Lymphocytic Toxicity in Patients After Peptide-Receptor Radionuclide Therapy (PRRT) with 177 Lu-DOTATATE and 90 Y-DOTATOC

Dosimetry of [177Lu]Lu-DOTATATE in Patients with Advanced Midgut Neuroendocrine Tumors: Results from a Substudy of the Phase III NETTER-1 Trial

This substudy of the phase III NETTER-1 trial evaluated [177Lu]Lu-DOTATATE (hereafter 177Lu-DOTATATE) for advanced midgut neuroendocrine tumors and aimed to assess dosimetry of a standard 4-cycle protocol and any potential relationship to toxicity. Change in tumor size by absorbed dose was an exploratory endpoint. Methods: Patients with locally advanced or metastatic, well-differentiated, midgut neuroendocrine tumors were enrolled in this substudy between August 2013 and January 2016. Patients were scheduled to receive 4 infusions of 7.4 GBq of 177Lu-DOTATATE for a cumulative injected activity of 29.6 GBq. After a 177Lu-DOTATATE infusion, whole-body planar images (4-6 time points for up to 7 d) and SPECT/CT images (at 24 and/or 48 h) were acquired, and absorbed and time-integrated activity coefficients were calculated to derive dosimetry. Blood and urine samples were used to determine the blood clearance and activity elimination rate. Tumor absorbed dose was derived using a sphere model, interpolating 177Lu dose factors on the basis of each lesion mass. Tumor size was assessed by measuring the longest and perpendicular dimensions on CT at measured time points. Results: Dosimetric assessments were evaluated in 20 patients. Organ dosimetry showed substantial interpatient variability. The predicted mean cumulative absorbed doses to kidneys and bone marrow were 19.4 (SD, 8.7) and 1.0 (SD, 0.8) Gy, respectively. Three patients had kidney doses between 28 and 33 Gy; 2 had grade 1 increased serum creatinine, and 1 showed no evidence of renal toxicity (up to 5 y of follow-up). Hematologic toxicity was primarily mild or moderate (grade 1-2) with no increase over time or association with cumulative absorbed dose. Tumor kinetics in 65 lesions demonstrated stable activity over time. Inter- and intrapatient variability was observed, and the median cumulative absorbed dose was 134 Gy (range, 7-2,218 Gy). Acknowledging the limitations of the imaging methods used and tumor volume assessments, we found no correlation between the best tumor size reduction and the absorbed dose, though most tumors (90%) shrank over the 72-wk study period. Conclusion: The dosimetry data support the findings that the standard treatment regimen with 177Lu-DOTATATE that includes personalized adjustments according to acute toxicity assessments is well tolerated and manageable.

Intraarterial Administration of Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy in Patients with Advanced Meningioma: Initial Safety and Efficacy

Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) is a treatment option for patients with advanced meningioma. Recently, intraarterial application of the radiolabeled somatostatin receptor agonists has been introduced as an alternative to standard intravenous administration. In this study, we assessed the safety and efficacy of intraarterial PRRT in patients with advanced, progressive meningioma. Methods: Patients with advanced, progressive meningioma underwent intraarterial PRRT with [177Lu]Lu-HA-DOTATATE. The safety of PRRT was evaluated according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0. Treatment response was assessed according to the proposed Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology criteria for meningiomas and somatostatin receptor-directed PET/CT. Results: Thirteen patients (8 women, 5 men; mean age, 65 ± 13 y) with advanced meningioma underwent 1-4 cycles (median, 4 cycles) of intraarterial PRRT with [177Lu]Lu-HA-DOTATATE (mean activity per cycle, 7,428 ± 237 MBq; range, 6,000-7,700 MBq). Treatment was well tolerated with mainly grade 1-2 hematologic toxicity. Ten of 13 patients showed radiologic disease control at follow-up after therapy (1/10 complete remission, 1/10 partial remission, 8/10 stable disease), and 9 of 13 patients showed good control of clinical symptoms. Conclusion: Intraarterial PRRT in patients with advanced meningioma is feasible and safe. It may result in improved radiologic and clinical disease control compared with intravenous PRRT. Further research to validate these initial findings and to investigate long-term outcomes is highly warranted.

Evaluation of a blood miRNA/mRNA signature to follow-up Lu-PRRT therapy for G1/G2 intestinal neuroendocrine tumors

Background

177Lu-oxodotreotide peptide receptor therapy (LuPRRT) is an efficient treatment for midgut neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) of variable radiological response. Several clinical, biological, and imaging parameters may be used to establish a relative disease prognosis but none is able to predict early efficacy or toxicities. We investigated expression levels for mRNA and miRNA involved in radiosensitivity and tumor progression searching for correlations related to patient outcome during LuPRRT therapy.

Methods

Thirty-five patients received LuPRRT for G1/G2 midgut NETs between May 2019 and September 2021. Peripheral blood samples were collected prior to irradiation, before and 48 h after the second and the fourth LuPRRT, and at 6-month follow-up. Multiple regression analyses and Pearson correlations were performed to identify the miRNA/mRNA signature that will best predict response to LuPRRT.

