (P = ns). Median follow-up was 8.1 months and recurrence rates were 16% versus 21% for TNT and controls (P = ns). CONCLUSIONS TNT with consolidation FOLFIRINOX is feasible and has high response rates, consistent with the current literature for TNT. This trial was supported by a grant from the Brazilian Government (PROADI-SUS - NUP 25000.164382/2020-81).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diogo Diniz Gomes Bugano
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil; Hospital Municipal Vila Santa Catarina, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Vanessa Montes Santos
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil; Hospital Municipal Vila Santa Catarina, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lucas Soares Gerbasi
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil; Hospital Municipal Vila Santa Catarina, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Francisco Tustumi
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil; Hospital Municipal Vila Santa Catarina, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Rafael Vaz Pandini
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil; Hospital Municipal Vila Santa Catarina, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Victor Edmond Seid
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil; Hospital Municipal Vila Santa Catarina, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Sarah Portilho
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil; Hospital Municipal Vila Santa Catarina, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Albert Buosso
- Hospital Municipal Vila Santa Catarina, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Rolla
- Hospital Municipal Vila Santa Catarina, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Sergio Eduardo Alonso Araujo
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil; Hospital Municipal Vila Santa Catarina, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Rizzo G, Amodio LE, D'Annibale G, Marzi F, Quero G, Menghi R, Tondolo V. Nonoperative management and local excision after neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy for rectal cancer. Minerva Surg 2024; 79:470-480. [PMID: 38953759 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-5691.24.10445-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Locally advanced extraperitoneal rectal cancer represents a significant clinical challenge, and currently, the standard treatment is based on neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy (CRT) followed by radical surgical resection with total mesorectal excision (TME). In the last 30 years, its management has undergone significant changes due to the improvement of complementary radio- and chemotherapy treatments, the improvement of minimally invasive surgical approaches and the diffusion of organ-sparing approaches, such as nonoperative management, commonly called "watch and wait" (NOM) and local excision (LE), in highly selected patients who achieve a major or complete response to neoadjuvant CRT. This review aimed to critically examine the efficacy and oncological safety of NOM and LE compared to those of standard TME in rectal cancer patients after neoadjuvant CRT. Both the pros and cons of these approaches were strictly analyzed, providing a comprehensive and critical overview of these novel management strategies for rectal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca Rizzo
- Unit of Digestive and Colorectal Surgery, Ospedale Isola Tiberina Gemelli Isola, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy -
| | - Luca E Amodio
- Unit of Digestive and Colorectal Surgery, Ospedale Isola Tiberina Gemelli Isola, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgio D'Annibale
- Unit of Digestive and Colorectal Surgery, Ospedale Isola Tiberina Gemelli Isola, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Marzi
- Unit of Digestive and Colorectal Surgery, Ospedale Isola Tiberina Gemelli Isola, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Quero
- Unit of Digestive Surgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Menghi
- Unit of Digestive Surgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Tondolo
- Unit of Digestive and Colorectal Surgery, Ospedale Isola Tiberina Gemelli Isola, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Turri G, Ostuzzi G, Vita G, Barresi V, Scarpa A, Milella M, Mazzarotto R, Ruzzenente A, Barbui C, Pedrazzani C. Treatment of Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer in the Era of Total Neoadjuvant Therapy: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2414702. [PMID: 38833249 PMCID: PMC11151159 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.14702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Treatment of locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) involves neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy plus total mesorectal excision and adjuvant chemotherapy. However, total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT) protocols (ie, preoperative chemotherapy in addition to radiotherapy) may allow better adherence and early treatment of distant micrometastases and may increase pathological complete response (pCR) rates. Objective To assess the efficacy and tolerability of TNT protocols for LARC. Data Sources MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Web of Science Core Collection electronic databases and ClinicalTrials.gov for unpublished studies were searched from inception to March 2, 2024. Study Selection Randomized clinical trials including adults with LARC who underwent rectal resection as a final treatment were included. Studies including nonoperative treatment (watch-and-wait strategy), treatments other than rectal resection, immunotherapy, or antiangiogenic agents were excluded. Among the initially identified studies, 2.9% met the selection criteria. Data Extraction and Synthesis Two authors independently screened the records and extracted data. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA)-compliant pairwise and network meta-analyses with a random-effects model were performed in a frequentist framework, and the certainty of evidence was assessed according to the confidence in network meta-analysis approach. