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Adams A, Scheckel B, Habsaoui A, Haque M, Kuhr K, Monsef I, Bohlius J, Skoetz N. Intravenous iron versus oral iron versus no iron with or without erythropoiesis- stimulating agents (ESA) for cancer patients with anaemia: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2022; 6:CD012633. [PMID: 35724934 PMCID: PMC9208863 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012633.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anaemia is common among cancer patients and they may require red blood cell transfusions. Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) and iron might help in reducing the need for red blood cell transfusions. However, it remains unclear whether the combination of both drugs is preferable compared to using one drug. OBJECTIVES To systematically review the effect of intravenous iron, oral iron or no iron in combination with or without ESAs to prevent or alleviate anaemia in cancer patients and to generate treatment rankings using network meta-analyses (NMAs). SEARCH METHODS We identified studies by searching bibliographic databases (CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase; until June 2021). We also searched various registries, conference proceedings and reference lists of identified trials. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials comparing intravenous, oral or no iron, with or without ESAs for the prevention or alleviation of anaemia resulting from chemotherapy, radiotherapy, combination therapy or the underlying malignancy in cancer patients. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently extracted data and assessed risk of bias. Outcomes were on-study mortality, number of patients receiving red blood cell transfusions, number of red blood cell units, haematological response, overall mortality and adverse events. We conducted NMAs and generated treatment rankings. We assessed the certainty of the evidence using GRADE. MAIN RESULTS Ninety-six trials (25,157 participants) fulfilled our inclusion criteria; 62 trials (24,603 participants) could be considered in the NMA (12 different treatment options). Here we present the comparisons of ESA with or without iron and iron alone versus no treatment. Further results and subgroup analyses are described in the full text. On-study mortality We estimated that 92 of 1000 participants without treatment for anaemia died up to 30 days after the active study period. Evidence from NMA (55 trials; 15,074 participants) suggests that treatment with ESA and intravenous iron (12 of 1000; risk ratio (RR) 0.13, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.01 to 2.29; low certainty) or oral iron (34 of 1000; RR 0.37, 95% CI 0.01 to 27.38; low certainty) may decrease or increase and ESA alone (103 of 1000; RR 1.12, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.35; moderate certainty) probably slightly increases on-study mortality. Additionally, treatment with intravenous iron alone (271 of 1000; RR 2.95, 95% CI 0.71 to 12.34; low certainty) may increase and oral iron alone (24 of 1000; RR 0.26, 95% CI 0.00 to 19.73; low certainty) may increase or decrease on-study mortality. Haematological response We estimated that 90 of 1000 participants without treatment for anaemia had a haematological response. Evidence from NMA (31 trials; 6985 participants) suggests that treatment with ESA and intravenous iron (604 of 1000; RR 6.71, 95% CI 4.93 to 9.14; moderate certainty), ESA and oral iron (527 of 1000; RR 5.85, 95% CI 4.06 to 8.42; moderate certainty), and ESA alone (467 of 1000; RR 5.19, 95% CI 4.02 to 6.71; moderate certainty) probably increases haematological response. Additionally, treatment with oral iron alone may increase haematological response (153 of 1000; RR 1.70, 95% CI 0.69 to 4.20; low certainty). Red blood cell transfusions We estimated that 360 of 1000 participants without treatment for anaemia needed at least one transfusion. Evidence from NMA (69 trials; 18,684 participants) suggests that treatment with ESA and intravenous iron (158 of 1000; RR 0.44, 95% CI 0.31 to 0.63; moderate certainty), ESA and oral iron (144 of 1000; RR 0.40, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.66; moderate certainty) and ESA alone (212 of 1000; RR 0.59, 95% CI 0.51 to 0.69; moderate certainty) probably decreases the need for transfusions. Additionally, treatment with intravenous iron alone (268 of 1000; RR 0.74, 95% CI 0.43 to 1.28; low certainty) and with oral iron alone (333 of 1000; RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.54 to 1.57; low certainty) may decrease or increase the need for transfusions. Overall mortality We estimated that 347 of 1000 participants without treatment for anaemia died overall. Low-certainty evidence from NMA (71 trials; 21,576 participants) suggests that treatment with ESA and intravenous iron (507 of 1000; RR 1.46, 95% CI 0.87 to 2.43) or oral iron (482 of 1000; RR 1.39, 95% CI 0.60 to 3.22) and intravenous iron alone (521 of 1000; RR 1.50, 95% CI 0.63 to 3.56) or oral iron