Results

Focusing on four mRNAs and three miRNAs, we identified a miRNA/mRNA signature enabling the early identification of responders to LuPRRT with significant reduced miRNA/mRNA expression after the first LuPRRT administration for patients with progressive disease at 1 year (p < 0.001). The relevance of this signature was reinforced by studying its evolution up to 6 months post-LuPRRT. Moreover, nadir absolute lymphocyte count within the first 2 months after the first LuPRRT administration was significantly related to low miRNA/mRNA expression level (p < 0.05) for patients with progressive disease.

Conclusion

We present a pilot study exploring a miRNA/mRNA signature that correlates with early hematologic toxicity and therapeutic response 12 months following LuPRRT. This signature will be tested prospectively in a larger series of patients.

SPECT/CT Image-Derived Absorbed Dose to Red Marrow Correlates with Hematologic Toxicity in Patients Treated with [177Lu]Lu-DOTATATE

Hematologic toxicity, although often transient, is the most common limiting adverse effect during somatostatin peptide receptor radionuclide therapy. This study investigated the association between Monte Carlo-derived absorbed dose to the red marrow (RM) and hematologic toxicity in patients being treated for their neuroendocrine tumors. Methods: Twenty patients each receiving 4 treatment cycles of [177Lu]Lu-DOTATATE were included. Multiple-time-point 177Lu SPECT/CT imaging-based RM dosimetry was performed using an artificial intelligence-driven workflow to segment vertebral spongiosa within the field of view (FOV). This workflow was coupled with an in-house macroscale/microscale Monte Carlo code that incorporates a spongiosa microstructure model. Absorbed dose estimates to RM in lumbar and thoracic vertebrae within the FOV, considered as representations of the whole-body RM absorbed dose, were correlated with hematologic toxicity markers at about 8 wk after each cycle and at 3- and 6-mo follow-up after completion of all cycles. Results: The median of absorbed dose to RM in lumbar and thoracic vertebrae within the FOV (D median,vertebrae) ranged from 0.019 to 0.11 Gy/GBq. The median of cumulative absorbed dose across all 4 cycles was 1.3 Gy (range, 0.6-2.5 Gy). Hematologic toxicity was generally mild, with no grade 2 or higher toxicity for platelets, neutrophils, or hemoglobin. However, there was a decline in blood counts over time, with a fractional value relative to baseline at 6 mo of 74%, 97%, 57%, and 97%, for platelets, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and hemoglobin, respectively. Statistically significant correlations were found between a subset of hematologic toxicity markers and RM absorbed doses, both during treatment and at 3- and 6-mo follow-up. This included a correlation between the platelet count relative to baseline at 6-mo follow up: D median,vertebrae (r = -0.64, P = 0.015), D median,lumbar (r = -0.72, P = 0.0038), D median,thoracic (r = -0.58, P = 0.029), and D average,vertebrae (r = -0.66, P = 0.010), where D median,lumbar and D median,thoracic are median absorbed dose to the RM in the lumbar and thoracic vertebrae, respectively, within the FOV and D average,vertebrae is the mass-weighted average absorbed dose of all vertebrae. Conclusion: This study found a significant correlation between image-derived absorbed dose to the RM and hematologic toxicity, including a relative reduction of platelets at 6-mo follow up. These findings indicate that absorbed dose to the RM can potentially be used to understand and manage hematologic toxicity in peptide receptor radionuclide therapy.

Sequencing of Somatostatin-Receptor-Based Therapies in Neuroendocrine Tumor Patients

Most well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) express high levels of somatostatin receptors, particularly subtypes 2 and 5. Somatostatin analogs (SSAs) bind to somatostatin receptors and are used for palliation of hormonal syndromes and control of tumor growth. The long-acting SSAs octreotide long-acting release and lanreotide are commonly used in the first-line metastatic setting because of their tolerable side effect profile. Radiolabeled SSAs are used both for imaging and for treatment of NETs. 177Lu-DOTATATE is a β-emitting radiolabeled SSA that has been proven to significantly improve progression-free survival among patients with progressive midgut NETs and is approved for treatment of metastatic gastroenteropancreatic NETs. A key question in management of patients with gastroenteropancreatic and lung NETs is the sequencing of 177Lu-DOTATATE in relation to other systemic treatments (such as everolimus) or liver-directed therapies. This question is particularly complicated given the heterogeneity of NETs and the near absence of randomized trials comparing active treatment options. This state-of-the-art review examines the evidence supporting use of somatostatin-receptor-targeted treatments within the larger landscape of NET therapy and offers insights regarding optimal patient selection, assessment of benefit versus risk, and treatment sequencing.

Efficacy and safety of peptide receptor radionuclide therapy with [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-TATE in 15 patients with progressive treatment-refractory meningioma

PURPOSE

There is no evidence-based systemic therapy for patients with progressive meningiomas for whom surgery or external radiotherapy is no longer an option. In this study, the efficacy and safety of peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) in patients with progressive, treatment-refractory meningiomas were evaluated.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of all meningioma patients treated with [¹⁷⁷Lu]Lu-DOTA-TATE from 2000 to 2020 in our centre. Primary outcomes were response according to RANO bidimensional and volumetric criteria and progression-free survival (PFS). Overall survival (OS) and tumour growth rate (TGR) were secondary endpoints. TGR was calculated as the percentage change in surface or volume per month.

