Quantitative prognostic indicators of peritoneal surface malignancy: carcinomatosis, sarcomatosis, and peritoneal mesothelioma

Peritoneal Carcinomatosis in Colorectal Cancer: Review and Update of Current Clinical Data

The peritoneal metastasized colorectal cancer (pmCRC) represents a serious health problem worldwide with a special emphasis in the developed countries. Several guidelines recognize the role of multimodal therapy consisting of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in the treatment of pmCRC. New data suggests that some other factors, eg, tumor biology, immune profile, neoadjuvant chemotherapy may play a predictive role for the oncological outcome of these patients.

Assessment of Intraoperative Scoring Systems for Predicting Cytoreduction Outcome in Peritoneal Metastatic Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) is a widely acknowledged treatment approach for peritoneal metastasis, showing favorable prognosis and long-term survival. Intraoperative scoring systems quantify tumoral burden before CRS and may predict complete cytoreduction (CC). This study reviews the intraoperative scoring systems for predicting CC and optimal cytoreduction (OC) and evaluates the predictive performance of the Peritoneal Cancer Index (PCI) and Predictive Index Value (PIV).

METHODS

Systematic searches were conducted in Embase, MEDLINE, and Web of Science. Meta-analyses of extracted data were performed to compare the absolute predictive performances of PCI and PIV.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight studies (5834 patients) focusing on gynecological (n = 34; 89.5%), gastrointestinal (n = 2; 5.3%) malignancies, and on tumors of various origins (n = 2; 5.3%) were identified. Seventy-seven models assessing the predictive performance of scoring systems (54 for CC and 23 for OC) were identified with PCI (n = 39/77) and PIV (n = 16/77) being the most common. Twenty models (26.0%) reinterpreted previous scoring systems of which ten (13%) used a modified version of PIV (reclassification). Meta-analyses of models predicting CC based on PCI (n = 21) and PIV (n = 8) provided an AUC estimate of 0.83 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.79-0.86; Q = 119.6, p = 0.0001; I2 = 74.1%) and 0.74 (95% CI 0.68-0.81; Q = 7.2, p = 0.41; I2 = 11.0%), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Peritoneal Cancer Index models demonstrate an excellent estimate of CC, while PIV shows an acceptable performance. There is a need for high-quality studies to address management differences, establish standardized cutoff values, and focus on non-gynecological malignancies.

International Expert Consensus on Defining Textbook Oncologic Outcomes in Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Colorectal Peritoneal Metastasis

BACKGROUND

Textbook oncologic outcome (TOO) is a composite metric shown to correlate with improved survival after curative intent oncologic procedures. Despite increasing use among disciplines in surgical oncology, no consensus exists for its definition in cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC).

STUDY DESIGN

An international consensus-based study employed a Delphi methodology to achieve agreement. Fifty-four senior surgeons from the peritoneal surface malignancies field received a questionnaire comprising TOO parameters divided into 3 surgical domains: operative, short-term, and long-term postoperative outcomes. Two online meetings with participants defined the new criteria. Consensus was achieved when 75% of agreement rate was reached. Clinical data of patients who underwent CRS and HIPEC for colorectal peritoneal metastasis between 2010 and 2022 from 1 designated center (Sheba Medical Center) were collected, the consensus definition applied and outcomes analyzed.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight surgeons (70%) participated. Expert consensus TOO parameters for colorectal peritoneal metastasis CRS and HIPEC included the absence of unplanned reoperations during 30 days postoperation, absence of severe postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo ≥III), absence of unplanned readmissions during 30 days postoperation, 90-day postoperative mortality, and absence of contraindications for chemotherapy within 12 weeks from operation, and included the achievement of complete cytoreduction (CC0). The study cohort consisted of 251 patients, and 151 (60%) met TOO criteria. Patients who achieved TOO had significantly better overall survival (median 67.5 months, 95% CI) vs patients who did not achieve TOO (median 44.6 months, 95% CI, p < 0.001) and significantly improved disease-free survival (median, 12 months, 95% CI, vs 9 months, 95% CI, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Achievement of TOO as defined by consensus statement is associated with improved survival.

The Landmark Series: Scoring Systems for Primary Peritoneal Surface Malignancy

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) represents an innovative approach to treat or prevent peritoneal metastasis. However, given the morbidity that can be associated with this procedure, adequate patient selection facilitated by scoring systems for primary peritoneal surface malignancy (PSM) is paramount to ensure equitable morbidity as well as acceptable survival outcome.

METHODS

Seminal studies on scoring systems for PSM that have laid the foundation for adequate patient selection and prognostication are spotlighted.

RESULTS

Quantitative prognostic indicators have been defined for patients with PSM that enable the surgeon to make sound clinical judgements as to who may or may not benefit from CRS/HIPEC. These prognostic indicators include the histopathology of the tumor, findings on the preoperative abdominal and pelvic computerized axial tomography, the Peritoneal Cancer Index, completeness of cytoreduction score, and prior surgical score.

CONCLUSIONS

Scoring systems for primary peritoneal surface malignancy reviewed in this article highlight the utility of these systems for patient selection for CRS/HIPEC and prognostication.

Conditional Survival Following Cytoreductive Surgery with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Peritoneal Surface Malignancies: An Analysis from the US HIPEC Collaborative

INTRODUCTION

The long-term prognosis of patients who undergo cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for peritoneal surface malignancies (PSM) varies considerably on the basis of histological and operative factors. While overall survival (OS) estimates are used to inform adjuvant therapy and surveillance strategies, conditional survival may provide more clinically relevant estimates of prognosis by accounting for disease-free time elapsed.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All patients from 12 academic institutions who underwent CRS ± HIPEC for PSM from 2000 to 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. OS and disease-free survival (DFS) rates were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method while conditional overall (COS) and conditional disease-free survival (CDFS) rates were calculated at 1, 2, or 3 years from surgery for different tumor histologies.

RESULTS

Overall, 1610 patients underwent CRS ± HIPEC. Among patients with benign appendiceal mucinous tumors (N = 460), 5-year OS and COS at 3 years were 92.1% and 96.3% (Δ4.2%), respectively. For patients with well-differentiated appendiceal cancers (N = 400), 5-year OS and COS at 3 years were 76.3% and 88.3% (Δ12.0%), respectively. For patients with high-grade appendiceal cancers (N = 258), 5-year OS and COS at 3 years were 43.8% and 75.4% (Δ31.6%), respectively. For patients with colorectal cancers (N = 362), 5-year OS and COS at 3 years were 31.8% and 67.3% (Δ35.5%), respectively. For patients with peritoneal mesothelioma (N = 130), 5-year OS and COS at 3 years were 67.6% and 89.7% (Δ22.1%), respectively. Similar trends were observed for DFS/CDFS.

CONCLUSION

The conditional survival of patients undergoing CRS ± HIPEC for PSM is associated with tumor histology. COS and CDFS provide a more accurate, dynamic estimate of survival than OS and DFS, especially for patients with more aggressive histologies.

