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Sodergren SC, Edwards R, Krishnatry R, Guren MG, Dennis K, Franco P, de Felice F, Darlington AS, Vassiliou V. Improving our understanding of the quality of life of patients with metastatic or recurrent/persistent anal cancer: a systematic review. Support Care Cancer 2025; 33:475. [PMID: 40372578 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-025-09520-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2025] [Indexed: 05/16/2025]
Abstract
PURPOSE Chemoradiation (CRT) is used to treat anal carcinomas which, for most patients with loco-regional disease, results in a cure but is associated with acute and chronic complications impairing quality of life (QoL). Patients with metastatic disease or recurrence are likely to experience additional QoL concerns. This paper identifies the QoL issues of these patients and determines whether the EORTC QLQ-ANL27 (QLQ-ANL27), a measure of QoL of patients treated with CRT for anal cancer used alongside the core EORTC QLQ-C30 (QLQ-C30), is suitable or needs adapting. METHODS A systematic review was conducted of studies published between 2014 and 2024 reporting QoL of patients with metastatic or recurrent/persistent anal cancer or follow-up data of patients treated with CRT for anal cancer. RESULTS This review included 23 papers, only three focused exclusively on metastatic and/or recurrent anal cancer. Most of the 53 reported symptoms related to bowel, urinary, and sexual functioning, with 60% covered by the QLQ-ANL27 or the QLQ-C30. Issues not captured include, for example, neuropathy, hair loss, musculoskeletal problems, urinary incontinence, and embarrassment. CONCLUSION There is a paucity of research looking specifically at QoL outcomes of patients with metastatic or recurrent anal cancer. Whilst the QLQ-ANL27 captures most QoL issues affecting these patients, it might require adapting to improve its sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rahul Krishnatry
- Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute University, Mumbai, India
| | - Marianne G Guren
- Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Pierfrancesco Franco
- University Hospital 'Maggiore della Carità', Novara, Italy
- University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
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2
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Padilla CS, Bergerot CD, Dijke K, Roets E, Boková G, Innerhofer V, Sodergren SC, Mancari R, Bergamini C, Way KM, Sapoznikov O, Burgers JA, Dejaco D, Tesselaar MET, van der Graaf WTA, Husson O. Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) Assessments in Research on Patients with Adult Rare Solid Cancers: A State-of-the-Art Review. Cancers (Basel) 2025; 17:387. [PMID: 39941756 PMCID: PMC11816368 DOI: 10.3390/cancers17030387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2024] [Revised: 01/20/2025] [Accepted: 01/22/2025] [Indexed: 02/16/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is an important patient-reported outcome for all cancer patients, including adult patients with rare solid cancers. However, current knowledge of HRQoL in this population is limited, which hinders the delivery of personalized care. This review aimed to explore the heterogeneity of HRQoL among adult patients with a solid rare cancer across the ten European Reference Network for Rare Adult Solid Cancers (EURACAN) domains and to summarize the HRQoL measures used in clinical research. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted to identify all clinical studies assessing HRQoL in adult patients with a solid rare cancer. Four databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, PsycINFO, and Web of Science/Scopus) were searched (February 2023). RESULTS The search yielded 18,704 articles, of which 1416 articles were fully screened and 463 were eligible for analysis. Of these, 397 studies used generic tools to assess HRQoL, while 270 used tumor-specific instruments. Three EURACAN domains (sarcoma, endocrine tumors, and thoracic tumors) primarily assessed HRQoL using generic questionnaires. Additionally, the rare gynecological tumor, rare male genitourinary, and sarcoma EURACAN domains lacked specific HRQoL measures. Brain, head and neck, and uveal melanoma EURACAN domains used tumor- or domain-specific questionnaires in more than half of the studies. CONCLUSIONS This state-of-the-art literature review shows that HRQoL assessment is gradually becoming more prevalent in adult solid rare cancer research. A combination of generic, tumor-specific, and domain-specific questionnaires across various rare cancer domains has proven effective in capturing a broad range of HRQoL issues. However, many EURACAN domains still lack specific strategies for assessing HRQoL, which limits the ability to fully understand and address patients' experiences. Future research should prioritize developing comprehensive and robust HRQoL measurement strategies and tools to enable meaningful clinical research and to ensure that the patient voice is incorporated in their clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina S. Padilla
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute—Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (E.R.); (M.E.T.T.); (W.T.A.v.d.G.); (O.H.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cristiane D. Bergerot
- Psycho-Oncology Services, Oncoclinicas & Co—Medica Scientia Innovation Research (MEDSIR), Sao Paulo 04543-906, Brazil;
| | - Kim Dijke
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute—Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Evelyne Roets
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute—Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (E.R.); (M.E.T.T.); (W.T.A.v.d.G.); (O.H.)
| | - Gabriela Boková
- International Accreditation Office, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, 7656 53 Brno, Czech Republic; (G.B.)
| | - Veronika Innerhofer
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (V.I.); (D.D.)
| | - Samantha C. Sodergren
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK; (S.C.S.); (K.M.W.)
| | - Rosanna Mancari
- Gynaecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy;
| | | | - Kirsty M. Way
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK; (S.C.S.); (K.M.W.)
| | - Olga Sapoznikov
- International Accreditation Office, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, 7656 53 Brno, Czech Republic; (G.B.)
| | - Jacobus A. Burgers
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute—Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Daniel Dejaco
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (V.I.); (D.D.)
| | - Margot E. T. Tesselaar
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute—Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (E.R.); (M.E.T.T.); (W.T.A.v.d.G.); (O.H.)
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute—Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Winette T. A. van der Graaf
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute—Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (E.R.); (M.E.T.T.); (W.T.A.v.d.G.); (O.H.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Olga Husson
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute—Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (E.R.); (M.E.T.T.); (W.T.A.v.d.G.); (O.H.)