alone (534 of 1000; RR 1.54, 95% CI 0.66 to 3.56) may decrease or increase overall mortality. Treatment with ESA alone may lead to little or no difference in overall mortality (357 of 1000; RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.10; low certainty). Thromboembolic events We estimated that 36 of 1000 participants without treatment for anaemia developed thromboembolic events. Evidence from NMA (50 trials; 15,408 participants) suggests that treatment with ESA and intravenous iron (66 of 1000; RR 1.82, 95% CI 0.98 to 3.41; moderate certainty) probably slightly increases and with ESA alone (66 of 1000; RR 1.82, 95% CI 1.34 to 2.47; high certainty) slightly increases the number of thromboembolic events. None of the trials reported results on the other comparisons. Thrombocytopenia or haemorrhage We estimated that 76 of 1000 participants without treatment for anaemia developed thrombocytopenia/haemorrhage. Evidence from NMA (13 trials, 2744 participants) suggests that treatment with ESA alone probably leads to little or no difference in thrombocytopenia/haemorrhage (76 of 1000; RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.48; moderate certainty). None of the trials reported results on other comparisons. Hypertension We estimated that 10 of 1000 participants without treatment for anaemia developed hypertension. Evidence from NMA (24 trials; 8383 participants) suggests that treatment with ESA alone probably increases the number of hypertensions (29 of 1000; RR 2.93, 95% CI 1.19 to 7.25; moderate certainty). None of the trials reported results on the other comparisons. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS When considering ESAs with iron as prevention for anaemia, one has to balance between efficacy and safety. Results suggest that treatment with ESA and iron probably decreases number of blood transfusions, but may increase mortality and the number of thromboembolic events. For most outcomes the different comparisons within the network were not fully connected, so ranking of all treatments together was not possible. More head-to-head comparisons including all evaluated treatment combinations are needed to fill the gaps and prove results of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Adams
- Institute of Medical Statistics and Computational Biology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Benjamin Scheckel
- Institute of Health Economics and Clinical Epidemiology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Anissa Habsaoui
- Cochrane Haematology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Madhuri Haque
- Cochrane Haematology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Kathrin Kuhr
- Institute of Medical Statistics and Computational Biology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Ina Monsef
- Cochrane Haematology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Julia Bohlius
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Nicole Skoetz
- Cochrane Cancer, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Rozman C, Montserrat E. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: An Update on Current Treatment Approaches. Hematology 2016; 2:1-9. [DOI: 10.1080/10245332.1997.11746314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ciril Rozman
- Postgraduate School of Hematology “Farreras Valentí”, Department of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Emilio Montserrat
- Postgraduate School of Hematology “Farreras Valentí”, Department of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
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Tonia T, Mettler A, Robert N, Schwarzer G, Seidenfeld J, Weingart O, Hyde C, Engert A, Bohlius J. Erythropoietin or darbepoetin for patients with cancer. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2012; 12:CD003407. [PMID: 23235597 PMCID: PMC8145276 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd003407.pub5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anaemia associated with cancer and cancer therapy is an important clinical factor in the treatment of malignant diseases. Therapeutic alternatives are recombinant human erythropoiesis stimulating agents (ESAs) and red blood cell transfusions. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of ESAs to either prevent or treat anaemia in cancer patients. SEARCH METHODS This is an update of a Cochrane review first published in 2004. We searched the Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE and EMBASE and other databases. Searches were done for the periods 01/1985 to 12/2001 for the first review, 1/2002 to 04/2005 for the first update and to November 2011 for the current update. We also contacted experts in the field and pharmaceutical companies. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials on managing anaemia in cancer patients receiving or not receiving anti-cancer therapy that compared the use of ESAs (plus transfusion if needed). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Several review authors assessed trial quality and extracted data. One review author assessed quality assessment and extracted data, a second review author checked for correctness. MAIN RESULTS This update of the systematic review includes a total of 91 trials with 20,102 participants. Use of ESAs significantly reduced the relative risk of red blood cell transfusions (risk ratio (RR) 0.65; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.62 to 0.68, 70 trials, N = 16,093). On average, participants in the ESAs group received one unit of blood less than the control group (mean difference (MD) -0.98; 95% CI -1.17 to -0.78, 19 trials, N = 4,715). Haematological response was observed more often in participants receiving ESAs (RR 3.93; 95% CI 3.10 to 3.71, 31 trials, N = 6,413). There was suggestive evidence that ESAs may improve Quality of Life (QoL). There was strong evidence that ESAs increase mortality during active study period (hazard ratio (HR) 1.17; 95% CI 1.06 to 1.29, 70 trials, N = 15,935) and some evidence that ESAs decrease overall survival (HR 1.05; 95% CI 1.00 to 1.11, 78 trials, N = 19,003). The risk ratio for thromboembolic complications was increased in patients receiving ESAs compared to controls (RR 1.52, 95% CI 1.34 to 1.74; 57 trials, N = 15,498). ESAs may also increase the risk for hypertension (fixed-effect model: RR 1.30; 95% CI 1.08 to 1.56; random-effects model: RR 1.12; 95% CI 0.94 to 1.33, 31 trials, N = 7,228) and thrombocytopenia/haemorrhage (RR 1.21; 95% CI 1.04 to 1.42; 21 trials, N = 4,507). There was insufficient evidence to support an effect of ESA on tumour response (fixed-effect RR 1.02; 95% CI 0.98 to 1.06, 15 trials, N = 5,012). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS ESAs reduce the need for red blood cell transfusions but increase the risk for thromboembolic events and deaths. There is suggestive evidence that ESAs may improve QoL. Whether and how ESAs affects tumour control remains uncertain. The increased risk of death and thromboembolic events should be balanced against the potential benefits of ESA treatment taking into account each patient's clinical circumstances and preferences. More data are needed for the effect of these drugs on quality of life and tumour progression. Further research is needed to clarify cellular and molecular mechanisms and pathways of the effects of ESAs on thrombogenesis and their potential effects on tumour growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomy Tonia
- University of BernInstitute of Social and Preventive MedicineBernSwitzerland3012
| | - Annette Mettler
- University of BernInstitute of Social and Preventive MedicineBernSwitzerland3012
| | - Nadège Robert
- Kantonsspitalapotheke WinterthurPharmacyBrauerstrasse 15WinterthurSwitzerlandCH‐8400
| | - Guido Schwarzer
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Medical Informatics, University Medical Center FreiburgGerman Cochrane CentreStefan‐Meier‐Str. 26FreiburgGermanyD‐79104
| | - Jerome Seidenfeld
- American Society of Clinical OncologyDepartment of Quality and Guidelines1900 Duke Street, Suite 200AlexandriaVAUSA22314
| | | | - Chris Hyde
- University of Exeter Medical School, University of ExeterPeninsula Technology Assessment Group (PenTAG)Veysey BuildingSalmon Pool LaneExeterUKEX2 4SG
| | - Andreas Engert
- University Hospital of CologneCochrane Haematological Malignancies Group, Department I of Internal MedicineKerpener Str. 62CologneGermany50924
| | - Julia Bohlius
- University of BernInstitute of Social and Preventive MedicineBernSwitzerland3012
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Hedenus M, Osterborg A, Tomita D, Bohac C, Coiffier B. Effects of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents on survival and other outcomes in patients with lymphoproliferative malignancies: a study-level meta-analysis. Leuk Lymphoma 2012; 53:2151-8. [PMID: 22497574 PMCID: PMC3490475 DOI: 10.3109/10428194.2012.684347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) are approved to treat anemia in patients with non-myeloid malignancies receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy. ESAs reduce transfusion rates, but some clinical studies suggest that ESAs may reduce survival or increase disease progression. This study-level meta-analysis examined the effects of darbepoetin alfa, epoetin alfa or epoetin beta on mortality, disease progression and transfusion incidence in patients with lymphoproliferative malignancies, using randomized, controlled trials of patients receiving chemotherapy and ESAs or standard of care. The odds ratio (OR) for mortality was 1.04 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.81-1.34, random-effects model, 10 studies); the risk difference was - 0.01 (95% CI, - 0.03-0.02). The OR for disease progression was 1.02 (95% CI 0.81-1.30, random-effects model, five studies). A lower proportion of ESA-treated patients than controls received transfusions (seven studies). In this meta-analysis, ESAs reduced transfusions with no clear effect on mortality or disease progression in patients with lymphoproliferative malignancies receiving chemotherapy.
