Surveillance of patients after initial treatment of ovarian cancer

An increase of serum CA-125 to two times of nadir level strongly predicts the image-identified relapse of serous ovarian cancer

Using 70 U/ml or 35 U/ml as CA125 routine abnormal threshold may result in omissions in the relapse detection of Ovarian cancer (OvCa). This study aimed to clarify the association between a biochemical relapse (only the elevation of CA125) and an image-identified relapse to predict the relapsed lesions better. 162 patients who achieved complete clinical response were enrolled from women diagnosed with stage I-IV serous ovarian, tubal, and peritoneal cancers from January 2013 to June 2019 at our center. The CA125 level of 2 × nadir was defined as the indicator of image-identified relapse (P < 0.001). Compared to CA125 level exceeding 35 U/ml, the 2 × nadir of CA125 improve the sensitivity of image-identified relapse (84.9% vs 67.4%, P < 0.001); the 2 × nadir value can act as an earlier warning relapse signal with a longer median time to image-identified relapse (2.7 vs. 0 months, P < 0.001). Of the relapsed population, there was no difference of CA125 changing trend between the neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) and primary debulking surgery (PDS) group after initial treatment. Compared with 35 U/ml, CA125 reaching 2 × nadir during the follow-up process might be a more sensitive and early relapse signal in patients with serous OvCa. This criterion may help guide patients to be recommended for imaging examination to detect potential relapse in time.

Development of an Automatic Rule-Based Algorithm for the Detection of Ovarian Cancer Recurrence From Electronic Health Records

PURPOSE

As the onset of cancer recurrence is not explicitly recorded in the electronic health record (EHR), a high volume of manual chart review is required to detect the cancer recurrence. This study aims to develop an automatic rule-based algorithm for detecting ovarian cancer (OC) recurrence on the basis of minimally preprocessed EHR data.

METHODS

The automatic rule-based recurrence detection algorithm (Auto-Recur), using notes on image reading (positron emission tomography-computed tomography [PET-CT], CT, magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]), biomarker (CA125), and treatment information (surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy), was developed to detect the first OC recurrence. Auto-Recur contains three single algorithms (images, biomarkers, treatments) and hybrid algorithms (combinations of the single algorithms). The performance of Auto-Recur was assessed using sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the recurrence time detected. The recurrence-free survival probabilities were estimated and compared with the retrospective chart review results.

RESULTS

The proposed Auto-Recur considerably reduced human resources and time; it saved approximately 1,340 days when scaled to 100,000 patients compared with the conventional retrospective chart review. The hybrid algorithm on the basis of a combination of image, biomarker, and treatment information was the most efficient (sensitivity: 93.4%, specificity: 97.4%) and precisely captured recurrence time (average time error: 8.5 days). The estimated 3-year recurrence-free survival probability (44%) was close to the estimates by the retrospective chart review (45%, log-rank P value = .894).

CONCLUSION

Our rule-based algorithm effectively captured the first OC recurrence from large-scale EHR while closely approximating the recurrence-free survival estimates obtained by conventional retrospective chart reviews. The study findings facilitate large-scale EHR analysis, enhancing clinical research opportunities.

Circulating tumor DNA monitoring for early recurrence detection in epithelial ovarian cancer

OBJECTIVE

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the most lethal gynecologic malignancy. We examined the utility of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) as a prognostic biomarker for EOC by assessing its relationship with patient outcome and CA-125, pre-surgically and during post-treatment surveillance.

METHODS

Plasma samples were collected from patients with stage I-IV EOC. Cohort A included patients with pre-surgical samples (N = 44, median follow-up: 2.7 years), cohort B and C included: patients with serially collected post-surgically (N = 12) and, during surveillance (N = 13), respectively (median follow-up: 2 years). Plasma samples were analyzed using a tumor-informed, personalized multiplex-PCR NGS assay; ctDNA status and CA-125 levels were correlated with clinical features and outcomes.

RESULTS

Genomic profiling was performed on the entire cohort and was consistent with that seen in TCGA. In cohort A, ctDNA-positivity was observed in 73% (32/44) of presurgical samples and was higher in high nuclear grade disease. In cohort B and C, ctDNA was only detected in patients who relapsed (100% sensitivity and specificity) and preceded radiological findings by an average of 10 months. The presence of ctDNA at a single timepoint after completion of surgery +/- adjuvant chemotherapy and serially during surveillance was a strong predictor of relapse (HR:17.6, p = 0.001 and p < 0.0001, respectively), while CA-125 positivity was not (p = 0.113 and p = 0.056).

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of ctDNA post-surgically is highly prognostic of reduced recurrence-free survival. CtDNA outperformed CA-125 in identifying patients at highest risk of recurrence. These results suggest that monitoring ctDNA could be beneficial in clinical decision-making for EOC patients.

Interobserver and intraobserver variability of RECIST assessment in ovarian cancer

OBJECTIVES

Measurement of Response Evaluation Criteria In Solid Tumors (RECIST) relies on reproducible unidimensional tumor measurements. This study assessed intraobserver and interobserver variability of target lesion selection and measurement, according to RECIST version 1.1 in patients with ovarian cancer.