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Hauken MA, Velure GK, Müller B, Sekse RJT. Sexual Health and Quality of Life in Cancer Survivors With Pelvic Radiation Injuries. Cancer Nurs 2024; 47:E298-E307. [PMID: 37449715 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000001259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little knowledge exists on how late radiation tissue injuries (LRTIs) affect sexual health and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in pelvic cancer survivors. OBJECTIVE To explore sexual health and HRQOL in cancer survivors with pelvic LRTI. METHOD A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted, including 83 pelvic cancer survivors with LRTI. Data on sexual health, LTRIs, and HRQOL were collected by validated questionnaires, whereas medical variables were collected from medical records. RESULTS Participants' sexual health was severely impaired. Bowel and urinary LRTIs correlated with most of the symptoms of impaired sexual health (Pearson r = -0.241 to -0.376, P < .05-.01). Men and women reported different sexual challenges related to functional and symptomatic variables but not on the gender-neutral aspects of sexual health. Younger survivors, gynecological cancer survivors, or those who received external and internal radiation or additional chemotherapy reported significantly ( P < .05-.001) higher levels of sexual impairment. Participants' HRQOL was impaired. Several dimensions of sexual health correlated significantly ( P < .05-.001) with the functional dimensions of reduced HRQOL. CONCLUSION Cancer survivors with pelvic LRTIs experience severely impaired sexual health across genders, with negative consequences for their HRQOL. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Healthcare professionals should include sexual health as an important part of individual patients' health and HRQOL throughout their treatment trajectory and follow-up, by screening sexual health, implementing measures and interventions to promote sexual health, and supporting survivors' coping and health-promoting strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- May Aasebø Hauken
- Author Affiliations: Centre for Crisis Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Bergen (Drs Hauken, Velure, and Müller); Hyperbaric Medicine Unit, Department of Occupational Medicine (Drs Velure and Müller), and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Dr Sekse), Haukeland University Hospital; and Faculty of Health Sciences, VID Specialised University (Dr Sekse), Bergen, Norway
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Axelsson A, Johansson M, Haglind E, Li Y, Nilsson PJ, Angenete E. Patient reported long-term side effects on bowel function and anal pain in anal cancer survivors - 3- and 6-year results from the Swedish national ANCA study. Colorectal Dis 2024; 26:54-62. [PMID: 38010060 DOI: 10.1111/codi.16814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
AIM The primary therapeutic option for anal cancer treatment is chemoradiotherapy resulting in 80% survival. The aim of this study was to assess long-term bowel function impairment and anal pain at 3 and 6 years after anal cancer diagnosis, based on a hypothesis of an increase in impairment over time. A secondary aim was to investigate if chemoradiotherapy increased the risk for bowel impairment, compared to radiotherapy alone. METHOD The ANal CAncer study (ANCA) consists of a national Swedish cohort of patients diagnosed with anal cancer between 2011-2013. Patients within the study were invited to respond to a study-specific questionnaire at 3- and 6-years after diagnosis. Descriptive analyses for the primary endpoint and ordinal logistic regressions for secondary endpoint were performed. RESULTS A total of 388 patients (84%) were included in the study. At 3 years of follow-up, 264 patients were alive. A total of 195 of these patients (74%) answered a study specific questionnaire, and at 6 years 154 patients (67%). Fifty-seven percent experienced bowel urgency at both 3 and 6 years. There was an increased risk for repeated bowel movement within 1 h (OR 2.44 [95% CI: 1.08-5.61, p = 0.03]) at 3 years in patients who had been treated by chemoradiation compared to radiotherapy alone. CONCLUSIONS Impairment in bowel function and anal pain after anal cancer treatment should be expected and remains after 6 years. This suggests that long-term follow-up may be necessary in some form after customary follow-up. The addition of chemotherapy increases long-term side effects of bowel function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Axelsson
- Department of Surgery, SSORG-Scandinavian Surgical Outcomes Research Group, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Oncology, Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital/Sahlgrenska, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Mia Johansson
- Department of Oncology, Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital/Sahlgrenska, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Oncology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Eva Haglind
- Department of Surgery, SSORG-Scandinavian Surgical Outcomes Research Group, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Surgery, Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital/Östra, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Surgery, SSORG-Scandinavian Surgical Outcomes Research Group, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Per J Nilsson
- Department of Pelvic Cancer, Division of Coloproctology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eva Angenete
- Department of Surgery, SSORG-Scandinavian Surgical Outcomes Research Group, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Surgery, Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital/Östra, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Parkin E, Kallipershad S, Nasser A, Al-Mudhaffer M, Rosero D, Haston J, Williamson D, Mitchell P. Predictors of recurrence following local excision for early-stage anal squamous cell carcinoma. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SURGICAL ONCOLOGY 2023; 49:107093. [PMID: 37801832 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2023.107093] [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: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is increasing use of local excision (LE) for definitive treatment of early-stage anal squamous cell carcinoma (ASCC) to avoid the morbidity associated with chemoradiotherapy (CRT). However, the importance of different histological variables on risk of recurrence is poorly understood. METHODS A detailed analysis of patient characteristics, histology results, recurrence patterns and salvage treatment was conducted in consecutive T1/T2N0 ASCC patients treated by LE 2010-2021 across a UK regional cancer network multi-disciplinary team (MDT). Associations between potential predictors of disease recurrence were explored using chi-squared and Kruskal-Wallis tests for categorical and continuous variables respectively. RESULTS Of 621 ASCC patients discussed in the network MDT, 164 had early-stage disease (T1/T2 N0). Of these, 36 (22%) were deemed suitable for LE (median age 61 years, female to male ratio 2:1). Twenty-two LE tumours were T1; 14 were T2. There were 12 well-differentiated tumours, 21 moderate and 3 poorly-differentiated. Seven out of 36 LE patients (19.4%) developed recurrence, all of whom went on to have salvage treatment with CRT (n = 4), re-excision (n = 2) or radiotherapy (n = 1). Predictors of disease recurrence following LE were: tumour differentiation (p = 0.024), tumour depth (p = 0.033) and R1 resection margin (p = 0.034). Tumour stage and site (margin/canal) were non-significant. CONCLUSION LE for T1/T2 N0 ASCC of the margin or canal is a viable treatment strategy to avoid the morbidity associated with CRT and salvage treatments are still available for patients that develop recurrence. Tumour differentiation, depth and margin status are all important factors to consider when discussing management of early-stage ASCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Parkin
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, United Kingdom; Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, United Kingdom.
| | - S Kallipershad
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, United Kingdom
| | - A Nasser
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, United Kingdom
| | - M Al-Mudhaffer
- Department of Histopathology, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, United Kingdom
| | - D Rosero
- Department of Histopathology, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, United Kingdom
| | - J Haston
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, United Kingdom
| | - D Williamson
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, United Kingdom
| | - P Mitchell
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, United Kingdom
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Lefèvre AC, Serup-Hansen E, Storm KS, Wind KL, Kronborg C, Spindler KLG. One-Year Treatment-Related Side Effects and Quality of Life After Chemoradiotherapy in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Anus. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2023; 115:1165-1177. [PMID: 36179989 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2022.09.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Patient-reported outcome (PRO) and National Cancer Institute-Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (NCI-CTCAE) data for patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA) treated with modern radiation therapy (RT) are lacking. The primary aim of this study was to report bowel and bladder PRO and NCI-CTCAE for patients with SCCA 1 year after RT. METHODS AND MATERIALS From 2015 to 2020, we included patients in a prospective Danish national study. Data were collected before treatment (PT) and 1 year after treatment (1Y) using NCI-CTCAE version 4.0, as well as European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaires C30 and CR29. We evaluated the combined PRO scores according to the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer scoring guidelines, and classified changes according to score difference from PT to 1Y as no change (0-5), minor (5-10), moderate (11-20), and major (>20). Raw scores were reported as frequencies of each of the scores: Not at all, a little, quite a bit, and very much. RESULTS Of the 270 patients, 81% had complete data sets, including PT and 1Y answers. Functional mean scores were equal to a matched normal population cohort at PT and 1Y. From PT to 1Y, C30 scores were stable despite minor improvements in global health status/quality of life (7.3), emotional functioning (9.3), insomnia (8.0), and appetite loss (7.8). For questionnaire CR29, bowel and bladder symptoms and sore skin improved with minor change (6.2), and buttocks, anal, or rectal pain improved with moderate change (18.3). Flatulence worsened moderately (12.6), and fecal incontinence had minor worsening (7.8). Agreement between PROs and NCI-CTCAE was generally only fair to moderate, especially for quantitative symptoms, such as pain (κ = 0.25). CONCLUSIONS For patients with SCCA who underwent definitive RT, only a few patients had high scores (indicating quite a bit or very much frequency of bother) regarding bowel and bladder symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Cecilie Lefèvre
- Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark.