RESULTS

Fifteen meningioma patients received [¹⁷⁷Lu]Lu-DOTA-TATE (7.5-29.6 GBq). Prior to PRRT, all patients had received external radiotherapy, and 14 patients had undergone surgery. All WHO grades were included WHO 1 (n=3), WHO 2 (n=5), and WHO 3 (n=6). After PRRT, stable disease was observed in six (40%) patients. The median PFS was 7.8 months with a 6-month PFS rate of 60%. The median OS was 13.6 months with a 12-month OS rate of 60%. All patients had progressive disease prior to PRRT, with an average TGR of 4.6% increase in surface and 14.8% increase in volume per month. After PRRT, TGR declined to 3.1% in surface (p=0.016) and 5.0% in volume (p=0.013) per month.

CONCLUSION

In this cohort of meningioma patients with exhaustion of surgical and radiotherapeutic options and progressive disease, it was shown that PRRT plays a role in controlling tumour growth.

Treatment of neuroendocrine tumours with 177 Lu-peptide receptor radionuclide therapy: Challenging clinical scenarios and their management

Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) for the treatment of patients with neuroendocrine tumours is usually well tolerated, with selection based on existing guidelines. However, there are various scenarios where the risk-benefit analysis of PRRT needs to be evaluated to limit any complications associated with PRRT. This review looks at 11 key scenarios where the risk-benefit of PRRT needs to be closely evaluated.

Inflammatory markers and long term hematotoxicity of holmium-166-radioembolization in liver-dominant metastatic neuroendocrine tumors after initial peptide receptor radionuclide therapy

PURPOSE

In patients with neuroendocrine tumor liver metastases, additional tumor reduction can be achieved by sequential treatment with [166Ho]-radioembolization after peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT). The aim of this study was to analyze hematotoxicity profiles, (i.e. lymphocyte and neutrophile toxicity) and the prognostic value of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and thrombocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (TLR).

METHODS

All patients included in the prospective HEPAR PLuS study were included in this study. Blood testing was performed at baseline (before radioembolization) and at regular intervals during 1-year follow-up. Radiological response was assessed at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months according to RECIST 1.1. Logistic regression was used to analyze the prognostic value of NLR and TLR on response.

RESULTS

Thirty-one patients were included in the toxicity analysis; thirty were included in the response analysis. Three weeks after radioembolization, a significant decrease in lymphocyte count (mean change - 0.26 × 109/L) was observed. Ten patients (32.2%) experienced grade 3-4 lymphocyte toxicity. This normalized at 6 weeks and 3 months after treatment, while after 6 months a significant increase in lymphocyte count was observed. An increase in NLR and TLR at 3 weeks, compared to baseline, significantly predicted response at 3 months (AUC = 0.841 and AUC = 0.839, respectively) and at 6 months (AUC = 0.779 and AUC = 0.765). No significant relation with survival was found.

CONCLUSIONS

Toxicity after sequential treatment with PRRT and [166Ho]-radioembolization is limited and temporary, while significant additional benefit can be expected. Change in NLR and TLR at 3-weeks follow-up may be valuable early predictors of response. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02067988. Registered 20 February 2014, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT02067988 .

Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy Targeting the Somatostatin Receptor: Basic Principles, Clinical Applications and Optimization Strategies

Simple Summary

Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) is a systemic treatment consisting of the administration of a tumor-targeting radiopharmaceutical into the circulation of a patient. The radiopharmaceutical will bind to a specific peptide receptor leading to tumor-specific binding and retention. This will subsequently cause lethal DNA damage to the tumor cell. The only target that is currently used in widespread clinical practice is the somatostatin receptor, which is overexpressed on a range of tumor cells, including neuroendocrine tumors and neural-crest derived tumors. Academia played an important role in the development of PRRT, which has led to heterogeneous literature over the last two decades, as no standard radiopharmaceutical or regimen has been available for a long time. This review focuses on the basic principles and clinical applications of PRRT, and discusses several PRRT-optimization strategies.

Abstract

Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) consists of the administration of a tumor-targeting radiopharmaceutical into the circulation of a patient. The radiopharmaceutical will bind to a specific peptide receptor leading to tumor-specific binding and retention. The only target that is currently used in clinical practice is the somatostatin receptor (SSTR), which is overexpressed on a range of tumor cells, including neuroendocrine tumors and neural-crest derived tumors. Academia played an important role in the development of PRRT, which has led to heterogeneous literature over the last two decades, as no standard radiopharmaceutical or regimen has been available for a long time. This review provides a summary of the treatment efficacy (e.g., response rates and symptom-relief), impact on patient outcome and toxicity profile of PRRT performed with different generations of SSTR-targeting radiopharmaceuticals, including the landmark randomized-controlled trial NETTER-1. In addition, multiple optimization strategies for PRRT are discussed, i.e., the dose–effect concept, dosimetry, combination therapies (i.e., tandem/duo PRRT, chemoPRRT, targeted molecular therapy, somatostatin analogues and radiosensitizers), new radiopharmaceuticals (i.e., SSTR-antagonists, Evans-blue containing vector molecules and alpha-emitters), administration route (intra-arterial versus intravenous) and response prediction via molecular testing or imaging. The evolution and continuous refinement of PRRT resulted in many lessons for the future development of radionuclide therapy aimed at other targets and tumor types.