Comparison of Neoadjuvant Systemic Chemotherapy Protocols for the Curative-Intent Management of Peritoneal Metastases from Colorectal Cancer, Regarding Morphological Response, Pathological Response, and Long-Term Outcomes: A Retrospective Study

BACKGROUND

Selected patients with colorectal cancer peritoneal metastases (CRPM) could be offered a curative-intent strategy based on complete cytoreductive surgery (CRS), potentially combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) and perioperative systemic chemotherapy. The impact of different neoadjuvant systemic chemotherapy (NACT) regimens remains unclear due to a lack of comparative data.

METHODS

Consecutive CRPM patients from a monocentric database who were treated with complete CRS after single-line NACT were included in this study. Chemotherapy regimens were tailored as a doublet drug (FOLFOX/FOLFIRI) with/without targeted therapy (anti-epidermal growth factor receptor/bevacizumab) and triplet-drug combination (FOLFIRINOX). Morphological response (MR) was assessed using the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors criteria, and pathological response (PR) was assessed using the Peritoneal Regression Grading Score (PRGS). Long-term oncologic outcomes were compared.

RESULTS

The cohort comprised 388 patients, including 127, 202, and 59 patients in the doublet, doublet + targeted, and triplet groups, respectively. MR rates were higher in the triplet (68.0%) and doublet + targeted groups (64.2%) when compared with the doublet group (42.4%, p = 0.003). Complete and major PRs were observed in 13.6% and 32.0% of patients, respectively. Higher MR rates were observed after doublet + targeted or triplet regimens, while no difference was observed for PR rates. In multivariate analysis, FOLFIRINOX was independently associated with better overall survival (hazard ratio 0.49, 95% confidence interval 0.25-0.96; p = 0.037). FOLFIRINOX also resulted in a higher rate of severe postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

In this retrospective study, a FOLFIRINOX regimen as NACT seemed to result in better long-term outcomes for CRPM patients after complete CRS/HIPEC, although with higher morbidity. Prospective studies are needed, including groups without NACT and those with FOLFIRINOX + bevacizumab.

Study of SOX combined with intraperitoneal high-dose paclitaxel in gastric cancer with synchronous peritoneal metastasis: A phase II single-arm clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Intraperitoneal paclitaxel is proved to be efficient for peritoneal metastasis of gastric cancer. It remains uncertain the efficacy and safety of the triplets regimen which combined intraperitoneal high-dose paclitaxel with systemic SOX in gastric cancer patients with peritoneal metastasis. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intraperitoneal administration of high-dose paclitaxel, intravenous oxaliplatin and S-1 in patients with peritoneal metastatic gastric cancer.

METHODS

This single-center, prospective, single-arm phase II study was conducted between January 2017 and May 2019 in West China Hospital, Sichuan University. Patients diagnosed with primary gastric cancer by histopathology and confirmed synchronous peritoneal metastasis were enrolled. This study aimed to evaluate efficacy and safety of intraperitoneal administration of high-dose paclitaxel (80 mg/m² , d1), intravenous oxaliplatin (100 mg/m² , d1), and S-1 (80 mg/m² , d1-14) of patients. The primary endpoint was 1-year overall survival rate, and the second endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), overall response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR) and adverse events.

RESULTS

In this single-arm phase II clinical trial, 49 patients received SOX combined intraperitoneal high-dose paclitaxel treatment. One-year survival rate was 81.6% (95% CI, 68.6-90.0%). Median PFS and OS were 6.50 months (95% CI, 2.89-10.11) and 16.9 months (95% CI, 13.58 to 20.22), respectively; ORR was 55.3% (95% CI, 41.3-68.6) and DCR was 76.6% (95% CI, 62.8-86.4). Thirteen patients underwent second laparoscopic detection, but only nine ultimately underwent radical gastrectomy. Subgroup analysis showed that sPCI ≤12 was a good index for a favorable prognosis. The most frequent grade 3/4 toxicities were neutropenia (40.8%), anemia (22.4%), leukopenia (18.4%), nausea (14.3%), and vomiting (12.2%). None of the patients had any intraperitoneal catheter-related complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraperitoneal high-dose paclitaxel with systemic SOX is an effective and tolerable first-line treatment for patients with peritoneal metastatic gastric cancer and patients with sPCI≤12 scores might be recommended crowd for this regimen as conversion therapy.

Role of Computed Tomography in the Evaluation of Peritoneal Carcinomatosis

Peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) refers to metastatic spread of tumor into the peritoneal cavity. Earlier, PC was thought to be associated with grave clinical outcome. However, various advances in treatment options including cytoreductive surgery and heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy or early post-operative chemotherapy can prolong survival of patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis. These treatment options are associated with high morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this article is to acquaint the radiologist about various appearances of peritoneal carcinomatosis in order to help clinicians in selecting candidates for surgery and avoid unnecessary potentially debilitating surgeries in patients with unresectable PC.

Management of peritoneal surface metastases from colorectal cancer: Cytoreductive surgery, hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy, pressurized intraperitoneal chemotherapy, and beyond

This article provides a contemporary review of the current surgical management of peritoneal surface malignancy (PSM) of colorectal origin. A brief review of the founding history of surgical intervention for PSM is followed by a focused review of the level I evidence, current clinical questions, and evolving advancements. While not intended to address all the facets of PSM, this review aims to provide the reader with the essential knowledge and resources to effectively provide surgical care for carcinomatosis due to colorectal malignancies.

Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy and Recirculation with CO2: A Safe Technique

Introduction: Hyperthermic IntraPEritoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) has evolved as a treatment for peritoneal carcinomatosis in various tumors after a careful and complete cytoreductive surgery, and it demonstrated much better and longer survival than more traditional therapeutic schemas. Our objective has been to examine the safety, efficacy and survival achieved with closed technique with CO₂-agitation system Combat PRS^® (Peritoneal Recirculation System: PRS). To achieve this, we compared the appearance of adverse events, mortality and survival with the described using classic techniques (open, closed without CO₂-agitation) for the treatment of selected patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis; Materials and methods: We studied overall survival, disease-free survival and safety (morbidity and mortality) of the administration of HIPEC through a closed method technique with CO₂ recirculation (Combat PRS^®) in 482 patients from 11 Spanish hospitals; Results: The mortality of our technique (1.66%) was similar to other published techniques (open, closed). Morbidity exhibited a 9.96% rate of Clavien-Dindo (CD) III/IV complications in 482 patients, which was lower than in other series. Survival (overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS)) was similar to previously published results: 86% 1y-OS, 54% 3y-OS, 77% 1y-DFS and 31% 3y-DFS; Conclusion: The procedure with closed PRS with CO₂ agitation is as safe as standard open and closed procedures for the administration of HIPEC after complete cytoreductive surgery, with similar and very low mortality (1.66%) and lower morbidity (9.96% CD III and IV in our series vs range of 20–40% in the majority of different series); only Kusamura had similar results, with 12% in 205 patients, using the closed technique without CO₂ agitation).