| | | | | | - Karen Lycke Wind
- Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Camilla Kronborg
- Danish Center for Particle Therapy, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Karen-Lise Garm Spindler
- Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark; Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
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7
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Sodergren SC, Johnson CD, Gilbert A, Darlington AS, Cocks K, Guren MG, Rivin Del Campo E, Brannan C, Christensen P, Chu W, Chung H, Dennis K, Desideri I, Gilbert DC, Glynne-Jones R, Jefford M, Johansson M, Johnsson A, Juul T, Kardamakis D, Lai-Kwon J, McFarlane V, Miguel IMC, Nugent K, Peters F, Riechelmann RP, Turhal NS, Wong S, Vassiliou V. International Validation of the EORTC QLQ-ANL27, a Field Study to Test the Anal Cancer-Specific Health-Related Quality-of-Life Questionnaire. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2023; 115:1155-1164. [PMID: 36402360 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2022.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) health-related quality of life questionnaire for anal cancer (QLQ-ANL27) supplements the EORTC cancer generic measure (QLQ-C30) to measure concerns specific to people with anal cancer treated with chemoradiotherapy. This study tested the psychometric properties and acceptability of the QLQ-ANL27. METHODS AND MATERIALS People with anal cancer were recruited from 15 countries to complete the QLQ-C30 and QLQ-ANL27 and provide feedback on the QLQ-ANL27. Item responses, scale structure (multitrait scaling, factor analysis), reliability (internal consistency and reproducibility) and sensitivity (known group comparisons and responsiveness to change) of the QLQ-ANL27 were evaluated. RESULTS Data from 382 people were included in the analyses. The EORTC QLQ-ANL27 was acceptable, comprehensive, and easy to complete, taking an average 8 minutes to complete. Psychometric analyses supported the EORTC QLQ-ANL27 items and reliability (Cronbach's α ranging from 0.71-0.93 and test-retest coefficients above 0.7) and validity of the scales (particularly nonstoma bowel symptoms and pain/discomfort). Most scales distinguished people according to treatment phase and performance status. Bowel (nonstoma), pain/discomfort, and vaginal symptoms were sensitive to deteriorations over time. The stoma-related scales remained untested because of low numbers of people with a stoma. Revisions to the scoring and question ordering of the sexual items were proposed. CONCLUSIONS The QLQ-ANL27 has good psychometric properties and is available in 16 languages for people treated with chemoradiotherapy for anal cancer. It is used in clinical trials and has a potential role in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alexandra Gilbert
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St James's, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | | | - Kim Cocks
- KCStats Consultancy, Cheshire, United Kingdom
| | - Marianne G Guren
- Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Eleonor Rivin Del Campo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tenon University Hospital, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | | | | | - William Chu
- Odette Cancer Centre, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Hans Chung
- Odette Cancer Centre, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Kristopher Dennis
- The Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre, Ottawa, Canada; Department of Radiology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Isacco Desideri
- Radiotherapy Department, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Duncan C Gilbert
- Sussex Cancer Centre, Royal Sussex County Hospital, Eastern Road, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | | | - Michael Jefford
- Departments of Medical Oncology and Health Services Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mia Johansson
- Department of Oncology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Region Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden; Department of Oncology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anders Johnsson
- Department of Oncology, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Therese Juul
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Dimitrios Kardamakis
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Julia Lai-Kwon
- Departments of Medical Oncology and Health Services Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vicky McFarlane
- University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | | | - Karen Nugent
- University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Femke Peters
- Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Shun Wong
- Odette Cancer Centre, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Vassilios Vassiliou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Bank of Cyprus Oncology Center, Nicosia, Cyprus
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8
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Anal Cancer: The Past, Present and Future. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:3232-3250. [PMID: 36975459 PMCID: PMC10047250 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30030246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Anal cancer is a rare cancer that accounts for about 2% of all gastrointestinal tract malignancies. Among anal cancer, squamous cell cancer is the most common malignancy. The incidence of all stages of anal squamous cell cancer has been increasing. Human papillomavirus infection and immunosuppression are major risk factors for anal cancer. The management of anal cancer has evolved over the past several decades and continues to do so. Chemoradiation therapy remains the mainstay for treatment for most patients with early-stage disease, whereas systemic therapy is the primary treatment for patients with metastatic disease. Patients with persistent disease or recurrence following chemoradiation therapy are treated with salvage surgery. Access to novel cytotoxic combinations and immunotherapy has improved the outcomes of patients with advanced disease. This review provides an overview of advances in the management of anal cancer over the past two decades. This paper reviews the epidemiology, risk factors, pathology, diagnosis, and management of localized and advanced anal squamous cell cancer, highlights current knowledge gaps in the management of anal cancer, and discusses future directions.
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Mekhael M, Larsen HM, Lauritzen MB, Thorlacius-Ussing O, Laurberg S, Krogh K, Drewes AM, Christensen P, Juul T. Bowel dysfunction following pelvic organ cancer: a prospective study on the treatment effect in nurse-led late sequelae clinics. Acta Oncol 2023; 62:70-79. [PMID: 36757368 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2023.2168214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bowel dysfunction following treatment of pelvic organ cancer is prevalent and impacts the quality of life (QoL). The present study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and effects of treating bowel dysfunction in two nurse-led late sequelae clinics. MATERIAL AND METHODS Treatment effects were monitored prospectively by patient-reported outcome measures collected at baseline and discharge. Change in bowel function was evaluated by 15 bowel symptoms, the St. Mark's Incontinence Score, the Patients Assessment of Constipation-Symptoms (PAC-SYM) score and self-rated bowel function. QoL was evaluated by the EuroQol 5-dimension 5-level (EQ-5D-5L) utility score and by measuring the impact of bowel function on QoL. RESULTS From June 2018 to December 2021, 380 cancer survivors (46% rectal, 15% gynaecological, 13% anal, 12% colon, 12% prostate, and 2% other cancers) completed a baseline questionnaire and started treatment for bowel dysfunction. At referral, 96% of patients were multisymptomatic. The most frequent symptoms were faecal urgency (95%), fragmented defaecation (93%), emptying difficulties (92%), flatus/faecal incontinence (flatus 89%, liquid 59%, solid 33%), and obstructed defaecation (79%). In total, 169 patients were discharged from the clinics in the follow-up period. At discharge, 69% received conservative treatment only and 24% also received transanal irrigation; 4% were surgically treated; 3% discontinued treatment. Improvements were seen in all 15 bowel symptoms (p < 0.001), the mean St. Mark's Incontinence Score (12.0 to 9.9, p < 0.001), the mean PAC-SYM score (1.04 to 0.84, p < 0.001) and the mean EQ-5D-5L utility score (0.78 to 0.84, p < 0.001). Self-rated bowel function improved in 56% (p < 0.001) of cases and the impact of bowel function on QoL improved in 46% (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Treatment of bowel dysfunction in nurse-led late sequelae clinics is feasible and significantly improved bowel function and QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mira Mekhael
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals, Aarhus and Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Helene M Larsen
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals, Aarhus and Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Michael B Lauritzen
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals, Aarhus and Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Ole Thorlacius-Ussing
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals, Aarhus and Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Søren Laurberg
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals, Aarhus and Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Klaus Krogh
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals, Aarhus and Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Asbjørn M Drewes
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals, Aarhus and Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Peter Christensen
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals, Aarhus and Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Therese Juul
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals, Aarhus and Aalborg, Denmark
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10
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Eng C, Ciombor KK, Cho M, Dorth JA, Rajdev LN, Horowitz DP, Gollub MJ, Jácome AA, Lockney NA, Muldoon RL, Washington MK, O'Brian BA, Benny A, Lebeck Lee CM, Benson AB, Goodman KA, Morris VK. Anal Cancer: Emerging Standards in a Rare Rare Disease. J Clin Oncol 2022; 40:2774-2788. [PMID: 35649196 DOI: 10.1200/jco.21.02566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The social stigma surrounding an anal cancer diagnosis has traditionally prevented open discussions about this disease. However, as recent treatment options and an increasing rate of diagnoses are made worldwide, awareness is growing. In the United States alone, 9,090 individuals were expected to be diagnosed with anal cancer in 2021. The US annual incidence of squamous cell carcinoma of the anus continues to increase by 2.7% yearly, whereas the mortality rate increases by 3.1%. The main risk factor for anal cancer is a human papillomavirus infection; those with chronic immunosuppression are also at risk. Patients with HIV are 19 times more likely to develop anal cancer compared with the general population. In this review, we have provided an overview of the carcinoma of the anal canal, the role of screening, advancements in radiation therapy, and current trials investigating acute and chronic treatment-related toxicities. This article is a comprehensive approach to presenting the existing data in an effort to encourage continuous international interest in anal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathy Eng