Safety and Efficacy of Peptide-Receptor Radionuclide Therapy in Elderly Neuroendocrine Tumor Patients

Simple Summary

We compared the safety and efficacy of targeted radionuclide therapy between elderly (79 years old and older) and disease-matched younger patients (between 60 and 70 years of age) with metastatic neuroendocrine tumour (NET). To our knowledge, this is the first paper addressing this important clinical question of the outcome of radionuclide therapy in this particularly vulnerable population. We found that targeted radionuclide therapy did not cause increased side effects in the elderly NET population, while toxicity remains modest and comparable in both groups. We also find that survival (after adjusting for differences in life expectancy) is not inferior for the elderly compared to younger NET patients.

Abstract

Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) is a well-established treatment in somatostatin receptor-expressing neuroendocrine tumours (NETs). The safety and efficacy of PRRT in >79 years old patients (EP) have not been systematically investigated. All patients with inoperable/metastatic/progressive G1/G2 NET, >79 years (EP), treated with PRRT at the University Hospital of Basel between 2006 and 2018, were enrolled in this retrospective matched cohort study. Each patient was manually matched with ≥1 younger patient (YP = 60–70 years). The primary endpoint was toxicity. Toxicity (subacute, long-term) was graded according to the criteria for adverse events (CTCAE) v5.0. All toxicity grades ≥ 3, or whose delta (Δ) to baseline were ≥2, were considered significant. The odds ratio (OR) for developing toxicity was tested for non-inferiority of EP vs. YP. Clinical response to PRRT and overall survival (OS) were assessed as secondary outcome measures. Forty-eight EP and 68 YP were enrolled. Both cohorts were balanced regarding median time since diagnosis, tumour location, grading, treatment scheme, and baseline biochemical parameters, except for eGFR (EP: 61 ± 16 vs. YP: 78 ± 19; mL/min/1.73 m²). Twenty-two grade ≥ 3 or Δ ≥ 2 subacute hematotoxicities occurred in 10 EP (10.3% of cycles) and 37 in 19 YP (11.6% of cycles; p = NS). Long-term grade ≥ 3 renal toxicity occurred in 7 EP and 2 YP (p = NS). The median OS was 3.4 years (EP) vs. 6.0 years (YP), HR: 1.50 [0.75, 2.98], p = NS. PRRT is a valid therapeutic option in elderly NET patients with similar toxicity and non-inferior survival compared to matched younger patients.

Nephrotoxicity after radionuclide therapies

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Nuclear medicine theranostics have demonstrated success with a favourable safety and efficacy profile in several malignancies.

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Kidneys being the primary excretory organ for most therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals are at risk of increased radiation exposure.

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Recognition of the mechanisms of radiation induced nephropathy and associated risk factors can help in the development of appropriate interventions to prevent and limit renal toxicity.

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Developments in reducing chronic radiation nephropathy following radionuclide therapies will help in avoiding the related morbidities, preserving the overall quality of life.

Radioligand therapies have opened new treatment avenues for cancer patients. They offer precise tumor targeting with a favorable efficacy-to-toxicity profile. Specifically, the kidneys, once regarded as the critical organ for radiation toxicity, also show excellent tolerance to radiation doses as high as 50–60 Gy in selected cases. However, the number of nephrons that form the structural and functional units of the kidney is determined before birth and is fixed. Thus, loss of nephrons secondary to any injury may lead to an irreversible decline in renal function over time. Our primary understanding of radiation-induced nephropathy is derived from the effects of external beam radiation on the renal tissue. With the growing adoption of radionuclide therapies, considerable evidence has been gained with regard to the occurrence of renal toxicity and its associated risk factors. In this review, we discuss the radionuclide therapies associated with the risk of nephrotoxicity, the present understanding of the factors and mechanisms that contribute to renal injury, and the current and potential methods for preventing, identifying, and managing nephrotoxicity, specifically acute onset nephropathies.

Phase 1/2a study of 177Lu-lilotomab satetraxetan in relapsed/refractory indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma

For patients with indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma who fail initial anti-CD20-based immunochemotherapy or develop relapsed or refractory disease, there remains a significant unmet clinical need for new therapeutic approaches to improve outcomes and quality of life. 177Lu-lilotomab satetraxetan is a next-generation single-dose CD37-directed radioimmunotherapy (RIT) which was investigated in a phase 1/2a study in 74 patients with relapsed/refractory indolent non-Hodgkin B-cell lymphoma, including 57 patients with follicular lymphoma (FL). To improve targeting of 177Lu-lilotomab satetraxetan to tumor tissue and decrease hematologic toxicity, its administration was preceded by the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab and the "cold" anti-CD37 antibody lilotomab. The most common adverse events (AEs) were reversible grade 3/4 neutropenia (31.6%) and thrombocytopenia (26.3%) with neutrophil and platelet count nadirs 5 to 7 weeks after RIT. The most frequent nonhematologic AE was grade 1/2 nausea (15.8%). With a single administration, the overall response rate was 61% (65% in patients with FL), including 30% complete responses. For FL with ≥2 prior therapies (n = 37), the overall response rate was 70%, including 32% complete responses. For patients with rituximab-refractory FL ≥2 prior therapies (n = 21), the overall response rate was 67%, and the complete response rate was 24%. The overall median duration of response was 13.6 months (32.0 months for patients with a complete response). 177Lu-lilotomab satetraxetan may provide a valuable alternative treatment approach in relapsed/refractory non-Hodgkin lymphoma, particularly in patients with comorbidities unsuitable for more intensive approaches. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT01796171.