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy following up-front cytoreductive surgery versus cytoreductive surgery alone for isolated synchronous colorectal peritoneal metastases: A retrospective, observational study

Background

To date, the value of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) following up-front resection for isolated synchronous colorectal peritoneal metastases seems controversial.

Patients and Methods

This retrospective cohort study was conducted from September 1, 2012, to September 1, 2019, at a tertiary medical center in China. Patients with isolated synchronous colorectal peritoneal metastases were included in CRS plus HIPEC group or CRS alone group based on the treatment history. Overall survival and relapse-free survival were estimated using Cox proportional hazards regression analysis and Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

78 patients with isolated synchronous colorectal peritoneal metastases were identified among 396 patients with synchronous colorectal peritoneal metastases. 43 were in the cytoreductive surgery plus HIPEC group and 35 were in the cytoreductive surgery alone group. Among them, 61 patients had relapse-free survival data. The median peritoneal cancer index was 4 in all patients. After a median follow-up of 46.0 months, 5-year overall survival was 66.8% and the median relapse-free survival was 36.0 (95% CI, 6.8-65.1) months in the CRS plus HIPEC group. 5-year overall survival was 31.2% and the median relapse-free survival was 12.0 (95% CI, 9.0-15.0) months in the CRS alone group. Cox regression analyses showed that HIPEC was the independent prognostic factor for overall survival (P = 0.004) and relapse-free survival (P = 0.049).

Conclusion

Findings of the present study suggest that HIPEC following up-front CRS could improve overall survival and relapse-free survival in patients with isolated synchronous colorectal peritoneal metastases.

The role of imaging in diagnosis and management of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma: a systematic review

PURPOSE

Imaging of the peritoneum and related pathology is a challenge. Among peritoneal diseases, malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPeM) is an uncommon tumor with poor prognosis. To date, there are no specific guidelines or imaging protocols dedicated for the peritoneum and MPeM. The objective of this study was to analyze the literature describing imaging modalities used for MPeM to determine their relative clinical efficacy and review commonly reported imaging features of MPeM to promote standardized reporting.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review of original research articles discussing imaging modalities in MPeM from 1999 to 2020. Effectiveness measures and common findings were compared across imaging modalities.

RESULTS

Among 582 studies analyzed, the most-used imaging modality was CT (54.3%). In the differentiation of MPeM from peritoneal carcinomatosis, one study found CT had a diagnostic sensitivity of 53%, specificity of 100%, and accuracy of 68%. Two studies found fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) had sensitivity of 86-92%, specificity of 83-89%, and accuracy of 87-89%. Another study found magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was the best predictor of the peritoneal carcinomatosis index. Characteristics shown to best differentiate MPeM from other diseases included ascites, peritoneal thickening, mesenteric thickening, pleural plaques, maximum tumor dimension, and number of masses.

CONCLUSION

Most published MPeM imaging studies utilized CT. PET/CT or MRI appear promising, and future studies should compare effectiveness of these modalities. MPeM imaging reports should highlight ascites, number of and maximum tumor dimension, peritoneal/mesenteric thickening, and associated pleural plaques, allowing for better aggregation of MPeM imaging data across studies.

Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy in Gastric Cancer with Peritoneal Metastasis—Indian Experience

Introduction Peritoneal metastasis secondary to gastric cancer is associated with poor prognosis. Recent studies have shown that cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) may be an efficacious treatment option for an otherwise palliative condition.

Methods A retrospective single institutional study of patents diagnosed with gastric carcinoma and peritoneal metastasis and treated with CRS and HIPEC from February 2015 to December 2019.

Results Sixteen patients with gastric cancer and peritoneal carcinomatosis were treated with CRS and HIPEC. Three patients underwent upfront surgery, and five patients underwent interval surgery. The mean peritoneal cancer index (PCI) was 3.5, and adequate complete cytoreduction (CC) score of 0/1 was achieved in all patients. All patients received HIPEC with mitomycin C. Major surgical complications were in 12.5% of patients. Grade I surgical site infection was present in one patient. Three patients had prolonged gastrointestinal (GI) recovery. The 30-day mortality was zero. Median follow-up time was 39 months. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 12 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 6.86–17.13). The median overall survival (OS) was 17 months (95% CI 6.36–27.64).

Conclusion Multidisciplinary treatment of perioperative chemotherapy with CRS and HIPEC is a promising treatment option, which may prolong survival in selected patients, and large randomized clinical trials are warranted for it to become standard of care.

The many faces of intraperitoneal chemotherapy

Cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy may offer chance for cure for patients with peritoneal metastasis. Many variations emerged, causing uncertainty when choosing the most suitable variant. By reviewing variability encountered in the management of peritoneal metastasis, we aim to raise awareness about this issue and hopefully initiate efforts to solve it. We review variance encountered in all aspects of this complex field of surgical oncology, indications, patient selection criteria, definition and extent of cytoreductive surgery and the numerous variables of intraperitoneal chemotherapy. Best benefit was achieved with pseudomyxoma peritonei, and to lesser extent in colorectal, ovarian and gastric cancer, but Indications keep expanding to include other tumors pathologies. Selection of patients depends on numerous prognostic indicators and criteria, according to tumor extent and pathology. The standard definition of cytoreductive surgery remains the same, but the boundaries of resection expand. Numerous chemotherapy regimens and administration methods are used, in search for best possible benefit. This variance must be reduced, to make the best use of, and further spread this treatment combination. Practical simple guidelines are needed for surgical oncologists willing to utilize this treatment for their patients, to be considered a true standard of care.

Evaluation of intracavitary carboplatin chemotherapy for treatment of pleural carcinomatosis in cats: a retrospective study of eight cases

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the benefit of intracavitary carboplatin chemotherapy in cats with malignant pleural effusion of epithelial origin.

METHODS

The medical records of cats with a cytological diagnosis of neoplastic pleural effusion of epithelial origin were reviewed at three referral institutions between January 2013 and June 2018. Only cats treated with intracavitary carboplatin chemotherapy were enrolled. Data collection included signalment, medical history, clinical signs, pleural effusion analysis, diagnostic imaging findings, intracavitary carboplatin chemotherapy protocol, adverse events, response to chemotherapy, outcome and underlying primary tumour, if possible.

RESULTS

Eight cats met the inclusion criteria. Three cats had previous surgical removal of a tumour, including a poorly differentiated primary lung carcinoma, a uterine adenocarcinoma and a benign mammary tumour. The main clinical signs were tachypnoea and/or dyspnoea, inappetence and weight loss. Thoracic radiographs revealed marked bilateral pleural effusion in all cats. Pleural fluid analysis was consistent with a modified transudate, with malignant epithelial cells on cytology, leading to a diagnosis of pleural carcinomatosis. All cats received only one cycle of intracavitary carboplatin chemotherapy at a dose of 200-240 mg/m2. Recurrence of pleural effusion was reported in 7/8 cats within 4-15 days of chemotherapy, and death was recorded in all cats within 5-16 days, owing to recurrent pleural effusion or poor general condition. The primary cancer was suspected to be of pulmonary, mammary and pancreatic origin in four cats, two cats and one cat, respectively, and of unknown origin in the remaining cat.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this study, intracavitary carboplatin chemotherapy seems ineffective in managing neoplastic pleural effusion of epithelial origin in cats with pleural carcinomatosis. Other cytotoxic drugs and/or techniques should be investigated in the future to improve the quality of life and survival of cats with pleural carcinomatosis.