METHODS

Eight international radiologists independently viewed 47 images demonstrating malignant lesions in patients with ovarian cancer and selected and measured lesions according to RECIST V.1.1 criteria. Thirteen images were viewed twice. Interobserver variability of selection and measurement were calculated for all images. Intraobserver variability of selection and measurement were calculated for images viewed twice. Lesions were classified according to their anatomical site as pulmonary, hepatic, pelvic mass, peritoneal, lymph nodal, or other. Lesion selection variability was assessed by calculating the reproducibility rate. Lesion measurement variability was assessed with the intra-class correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

From 47 images, 82 distinct lesions were identified. For lesion selection, the interobserver and intraobserver reproducibility rates were high, at 0.91 and 0.93, respectively. Interobserver selection reproducibility was highest (reproducibility rate 1) for pelvic mass and other lesions. Intraobserver selection reproducibility was highest (reproducibility rate 1) for pelvic mass, hepatic, nodal, and other lesions. Selection reproducibility was lowest for peritoneal lesions (interobserver reproducibility rate 0.76 and intraobserver reproducibility rate 0.69). For lesion measurement, the overall interobserver and intraobserver intraclass correlation coefficients showed very good concordance of 0.84 and 0.94, respectively. Interobserver intraclass correlation coefficient showed very good concordance for hepatic, pulmonary, peritoneal, and other lesions, and ranged from 0.84 to 0.97, but only moderate concordance for lymph node lesions (0.58). Intraobserver intraclass correlation coefficient showed very good concordance for all lesions, ranging from 0.82 to 0.99. In total, 85% of total measurement variability resulted from interobserver measurement difference.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that while selection and measurement concordance were high, there was significant interobserver and intraobserver variability. Most resulted from interobserver variability. Compared with other lesions, peritoneal lesions had the lowest selection reproducibility, and lymph node lesions had the lowest measurement concordance. These factors need consideration to improve response assessment, especially as progression free survival remains the most common endpoint in phase III trials.

Prognostic utility of the ovarian cancer secretome: a systematic investigation

BACKGROUND

Ovarian cancer is usually detected at an advanced stage with frequent recurrence. The recurrence-free survival and overall survival is influenced by the age at diagnosis, tumor stage and histological subtype. Nonetheless, quantifiable prognostic biomarkers are needed for early identification of the high-risk patients and for personalized medicine. Several studies link tumor-specific dysregulated expression of certain proteins with ovarian cancer prognosis. However, careful investigation of presence of these prognostically relevant proteins in ovarian cancer secretome is lacking.

OBJECTIVE

To critically analyze the recent published data on prognostically relevant proteins for ovarian cancer and to carefully search how many of them are reported in the published ovarian cancer secretome datasets.

DESIGN

A search for relevant studies in the past 2 years was conducted in PubMed and a comprehensive list of proteins associated with the ovarian cancer prognosis was prepared. These were cross-referred to the published ovarian cancer secretome profiles. The proteins identified in the secretome were further shortlisted based on a scoring strategy employing stringent criteria.

RESULTS

A panel of seven promising secretory biomarkers associated with ovarian cancer prognosis is proposed.

CONCLUSION

Scanning the ovarian cancer secretome datasets provides the opportunity to identify if tumor-specific biomarkers could be tested as secretory biomarkers. Detecting their levels in the body fluid would be more advantageous than evaluating the expression in the tissue, since it could be monitored multiple times over the course of the disease to have a better judgment of the prognosis and response to therapy.

A case of rectal metastasis of ovarian carcinoma diagnosed by endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration: A case report and brief review of the literature (with videos)

When colorectal subepithelial lesions occur in ovarian carcinoma patients, EUS-FNA may help to diagnose colorectal metastasis, thereby guiding clinicians to select appropriate treatment and improve the overall outcome.

CA125 and Ovarian Cancer: A Comprehensive Review

Simple Summary

CA125 has been the most promising biomarker for screening ovarian cancer; however, it still does not have an acceptable accuracy in population-based screening for ovarian cancer. In this review article, we have discussed the role of CA125 in diagnosis, evaluating response to treatment and prognosis of ovarian cancer and provided some suggestions in improving the clinical utility of this biomarker in the early diagnosis of aggressive ovarian cancers. These include using CA125 to screen individuals with symptoms who seek medical care rather than screening the general population, increasing the cutoff point for the CA125 level in the plasma and performing the test at point-of-care rather than laboratory testing. By these strategies, we would detect more aggressive ovarian cancer patients in stages that the tumour can be completely removed by surgery, which is the most important factor in redusing recurrence rate and improving the survival of the patients with ovarian cancer.

Abstract

Ovarian cancer is the second most lethal gynecological malignancy. The tumour biomarker CA125 has been used as the primary ovarian cancer marker for the past four decades. The focus on diagnosing ovarian cancer in stages I and II using CA125 as a diagnostic biomarker has not improved patients’ survival. Therefore, screening average-risk asymptomatic women with CA125 is not recommended by any professional society. The dualistic model of ovarian cancer carcinogenesis suggests that type II tumours are responsible for the majority of ovarian cancer mortality. However, type II tumours are rarely diagnosed in stages I and II. The recent shift of focus to the diagnosis of low volume type II ovarian cancer in its early stages of evolution provides a new and valuable target for screening. Type II ovarian cancers are usually diagnosed in advanced stages and have significantly higher CA125 levels than type I tumours. The detection of low volume type II carcinomas in stage IIIa/b is associated with a higher likelihood for optimal cytoreduction, the most robust prognostic indicator for ovarian cancer patients. The diagnosis of type II ovarian cancer in the early substages of stage III with CA125 may be possible using a higher cutoff point rather than the traditionally used 35 U/mL through the use of point-of-care CA125 assays in primary care facilities. Rapid point-of-care testing also has the potential for effective longitudinal screening and quick monitoring of ovarian cancer patients during and after treatment. This review covers the role of CA125 in the diagnosis and management of ovarian cancer and explores novel and more effective screening strategies with CA125.

Treatment of epithelial ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is the third most common gynecologic malignancy worldwide but accounts for the highest mortality rate among these cancers. A stepwise approach to assessment, diagnosis, and treatment is vital to appropriate management of this disease process. An integrated approach with gynecologic oncologists as well as medical oncologists, pathologists, and radiologists is of paramount importance to improving outcomes. Surgical cytoreduction to R0 is the mainstay of treatment, followed by adjuvant chemotherapy. Genetic testing for gene mutations that affect treatment is the standard of care for all women with epithelial ovarian cancer. Nearly all women will have a recurrence, and the treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer continues to be nuanced and requires extensive review of up to date modalities that balance efficacy with the patient's quality of life. Maintenance therapy with poly ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitors, bevacizumab, and/or drugs targeting homologous recombination deficiency is becoming more widely used in the treatment of ovarian cancer, and the advancement of immunotherapy is further revolutionizing treatment targets.