Phase I study of the 177Lu-DOTA0-Tyr3-Octreotate (lutathera) in combination with nivolumab in patients with neuroendocrine tumors of the lung

Background

Lutathera is a ¹⁷⁷Lutetium-labeled somatostatin analog approved for the treatment of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). Somatostatin receptors are expressed in small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Nivolumab, an anti-PD-1 antibody, may act synergistically with lutathera to generate antitumor immunity. We conducted a phase I study of lutathera plus nivolumab in patients with advanced NETs of the lung.

Methods

Patients with relapsed/refractory extensive-stage SCLC (ES-SCLC), non-progressing ES-SCLC after first-line platinum-based chemotherapy, or advanced grade I-II pulmonary NETs were eligible. The primary objective was to determine the recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D). The phase I portion followed a standard 3+3 design, assessing two dose levels (dose level 1: lutathera 3.7 GBq every 8 weeks for four doses with nivolumab 240 mg every 2 weeks; dose level 2: lutathera 7.4 GBq every 8 weeks for four doses with nivolumab 240 mg every 2 weeks).

Results

Nine patients were enrolled (six ES-SCLC, two pulmonary atypical carcinoid, one high-grade pulmonary neuroendocrine carcinoma). No dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) were observed at dose level 1. At dose level 2, one patient with refractory ES-SCLC developed a DLT (grade 3 rash). The most common treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) were lymphopenia (n=7), thrombocytopenia (n=4), anemia (n=3), and nausea (n=3). The most common grade 3 TRAE was lymphopenia (n=4). Among the seven patients with measurable disease, one patient with ES-SCLC had a partial response. Two patients with pulmonary atypical carcinoid had stable disease lasting 6 months. The RP2D was dose level 2.

Conclusions

Lutathera plus nivolumab was well tolerated and showed signs of antitumor activity. This combination warrants further exploration.

Trial registration number

NCT03325816

New Treatments for the Carcinoid Syndrome

Neuroendocrine tumors, including carcinoids, are rare and insidiously growing tumors. Related to their site of origin, tumors can be functional, causing various forms of the carcinoid syndrome, owing to the overproduction of serotonin, histamine, or other bioactive substances. They often invade adjacent structures or metastasize to the liver and elsewhere. Treatment includes multimodal approaches, including cytoreductive surgery, locoregional embolization, cytotoxic therapy, peptide receptor radionuclide therapy, and various targeted therapies with goals of symptom relief and control of tumor growth. This article summarizes current and emerging approaches to management and reviews several promising future therapies.

Impaired lymphocyte function in patients with hepatic malignancies after selective internal radiotherapy

The purpose of our study was to assess the immune function of patients with inoperable hepatic malignancies after treatment with selective internal radiotherapy (SIRT) and to identify possible correlations with clinical parameters. In 25 patients receiving SIRT lymphocyte proliferation and the production of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines (interferon-γ and interleukin-10) after stimulation with mitogens and microbial antigens were tested prior to therapy, directly after therapy (day 1) and at day 2, 7 and 28 post therapy using the lymphocyte transformation test and enzyme-linked immunospot assays. Absolute counts and percentages of leukocyte and lymphocyte subsets were determined by flow cytometry. The most prominent finding was an immediate and significant (p < 0.05) decrease of lymphocyte proliferation and interferon-γ production directly after therapy which lasted until day 28 and was stronger upon stimulation with microbial antigens than with mitogens. Moreover, lymphopenia was revealed, affecting all lymphocyte subsets (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+ T cells, CD4+ CD8+ T cells, B cells and NK cells). SIRT led to a reduction in the percentage of activated HLA-DR+ monocytes and of CD45R0+ memory T cells. Higher radiation activity, the presence of liver cirrhosis, chronic kidney disease, diabetes mellitus and metastases were unfavorable factors for immunocompetence, while a better Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status was associated with stronger immunological reactions. In conclusion, SIRT leads to severe impairment of cellular in vitro immune responses. Further studies are needed to assess a potential clinical impact.

Pitfalls in the response evaluation after peptide receptor radionuclide therapy with [177Lu-DOTA0,Tyr3]octreotate

Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) with [¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTA⁰,Tyr³]octreotate (¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTATATE) is a treatment with good results in patients with metastatic gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (GEPNETs). However, there are some pitfalls that should be taken into consideration when evaluating the treatment response after PRRT. 354 Dutch patients with GEPNETs who were treated with ¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTATATE between March 2000 and December 2011 were retrospectively selected. Liver function parameters and chromogranin A were measured before each therapy and in follow-up. Anatomical imaging was performed before therapy and in follow-up. An increase in aminotransferases by ≥20% compared to baseline was observed in 83 of 351 patients (24%). In patients with an objective response (OR) and stable disease (SD) this increase was observed in 71/297 (24%) and in patients with progressive disease (PD) it was observed in 12/54 patients (22%). An increase in chromogranin A by ≥20% compared to baseline was observed in 76 patients (29%). This was present in 34% of patients who eventually had PD and 27% of patients who had OR/SD. In 70% of patients this tumour marker returned to baseline levels after therapy. An increase in liver enzymes and chromogranin A is not uncommon after PRRT. In the vast majority of patients this will resolve in follow-up. Clinicians should be aware that these changes may occur due to radiation-induced inflammation or disease progression and that repeated measurements over time are necessary to differentiate between the two.

Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy of neuroendocrine tumours

In the past decades, the number of neuroendocrine tumours that are detected is increasing. A relative new and promising therapy for patients with metastasised or inoperable disease is peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT). This therapy involves an infusion of somatostatin analogues linked to radionuclides like Yttrium-90 or Lutetium-177. Objective response rates are reported in 15-35%. Response rates may vary between type of tumour and radionuclide. Besides the objective response rate, overall survival and progression free survival increase significantly. Also, the quality of life improves as well. Serious side-affects are rare. PRRT is usually well tolerated, also in patients with extensive metastasised disease. Recent studies combined PRRT with other types of therapies. Unfortunately no randomised trials comparing these strategies are available. In the future, more research is needed to evaluate the best therapy combinations or sequence of therapies.

Targeted radionuclide therapies for pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic malignancies, the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths, have an aggressive behavior with poor prognosis, resulting in a 5-year survival rate of only 4%. It is typically a silent malignancy until patients develop metastatic disease. Targeted radionuclide therapies of cancer such as radiolabeled peptides, which bind to the receptors overexpressed by cancer cells and radiolabeled antibodies to tumor-specific antigens provide a viable alternative to chemotherapy and external beam radiation of metastatic cancers. Multiple clinical trials of targeted radionuclide therapy of pancreatic cancer have been performed in the last decade and demonstrated safety and potential efficacy of radionuclide therapy for treatment of this formidable disease. Although a lot of progress has been made in treatment of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors with radiolabeled (90)Y and (177)Lu somatostatin peptide analogs, pancreatic adenocarcinomas remain a major challenge. Novel approaches such as peptides and antibodies radiolabeled with alpha emitters, pre-targeting, bispecific antibodies and biological therapy based on the radioactive tumorlytic bacteria might offer a potential breakthrough in treatment of pancreatic adenocarcinomas.

The association between colonization with carbapenemase-producing enterobacteriaceae and overall ICU mortality: an observational cohort study

OBJECTIVES

Infections caused by carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae are increasing worldwide, especially in ICUs, and have been associated with high mortality rates. However, unequivocally demonstrating causality of such infections to death is difficult in critically ill patients because of potential confounding and competing events. Here, we quantified the effects of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae carriage on patient outcome in two Greek ICUs with carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae endemicity.

DESIGN

Observational cohort study.

SETTING

Two ICUs with carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae endemicity.

PATIENTS

Patients admitted to the ICU with an expected length of ICU stay of at least 3 days were included.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae colonization was established through screening in perineum swabs obtained at admission and twice weekly and inoculated on chromogenic plates. Detection of carbapenemases was performed phenotypically, with confirmation by polymerase chain reaction. Risk factors for ICU mortality were evaluated using cause-specific hazard ratios and subdistribution hazard ratios, with carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae colonization as time-varying covariate. One thousand seven patients were included, 36 (3.6%) were colonized at admission, and 96 (9.5%) acquired carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae colonization during ICU stay, and 301 (29.9%) died in ICU. Of 132 carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae isolates, 125 (94.7%) were Klebsiella pneumoniae and 74 harbored K. pneumoniae carbapenemase (56.1%), 54 metallo-β-lactamase (40.9%), and four both (3.0%). Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae colonization was associated with a statistically significant increase of the subdistribution hazard ratio for ICU mortality (subdistribution hazard ratio=1.79; 95% CI, 1.31-2.43), not explained by an increased daily hazard of dying (cause-specific hazard ratio for death=1.02; 95% CI, 0.74-1.41), but by an increased length of stay (cause-specific hazard ratio for discharge alive=0.73; 95% CI, 0.51-0.94). Other risk factors in the subdistribution hazard model were Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score (subdistribution hazard ratio=1.13; 95% CI, 1.11-1.15), female gender (subdistribution hazard ratio=1.29; 95% CI, 1.02-1.62), presence of solid tumor (subdistribution hazard ratio=1.54; 95% CI, 1.15-2.06), hematopoietic malignancy (subdistribution hazard ratio=1.61; 95% CI, 1.04-2.51), and immunodeficiency (subdistribution hazard ratio=1.59; 95% CI, 1.11-2.27).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients colonized with carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae have on average a 1.79 times higher hazard of dying in ICU than noncolonized patients, primarily because of an increased length of stay.

Yttrium-based therapy for neuroendocrine tumors

Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy with (90)Y-peptides is generally well tolerated. Acute side effects are usually mild; some are related to the coadministration of amino acids and others to the radiopeptide itself. Chronic and permanent effects on target organs, particularly kidneys and bone marrow, are generally mild if necessary precautions are taken. The potential risk to kidney and red marrow limits the amount of radioactivity that may be administered. However, when tumor masses are irradiated with adequate doses, volume reduction may be observed. (90)Y-octreotide has been the most used radiopeptide in the first 8 to 10 years of experience.

Specific efficacy of peptide receptor radionuclide therapy with (177)Lu-octreotate in advanced neuroendocrine tumours of the small intestine

PURPOSE

Increasing evidence supports the value of peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) in patients with metastatic neuroendocrine tumours (NET), but there are limited data on its specific efficacy in NET of small intestinal (midgut) origin. This study aims to define the benefit of PRRT with (177)Lu-octreotate for this circumscribed entity derived by a uniformly treated patient cohort.