Extent of Peritoneal Resection for Peritoneal Metastases: Looking Beyond a Complete Cytoreduction

Completeness of cytoreduction is one of the most important prognostic factors impacting outcomes of cytoreductive surgery (CRS). To what extent the surrounding normal peritoneum needs to be removed is not known. We hypothesized that the extent of peritoneal resection should be different for different tumors and performed this study to find evidence to support this rationale. To determine the extent of resection of surrounding tissue for any tumor, the mechanisms of tumor development and spread, tumor morphology, the possibility of finding disease in the surrounding normal tissue, and the pattern of lymph node metastases should be known. Surgical resections also depend on patterns of recurrence and the impact of varying extent of resection on survival. We performed a review of literature pertaining to pathways and patterns of peritoneal cancer spread to determine the scientific basis for the extent of peritonectomy. We also reviewed studies comparing less and more extensive peritoneal resection. There is no consensus on the extent of lymphadenectomy required for most PM. Based on this review, we provide recommendations for the extent of peritoneal resection and the extent of lymph node dissection that should be performed for some common peritoneal tumors and identify areas that require further research. We propose that a systematic method of synoptic reporting of pathological specimens of CRS should be developed to capture information regarding the disease distribution within the peritoneal cavity and morphology of PM from different tumors. This can in future be used to establish standard guidelines for such resections.

Impact of extent of parietal peritonectomy on oncological outcome after cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC

BACKGROUND

In peritoneal surface malignancy (PSM), in spite of optimal cytoreductive surgery (CRS), majority of recurrences that occur are intraperitoneal. In patients with PSM, studies employing fluorescent imaging and microscopic examination have shown normal looking peritoneum may harbor active disease. This study was done to assess the recurrence pattern, oncological outcomes, and morbidity and mortality of the extent of peritonectomy in patients who underwent total parietal peritonectomy (TPP) or involved field peritonectomy (IFP) as a part of the procedure during CRS and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC).

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data, from February 2013 to December 2017. A total of 163 patients with PSM underwent TPP or IFP with CRS plus HIPEC. Their oncological outcomes, recurrence pattern, postoperative morbidity and mortality were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of the 163 cases, the primary organs of origin were ovary, colorectal, appendicular pseudomyxoma, stomach, mesothelioma and others (67.4%, 16.5%, 6.1%, 4.9%, 2% and 2%), respectively. TPP was performed in 70 patients and IFP in 93 patients. TPP group had higher mean PCI (16 vs. 14), longer duration of surgery (11 vs. 9 h), and more blood loss (1,243 vs. 675 mL). Overall G3-G4 morbidity was comparable in both groups (42.8% vs. 33.3%) as was mortality (5.7% vs. 4.4%). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that with a median follow-up of 45 months, TPP group had a recurrence-free survival (RFS) of 26 months and overall survival (OS) was yet to be achieved, whereas the IFP group had a RFS and OS of 21 and 43 months, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Performing TPP reduces the chance of missing the microscopic disease, therefore can minimize local recurrence, and better oncological outcomes. TPP can be performed with acceptable morbidity and mortality, at the cost of increased duration of surgery and higher blood loss.

Status of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis from colorectal cancer

Peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) was previously considered an incurable disease with a poor survival outcome. As our understanding of its biology evolved, the paradigm of the management of PC from colorectal cancer (CRC) has changed, including the combination of macroscopic disease control, cytoreductive surgery (CRS), maximal regional chemotherapy to treat residual microscopic disease, and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). As with many surgical innovations, CRS with HIPEC has evolved faster than data to support it, leaving many skeptics and critics. This review highlights the recent evidence of current practice and outcome of CRS with HIPEC. Furthermore, it also summarizes the ongoing clinical trials and potential future progress of this treatment modality.

The use of intraperitoneal chemotherapy for gastric malignancies

Introduction: Gastric cancer is the fourth/fifth most common malignancy worldwide, with only a quarter of patients achieving a 5-year survival rate. It has been estimated that 15-50% or more of patients have peritoneal disease upon surgical exploration. Until the early 1990s, peritoneal metastasis was considered as terminal stage of the disease; in the late 1990s, selected patients with peritoneal metastasis were recategorized as local disease. Over the past two decades, the treatment of peritoneal involvement has transformed, and cytoreductive surgery plus intraperitoneal therapy have drastically altered the natural course of several malignancies. Areas covered: We performed a review of studies available on PubMed from 1 January 2014 to 31 July 2019 and the analysis of their reference citations. We describe the most current intraperitoneal chemotherapy opportunities in the treatment of gastric cancer: hyperthermic intraoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), laparoscopic hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (LHIPEC), neoadjuvant intraperitoneal and systemic chemotherapy (NIPS), LHIPEC + NIPS, extensive intraoperative peritoneal lavage (EIPL), early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (EPIC), and pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC). Expert opinion: Comprehensive treatment consisting of CRS combined with perioperative intraperitoneal/systemic chemotherapy can, today, be considered an effective strategy to improve the long-term survival of gastric cancer patients with peritoneal metastasis.

Pathological assessment of cytoreductive surgery specimens and its unexplored prognostic potential-a prospective multi-centric study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The grade/histological subtype is one of the most important prognostic markers in patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery (CRS). Our aim was to study other potential prognostic information that can be derived from the pathological evaluation of CRS specimens and provide a broad outline for evaluation of these.

METHODS

This prospective study (July to December 2018) included all patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery (CRS). A protocol for pathological evaluation was laid down which was based on existing practices at the participating centers and included evaluation of the pathological PCI, regional node involvement, response to chemotherapy, morphology of peritoneal metastases (PM) and distribution in the peritoneal cavity.

RESULTS

In 191 patients undergoing CRS at 4 centers, the pathological and surgical PCI differed in over 75%. Nodes in relation to peritoneal disease were positive in 13.6%. Disease in normal peritoneum adjacent to tumor nodules was seen in >50% patients with ovarian cancer and mucinous apppendiceal tumors. 23.8% of evaluated colorectal PM patients had a complete response and 25.0% ovarian cancer patients had a near complete pathological response to chemotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Pathological evaluation of extent and distribution of peritoneal disease differs from the surgical evaluation in majority of the patients. Lymph node involvement in relation of peritoneal disease is common. The morphological presentation of PM in ovarian cancer and mucinous appendiceal tumors merits evaluation of more extensive resections in these patients. Standardized methods of synoptic reporting of CRS specimens could help capture vital prognostic information that may in future influence how these patients are treated.