Management of ovarian cancer: guidelines of the Italian Medical Oncology Association (AIOM)

INTRODUCTION

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecologic malignancy. Over 5200 new cases of this tumor are diagnosed yearly in Italy, resulting in more than 3600 deaths. In terms of molecular biology, five different ovarian cancer subtypes should be distinguished.

METHOD

This article summarizes the evidence-based guidelines that the Italian Medical Oncology Association (AIOM) has developed with a multidisciplinary panel of experts, including pathologists, gynecologic oncologists, medical oncologists, and radiotherapists, with the support of methodologists, to help clinicians involved in the management of patients with ovarian cancer in their daily clinical practice.

RESULTS

The most relevant randomized clinical trials regarding surgery, chemotherapy, and molecularly targeted agents (bevacizumab and PARP inhibitors) in early, advanced, and recurrent disease have been critically analyzed. The levels of evidence and strength of recommendation have been reported for any issue.

CONCLUSION

Women with a clinical suspicion of ovarian cancer should be centralized in referral centers. The BRCA test should be requested for all women with nonmucinous and nonborderline tumors, regardless of age and family history. BRCA testing could be preferentially performed on neoplastic tissue. In the presence of a positive tumor test, a genetic test should always be performed on a blood sample to differentiate between germline mutations, which require counseling and genetic testing of family members, and somatic mutations.

The Average Time Gap Between CA-125 Tumor Marker Elevation and Confirmation of Recurrence in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Patients at Princess Noorah Oncology Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

The monitoring of the tumor marker cancer antigen 125 (CA-125) is commonly used as a part of epithelial ovarian cancer monitoring for recurrence. This study seeks to calculate the average time between CA-125 elevation above 35 IU/mL and evidence of recurrence through any currently accepted modality (positive clinical findings, biopsy, imaging, or PET [positron emission tomography] findings) in a patient population in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

We studied patients who were diagnosed between January 2006 and December 2016, underwent successful primary therapy, and were then followed up at Princess Noorah Oncology Center, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. We adopted a cross-sectional chart review study design. We used inclusive (consecutive) sampling.

A total of 13 patients were included, of whom 76.9% (10 patients) developed CA-125 elevations above 35 IU/mL prior to the confirmation of recurrence. If all 13 patients are included in the mean average calculation, the mean average time elapsed between CA-125 elevation and confirmation of recurrence was 161.5 days (standard deviation ± 230.6). If only the 10 patients who did exhibit a CA-125 elevation above 35 IU/mL were included, the mean average was 210 days (standard deviation ± 244.2).

Extent and distribution of peritoneal disease in patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery for first platinum sensitive recurrence in ovarian cancer and its potential therapeutic implications

BACKGROUND

Selected patients with platinum sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer may benefit from cytoreductive surgery (CRS). The aim was to study the pattern of peritoneal involvement in these patients that has not been done before.

METHODS

A comparison was made between the surgical and pathological findings in 60 patients undergoing salvage CRS from July 2018 to December 2019. The sites of residual disease, correlation with surgical and pathological peritoneal cancer index (PCI), small bowel involvement and regional lymph node involvement were studied.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight (96.6%) had serous carcinoma and 2 (3.4%) clear cell carcinoma. The median surgical PCI (sPCI) was 7 [range 0-27] and median pathological PCI (pPCI) 4 [range 0-21]. CC-0 resection was performed in 81.6%. The upper regions (region 1,2,3) were the commonest sites of residual disease (63.3%) followed by lower regions (region 5,6,7) in 55.0%, middle regions (regions 0,4,8) in 53.3% and small bowel regions (regions 9-12) in 26.6%. Small bowel involvement was associated with a higher sPCI and pPCI (p < 0.001 for both). Regional nodes were involved in 46.6%. A pathological complete response was seen in 8 (13.3%) patients of which 2 had residual disease in regional nodes. Microscopic disease in 'normal appearing' peritoneum was seen in 21%.

CONCLUSIONS

The parietal peritoneum was the commonest site of recurrence. Small bowel involvement occurred late and was associated with more extensive disease. Regional lymph node involvement was seen nearly 50% and was a common site for occult disease. The role of more extensive parietal peritoneal resection for recurrent disease should be evaluated prospectively.

Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration for Assessing Suspected Deep Pelvic or Abdominal Recurrence in Gynecologic Cancer: A Feasibility Study

OBJECTIVES

To assess the feasibility of gastrointestinal endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided fine-needle aspiration (FNA) for histologic confirmation of cancer recurrence in women with gynecologic cancer.

METHODS

This work was a retrospective cohort study comprising 46 consecutive women treated for gynecologic cancer and suspected of having a deep pelvic or abdominal recurrence on ultrasound imaging, computed tomography, positron emission tomography-computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging, evaluated at our institution from January 2010 to December 2017. Primary cancer was ovarian (n = 22), cervical (n = 13), endometrial (n = 4), sarcoma (n = 4), and other (n = 3). All women underwent EUS examinations for locating the lesion and guiding FNA. The results of FNA (benign/malignant) were assessed. Procedure-related complications were recorded.

RESULTS

The patients' mean age was 57.8 years. A total of 66 procedures were performed. Eleven women underwent 2 procedures; 2 women underwent 3 procedures; and 1 woman underwent 6 procedures at different times during the study period. In 1 case, no lesion was detected on the EUS assessment, and in 2 cases, FNA was not successful. Most lesions were located in the retroperitoneum or involved the intestine. Fine-needle aspiration could be performed in 63 cases (94.5%). Cytologic samples were adequate in 62 of 63 (98.4%). Recurrence was confirmed in 56 cases (90.3%) and ruled out in 6 (9.7%). No patient had any complication related to the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided FNA is a minimally invasive, feasible, and safe technique for confirming pelvic/abdominal recurrence of gynecologic cancer.