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center/Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Kristen K Ciombor
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center/Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN
| | - May Cho
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of California- Irvine School of Medicine, Irvine, CA
| | - Jennifer A Dorth
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Seidman Cancer Center, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH
| | - Lakshmi N Rajdev
- Division for Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Northwell Health/Lenox Hill Hospital, New York, NY
| | - David P Horowitz
- Department of Radiation Oncology, New York Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Marc J Gollub
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Alexandre A Jácome
- OncoBio Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Nova Lima, Brazil
| | - Natalie A Lockney
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Roberta L Muldoon
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Mary Kay Washington
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Brittany A O'Brian
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center/Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Amala Benny
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center/Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Cody M Lebeck Lee
- VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Department of Internal Medicine, Nashville, TN
| | - Al B Benson
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine and Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Karyn A Goodman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Van Karlyle Morris
- Division of Cancer Medicine, Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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11
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Sauter C, Peeken JC, Borm K, Diehl C, Münch S, Combs SE, Dapper H. Quality of life in patients treated with radiochemotherapy for primary diagnosis of anal cancer. Sci Rep 2022; 12:4416. [PMID: 35292732 PMCID: PMC8924204 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-08525-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Anal cancer and the related treatment are generally known to affect patients’ quality of life. The aim of this study was to assess self-reported quality of life (QoL) of anal cancer patients after combined radiation and chemotherapy, and to identify patient-, disease-, and therapy-related factors associated with QoL. A total of 94 patients treated with definitive chemoradiation for anal cancer at our institution in the period from 2004 to 2018 were identified from our database. QoL was assessed in the remaining 52 patients using the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire (cancer-specific QoL) and the newly developed anal cancer module QLQ-ANL27 (site-specific QoL). Differences in QoL between anal cancer patients and a German age and sex adjusted reference population were examined. The median follow-up was 71 months (range, 7–176). In the cancer-specific QoL module, the anal cancer cohort presented with significantly lower scores in role (− 12.2 points), emotional (− 6.6 points), and social functioning (− 6.8 points), but higher scores in diarrhea (+ 36.3 points) and constipation (+ 13.3 points) than the German reference population. There were no significant differences in disease- or therapy-related factors, but age greater than 70 years and a follow-up time greater than 71 months had a negative impact on global QoL. As for the site-specific QoL, patients with a tumor relapse showed significantly higher symptom scores than patients with a complete clinical remission in all scales except of micturition frequency. Compared to 3D conformal radiotherapy, IMRT treatment seemed to improve non-stoma bowel function (+ 23.3 points), female sexual functioning (+ 24.2 points), and came along with less scores in the symptom scales pain (− 35.9 points), toilet proximity (− 28.6 points), and cleanliness (− 26.2 points). Most of the functional scores of anal cancer patients were lower compared to the general German population, but did not seem to affect the general QoL. Fatigue, physical, and role functioning had the strongest impact on global QoL causing psychological symptoms as important as physical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Sauter
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TU München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.
| | - Jan C Peeken
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TU München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Deutsches Konsortium für Translationale Krebsforschung (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany.,Institute for Radiation Medicine (IRM), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstr. 1, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Kai Borm
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TU München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Christian Diehl
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TU München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan Münch
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TU München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Stephanie E Combs
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TU München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,Deutsches Konsortium für Translationale Krebsforschung (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany.,Institute for Radiation Medicine (IRM), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstr. 1, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Hendrik Dapper
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, TU München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany
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12
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Tchelebi LT, Eng C, Messick CA, Hong TS, Ludmir EB, Kachnic LA, Zaorsky NG. Current treatment and future directions in the management of anal cancer. CA Cancer J Clin 2022; 72:183-195. [PMID: 34847242 DOI: 10.3322/caac.21712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Although rare, the rate of squamous cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA) is rising globally. Most patients present with nonmetastatic disease and are curable with appropriate treatment, which has evolved significantly over the last several decades. Before the 1970s, SCCA was managed with radical surgery, resulting in a permanent colostomy. Researchers found that preoperative treatment with chemotherapy and concurrent radiation could achieve a pathologic complete response. After this observation, definitive therapy shifted from radical surgery to sphincter-preserving chemoradiation. Investigations into the necessity of chemotherapy and the optimal regimen found that chemotherapy with mitomycin-C and 5-fluorouracil is required for cure. Further studies evaluating the addition of induction or maintenance chemotherapy, monoclonal antibody therapy, or higher radiation doses have demonstrated no significant benefit to disease control. Advanced radiation delivery with intensity-modulated radiotherapy techniques is now considered the standard of care because of its prospectively determined, favorable acute toxicity profile compared with 3-dimensional conformal radiation. It is important to note that chemoradiation treatment response may be slow (up to 26 weeks) and should be assessed through serial clinical examinations. Today, surgical management of SCCA is reserved only for the lowest risk, early stage tumors or for recurrent/persistent disease. Current studies are evaluating radiation dose de-escalation in early stage disease and radiation dose escalation and the addition of immune checkpoint inhibitors in locally advanced cancers. In reviewing how and why modern-day treatment of SCCA was established, the objective of this report is to reenforce adherence to current treatment paradigms to assure the best possible outcomes for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila T Tchelebi
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Zucker School of Medicine, Hempstead, New York
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Northwell Health Cancer Institute, Mount Kisco, New York
| | - Cathy Eng
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Craig A Messick
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Theodore S Hong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ethan B Ludmir
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Lisa A Kachnic
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Nicholas G Zaorsky
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Penn State Cancer Institute, Hershey, Pennsylvania
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13
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Axelsson A, Johansson M, Bock D, Haglind E, de la Croix H, Nilsson PJ, Angenete E. Patient-reported QoL in anal cancer survivors 3 and 6 years after treatment—results from the Swedish national ANCA study. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:4169-4178. [PMID: 35079906 PMCID: PMC8942973 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06769-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The impact of anal cancer treatment for the patients is best evaluated by the patients themselves. The purpose of this study was to investigate quality of life (QoL) in patients with anal cancer at 3 and 6 years after treatment. Methods A Swedish national cross-sectional prospective cohort study with patients diagnosed with anal cancer between 2011 and 2013. Patients were invited to respond to a QoL questionnaire at 3 and 6 years, with focus on bowel, urinary and sexual function, social and mental function, co-morbidity, lifestyle, daily activities, personal characteristics, and perceived QoL. It also contained questions on the severity of the symptoms regarding occurrence, frequency, and duration and the level of “bother” experienced related to functional symptoms. QoL and prevalence of bother with urinary, sexual, bowel dysfunction, and anal pain were described. The prevalence of impaired QoL was compared with a healthy reference population. The association between QoL and experiencing bother was quantified by regression models. Results From an original cohort of 464 patients with anal cancer, 264 (57%) were alive and contacted at 3 years and 230 (50%) at 6 years. One hundred ninety-five (74%) patients responded to the 3-year and 152 (66%) to the 6-year questionnaire. Sixty percent reported low QoL at both 3 and 6 years. Impaired QoL was more prevalent among patients with major bother due to bowel dysfunction (at 3 years RR 1.42, 95% CI (1.06–1.9) p-value 0.020, at 6 years RR 1.52, 95% CI (1.03–2.24) p-value 0.034) and urinary dysfunction (at 6 years RR 1.44, 95% CI (1.08–1.91) p-value 0.013). There was a tendency to a positive relationship between the number of bodily functions causing bother and risk for impaired QoL. Conclusion Patients treated for anal cancer reported bother regarding several bodily functions as well as poor QoL both at 3 and 6 years without much improvement. Bother was also associated with low QoL indicating that function-related bother should be addressed.