Modulation of RAB7A Protein Expression Determines Resistance to Cisplatin through Late Endocytic Pathway Impairment and Extracellular Vesicular Secretion

BACKGROUND

Cisplatin (CDDP) is widely used in treatment of cancer, yet patients often develop resistance with consequent therapeutical failure. In CDDP-resistant cells alterations of endocytosis and lysosomal functionality have been revealed, although their causes and contribution to therapy response are unclear.

METHODS

We investigated the role of RAB7A, a key regulator of late endocytic trafficking, in CDDP-resistance by comparing resistant and sensitive cells using western blotting, confocal microscopy and real time PCR. Modulation of RAB7A expression was performed by transfection and RNA interference, while CDDP sensitivity and intracellular accumulation were evaluated by viability assays and chemical approaches, respectively. Also extracellular vesicles were purified and analyzed. Finally, correlations between RAB7A and chemotherapy response was investigated in human patient samples.

RESULTS

We demonstrated that down-regulation of RAB7A characterizes the chemoresistant phenotype, and that RAB7A depletion increases CDDP-resistance while RAB7A overexpression decreases it. In addition, increased production of extracellular vesicles is modulated by RAB7A expression levels and correlates with reduction of CDDP intracellular accumulation.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated, for the first time, that RAB7A regulates CDDP resistance determining alterations in late endocytic trafficking and drug efflux through extracellular vesicles.

Perioperative Systemic Chemotherapy, Cytoreductive Surgery, and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy in Patients With Colorectal Peritoneal Metastasis: Results of the Prospective Multicenter Phase 2 COMBATAC Trial

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) as parts of an interdisciplinary treatment concept including systemic chemotherapy can improve survival of selected patients with peritoneal metastatic colorectal cancer (pmCRC). Nevertheless, the sequence of the therapeutic options is still a matter of debate. Thus, the COMBATAC (COMBined Anticancer Treatment of Advanced Colorectal cancer) trial was conducted to evaluate a combined treatment regimen consisting of preoperative systemic polychemotherapy + cetuximab followed by CRS + HIPEC and postoperative systemic polychemotherapy + cetuximab.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The COMBATAC trial is a prospective, multicenter, open-label, single-arm, single-stage phase 2 trial. Twenty-six patients with synchronous or metachronous colorectal or appendiceal peritoneal carcinomatosis were included. Enrollment was terminated prematurely by the sponsor because of slow recruitment. Progression-free survival as primary end point and overall survival were estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method. Also evaluated were morbidity according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v4.0 and feasibility of the combined treatment concept.

RESULTS

Median progression-free survival for the intention-to-treat population (n = 25) was 14.9 months. Median overall survival was not reached during the study duration. Ninety-two adverse events were documented in 16 patients, including 14 serious adverse events in 9 patients. The overall morbidity rate was 64%, and the grade 3/4 morbidity rate was 44%. Of all grade 3/4 morbidity events, 36.4% were related to systemic chemotherapy and 22.7% to surgery, whereas 40.9% were not directly related. There was no treatment-related mortality.

CONCLUSION

The results of the COMBATAC trial show that the multimodal treatment concept consisting of perioperative systemic chemotherapy and CRS + HIPEC is safe and feasible. Progression-free survival in selected patients with colorectal or appendiceal peritoneal metastasis might be improved.

Diagnostic value of whole-body MRI with diffusion-weighted sequence for detection of peritoneal metastases in colorectal malignancy

Objective:

To assess the diagnostic accuracy of whole-body MRI using diffusion-weighted sequence (WB-DWI) to determine the peritoneal cancer index (PCI) in correlation with surgical and histopathological findings.

Methods:

Twenty-seven patients underwent preoperative WB-MRI, followed by cytoreductive surgery for primary tumors of the appendix (n = 15), colorectum (n = 12), and associated peritoneal disease. A total of 351 regions were retrospectively reviewed. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were calculated at 13 anatomical sites. The WB-DWI PCI and PCI type were compared with surgical and histopathological findings.

Results:

No statistical difference was found between the WB-DWI PCI and surgical PCI (P = 0.574). WB-DWI correctly predicted the PCI type in 24 of 27 patients with high accuracy (88.9%), including 10 of 10 patients with small-volume tumor, 12 of 14 with moderate-volume tumor, and 2 of 3 with large-volume tumor. WB-DWI correctly depicted tumors in 163 of 203 regions, with 40 false-negative and 23 false-positive regions. The overall sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of WB-DWI for the detection of peritoneal tumors were 80.3%, 84.5%, and 82.1%, respectively. For lesions < 0.5 cm in diameter, WB-DWI demonstrated good sensitivity (69.4%).

Conclusions:

WB-DWI accurately predicted PCI before surgery in patients undergoing evaluation for cytoreductive surgery.

Surgical Treatment of Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

Surgical treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer offers a chance for cure or prolonged survival, particularly for those with more favorable prognostic factors and limited tumor burden. The treatment plan requires multidisciplinary evaluation because multiple therapy options exist. Advanced surgical techniques, adjuncts to resection, and modern chemotherapy all contribute to best outcomes for patients with hepatic metastases. Although cure is less common for patients with metastasis to lung or peritoneum, surgical resection for the former and cytoreduction and intraperitoneal chemotherapy for the latter may help to achieve cancer control in selected patients.

Laparoscopy as a useful selection tool for patients with prior surgery and peritoneal metastases suitable for multimodality treatment strategies

BACKGROUND

Complete macroscopic cytoreduction in patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) is the basic requirement for long-term survival. Diagnostic laparoscopy (DL) can be difficult and of limited clinical value secondary to postoperative or tumor-induced adhesions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of DL in patients with prior surgery and PC.

METHODS

The database of the surgical department of the University Medical Center of Regensburg was reviewed (9/2010-10/2014) selecting for DL in patients with PC. The operative report had a standardized format allowing for the determination of the extent of the intra-abdominal visible area and the extent of tumor on the surface of the small intestine. For the classification we used our own developed score.

RESULTS

DL was performed in 102 patients. The complete abdominal cavity was evaluable in 48%. At least two quadrants and the largest part of the small intestine could be assessed in 70%. 37% of the patients had massive tumor manifestation on the small intestine or its mesentery. PCI (Peritoneal Cancer Index) could not be calculated in 71% of the patients due to incomplete visualization of the abdominal cavity and/or multiple tumor manifestations on the small intestine. 54% of patients were classified as non-resectable and 85% who seemed suitable for cytoreductive surgery underwent a CCR-0 resection and HIPEC.

CONCLUSIONS

In spite of prior surgery and PC, DL is frequently possible and a useful tool to define the extent of tumor spread. Lots of patients can be prevented from needless open laparotomy. The extent of tumor involvement of the small intestine seems to be more relevant than calculation of the PCI to determine the potential for complete resection. Therefore, in the presence of adhesions, inspection of the complete abdominal cavity does not offer added clinical benefit and further adhesiolysis can be avoided.