Imaging strategy in recurrent ovarian cancer: a practical review

Ovarian cancer is one of the most aggressive gynaecologic malignancies in women worldwide. The lack of proper screening programs and the characteristic abdominal spreading with minimal clinical symptoms give rise of its high lethality. Most patients show advanced disease at diagnosis and have a poor prognosis. The surveillance of ovarian cancer patients after initial treatment is a challenging question in clinical practice and there is no consensus in literature about the most appropriate follow-up strategy for these women. The role of Imaging has become increasingly important, allowing to properly monitor patients, distinguishing the different relapse patterns, thus guiding the correct management and therapy. In this review, we report and analyze the scientific evidence about the role of the different imaging modalities now available in the follow-up strategy and management of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer patients with recurrent disease.

[Follow-up of patients treated for an epithelial ovarian cancer, place of hormone replacement therapy and of contraception: Article drafted from the French Guidelines in oncology entitled "Initial management of patients with epithelial ovarian cancer" developed by FRANCOGYN, CNGOF, SFOG, GINECO-ARCAGY under the aegis of CNGOF and endorsed by INCa]

OBJECTIVES

To define follow-up modalities after an epithelial ovarian, tubal or primitive peritoneal cancer. To define possibilities of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and contraceptive use after treatment.

METHODS

Systematic review of the literature in French and English langage conducted on Pubmed/Medline and the Cochrane Library.

RESULTS

After the treatment of an epithelial ovarian, tubal or primitive peritoneal cancer, symptoms evaluation for follow-up is recommended at 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, 24 months, and then yearly (Grade B). Only patients with an initial complete surgery (CC0, without any macroscopic signs of disease), and with a good general condition (ECOG 0) should be followed with paraclinic tests, with a serum HE4 or CA125 concentration measurement, from 6 months after the end of treatments (GradeC). Systematic follow-up with CT of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis is not recommended (GradeC). Imaging test is recommended in case of an increased serum concentration of HE4 or CA125 (Grade B). An HRT should be proposed to women younger than 45 after a non-conservative treatment for a high grade serous (GradeC) or for a mucinous (GradeC) ovarian, tubal or primitive peritoneal adenocarcinoma. HRT is not contra-indicated in women older than 45 presenting a climacteric syndrome after the treatment of a high grade serous (Grade B) or of a mucinous (GradeC) ovarian, tubal or primitive peritoneal adenocarcinoma.

Skin metastases in epithelial ovarian and fallopian tube carcinoma

This study aimed to investigate the clinical features and outcomes of skin metastasis in ovarian and fallopian tube carcinomas.We studied patients with epithelial ovarian or fallopian tube carcinoma who developed skin metastasis from 2001 through 2012, and were also treated with chemotherapy and/or surgery.Skin metastases were classified as umbilical metastasis (Sister Joseph nodule [SJN]) and nonumbilical metastasis. Patients who developed skin metastases at paracentesis sites were excluded.Of the 206 patients treated, 12 (5.8%) developed skin metastasis: 7 developed SJN, and 5 developed nonumbilical metastasis. Six patients had serous carcinoma, 3 had clear cell carcinoma, 2 had endometrioid carcinoma, and 1 had adenocarcinoma. Four patients out of the 7 who developed SJN had skin metastasis at initial diagnosis, and all 4 patients had SJN with concomitant peritoneal dissemination. Of the 4 patients, 3 received chemotherapy, and their survival ranged from 22 to 42 months. Of the 7 patients who developed SJN, 3 patients with stage IIIC disease developed an SJN at recurrence and were treated with surgery and/or chemotherapy. Their survival duration after recurrence ranged from 26 to 43+ months. Five patients developed nonumbilical metastases 3 to 53 months (median 34 months) after initial diagnosis: 3 cases occurred in incisional scars of primary surgery, and 2 in subcutaneous metastasis in the other sites. Survival after recurrence ranged from 56 to 140+ months in 3 patients with incisional scar recurrence, and it was 5 months in 2 other patients.Sister Joseph nodule developed only in patients with peritoneal dissemination, and most patients with SJN survived for >24 months. Nonumbilical metastases occurring in incisional scars of primary surgery may carry a favorable prognosis.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Gynecological Malignancies: Role in Personalized Management

Gynecological malignancies are a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in women and pose a significant health problem around the world. Currently used staging systems for management of gynecological malignancies have unresolved issues, the most important being recommendations on the use of imaging. Although not mandatory as per the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics recommendations, preoperative cross-sectional imaging is strongly recommended for adequate and optimal management of patients with gynecological malignancies. Standardized disease-specific magnetic resonance imaging protocols help assess disease spread accurately and avoid pitfalls. Multiparametric imaging holds promise as a roadmap to personalized management in gynecological malignancies. In this review, we will highlight the role of magnetic resonance imaging in cervical, endometrial, and ovarian carcinomas.

Nuclear medicine for imaging of epithelial ovarian cancer

Cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Usually, the diagnosis of cancer at an early stage is important to facilitate proper treatment and survival. Nuclear medicine has been successfully used in the diagnosis, staging, therapy and monitoring of cancers. Single-photon emission computed tomography and PET-based companion imaging agents are in development for use as a companion diagnostic tool for patients with ovarian cancer. The present review discusses the basic and clinical studies related to the use of radiopharmaceuticals in the diagnosis and management of ovarian cancer, focusing on their utility and comparing them with other imaging techniques such as computed tomography and MRI.