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was pCR, defined as the absence of residual tumor at pathological assessment after surgery. Secondary outcomes included tolerability, toxic effects, perioperative outcomes, and long-term survival. Results Of 925 records identified, 27 randomized clinical trials, including 13 413 adults aged 18 years or older (median age, 60.0 years [range, 42.0-63.5 years]; 67.2% male) contributed to the primary network meta-analysis. With regard to pCR, long-course chemoradiotherapy (L-CRT) plus consolidation chemotherapy (relative risk [RR], 1.96; 95% CI, 1.25-3.06), short-course radiotherapy (S-RT) plus consolidation chemotherapy (RR, 1.76; 95% CI, 1.34-2.30), and induction chemotherapy plus L-CRT (RR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.09-2.25) outperformed standard L-CRT with single-agent fluoropyrimidine-based chemotherapy. Considering 3-year disease-free survival, S-RT plus consolidation chemotherapy (RR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.01-1.14) and induction chemotherapy plus L-CRT (RR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.01-1.24) outperformed L-CRT, in spite of an increased 5-year locoregional recurrence rate of S-RT plus consolidation chemotherapy (RR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.03-2.63). Conclusions and Relevance In this systematic review and network meta-analysis, 3 TNT protocols were identified to outperform the current standard of care in terms of pCR rates, with good tolerability and optimal postoperative outcomes, suggesting they should be recognized as first-line treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Turri
- Division of General and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Ostuzzi
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Vita
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Valeria Barresi
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Michele Milella
- Section of Oncology, Department of Engineering for Innovation Medicine, University of Verona Hospital Trust, Verona, Italy
| | - Renzo Mazzarotto
- Section of Radiotherapy, Department of Medicine, University of Verona Hospital Trust, Verona, Italy
| | - Andrea Ruzzenente
- Division of General and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Corrado Barbui
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Corrado Pedrazzani
- Division of General and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of Engineering for Innovation Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Nilbert M, Eberhard J, Engdahl Severin J, Edelhamre M, Torle F, Korkocic D, Jörgren F. Surgical decision-making following neoadjuvant immunotherapy for dMMR rectal cancer; case reports and review of the literature. Acta Oncol 2023; 62:1945-1951. [PMID: 37966970 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2023.2281005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mef Nilbert
- Division of Oncology and Pathology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Sweden
- Department of Hemathology, Oncology and Radiation Physics, Skane University Hospital Cancer Centre, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jakob Eberhard
- Division of Oncology and Pathology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Sweden
- Department of Hemathology, Oncology and Radiation Physics, Skane University Hospital Cancer Centre, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Marcus Edelhamre
- Department of Surgery, Helsingborg Hospital, Helsingborg, Sweden
| | - Filip Torle
- Department of Radiology, Helsingborg Hospital, Sweden
| | | | - Fredrik Jörgren
- Department of Surgery, Helsingborg Hospital, Helsingborg, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Aschele C, Glynne-Jones R. Selecting a TNT Schedule in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer: Can We Predict Who Actually Benefits? Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092567. [PMID: 37174033 PMCID: PMC10177050 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Many consider the standard of care for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) to be preoperative chemoradiotherapy, radical surgery involving a total mesorectal excision, and post-operative adjuvant chemotherapy based on the pathology of the specimen. The poor impact on distant control is a major limitation of this strategy, with metastasis rates remaining in the 25-35% range and recovery after radical surgery leading to reluctance with prescription and inconsistent patient compliance with adjuvant chemotherapy. A second limitation is the low rate of pathologic complete response (pCR) (around 10-15%) despite multiple efforts to potentiate preoperative chemoradiation regimens, which in turn means it is less effective at achieving non-operative management (NOM). Total neoadjuvant treatment (TNT) is a pragmatic approach to solving these problems by introducing systemic chemotherapy at an early timepoint. Enthusiasm for delivering TNT for patients with LARC is increasing in light of the results of published randomized phase III trials, which show a doubling of the pCR rate and a significant reduction in the risk of subsequent metastases. However, there has been no demonstrated improvement in quality of life or overall survival. A plethora of potential chemotherapy schedules are available around the radiotherapy component, which include preoperative induction or consolidation with a range of options (FOLFOXIRI, FOLFOX, or CAPEOX,) and a varying duration of 6-18 weeks, prior to long course chemoradiation (LCCRT) or consolidation NACT following short-course preoperative radiation therapy (SCPRT) using 5 × 5 Gy or LCCRT using 45-60 Gy, respectively. The need to maintain optimal local control is a further important factor, and preliminary data appear to indicate that the RT schedule remains a crucial issue, especially in more advanced tumors, i.e., mesorectal fascia (MRF) invasion. Thus, there is no consensus as to the optimum combination, sequence, or duration of TNT. The selection of patients most likely to benefit is challenging, as clear-cut criteria to individuate patients benefiting from TNT are lacking. In this narrative review, we examine if there are any necessary or sufficient criteria for the use of TNT. We explore potential selection for the individual and their concerns with a generalized use of this strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Aschele
- Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Oncology, Ospedale Sant'Andrea, Via Vittorio Veneto 197, 19121 La Spezia, Italy
| | - Robert Glynne-Jones
- Radiotherapy Department, Mount Vernon Centre for Cancer Treatment, Mount Vernon Hospital, Rickmansworth Rd., Northwood, London HA6 2RN, UK
| |
Collapse
|