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14
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Vítek P, Kubeš J, Vondráček V, Andrlik M, Navrátíl M, Zapletal R, Haas A, Dědečková K, Ondrová B, Grebenyuk A, Rosina J. Pencil Beam Scanning (PBS) Intensity-Modulated Proton Therapy (IMPT) Chemoradiotherapy for Anal Canal Cancer-Single Institution Experience. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:cancers14010185. [PMID: 35008349 PMCID: PMC8750423 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Eligible patients received PBS IMPT at a single institution. Treatment was administered in two volumes: 1—tumour with margins plus involved lymph nodes; 2—regional lymph node groups: perirectal (mesorectal), obturatory, inguinal, internal, external, and common iliac. The total doses of 57.5 GyE and 45 GyE, respectively, were administered in volumes 1 and 2 in 25 fractions, 5 fractions per week, respectively (a simultaneous integrated boost). Concomitant chemotherapy cisplatinum (CDDP) plus 5-FU or CDDP plus capecitabine was administered as per protocol. This single-institution study showed the high efficacy of PBS IMPT, achieving a high rate of complete regression. The 2-year overall survival, relapse-free survival and colostomy-free survival were 94.2, 93.8 and 91.0%, respectively. The haematological acute toxicity of grade 3–4 remained low. The acute toxicity completely resolved in all patients and had no lethal outcomes. Abstract Background: A favourable dose distribution has been described for proton beam therapy (PBT) of anal cancer in dosimetric studies. The relationship between dosimetric parameters in bone marrow and haematologic toxicity, treatment interruptions, and treatment efficacy has also been documented. There are only few references on clinical results of PBT for anal cancer. The primary objective of the retrospective study was to assess the efficacy of pencil beam scanning intensity-modulated proton therapy (PBS IMPT) in the definitive chemoradiotherapy of anal cancer. Secondary objectives were established to identify the risks of acute chronic toxicity risks and to assess colostomy rates. Materials and methods: Patients were treated for biopsy-proven squamous cell cancer (SCC) of the anus at initial or advanced stages. Eligible patients received PBS IMPT at a single institution. Treatment was administered in two volumes: 1—tumour with margins plus involved lymph nodes; 2—regional lymph node groups: perirectal (mesorectal), obturatory, inguinal, internal, external, and common iliac. The total doses of 57.5 GyE and 45 GyE, respectively, were administered in volumes 1 and 2 in 25 fractions, 5 fractions per week, respectively (a simultaneous integrated boost). Concomitant chemotherapy cisplatinum (CDDP) plus 5-FU or CDDP plus capecitabine was administered as per protocol. The treatment effect was assessed using DRE (digital rectal examination) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) within the follow-up period. Toxicity was scaled using CTCAE version 4.0 criteria. Results: 39 of 41 patients treated during the period of February 2014–August 2021 were eligible for analysis. All patients completed treatment, 76.9% without interruption. The median treatment time was 35 days (32–35). The median follow-up period was 30 months, 34 patients are alive to-date, 5 patients died prior to the date of analysis, and 2 deaths were unrelated to the primary disease. The 2-year overall survival, relapse-free survival, and colostomy-free survival were 94.2%, 93.8%, and 91.0%, respectively. Complete regression was achieved in 36 patients (92.3%), partial regression was achieved in 2 (5.1%), and immediate progression at end of treatment occurred in 1 patient (2.6%). Salvage resection was indicated for two patients in partial regression and due to severe chronic dermatologic toxicity. The grade 3 and 4 haematological toxicity rates were 7.7% and 5.1%, respectively. The most frequent non-haematological acute toxicities of grade 3–4 observed were dermatitis (23.1%), diarrhoea (7.7%), and dehydration (7.7%). Chronic toxicity emerged predominantly as skin atrophy/ulceration grade 2 (26.5%) and grade 3–4 (5.8%), and radiation proctitis grade 2 (38.2%) and grade 3 (2.9%). Discussion, conclusions: This single-institution study showed the high efficacy of PBS IMPT, achieving a high rate of complete regression. The haematological acute toxicity of grade 3–4 remained low; however, the impact of altered chemotherapy (CDDP instead of mitomycin C) remains unclear. The incidence of other acute toxicities shares similarity with photon therapy investigated in large studies. The acute toxicity completely resolved in all patients, had no lethal outcomes, and never resulted in the necessity for colostomy. By contrast, it was chronic toxicity, skin ulceration, perirectal fistulation, and fibrosis that resulted in salvage surgery and/or the need for a colostomy. A challenging question remains: to what extent can PBT prevent chronic toxicity? Longer follow-up remains necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel Vítek
- Proton Therapy Center Czech, 180 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (P.V.); (J.K.); (V.V.); (M.N.); (R.Z.); (A.H.); (K.D.); (B.O.)
- Department of Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University Prague and Motol University Hospital, V Úvalu 84, 150 06 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Kubeš
- Proton Therapy Center Czech, 180 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (P.V.); (J.K.); (V.V.); (M.N.); (R.Z.); (A.H.); (K.D.); (B.O.)
- Department of Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University Prague and Motol University Hospital, V Úvalu 84, 150 06 Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Health Care Disciplines and Population Protection, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Czech Technical University Prague, Sítná Square 3105, 272 01 Kladno, Czech Republic;
| | - Vladimír Vondráček
- Proton Therapy Center Czech, 180 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (P.V.); (J.K.); (V.V.); (M.N.); (R.Z.); (A.H.); (K.D.); (B.O.)
- Department of Health Care Disciplines and Population Protection, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Czech Technical University Prague, Sítná Square 3105, 272 01 Kladno, Czech Republic;
| | - Michal Andrlik
- Proton Therapy Center Czech, 180 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (P.V.); (J.K.); (V.V.); (M.N.); (R.Z.); (A.H.); (K.D.); (B.O.)
- Department of Health Care Disciplines and Population Protection, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Czech Technical University Prague, Sítná Square 3105, 272 01 Kladno, Czech Republic;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +42-060-783-6338
| | - Matěj Navrátíl
- Proton Therapy Center Czech, 180 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (P.V.); (J.K.); (V.V.); (M.N.); (R.Z.); (A.H.); (K.D.); (B.O.)
- Department of Health Care Disciplines and Population Protection, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Czech Technical University Prague, Sítná Square 3105, 272 01 Kladno, Czech Republic;
| | - Radek Zapletal
- Proton Therapy Center Czech, 180 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (P.V.); (J.K.); (V.V.); (M.N.); (R.Z.); (A.H.); (K.D.); (B.O.)