Benefits of fluorine-18 fludeoxyglucose positron emission tomography in secondary cytoreductive surgery for patients with recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the benefits of fluorine-18 fludeoxyglucose positron emission tomography ((18)F-FDG-PET) in patients undergoing secondary cytoreductive surgery (SCRS) for recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer.

METHODS

Patients were identified, and their clinical information was extracted by review of the gynaecologic oncology database of Peking Union Medical College Hospital. (18)F-FDG-PET scan and analysis were performed by nuclear medicine experts at our hospital.

RESULTS

The PET group and the control group of patients evaluated by conventional imaging methods differed significantly with respect to the proportion of patients who underwent complete SCRS and the number of residual lesions (p = 0.002 and 0.006, respectively). A Cox model showed that longer progression-free survival (PFS) correlated significantly with (18)F-FDG-PET evaluation [relative risk (RR) = 0.432; p = 0.001], sensitivity to platinum-based chemotherapies (RR = 0.604; p = 0.034) and resection completeness (RR = 0.679; p = 0.039). Longer overall survival (OS) correlated significantly with sensitivity to platinum-based chemotherapy (RR = 0.317; p = 0.000) and the CA-125 level after two cycles of chemotherapy (RR = 2.663; p = 0.003). Surgical safety and complications did not significantly differ between the two groups of patients.

CONCLUSION

(18)F-FDG-PET is useful for evaluating patients with recurrent epithelial ovarian carcinoma. Patients who undergo PET-guided SCRS have a greater chance of complete tumour resection and a longer PFS.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE

SCRS guided by PET results in fewer residual lesions. PET-guided SCRS is safe and can prolong PFS and OS in patients with recurrent ovarian cancer.

Clinical and Survival Impact of FDG PET in Patients with Suspicion of Recurrent Ovarian Cancer: A 6-Year Follow-Up

Background

The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the contribution of fluorine-18-fluoro-deoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) to the clinical management and survival outcome of patients (pts) suspected of recurrent ovarian carcinoma, with the hypothesis that early diagnosis of recurrent ovarian cancer may improve overall survival (OS).

Methods

Fifty-three FDG PET/CT scans were retrospectively analyzed for 42 pts. CT and PET/CT findings were confirmed by imaging and clinical follow-up, and/or pathology, which were considered as the gold standard diagnosis. The treatment plan based on CT staging was compared with that based on PET/CT findings. Medical records were reviewed for pts characteristics, progression-free survival (PFS), and OS. PFS and OS were analyzed using the Cox proportional hazards regression model.

Results

The final diagnosis of recurrence was established pathologically (n = 16), or by a median clinical follow-up of 6.5 years (range 0.5-7.5) after the PET/CT (n = 37). PET/CT provided a higher detection sensitivity (92.2%, 47/51) than CT (60.8%, 31/51) (p < 0.001). Globally, PET/CT modified the treatment plan in 56.6% (30/53) and in 65.2% (15/23) when the CT was negative prior to PET/CT. In 30 cases, those benefited from a modified treatment plan, these changes led to the intensification of a previous treatment procedure in 83.3% (25/30), and to a reduction in the previous treatment procedure in 16.6% of cases (5/30). The Cox regression multivariate analysis showed that the number of lesions visualized by CT and presence of lung lesions detected by PET/CT were significantly associated with PFS (p = 0.002 and p = 0.035, respectively).

Conclusion

On account of its impact on treatment planning, and especially in predicting patient outcome, FDG PET is a valuable diagnostic tool for cases of suspected ovarian cancer recurrence.

Diffusion-weighted imaging and dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI in assessing response and recurrent disease in gynaecological malignancies

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has an established role in imaging pelvic gynaecological malignancies. It is routinely used in staging endometrial and cervical cancer, characterizing adnexal masses, selecting optimal treatment, monitoring treatment and detecting recurrent disease. MRI has also been shown to have an excellent performance and an evolving role in surveillance of patients after chemoradiotherapy in cervical cancer, post-trachelectomy, detecting early recurrence and planning exenterative surgery in isolated central recurrences in both cervical and endometrial cancer and in young patients on surveillance for medically managed endometrial cancer. However, conventional MRI still has limitations when the morphological appearance of early recurrent or residual disease overlaps with normal pelvic anatomy or treatment effects in the pelvis. In particular, after chemoradiotherapy for cervical cancer, distinguishing between radiotherapy changes and residual or early recurrent disease within the cervix or the vaginal vault can be challenging on conventional MRI alone. Therefore, there is an emerging need for functional imaging to overcome these limitations. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the emerging functional MRI techniques and their applications in predicting treatment response, detecting residual disease and early recurrent disease to optimize the treatment options available using diffusion-weighted imaging and dynamic contrast enhancement particularly in cervical and endometrial cancer.

Serum HE4 detects recurrent endometrial cancer in patients undergoing routine clinical surveillance

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate serum HE4 as a biomarker to detect recurrent disease during follow-up of patients with endometrial adenocarcinoma (EAC).

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of 98 EAC patients treated at Innsbruck Medical University, between 1999 and 2009. Twenty-six patients developed recurrent disease. Median follow-up was 5 years. Serum HE4 and CA125 levels were analyzed using the ARCHITECT assay (Abbott, Wiesbaden, Germany) pre-operatively (baseline), post-operative (interval) and after histological confirmation of recurrent disease or when patients returned for clinical review with no evidence of recurrent disease (recurrence/final)). Receiver operator curves (ROC), Spearman rank correlation coefficient, chi-squared and Mann–Whitney tests were used for statistical analysis.

Results

HE4 levels decreased after initial treatment (p = 0.001) and increased again at recurrence (p = 0.002). HE4 was elevated (>70 pmol/L) in 21 of 26 (81%) and CA125 was elevated (>35 U/ml) in 12 of 26 (46%) patients at recurrence. In endometrioid histology (n = 69) serum HE4 measured during follow up (Area under the curve (AUC) = 0.87, 95%CI 0.79-0.95) was a better indicator of recurrence than CA125 (AUC = 0.67, 95%CI 0.52-0.83). A HE4 level of 70 pmol/L was associated with a sensitivity of 84%, a specificity of 74% and a negative predictive value of 93% when assessing for recurrent endometrioid EAC.