METHODS

A total of 61 consecutive patients with unresectable, advanced small intestinal NET G1-2 stage IV treated with (177)Lu-octreotate (4 intended cycles at 3-month intervals, mean activity per cycle 7.9 GBq) were analysed. Sufficient tumour uptake on baseline receptor imaging and either documented tumour progression (n = 46) or uncontrolled symptoms (n = 15) were prerequisites for treatment. Response was evaluated according to modified Southwest Oncology Group (SWOG) criteria and additionally with Response Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1. Assessment of survival was performed using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards model for uni- and multivariate analyses. Toxicity was assessed according to standardized follow-up laboratory work-up including blood counts, liver and renal function, supplemented with serial (99m)Tc-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) clearance measurements.

RESULTS

The median follow-up period was 62 months. Reversible haematotoxicity (≥ grade 3) occurred in five patients (8.2%). No significant nephrotoxicity (≥ grade 3) was observed. Treatment response according to modified SWOG criteria consisted of partial response in 8 (13.1%), minor response in 19 (31.1%), stable disease in 29 (47.5%) and progressive disease in 5 (8.2%) patients. The disease control rate was 91.8%. Median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) was 33 [95% confidence interval (CI) 25-41] and 61 months (95% CI NA), respectively. Objective response was associated with longer survival (p = 0.005). Independent predictors of shorter PFS were functionality [hazard ratio (HR) 2.1, 95% CI 1.0-4.5, p = 0.05] and high plasma chromogranin A (CgA) levels > 600 ng/ml (HR 2.9, 95% CI 1.5-5.5, p < 0.001) at baseline.

CONCLUSION

PRRT is well tolerated and very effective in advanced well-differentiated small intestinal (midgut) NET. A high disease control rate and long PFS can be achieved with this modality after failure of standard biotherapy with somatostatin analogues. Tumour functionality and high plasma CgA appear to be independent predictors of unfavourable patient outcome.

177Lu-DOTA-HH1, a novel anti-CD37 radio-immunoconjugate: a study of toxicity in nude mice

BACKGROUND

CD37 is an internalizing B-cell antigen expressed on Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells (CLL). The anti-CD37 monoclonal antibody HH1 was conjugated to the bifunctional chelator p-SCN-Bn-DOTA and labelled with the beta-particle emitting radionuclide 177Lu creating the radio-immunoconjugate (RIC) 177Lu-DOTA-HH1 (177Lu-HH1, trade name Betalutin). The present toxicity study was performed prior to initiation of clinical studies with 177Lu-HH1.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Nude mice with or without tumor xenografts were treated with 50 to 1000 MBq/kg 177Lu- HH1 and followed for clinical signs of toxicity up to ten months. Acute, life threatening bone marrow toxicity was observed in animals receiving 800 and 1000 MBq/kg 177Lu-HH1. Significant changes in serum concentrations of liver enzymes were evident for treatment with 1000 MBq/kg 177Lu-HH1. Lymphoid depletion, liver necrosis and atrophy, and interstitial cell hyperplasia of the ovaries were also observed for mice in this dose group.

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

177Lu-DOTA-HH1 was well tolerated at dosages about 10 times above those considered relevant for radioimmunotherapy in patients with B-cell derived malignancies.The toxicity profile was as expected for RICs. Our experimental results have paved the way for clinical evaluation of 177Lu-HH1 in NHL patients.

Biodistribution and dosimetry of (177)Lu-tetulomab, a new radioimmunoconjugate for treatment of non-Hodgkin lymphoma

The biodistribution of the anti-CD37 radioimmunoconjugate ¹⁷⁷Lu-tetraxetan-tetulomab (¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTA-HH1) was evaluated. Biodistribution of ¹⁷⁷Lu-tetraxetan-tetulomab was compared with ¹⁷⁷Lu-tetraxetan-rituximab and free ¹⁷⁷Lu in nude mice implanted with Daudi lymphoma xenografts. The data showed that ¹⁷⁷Lu-tetulomab had a relevant stability and tumor targeting properties in the human lymphoma model. The half-life of ¹⁷⁷Lu allowed significant tumor to normal tissue ratios to be obtained indicating that ¹⁷⁷Lu-tetraxetan-tetulomab could be suitable for clinical testing. The biological and effective half-life in blood was higher for ¹⁷⁷Lu-tetraxetan-tetulomab than for ¹⁷⁷Lu-tetraxetan-rituximab. The biodistribution of ¹⁷⁷Lu-tetraxetan-tetulomab did not change significantly when the protein dose was varied from 0.01 to 1 mg/kg. Dosimetry calculations showed that the absorbed radiation doses to normal tissues and tumor in mice were not significantly different for ¹⁷⁷Lu-tetraxetan-tetuloma b and ¹⁷⁷Lu-tetraxetan-rituximab. The absorbed radiation doses were extrapolated to human absorbed radiation doses. These extrapolated absorbed radiation doses to normal tissues for ¹⁷⁷Lu-tetraxetan-tetulomab at an injection of 40 MBq/kg were significantly lower than the absorbed radiation doses for 15 MBq/kg Zevalin, suggesting that higher tumor radiation dose can be reached with ¹⁷⁷Lu-tetraxetan-tetulomab in the clinic.