Applications of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer

INTRODUCTION

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) plays a pivotal role in the current treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) from colorectal cancer (CRC). Since the first demonstration, benefits for patients and especially an increase in survival have been described. In recent years, feasibility, efficacy and safety of HIPEC have been improved and progress has been made in understanding its oncological mechanism. Areas covered: In this article, leading publications have been reviewed including clinical trials to describe the clinical presentation of PC due to CRC and present recent evidence of the CRS/HIPEC procedure. The surgical approach including evaluation of the extent of PC is described and, in addition, the article reports about different HIPEC techniques as well as several protocols. Furthermore, the development and prognostic benefit of the combination of intraperitoneal and intravenous chemotherapy are outlined. Consideration has been given in particular to patient selection and the use of HIPEC if complete cytoreduction is not feasible. Expert commentary: The CRS/HIPEC procedure represents a curative approach to treat patients with PC from CRC. However, surgical skills and the HIPEC technique still require specialized oncological centers.

The Impact of Early Recurrence on Quality of Life after Cytoreduction with HIPEC

Improved oncological outcomes after cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in highly selected patients have been well documented. The extensive nature of the procedure adversely affects quality of life (QoL). The aim of this study is to longitudinally evaluate QoL following CRS/HIPEC. This is a retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database of patients with peritoneal malignancies undergoing CRS/HIPEC. Clinicopathological data, oncologic outcomes, and QoL were analyzed preoperatively and post-operatively at 2 weeks, and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. The Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Colorectal instrument was used to determine changes in QoL after CRS/HIPEC and the impact of early recurrence (<12 months) on QoL. Thirty-six patients underwent CRS/HIPEC over 36 months. The median peritoneal cancer index score was 18 and the completeness of cytoreduction-0/1 rate was 97.2 per cent. Postoperative major morbidity was 16.7 per cent with one perioperative death. Disease-free survival was 12.6 months in patients with high-grade tumors versus 31.0 months in those with low-grade tumors (P = 0.03). QoL decreased postoperatively and improved to baseline in six months. Patients with early recurrence had a decrease in global QoL compared with preoperative QoL at 6 (P < 0.03) and 12 months (P < 0.05). This correlation was not found in patients who had not recurred. Patients who undergo CRS/HIPEC have a decrease in QoL that plateaus in 3 to 6 months. Early recurrence adversely impacts QoL at 6 and 12 months. This study emphasizes the importance of patient selection for CRS/HIPEC. The expected QoL trajectory in patients at risk for early recurrence must be carefully weighed against the potential oncological benefit of CRS/HIPEC.

Antitumor activity of miR-34a in peritoneal mesothelioma relies on c-MET and AXL inhibition: persistent activation of ERK and AKT signaling as a possible cytoprotective mechanism

Background

The value of microRNAs (miRNAs) as novel targets for cancer therapy is now widely recognized. However, no information is currently available on the expression/functional role of miRNAs in diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (DMPM), a rapidly lethal disease, poorly responsive to conventional treatments, for which the development of new therapeutic strategies is urgently needed. Here, we evaluated the expression and biological effects of miR-34a—one of the most widely deregulated miRNAs in cancer and for which a lipid-formulated mimic is already clinically available—in a large cohort of DMPM clinical samples and a unique collection of in house-developed preclinical models, with the aim to assess the potential of a miR-34a-based approach for disease treatment.

Methods

miR-34a expression was determined by qRT-PCR in 45 DMPM and 7 normal peritoneum specimens as well as in 5 DMPM cell lines. Following transfection with miR-34a mimic, the effects on DMPM cell phenotype, in terms of proliferative potential, apoptotic rate, invasion ability, and cell cycle distribution, were assessed. In addition, three subcutaneous and orthotopic DMPM xenograft models were used to examine the effect of miR-34a on tumorigenicity. The expression of miRNA targets and the activation status of relevant pathways were investigated by western blot.

Results

miR-34a was found to be down-regulated in DMPM clinical specimens and cell lines compared to normal peritoneal samples. miR-34a reconstitution in DMPM cells significantly inhibited proliferation and tumorigenicity, induced an apoptotic response, and declined invasion ability, mainly through the down-regulation of c-MET and AXL and the interference with the activation of downstream signaling. Interestingly, a persistent activation of ERK1/2 and AKT in miR-34a-reconstituted cells was found to counteract the antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects of miRNA, yet not affecting its anti-invasive activity.

Conclusions

Our preclinical data showing impressive inhibitory effects induced by miR-34a on DMPM cell proliferation, invasion, and growth in immunodeficient mice strongly suggest the potential clinical utility of a miR-34a-replacement therapy for the treatment of such a still incurable disease. On the other hand, we provide the first evidence of a potential cytoprotective/resistance mechanism that may arise towards miRNA-based therapies through the persistent activation of RTK downstream signaling.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13045-016-0387-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Then and now: cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), a historical perspective

The management of peritoneal carcinomatosis, once considered a condition with few therapeutic options, has undergone dramatic change with the advancement of surgical techniques and systemic cancer therapy. Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) followed by hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) administration, in particular, has significantly impacted the prospect of improving outcomes for this debilitating presentation of malignancy in selected patients. This regional surgical therapy itself has undergone many stages of evolution through its original conception nearly a century ago. Progressive changes in this field have included refinements and ongoing standardization in technique, development of a common language to describe tumor burden and extent of resection, better selection of chemotherapeutics based on tumor histology, reduction of surgical morbidity and mortality, and an improved understanding of factors for appropriate patient selection, to list but a few examples. CRS/HIPEC continues to play an important role in the management of select patients with carcinomatosis of certain tumor histology and its role will no doubt continue to be redefined as new therapies emerge.

Preoperative and surveillance MR imaging of patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery and heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy

MR imaging provides considerable advantages for imaging patients with peritoneal tumor. Its inherently superior contrast resolution compared to CT allows MRI to more accurately depict small peritoneal tumors that are often missed on other imaging tests. Combining different contrast mechanisms including diffusion-weighted (DW) MRI and gadolinium-enhanced MRI provides a powerful tool for preoperative and surveillance imaging in patients being considered for cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC).

Diagnostic Laparoscopy in the Pre-operative Assessment of Patients Undergoing Cytoreductive Surgery and HIPEC for Peritoneal Surface Malignancies

The introduction of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has led to an improvement in the survival of select patients with peritoneal surface malignancies (PSM). However, it is important to carefully identify patients who will benefit from this procedure and to avoid an unnecessary laparotomy in those who will not. The currently available imaging modalities are unable to accurately predict the peritoneal cancer index (PCI) score or the completeness of cytoreduction. In this article, we review the current status of staging laparoscopy in the assessment of patients with PSM who are planned for CRS & HIPEC. We discuss the patient selection, techniques, complications and efficacy of staging laparoscopy. To summarise, staging laparoscopy is a safe and feasible method of pre-operative assessment of patients with PSM. It has a high sensitivity and positive predictive value in identifying patients who can undergo a complete cytoreduction, thereby preventing many patients from undergoing an unnecessary laparotomy. With the exception of pseudomyxoma peritonei, it should be considered as a part of the routine assessment of patients with PSM who are being considered for CRS & HIPEC.