Conclusion

This is a preliminary description of HE4 serum levels measured during routine follow up of EAC patients. Serum HE4 measured during clinical follow-up may identify recurrent disease particularly in patients with endometrioid histology. Further prospective validation of HE4 is warranted.

Immuno-PET of epithelial ovarian cancer: harnessing the potential of CA125 for non-invasive imaging

Background

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is characterized by the overexpression of cancer antigen 125 (CA125), a mucinous glycoprotein that serves as a tumor biomarker. Early diagnosis of EOC is plagued by its asymptomatic nature of progression and the limitations of currently used immunoassay techniques that detect CA125 as a shed antigen in serum samples. Presently, there is no technique available for the in vivo evaluation of CA125 expression in malignant tissues. Moreover, there could be an unexplored pathophysiological time window for the detection of CA125 in EOC, during which it is expressed on tumor cells prior to being shed into the bloodstream. A method for the in vivo evaluation of CA125 expression on ovarian neoplasms earlier along disease progression and/or recurrence can potentially contribute to better disease management. To this end, the present work utilizes an anti-CA125 monoclonal antibody (MAb) and a single-chain variable fragment (scFv) labeled with the positron-emitting radionuclide ⁶⁴Cu for preclinical molecular imaging of CA125 expression in vivo.

Methods

Anti-CA125 MAb and scFv were prepared and functionally characterized for target binding prior to being tested as radiotracers in a preclinical setting.

Results

Immunoblotting, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry revealed specific binding of CA125-targeting vectors to NIH:OVCAR-3 cells and no binding to antigen-negative SKOV3 cells. ⁶⁴Cu-labeled anti-CA125 MAb and scFv were obtained in specific activities of 296 and 122 MBq/mg, respectively. Both radioimmunoconjugate vectors demonstrated highly selective binding to NIH:OVCAR-3 cells and virtually no binding to SKOV3 cells. In vivo radiopharmacological evaluation using xenograft mouse models injected with ⁶⁴Cu-labeled anti-CA125 MAb provided a standardized uptake value (SUV) of 5.76 (29.70 %ID/g) in OVCAR3 tumors 24 h post-injection (p.i.) versus 1.80 (5.91 %ID/g) in SKOV3 tumors. ⁶⁴Cu-labeled anti-CA125 scFv provided an SUV of 0.64 (3.21 %ID/g) in OVCAR3 tumors 24 h p.i. versus 0.25 (1.49 %ID/g) in SKOV3 tumors. Results from small-animal PET imaging were confirmed by ex vivo autoradiography and immunohistochemistry.

Conclusions

Radiolabeling of anti-CA125 MAb and scFv with ⁶⁴Cu did not compromise their immunoreactivity. Both radioimmunoconjugates presented specific tumor uptake and expected biological clearance profiles. This renders them as potential immuno-PET probes for targeted in vivo molecular imaging of CA125 in EOC.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13550-014-0060-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) in Oncology

Since its introduction in the early nineties as a promising functional imaging technique in the management of neoplastic disorders, FDG-PET, and subsequently FDG-PET/CT, has become a cornerstone in several oncologic procedures such as tumor staging and restaging, treatment efficacy assessment during or after treatment end and radiotherapy planning. Moreover, the continuous technological progress of image generation and the introduction of sophisticated software to use PET scan as a biomarker paved the way to calculate new prognostic markers such as the metabolic tumor volume (MTV) and the total amount of tumor glycolysis (TLG). FDG-PET/CT proved more sensitive than contrast-enhanced CT scan in staging of several type of lymphoma or in detecting widespread tumor dissemination in several solid cancers, such as breast, lung, colon, ovary and head and neck carcinoma. As a consequence the stage of patients was upgraded, with a change of treatment in 10%-15% of them. One of the most evident advantages of FDG-PET was its ability to detect, very early during treatment, significant changes in glucose metabolism or even complete shutoff of the neoplastic cell metabolism as a surrogate of tumor chemosensitivity assessment. This could enable clinicians to detect much earlier the effectiveness of a given antineoplastic treatment, as compared to the traditional radiological detection of tumor shrinkage, which usually takes time and occurs much later.

Current approaches and challenges in managing and monitoring treatment response in ovarian cancer

Epithelial ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death among gynecologic malignancies. Treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer remains a challenge despite advances in surgical and chemotherapeutic options. A goal of many providers is to detect recurrences as early as possible and initiate treatment though there is controversy as to whether this impacts outcome. Elevations in CA125 and radiological findings may precede symptoms of recurrence by several months. While detection of recurrences by physical exam alone is unusual, a thorough exam in conjunction with reported symptoms and elevated CA125 is sufficient to detect 80-90% of recurrences. A spiral CT scan may be used to confirm recurrence in the setting of asymptomatic CA125 elevation and a PET/CT can yield additional insight if the CT is inconclusive. Initiating chemotherapy prior to the development of symptoms, even in the setting of elevated CA125, does not impact overall survival primarily because the efficacy of available treatments in the recurrent setting is poor. More information about tumor biology and ways to predict which patients will benefit from available treatment options is required. Consequently, the approach to post-treatment surveillance should be individualized taking into account the clinical benefit of the second-line therapy, versus the costs and morbidity of the surveillance method.

Recurrence patterns after extended treatment with bevacizumab for ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancers

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate patterns of recurrence for ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancer patients undergoing extended treatment with bevacizumab (BEV).