Yttrium-labelled peptides for therapy of NET

Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) consists in the systemic administration of a synthetic peptide, labelled with a suitable beta-emitting radionuclide, able to irradiate tumours and their metastases via the internalization through a specific receptor, overexpressed on the cell membrane. After 15 years of experience, we can state that PRRT with (90)Y-labelled peptides is generally well tolerated. Acute side effects are usually mild, some of which are related to the co-administration of amino acids, such as nausea. Others are related to the radiopeptide, such as fatigue or the exacerbation of an endocrine syndrome, which rarely occurs in functioning tumours. Chronic and permanent effects on target organs, particularly the kidneys and the bone marrow, are generally mild if the necessary precautions are taken. Currently, the potential risk to kidney and red marrow limits the amount of radioactivity that may be administered. However, when tumour masses are irradiated with adequate doses, volume reduction may be observed. (90)Y-octreotide has been the most widely used radiopeptide in the first 8-10 years of experience. Unfortunately, all of the published results derive from different and inhomogeneous phase I/II studies. Hence, a direct comparison is virtually impossible to date. Nevertheless, even with these limitations, objective responses are registered in 10-34% of patients. The optimal timing of (90)Y-DOTATOC in the management of somatostatin receptor (SSTR)-positive tumours and the way in which it should be integrated with other treatments have yet to be defined, and prospective phase II/III trials comparing the efficacy and toxicity of different schemes of (90)Y-DOTATOC administration are still warranted.

Nuclear medicine techniques for the imaging and treatment of neuroendocrine tumours

Nuclear medicine plays a pivotal role in the imaging and treatment of neuroendocrine tumours (NETs). Somatostatin receptor scintigraphy (SRS) with [(111)In-DTPA(0)]octreotide has proven its role in the diagnosis and staging of gastroenteropancreatic NETs (GEP-NETs). New techniques in somatostatin receptor imaging include the use of different radiolabelled somatostatin analogues with higher affinity and different affinity profiles to the somatostatin receptor subtypes. Most of these analogues can also be labelled with positron-emitting radionuclides that are being used in positron emission tomography imaging. The latter imaging modality, especially in the combination with computed tomography, is of interest because of encouraging results in terms of improved imaging quality and detection capabilities. Considerable advances have been made in the imaging of NETs, but to find the ideal imaging method with increased sensitivity and better topographic localisation of the primary and metastatic disease remains the ultimate goal of research. This review provides an overview of the currently used imaging modalities and ongoing developments in the imaging of NETs, with the emphasis on nuclear medicine and puts them in perspective of clinical practice. The advantage of SRS over other imaging modalities in GEP-NETs is that it can be used to select patients with sufficient uptake for treatment with radiolabelled somatostatin analogues. Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) is a promising new tool in the management of patients with inoperable or metastasised NETs as it can induce symptomatic improvement with all Indium-111, Yttrium-90 or Lutetium-177-labelled somatostatin analogues. The results that were obtained with [(90)Y-DOTA(0),Tyr(3)]octreotide and [(177)Lu-DOTA(0),Tyr(3)]octreotate are even more encouraging in terms of objective tumour responses with tumour regression and documented prolonged time to progression. In the largest group of patients receiving PRRT, treated with [(177)Lu-DOTA(0),Tyr(3)]octreotate, a survival benefit of several years compared with historical controls has been reported.

177Lu-octreotate, alone or with radiosensitising chemotherapy, is safe in neuroendocrine tumour patients previously treated with high-activity 111In-octreotide

PURPOSE

The aim of this retrospective study was to determine whether patients with previous peptide receptor radionuclide therapy using high-activity (111)In-pentetreotide can be safely treated with (177)Lu-octreotate and whether addition of radiosensitising chemotherapy increases the toxicity of this agent.

METHODS

Records of 27 patients (aged 17-75) who received 69 (median 3 per patient) (177)Lu-octreotate administrations, including 29 in conjunction with radiosensitising infusional 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) (n = 27), or capecitabine (n = 2), between October 2005 and July 2007 subsequent to 1-8 prior cycles of (111)In-pentetreotide therapy were analysed. Toxicity was assessed during and at 8-12 weeks post-treatment, with further long-term assessments including survival status reviewed till death or study close-out date of 1 November 2009.

RESULTS

Reduction in blood counts was most marked following the first dose of (177)Lu-octreotate but at early follow-up the only major haematological toxicity was a single case of grade 4 lymphopaenia. Both the presence of bone metastases and the administration of chemotherapy tended to result in greater reduction in blood counts, but these differences did not reach statistical significance. On long-term follow-up, 16 patients (59%) are alive with median overall survival of 36 months (32-44 months from first (177)Lu-octreotate therapy). None of the recorded deaths was directly related to treatment toxicity. One patient had late grade 4 anaemia and thrombocytopaenia secondary to bone marrow failure from progressive infiltration by tumour. No other significant long-term haematological toxicities were recorded and no leukaemia was observed. No renal toxicity was observed on serial serum creatinine or radionuclide glomerular filtration rate (GFR) determination on initial or long-term follow-up.

CONCLUSION

(177)Lu-octreotate is a safe and well-tolerated therapy for patients who have previously been treated with (111)In-pentetreotide and can be safely combined with radiosensitising chemotherapy. However, caution is recommended in patients with bone metastases. Significant late toxicities including bone marrow or renal failure, or leukaemia directly related to radionuclide therapy, did not occur in our series.