BEV-IP: Perioperative chemotherapy with bevacizumab in patients undergoing cytoreduction and intraperitoneal chemoperfusion for colorectal carcinomatosis

Background

Selected patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) from colorectal cancer (CRC) benefit from cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with intraperitoneal chemoperfusion (IPC). However, even after optimal cytoreduction, systemic and locoregional recurrence are common. Perioperative chemotherapy with bevacizumab (BEV) may improve the outcome of these patients.

Methods/Design

The BEV-IP study is a phase II, single-arm, open-label study aimed at patients with colorectal or appendiceal adenocarcinoma with synchronous or metachronous PC. This study evaluates whether perioperative chemotherapy including BEV in combination with CRS and oxaliplatin-based IPC results in acceptable morbidity and mortality (primary composite endpoint). Secondary endpoints are treatment completion rate, chemotherapy-related toxicity, pathological response, progression free survival, and overall survival.

Discussion

The BEV-IP trial is the first prospective assessment of the safety and efficacy of perioperative chemotherapy combined with anti-angiogenic treatment in patients undergoing CRS and IPC for colorectal peritoneal metastases.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02399410 EudraCT number: 2015-001187-19 (registered March 9, 2015).

Oxaliplatin-based versus irinotecan-based hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in patients with peritoneal metastasis from appendiceal and colorectal cancer: a retrospective analysis

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) provide an effective treatment option for selected patients with colorectal peritoneal metastasis with encouraging survival results. Many different drug combinations and HIPEC regimens including bidirectional, i.e. synchronous intravenous and intraperitoneal, drug application have been used. However, there is still no standardization of the HIPEC regimen.

METHODS

Between 05/2007 and 04/2010 190 patients underwent CRS and HIPEC at the University Hospital Regensburg. Thirty-two patients with peritoneal metastasis arising from colorectal or appendiceal cancer underwent complete macroscopic cytoreduction (CC-0/1) and bidirectional HIPEC and completed at least 3-year follow-up. Twenty patients received oxaliplatin-based (OX) and twelve patients received irinotecan-based HIPEC (IRI). Group-specific perioperative morbidity and 3-year survival has been determined.

RESULTS

The grade 3/4 morbidity rate according to CTCAE v4 was 35.0% in the OX group vs. 33.3% in the IRI group (p = 1.000). There was no perioperative mortality in both groups. Median survival was 26.8 months (95% CI 15.7-33.1 months) in the IRI group and has not yet been reached in the OX group during a median follow-up of 39.4 months. Three-year survival rates were 65.0% in the OX group vs. 41.7% in the IRI group (p = 0.295).

CONCLUSIONS

The morbidity and toxicity rates of bidirectional irinotecan-based and oxaliplatin-based HIPEC are comparable. Nevertheless, in the absence of contraindications oxaliplatin-based HIPEC might be preferred due to the positive trend regarding 3-year and median survival.

Pathological response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy: a new prognosis tool for the curative management of peritoneal colorectal carcinomatosis

PURPOSE

The primary objective of this study was to determine the incidence rate of pathological complete responses (pCRs) following neoadjuvant systemic chemotherapy for the treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) of colorectal origin. The secondary objective was to evaluate whether pathological response assessments predict survival of patients treated with curative intent by complete cytoreductive surgery (CRS).

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of 115 patients who underwent preoperative irinotecan- or oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy, followed by 124 procedures of complete CRS alone or combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). The pathological response was defined as the mean percentage of cancer cells remaining within all specimens. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify predictors of survival and pathological response outcome.

RESULTS

Twelve procedures (9.7 %) resulted in pCRs, defined as no residual cancer cells in all specimens, 25 (20.2 %) resulted in major responses (1 to 49 % residual cancer cells), and 87 (70.1 %) resulted in minor or no responses (>50 % residual cancer cells). The cumulative 5-year survival rates were 75 and 57 % for patients with pCR and major responses, respectively. Using multivariate analysis, pathological response was the only independent predictor of survival (P = 0.01; major response: hazard ratio [HR] = 4.91; minor response: HR = 13.46). No significant predictor of pathological response was identified.

CONCLUSIONS

Pathological complete response can be achieved with preoperative systemic chemotherapy for patients with PC of colorectal origin. The degree of pathological response can be assessed and represented as a new outcome for prognosis following treatment with curative intent.

Quality of life after cytoreductive surgery plus hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy: a prospective study of 216 patients

INTRODUCTION

Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS) and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) have demonstrated promising results in the treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC). The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of this combined procedure on quality of life (QoL).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective single centre study of 216 consecutive patients treated with CRS and HIPEC was conducted using the Gastro-Intestinal Quality of Life Index questionnaire (GIQLI), completed preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months.

RESULTS

Questionnaire compliance was 81%, 90%, 89%, 89% and 74% at baseline, 1, 3, 6 and 12 months respectively. QoL was significantly decreased up to 6 months and returned to baseline at 12 months. In multivariate analysis, factors decreasing QoL were origin of PC at 3 months, presence of stoma at 6 months and length of surgery over 270 min and disease recurrence at 12 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite morbidity associated with CRS and HIPEC, QoL returned to baseline at one year after surgery. This treatment strategy should be considered for the treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis.

Intraperitoneal cytokine level in patients with peritoneal surface malignancies. A study of the RENAPE (French Network for Rare Peritoneal Malignancies)

BACKGROUND

Prognosis of peritoneal surface malignancies is influenced by the adequacy of surgical and chemotherapeutic treatment and by tumor spread at the time of diagnosis. By promoting morphological changes in the mesothelium, inflammatory cytokines reflect tumor biology and could be evaluated as biomarkers. Our objective was to evaluate intraperitoneal levels of IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF-alpha, and sICAM in patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei and peritoneal mesothelioma.

METHODS

Serum and peritoneal fluid samples were prospectively collected in patients managed for peritoneal surface malignancies including pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP), mesotheliomas, and other rare primitive peritoneal cancers (cancer group) and patients who underwent intraperitoneal laparoscopic surgical procedures for benign diseases (noncancer group). Samples were analyzed for IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF-alpha, and sICAM concentrations. Correlations were assessed with tumor spread related clinical scores.

RESULTS

In both patient groups, intraperitoneal cytokine levels were higher than serum levels. Cancer patients had significantly higher intraperitoneal cytokine levels than noncancer patients. Peritoneal levels tended to increase in cancer patients with free tumor cells in peritoneal fluid. They were significantly higher in patients with tumor implants ≥2 cm and/or patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis index (PCI) >19. Furthermore, patients with malignant pseudomyxoma peritonei (grades II and III) had higher levels than patients with nonmalignant disease (grade I).