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients with primary ovarian, fallopian tube, or peritoneal cancer treated with BEV alone or in combination with other chemotherapy from 2001 to 2011 was performed. Qualified patients were identified by chemotherapy records. Electronic medical records, labs, and imaging reports were reviewed and abstracted.

RESULTS

Of 108 patients identified, 89 patients met study criteria by having disease progression either during treatment with BEV or after discontinuing BEV without initiating any other treatment. Patients on extended BEV therapy (>12 cycles) were more likely to recur in extra-visceral sites (p=0.04), especially in lymph nodes (p=0.0002), and presented with fewer symptoms at time of recurrence (p=0.02), compared to patients who had received ≤ 12 cycles. CA-125 becomes less reliable for the detection of recurrent disease with extended BEV therapy (p=0.03 for ≤12 cycles vs. p=0.08 for >12 cycles). Radiology was superior to CA-125, symptom, and physical exam, in detecting recurrence with extended BEV therapy (all p<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Extended treatment with BEV in ovarian, fallopian tube, and peritoneal cancers results in alterations in the patterns of recurrence. Radiologic imaging is more reliable than CA-125, symptoms, or physical exam, in identifying recurrent disease in patients undergoing BEV treatment. As novel targeted therapies continue to be employed, guidelines for gynecologic cancer surveillance must continue to be reexamined.

New ways of assessing ovarian cancer response: metabolic imaging and beyond

In patients with advanced ovarian cancer, it can be challenging to evaluate response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy on computed tomography (CT) due to disseminated small volume disease and serosal disease. In addition, measuring the change in size of tumour burden takes time in order to allow tumour shrinkage. Despite these challenges, serum CA-125 levels and CT are the standard tools for the assessment of treatment response in ovarian cancer. New functional imaging techniques may allow the identification of response earlier and with higher accuracy. In this review article, we describe the current literature on functional imaging techniques in ovarian cancer response assessment, focusing on fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography.

Derivation and characterization of matched cell lines from primary and recurrent serous ovarian cancer

Background

Cell line models have proven to be effective tools to investigate a variety of ovarian cancer features. Due to the limited number of cell lines, particularly of the serous subtype, the heterogeneity of the disease, and the lack of cell lines that model disease progression, there is a need to further develop cell line resources available for research. This study describes nine cell lines derived from three ovarian cancer cases that were established at initial diagnosis and at subsequent relapse after chemotherapy.

Methods

The cell lines from three women diagnosed with high-grade serous ovarian cancer (1369, 2295 and 3133) were derived from solid tumor (TOV) and ascites (OV), at specific time points at diagnosis and relapse (R). Primary treatment was a combination of paclitaxel/carboplatin (1369, 3133), or cisplatin/topotecan (2295). Second line treatment included doxorubicin, gemcitabine and topotecan. In addition to molecular characterization (p53, HER2), the cell lines were characterized based on cell growth characteristics including spheroid growth, migration potential, and anchorage independence. The in vivo tumorigenicity potential of the cell lines was measured. Response to paclitaxel and carboplatin was assessed using a clonogenic assay.

Results

All cell lines had either a nonsense or missense TP53 mutations. The ability to form compact spheroids or aggregates was observed in six of nine cell lines. Limited ability for migration and anchorage independence was observed. The OV3133(R) cell line, formed tumors at subcutaneous sites in SCID mice. Based on IC₅₀ values and dose response curves, there was clear evidence of acquired resistance to carboplatin for TOV2295(R) and OV2295(R2) cell lines.

Conclusion

The study identified nine new high-grade serous ovarian cancer cell lines, derived before and after chemotherapy that provides a unique resource for investigating the evolution of this common histopathological subtype of ovarian cancer.

Recurrent ovarian cancer: when and how to treat

Notwithstanding continuing efforts to improve the primary treatment for ovarian cancer, most patients will ultimately develop recurrent disease. The benefits of detection and early systemic treatment of recurrence are now in doubt following the presentation of the MRC/EORTC CA125 surveillance trial. The impact of secondary cytoreductive surgery on survival requires more investigation. The role of antiangiogenic and other biological agents such as PARP inhibitors is becoming increasingly important for patients as an addition or alternative to the more conventional cytotoxic therapies available. Uncertainties and choices abound both in the treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer and the timing of such interventions. This article not only explores how to treat these patients but also the controversial issue of when to treat. Educating and involving the patient in decisions about their treatment options is of paramount importance.

The management of anxiety and knowledge of serum CA-125 after an ovarian cancer diagnosis

This article describes the relationship among anxiety, distress, and serum CA-125 levels in women with ovarian cancer. Women's anxiety about monitoring their CA-125 levels during chemotherapy also is discussed. Data from a randomized trial including self-reported anxiety and emotional distress of women following surgery after a primary diagnosis of ovarian cancer, their recorded serum CA-125 levels, and knowledge about their CA-125 levels were analyzed. In the sample, 26 of 30 women had serum CA-125 levels above the normal range. At baseline, the sample had an elevated mean anxiety score and an elevated distress score. A moderate association was found between a high serum CA-125 level and a high anxiety score at baseline, but the finding was not statistically significant. A negative nonsignificant relationship was found between a high serum CA-125 level and distress at baseline. The qualitative analysis revealed two themes: anxiety and lack of knowledge of serum CA-125. Oncology nurses and nurse practitioners caring for these women should provide essential information and strategies that can help guide women with ovarian cancer through the journey of their disease.

PET/CT in gynecologic cancer: present applications and future prospects--a clinician's perspective

This article briefly reviews the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of the common gynecologic malignancies, with an emphasis on the shortcomings of current clinical practice. The persistent need to achieve early diagnosis, adjust proper treatment, enhance surveillance, and improve the outcome of these patients has led to the development of new diagnostic modalities. Novel tools such as 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose PET/CT should aim at enhancing the clinician's ability to make critical decisions in treating difficult scenarios.