- Department of Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University Prague and Motol University Hospital, V Úvalu 84, 150 06 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Alexandra Haas
- Proton Therapy Center Czech, 180 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (P.V.); (J.K.); (V.V.); (M.N.); (R.Z.); (A.H.); (K.D.); (B.O.)
- Department of Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University Prague and Motol University Hospital, V Úvalu 84, 150 06 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Kateřina Dědečková
- Proton Therapy Center Czech, 180 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (P.V.); (J.K.); (V.V.); (M.N.); (R.Z.); (A.H.); (K.D.); (B.O.)
- Department of Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University Prague and Motol University Hospital, V Úvalu 84, 150 06 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Ondrová
- Proton Therapy Center Czech, 180 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (P.V.); (J.K.); (V.V.); (M.N.); (R.Z.); (A.H.); (K.D.); (B.O.)
- Department of Oncology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University Prague and Motol University Hospital, V Úvalu 84, 150 06 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Alexander Grebenyuk
- Department of Health Protection and Disaster Medicine, Pavlov First Saint Petersburg State Medical University, Lva Tolstogo 6-8, 197020 Saint Petersburg, Russia;
| | - Jozef Rosina
- Department of Health Care Disciplines and Population Protection, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Czech Technical University Prague, Sítná Square 3105, 272 01 Kladno, Czech Republic;
- Department of Medical Biophysics and Informatics, 3rd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruská 87, 116 36 Prague, Czech Republic
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15
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Haas S, Mikkelsen AH, Kronborg C, Oggesen BT, Faaborg PM, Serup-Hansen E, Spindler KLG, Christensen P. Management of late adverse effects after chemoradiation for anal cancer. Acta Oncol 2021; 60:1688-1701. [PMID: 34845967 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2021.1983208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Significant improvements in the treatment of anal cancer have produced a growing population of anal cancer survivors. These patients often experience late adverse effects related to their treatment. Research has revealed substantial unmet needs because of long-term symptoms and functional impairments after treatment that may negatively affect health-related quality of life. The purpose of the present guidelines is to review the scientific evidence for the management of late adverse effects after (chemo)radiotherapy ([C]RT) for anal cancer and to extrapolate knowledge from other pelvic malignancies treated with pelvic (C)RT so that they may guide the clinical management of late adverse effects. MATERIALS AND METHODS Relevant studies were systematically searched in four databases from their inception to June 2020 (no language limitation) and guidelines were searched in 16 databases, focussing on bowel dysfunction, psychosocial aspects, pain, and sexual and urinary dysfunction. The guidelines were developed by a panel of experts using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine, levels of evidence, and grades of recommendations. SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE Late adverse effects after (C)RT for anal cancer are associated with a low overall quality of life among survivors. The most pronounced late adverse effects are bowel dysfunction (present in up to 78%), urinary dysfunction (present in up to 45%), and sexual dysfunction (present in up to 90% of men and up to 100% of women). Only indirect data on adequate treatment options of these late adverse effects for anal cancer are available. CONCLUSION Quality of life and late adverse effects should be monitored systematically following treatment for anal cancer to identify patients who require further specialist evaluation or support. Increased awareness of the extent of the problem may serve to stimulate and facilitate multidisciplinary collaboration, which is often required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Haas
- Danish Cancer Society, National Research Centre for Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects following Pelvic Organ Cancer, Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | | | - Camilla Kronborg
- Danish Centre for Particle Therapy, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Pia Moeller Faaborg
- Department of Surgery, Vejle Hospital, Danish Colorectal Cancer Centre South, Vejle, Denmark
| | | | | | - Peter Christensen
- Danish Cancer Society, National Research Centre for Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects following Pelvic Organ Cancer, Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
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16
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Symptom burden, psychological distress, and health-related quality of life in cancer survivors with pelvic late radiation tissue injuries. Support Care Cancer 2021; 30:2477-2486. [PMID: 34779920 PMCID: PMC8794896 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06684-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Curative radiotherapy for cancer may lead to severe late radiation tissue injuries (LRTIs). However, limited knowledge exists about pelvic cancer survivors’ LRTI symptoms, distress, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). We sought to assess the symptom burden, distress, and HRQOL in survivors with established pelvic LRTIs compared to norm populations and to investigate the relation between these factors. Methods Cancer survivors referred for treatment of established pelvic LRTIs were recruited nationwide. LTRIs were assessed with the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC), psychological distress was assessed with the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), and HRQOL was assessed with the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORCT-QLQ-C30). Results A total of 107 participants (mean age 64, 53% men) were included. Compared to norms, participants reported more urinary (mean 68.7 vs. 89.5; p = 0.00; d = 1.4) and bowel symptoms (mean 62.5 vs. 92.4; p = 0.00; d = 2.7), increased psychological distress (mean 13.4 vs. 10.3; p = 0.00; d = 0.6), and overall poorer HRQOL (mean 54.9 vs. 71.2; p = 0.00; d = 0.7). Higher symptom burden and higher levels of psychological distress were associated with lower HRQOL (r2 = 46%), but psychological distress did not moderate the influence of symptoms on HRQOL. Conclusion Cancer survivors with established pelvic LRTIs are highly burdened compared to norms. The association of the LRTI-related symptom burden with HRQOL is independent of the level of psychological distress. Both coping and treatment interventions are crucial to promoting long-term health and HRQOL. Trial registration NCT03570229.