CONCLUSIONS

Assessment of intraperitoneal IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF-alpha, and sICAM levels can be performed in patients with peritoneal surface malignancies. They can be considered as both diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers that could be used as useful adjuncts for therapeutic decision making.

A prospective multicenter phase II study evaluating multimodality treatment of patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis arising from appendiceal and colorectal cancer: the COMBATAC trial

Background

Peritoneal carcinomatosis is regarded as a common sign of advanced tumor stage, tumor progression or local recurrence of appendiceal and colorectal cancer and is generally associated with poor prognosis. Although survival of patients with advanced stage CRC has markedly improved over the last 20 years with systemic treatment, comprising combination chemotherapy +/− monoclonal antibodies, the oncological outcome—especially of the subgroup of patients with peritoneal metastases—is still unsatisfactory. In addition to systemic therapy, cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) are specific treatment options for a selected group of these patients and may provide an additional therapeutic benefit in the framework of an interdisciplinary treatment concept.

Methods/design

The COMBATAC trial is a prospective, multicenter, open-label, single-arm, single-stage phase II trial investigating perioperative systemic polychemotherapy including cetuximab in combination with CRS and HIPEC patients with histologically proven wild-type KRAS colorectal or appendiceal adenocarcinoma and synchronous or metachronous peritoneal carcinomatosis. The planned total number of patients to be recruited is 60. The primary endpoint is progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary endpoints include overall survival (OS), perioperative morbidity and treatment-associated toxicity, feasibility of the combined treatment regimen, quality of life (QoL) and histopathological regression after preoperative chemotherapy.

Discussion

The COMBATAC trial is designed to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of the combined multidisciplinary treatment regimen consisting of perioperative systemic combination chemotherapy plus cetuximab and CRS plus bidirectional HIPEC with intraperitoneal oxaliplatin.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01540344, EudraCT number: 2009-014040-11

Surgical Approach Including Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) in Patients with Peritoneal Metastasis

<b><i>Background: </i></b>Peritoneal metastasis arising from colorectal cancer, appendiceal cancer, gastric cancer and gynecologic malignancies, or primary peritoneal surface malignancies such as peritoneal mesothelioma and primary peritoneal adenocarcinoma may be efficiently treated by cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in selected patients. <b><i>Method: </i></b>CRS is based on the technique of parietal and visceral peritonectomy and consists of multiple surgical procedures. HIPEC combines high local doses of cytostatics with the additional cytotoxic effects of hyperthermia. <b><i>Results: </i></b>The goal of CRS is to achieve a complete macroscopic cytoreduction (CC-0/1) as a precondition for consecutive HIPEC that should destroy residual tumor cells within the abdominal cavity. <b><i>Conclusion: </i></b>CRS and HIPEC can be performed with acceptable morbidity and low mortality in specialized centers. However, due to long learning curves, consistent surgical training is strongly recommended.

Progression following neoadjuvant systemic chemotherapy may not be a contraindication to a curative approach for colorectal carcinomatosis

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this retrospective study was to evaluate the influence of neoadjuvant systemic chemotherapy on patients with colorectal carcinomatosis before a curative procedure.

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) from colorectal cancer may be treated with a curative intent by cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). The role of perioperative systemic chemotherapy for this particular metastatic disease remains unclear.

METHODS

One hundred twenty patients with PC from colorectal cancer were consecutively treated by 131 procedures combining CRS with HIPEC. The response to neoadjuvant systemic chemotherapy was assessed on data from previous explorative surgery and/or radiological imaging.

RESULTS

Ninety patients (75%) were treated with neoadjuvant systemic chemotherapy in whom 32 (36%) were considered to have responded, 19 (21%) had stable disease, and 19 (21%) developed diseases progression. Response could not be evaluated in 20 patients (22%). On univariate analysis, the use of neoadjuvant systemic chemotherapy had a significant positive prognostic influence (P = 0.042). On multivariate analysis, the completeness of CRS and the use of adjuvant systemic chemotherapy were the only significant prognostic factors (P < 0.001 and P = 0.049, respectively). Response to neoadjuvant systemic chemotherapy had no significant prognostic impact with median survival of 31.4 months in patients showing disease progression.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with PC from colorectal cancer without extraperitoneal metastases, failure of neoadjuvant systemic chemotherapy should not constitute an absolute contraindication to a curative procedure combining CRS and HIPEC.

Current status and future directions in gastric cancer with peritoneal dissemination

Peritoneal carcinomatosis arising from gastric cancer is mostly associated with poor prognosis. Despite the improvement of survival with modern polychemotherapy, the results are still unsatisfactory. Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy might provide an additional therapeutic option for highly selected patients with gastric cancer and peritoneal metastasis leading to improved prognosis. Considering the increased rate of perioperative morbidity and the crucial prognostic role of complete macroscopic cytoreduction, adequate preoperative diagnostics and patient selection are strongly recommended. Further prospective randomized trials are needed to determine the roles of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy as part of an interdisciplinary treatment concept.

Combined diffusion-weighted and gadolinium-enhanced MRI can accurately predict the peritoneal cancer index preoperatively in patients being considered for cytoreductive surgical procedures

PURPOSE

To determine whether abdominal and pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with diffusion-weighted and dynamic gadolinium-enhanced imaging can be used to accurately calculate the peritoneal cancer index (PCI) before surgery compared to the PCI tabulated at surgery.

METHODS

Thirty-three patients underwent preoperative MRI followed by cytoreductive surgery for primary tumors of the appendix (n = 25), ovary (n = 5), colon (n = 2), and mesothelioma (n = 1). MRIs were retrospectively reviewed to determine the MRI PCI. These scores were then compared to PCI tabulated at surgery. Patients were categorized as having small-volume tumors (PCI 0–9), moderate-volume tumors (PCI 10–20), and large-volume tumors (PCI > 20). The respective anatomic site scores for both MRI and surgery were compared.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between the MRI PCI and surgical PCI for the 33 patients (P = 0.12). MRI correctly predicted the PCI category in 29 (0.88) of 33 patients. Compared to surgical findings, MRI correctly predicted small-volume tumor in 6 of 7 patients, moderate-volume tumor in 3 of 4 patients, and large-volume tumor in 20 of 22 patients. MRI and surgical PCI scores were identical in 8 patients (24%). A difference of <5 was noted in 16 patients (49%) and of 5–10 in 9 patients (27%). Compared to surgical-site findings, MRI depicted 258 truly positive sites of peritoneal tumor, 35 falsely negative sites, 35 falsely positive sites, and 101 truly negative sites, with a corresponding sensitivity of 0.88, specificity of 0.74, and accuracy of 0.84.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined diffusion-weighted and gadolinium-enhanced peritoneal MRI accurately predicts the PCI before surgery in patients undergoing evaluation for cytoreductive surgery.