Posttreatment surveillance and diagnosis of recurrence in women with gynecologic malignancies: Society of Gynecologic Oncologists recommendations

Although gynecologic cancers account for only 10% of all new cancer cases in women, these cancers account for 20% of all female cancer survivors. Improvements in cancer care have resulted in almost 10 million cancer survivors, and this number is expected to grow. Therefore, determining the most cost-effective clinical surveillance for detection of recurrence is critical. Unfortunately, there has been a paucity of research in what are the most cost-effective strategies for surveillance once patients have achieved a complete response. Currently, most recommendations are based on retrospective studies and expert opinion. Taking a thorough history, performing a thorough examination, and educating cancer survivors about concerning symptoms is the most effective method for the detection of most gynecologic cancer recurrences. There is very little evidence that routine cytologic procedures or imaging improves the ability to detect gynecologic cancer recurrence at a stage that will impact cure or response rates to salvage therapy. This article will review the most recent data on surveillance for gynecologic cancer recurrence in women who have had a complete response to primary cancer therapy.

Ovarian cancer patient surveillance after curative-intent initial treatment

OBJECTIVE

Patient surveillance after potentially curative treatment of ovarian carcinoma has important clinical and financial implications for patients and society. The optimal intensity of surveillance for these patients is unknown. We aimed to document the current follow-up practice patterns of gynecologic oncologists.

METHODS

We created four idealized vignettes describing patients with stages I-III ovarian cancer. We mailed a custom-designed survey instrument based on the vignettes to the members of the Society of Gynecologic Oncologists (SGO). SGO members were asked, via this instrument, how often they requested 11 discrete follow-up evaluations for their patients for the first 10 postoperative years after treatment with curative intent.

RESULTS

We received 283 evaluable responses (30%) from the 943 SGO members and candidate members. The most frequently performed items for each year were office visit, pelvic examination, and serum CA-125 level. Imaging studies such as chest X-ray, abdominal-pelvic CT, chest CT, abdominal-pelvic MRI, and transvaginal ultrasound were rarely recommended. There was marked variation in the frequency of use of most tests. There was a decrease in the frequency of testing over time for all modalities.

CONCLUSION

This dataset provides detailed documentation of the self-reported surveillance practices of highly credentialed experts who manage patients with ovarian cancer in the 21st century. The optimal follow-up strategy remains unknown and controversial. Our survey showed marked variation in surveillance intensity. Identifying the sources of this variation warrants further research.

How to follow-up patients with epithelial ovarian cancer

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Despite optimal primary treatment most patients with advanced epithelial ovarian cancer will relapse. This review discusses the controversy regarding surveillance and the timing of treatment for recurrent disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

Routine physical examination has a limited role in the detection of recurrent ovarian cancer. PET/computed tomography (CT) has been shown to be useful in detecting small volume disease not apparent on traditional imaging in patients with suspected recurrence based on symptoms and/or rising CA125. The results of PET/CT can alter treatment plans and have particular use in guiding site-directed therapy. The benefits of early detection and systemic treatment of recurrence are now in doubt following the presentation of the MRC/EORTC CA125 surveillance trial. The impact on survival of secondary cytoreductive surgery requires more investigation.

SUMMARY

Uncertainties remain in the surveillance and timing of treatment for relapsed disease. Patients should be informed of these uncertainties and become involved in decisions regarding their follow-up.

Cancergazing? CA125 and post-treatment surveillance in advanced ovarian cancer

Post-treatment surveillance of advanced ovarian cancer involves regular testing of asymptomatic patients using the CA125 test. This practice is based on a rationale that is not supported by evidence from clinical trials. This paper aims to stimulate critical reflection concerning the effect of investigative tests on clinical decisions and interactions, and the experience of illness, particularly in the context of advanced malignant disease. Drawing on the idea of the "medical gaze", and building on previous health communication research, we present an analysis of in-depth interviews and psychometric tests collected in a prospective study of 20 Australian women with advanced ovarian cancer conducted between 2006 and 2009. We describe the demands placed on patients by the use of the CA125 test, some hazards it creates for decision-making, and some of the test's subjective benefits. It is widely believed that the CA125 test generates anxiety among patients, and the proposed solution is to educate women more about the test. We found no evidence that anxiety was a problem requiring a response over and above existing services. We conclude that the current debate is simplistic and limited. Focussing on patient anxiety does not account for other important effects of post-treatment surveillance, and educating patients about the test is unlikely to mitigate anxiety because testing is part of a wider process by which patients become aware of a disease that--once it has relapsed--will certainly kill them in the near future.

PET/CT in Gynecologic Cancer: Present Applications and Future Prospects-A Clinician's Perspective

This article briefly reviews the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of the common gynecologic malignancies, with an emphasis on the shortcomings of current clinical practice. The persistent need to achieve early diagnosis, adjust proper treatment, enhance surveillance, and improve the outcome of these patients has led to the development of new diagnostic modalities. Novel tools such as 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose PET/CT should aim at enhancing the clinician's ability to make critical decisions in treating difficult scenarios.

Major clinical research advances in gynecologic cancer 2009

In this review, we summarized nine major clinical advances in gynecology which occurred in 2009. For cervical cancer, the role of human papillomavirus (HPV) test as a screening test, the efficacy of HPV vaccine for middle-aged women, randomized controlled trial (RCT) regarding concurrent chemoradiation using gemcitabine plus cisplatin, and the efficacy of pazopanib for metastatic or recurrent disease were chosen. For endometrial cancer, the necessity of systematic pelvic lymphadenectomy in early endometrial cancer was reviewed. For ovarian cancer, the timing of treatment initiation for recurrent ovarian cancer, dose-dense chemotherapy as postoperative adjuvant treatment, the best chemotherapy regimen for platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer, and the efficacy of target agents were selected. In addition, the results of RCT testing the benefit of ginger in preventing post-chemotherapy nausea were examined.