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Lum C, Prenen H, Body A, Lam M, Segelov E. A 2020 update of anal cancer: the increasing problem in women and expanding treatment landscape. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 14:665-680. [PMID: 32458709 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2020.1775583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Anal cancer is a rare malignancy with increasing incidence, notably in women. This disease is highly associated with HPV infection and its incidence and mortality are currently rising. Most patients present with localized disease which has a high survival after definitive treatment with chemoradiation. For patients who develop metastatic disease or present with this de novo, survival is poor. AREAS COVERED This review provides a summary of current literature on anal cancer. With a focus on women, this includes current epidemiological trends, role of HPV, and the current and future treatment landscape, including HPV vaccination and immunotherapy. Screening currently focusses on HIV-positive men, missing most female cases. In curative disease, trials are investigating treatment de-intensification in good prognostic groups. Immunotherapy is showing early promise in the advanced disease setting. EXPERT OPINION Similar to cervical cancer, anal cancer is strongly associated with HPV, and therefore, broader implementation of screening programs may reduce its incidence. HPV vaccination is expected to reduce the development of (pre)malignant anal lesions. The emergence of biomarkers will assist patient treatment selection, allowing optimal balance of treatment efficacy and morbidity. It is hoped that new treatment approaches, including immunotherapy, will improve outcomes. International collaboration is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Lum
- Medical Oncology, Monash Medical Centre , Clayton, Australia
| | - Hans Prenen
- Medical Oncology, Monash Medical Centre , Clayton, Australia.,Oncology Department, University Hospital Antwerp , Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Amy Body
- Medical Oncology, Monash Medical Centre , Clayton, Australia
| | - Marissa Lam
- Medical Oncology, Monash Medical Centre , Clayton, Australia
| | - Eva Segelov
- Medical Oncology, Monash Medical Centre , Clayton, Australia.,School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University , Clayton, Australia
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Heer E, Hackl M, Ferlitsch M, Waldhoer T, Yang L. Trends in incidence of anal cancer in Austria, 1983-2016. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2020; 132:438-443. [PMID: 32130523 PMCID: PMC7445201 DOI: 10.1007/s00508-020-01622-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background Recent reports have noted increasing rates of anal cancer among high-income countries worldwide; however, little is known about these trends in Austria. Methods Data on anal cancer from 1983 to 2016 were obtained from Statistics Austria. All tumors (n = 3567) were classified into anal squamous cell carcinomas (ASCC), anal adenocarcinomas (AADC), and others (unspecified carcinoma and other specific carcinoma). Anal cancer incidence rates were calculated in 5‑year cycles and incidence average annual percentage change (AAPC) to evaluate trends by sex, histology and age group. Results The incidence rate of anal cancer was higher among females than males (relative risk, RR = 1.66, 95% confidence interval, CI: 1.55–1.79, p < 0.0001). From 1983 through 2016, incident anal cancer increased significantly (0.92 per 100,000 person-years to 1.85 per 100,000 person-years, AAPC = 1.93, 95% CI: 1.52 to 2.34, p < 0.0001), particularly among those 40–69 years old. From 1983 through 2016, the increasing anal cancer incidence was primarily driven by ASCC (0.47–1.20 per 100,000 person-years, AAPC = 2.23, 95% CI: 1.58 to 2.88, p < 0.0001) and others (other than ASCC and AADC, AAPC = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.01–2.55), yet stable in AADC (AAPC = 0.88, 95% CI: −0.48–2.25). Conclusions Despite being a rare cancer in Austria, the increase in anal cancer incidence rate from 1983 to 2016 was substantial, particularly in ASCC. The observed rising trends reflect the need to investigate associated risk factors that have increased over time to inform preventive measures. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s00508-020-01622-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Heer
- Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Canada
| | - Monika Hackl
- Austrian National Cancer Registry, Statistics Austria, Vienna, Austria
| | - Monika Ferlitsch
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Waldhoer
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Kinderspitalgasse 15, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Lin Yang
- Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Kinderspitalgasse 15, Vienna, Austria.,Department of Oncology & Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
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19
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Dosimetric comparison of organs at risk using different contouring guidelines for definition of the clinical target volume in anal cancer. Strahlenther Onkol 2020; 196:368-375. [PMID: 32016496 PMCID: PMC7089901 DOI: 10.1007/s00066-020-01587-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background There are different contouring guidelines for definition of the clinical target volume (CTV) for intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) of anal cancer (AC). We conducted a planning comparison study to evaluate and compare the dose to relevant organs at risk (OARs) while using different CTV definitions. Methods Twelve patients with a primary diagnosis of anal cancer, who were treated with primary chemoradiation (CRT), were selected. We generated four guideline-specific CTVs and subsequently planned target volumes (PTVs) on the planning CT scan of each patient. An IMRT plan for volumetric arc therapy (VMAT) was set up for each PTV. Dose parameters of the planned target volume (PTV) and OARs were evaluated and compared, too. Results The mean volume of the four PTVs ranged from 2138 cc to 2433 cc. The target volumes contoured by the authors based on the recommendations of each group were similar in the pelvis, while they differed significantly in the inguinal region. There were no significant differences between the four target volumes with regard to the dose parameters of the cranially located OARs. Conversely, some dose parameters concerning the genitals and the skin varied significantly among the different guidelines. Conclusion The four contouring guidelines differ significantly concerning the inguinal region. In order to avoid inguinal recurrence and to protect relevant OARs, further investigations are needed to generate uniform standards for definition of the elective clinical target volume in the inguinal region.
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Savoie MB, Laffan A, Brickman C, Daniels B, Levin A, Rowen T, Smith J, Van Blarigan EL, Hope TA, Berry-Lawhorn JM, Anwar M, Van Loon K. A multi-disciplinary model of survivorship care following definitive chemoradiation for anal cancer. BMC Cancer 2019; 19:906. [PMID: 31510960 PMCID: PMC6737598 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-019-6053-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Following definitive chemoradiation for anal squamous cell carcinoma (ASCC), patients face a variety of chronic issues including: bowel dysfunction, accelerated bone loss, sexual dysfunction, and psychosocial distress. The increasing incidence of this disease, high cure rates, and significant long-term sequelae warrant increased focus on optimal survivorship care following definitive chemoradiation. In order to establish our survivorship care model for ASCC patients, a multi-disciplinary team of experts performed a comprehensive literature review and summarized best practices for the multi-disciplinary management of this unique patient population. We reviewed principle domains of our survivorship approach: (1) management of chronic toxicities; (2) sexual health; (3) HIV management in affected patients; (4) psychosocial wellbeing; and (5) surveillance for disease recurrence and survivorship care delivery. We provide recommendations for the optimization of survivorship care for ASCC patients can through a multi-disciplinary approach that supports physical and psychological wellness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marissa B Savoie
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Angela Laffan
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Cristina Brickman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Bevin Daniels
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Anna Levin
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, USA
- Department of Psycho-Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Tami Rowen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - James Smith
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Erin L Van Blarigan
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, USA
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Thomas A Hope
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, USA
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - J Michael Berry-Lawhorn
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Mekhail Anwar
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Katherine Van Loon
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, USA.
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21
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Quality of life in patients treated for anal carcinoma-a systematic literature review. Int J Colorectal Dis 2019; 34:1517-1528. [PMID: 31324957 DOI: 10.1007/s00384-019-03342-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Anal cancer is a mainly treated with chemoradiotherapy. A small number of patients undergo salvage surgery. There are few published studies investigating quality of life and functional outcome after treatment for anal cancer. The aim of this review was to explore the literature and identify areas for further research. METHODS A search was conducted in Medline using MESH terms related to anal cancer and quality of life. Two investigators selected and reviewed articles based on titles and abstracts. Three investigators read and reviewed the included articles and collected relevant data. The included articles were evaluated using the minimum standard checklist, and key findings were summarised in a chart. RESULTS Some 15 articles, and a total of 802 patients, were deemed eligible. The results differed slightly among the studies. The incidence of symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, insomnia and appetite loss was higher than among healthy volunteers. Bowel function, urinary function and sexual function were negatively affected. Some studies found that, compared with the normal population, anal cancer survivors scored clinically significant worse in the functional scales in QLQ-C30. CONCLUSION In conclusion, it is apparent that several functional problems affect the quality of life of patients with anal cancer. There are few studies which have investigated quality of life after treatment for anal cancer. Interventions to address issues related to anal cancer treatment may improve long-term quality of life in this patient group. TRIAL REGISTRATION CRD42017059787.
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Díaz Del Arco C, García D, Sanabria C, Rodríguez Escudero E, Domínguez I, Sanz Ortega G, Fernández Aceñero MJ. Anal cytology in women: Experience from a single tertiary center. Pathol Res Pract 2019; 215:905-909. [PMID: 30718099 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2019.01.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Revised: 01/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Anal cytology (AC) can be used as a screening tool for detection of anal HPV associated lesions, mainly in men who have sex with men and in immunosuppressed patients. Our aim is to review our experience with AC in women. MATERIAL & METHODS We have retrospectively reviewed all AC diagnosed between 2010-2017 in a single tertiary hospital (n = 644) and selected those performed in women (n = 158). RESULTS 24.53% of AC were performed in women. 14.7% of all women were HIV positive and 56.7% referred anal intercourse. Squamous lesions were found in 27.2% of women, most of them ASCUS and LSIL (14% and 11.5%). HPV DNA was detected in 38.6% of patients, and 63.9% of them showed positivity for multiple high-risk types. Anal biopsy showed high grade lesions in 20% of biopsied patients. We observed a significant relationship between HPV status and receptive anal sex, and the association between HPV status and anal histological diagnosis tended to significance. Sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value and positive predictive value for anal cytology were 57%; 83%; 28% and 94%, respectively. 70.9% of women had synchronous cervical cytology, and squamous cervical lesions were detected in 46.4% of the cases, most of them LSIL or ASCUS (21.4% and 15.2%). We did not confirm a significant association between cytological diagnosis of cervical and anal samples. CONCLUSIONS AC is less widely used in women than in homosexual men. However, women show important rates of anal lesions, regardless of their HIV status. More studies should be performed to assess the potential impact of screening protocols in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Díaz Del Arco
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain; Complutense University of Madrid, Spain.
| | - D García
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain.
| | - C Sanabria
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | - I Domínguez
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain; Department of General and Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - G Sanz Ortega
- Department of General and Gastrointestinal Surgery, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain.
| | - M J Fernández Aceñero
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain; Complutense University of Madrid, Spain.
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Ohlsson-Nevo E, Karlsson J. Impact of health-related stigma on psychosocial functioning in the general population: Construct validity and Swedish reference data for the Stigma-related Social Problems scale (SSP). Res Nurs Health 2018; 42:72-81. [PMID: 30499114 PMCID: PMC6827347 DOI: 10.1002/nur.21924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Felt stigma is an internalized sense of shame about having an unwanted condition, along with fear of discrimination. The Stigma‐related Social Problems (SSP) scale was constructed to measure the impact of health‐related stigma on psychosocial functioning in people with different diseases and disorders. The performance of the SSP scale was tested in 3,422 subjects from the general population (Mid‐Swed Health Survey) and in subgroups according to gender, age, occupation, and education. The homogeneity and construct validity of the Distress and Avoidance scales were confirmed by exploratory factor analysis and the two factors were accurately reproduced across gender and age subgroups. The internal consistency reliability was high for both the Distress and Avoidance scales. Reliability coefficients were above the 0.90 standard for the Distress scale in all subgroups and for the Avoidance scale in most subgroups. The SSP scale is an instrument with sound psychometric properties that can be used to identify psychosocial disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Ohlsson-Nevo
- School of Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Örebro University Örebro, Örebro, Sweden.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, University Health Care Research Center, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Jan Karlsson
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University Health Care Research Center, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
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24
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Ludmir EB, Kachnic LA, Czito BG. Evolution and Management of Treatment-Related Toxicity in Anal Cancer. Surg Oncol Clin N Am 2018; 26:91-113. [PMID: 27889040 DOI: 10.1016/j.soc.2016.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Over the past several decades, clinical trials have demonstrated improved disease-related outcomes in the definitive treatment of anal cancer. Although treatment with radiation and concurrent chemotherapy results in high rates of cure, significant acute and late toxicities are seen. This review focuses on the evolution of treatment-related toxicity for anal cancer. Management of these adverse effects is reviewed, as are future directions in anal cancer treatment and their impact on toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan B Ludmir
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1400 Pressler St, Unit 1422, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lisa A Kachnic
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2220 Pierce Avenue, Suite B1034, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Brian G Czito
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Box 3085, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
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26
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Glynne-Jones R, Saleem W, Harrison M, Mawdsley S, Hall M. Background and Current Treatment of Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Anus. Oncol Ther 2016; 4:135-172. [PMID: 28261646 PMCID: PMC5315080 DOI: 10.1007/s40487-016-0024-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, a summary of our current understanding of squamous cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA) and the advances in our knowledge of SCCA regarding screening, prevention, the role of the immune system, current treatment and the potential for novel targets are discussed. The present standard of care in terms of treatment is 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and mitomycin C (MMC) concurrently with radiation, which results in a high level of disease control for small early cancers. Preservation of the anal sphincter is achieved in the majority, although anorectal function is often impaired. Although evidence from prospective studies to support a change in the treatment strategy is lacking, patients with HPV-negative SCCA appear to be less responsive to chemoradiation (CRT) and relapse more frequently. In contrast, HPV-positive tumours usually fare better, but oncological outcomes are modified by smoking and immune incompetence. There is current interest in escalating the radiotherapy dose for larger, more advanced tumours, and de-escalating treatment for HPV-positive tumours. The use of novel immunological treatments to target the underlying different molecular pathways of HPV-positive cancers is exciting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rob Glynne-Jones
- Centre for Cancer Treatment, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood, Middlesex UK
| | - Waqar Saleem
- Centre for Cancer Treatment, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood, Middlesex UK
| | - Mark Harrison
- Centre for Cancer Treatment, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood, Middlesex UK
| | - Suzy Mawdsley
- Centre for Cancer Treatment, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood, Middlesex UK
| | - Marcia Hall
- Centre for Cancer Treatment, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood, Middlesex UK
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27
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Lindau ST, Abramsohn EM, Baron SR, Florendo J, Haefner HK, Jhingran A, Kennedy V, Krane MK, Kushner DM, McComb J, Merritt DF, Park JE, Siston A, Straub M, Streicher L. Physical examination of the female cancer patient with sexual concerns: What oncologists and patients should expect from consultation with a specialist. CA Cancer J Clin 2016; 66:241-63. [PMID: 26784536 PMCID: PMC4860140 DOI: 10.3322/caac.21337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2015] [Revised: 11/13/2015] [Accepted: 11/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Answer questions and earn CME/CNE Sexual concerns are prevalent in women with cancer or cancer history and are a factor in patient decision making about cancer treatment and risk-reduction options. Physical examination of the female cancer patient with sexual concerns, regardless of the type or site of her cancer, is an essential and early component of a comprehensive evaluation and effective treatment plan. Specialized practices are emerging that focus specifically on evaluation and treatment of women with cancer and sexual function problems. As part of a specialized evaluation, oncologists and their patients should expect a thorough physical examination to identify or rule out physical causes of sexual problems or dysfunction. This review provides oncology professionals with a description of the physical examination of the female cancer patient with sexual function concerns. This description aims to inform anticipatory guidance for the patient and to assist in interpreting specialists' findings and recommendations. In centers or regions where specialized care is not yet available, this review can also be used by oncology practices to educate and support health care providers interested in expanding their practices to treat women with cancer and sexual function concerns. CA Cancer J Clin 2016;66:241-263. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacy Tessler Lindau
- Director, Program in Integrative Sexual Medicine for Women and Girls With Cancer, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
- Associate Professor, Department of Medicine-Geriatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
- MacLean Center on Clinical Medical Ethics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
- Associate Professor, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Emily M Abramsohn
- Researcher and Project Manager, Program in Integrative Sexual Medicine for Women and Girls With Cancer, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Shirley R Baron
- Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
- Clinical Associate, Program in Integrative Sexual Medicine for Women and Girls With Cancer, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Judith Florendo
- Doctor of Physical Therapy, Florendo Physical Therapy, Chicago, IL
- Clinical Associate, Program in Integrative Sexual Medicine for Women and Girls with Cancer, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Hope K Haefner
- Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Anuja Jhingran
- Professor, Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Vanessa Kennedy
- Assistant Professor, Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA
| | - Mukta K Krane
- Assistant Professor, Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - David M Kushner
- Director, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
| | - Jennifer McComb
- Assistant Clinical Professor, The Family Institute at Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - Diane F Merritt
- Professor, Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, WA University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Julie E Park
- Associate Professor, Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Amy Siston
- Clinical Associate, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Margaret Straub
- Physician's Assistant, Radiation Oncology, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | - Lauren Streicher
- Associate Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL
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