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Glaspy J, Crawford J, Vansteenkiste J, Henry D, Rao S, Bowers P, Berlin JA, Tomita D, Bridges K, Ludwig H. Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents in oncology: a study-level meta-analysis of survival and other safety outcomes. Br J Cancer 2010; 102:301-15. [PMID: 20051958 PMCID: PMC2816662 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6605498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Cancer patients often develop the potentially debilitating condition of anaemia. Numerous controlled studies indicate that erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) can raise haemoglobin levels and reduce transfusion requirements in anaemic cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. To evaluate recent safety concerns regarding ESAs, we carried out a meta-analysis of controlled ESA oncology trials to examine whether ESA use affects survival, disease progression and risk of venous-thromboembolic events. METHODS: This meta-analysis included studies from the 2006 Cochrane meta-analysis, studies published/updated since the 2006 Cochrane report, and unpublished trial data from Amgen and Centocor Ortho Biotech. The 60 studies analysed (15 323 patients) were conducted in the settings of chemotherapy/radiochemotherapy, radiotherapy only treatment or anaemia of cancer. Data were summarised using odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS: Results indicated that ESA use did not significantly affect mortality (60 studies: OR=1.06; 95% CI: 0.97–1.15) or disease progression (26 studies: OR=1.01; 95% CI: 0.90–1.14), but increased the risk for venous-thromoboembolic events (44 studies: OR=1.48; 95% CI: 1.28–1.72). CONCLUSION: Though this meta-analysis showed no significant effect of ESAs on survival or disease progression, prospectively designed, future randomised clinical trials will further examine the safety and efficacy of ESAs when used according to the revised labelling information.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Glaspy
- Department of Medicine-Hematology and Oncology, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, 100 UCLA Medical Plaza, Suite 550, Los Angeles, CA 90095-6996 USA.
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Bohlius J, Schmidlin K, Brillant C, Schwarzer G, Trelle S, Seidenfeld J, Zwahlen M, Clarke MJ, Weingart O, Kluge S, Piper M, Napoli M, Rades D, Steensma D, Djulbegovic B, Fey MF, Ray‐Coquard I, Moebus V, Thomas G, Untch M, Schumacher M, Egger M, Engert A. Erythropoietin or Darbepoetin for patients with cancer--meta-analysis based on individual patient data. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2009; 2009:CD007303. [PMID: 19588423 PMCID: PMC7208183 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd007303.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) reduce anemia in cancer patients and may improve quality of life, but there are concerns that ESAs might increase mortality. OBJECTIVES Our objectives were to examine the effect of ESAs and identify factors that modify the effects of ESAs on overall survival, progression free survival, thromboembolic and cardiovascular events as well as need for transfusions and other important safety and efficacy outcomes in cancer patients. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched the Cochrane Library, Medline, Embase and conference proceedings for eligible trials. Manufacturers of ESAs were contacted to identify additional trials. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomized controlled trials comparing epoetin or darbepoetin plus red blood cell transfusions (as necessary) versus red blood cell transfusions (as necessary) alone, to prevent or treat anemia in adult or pediatric cancer patients with or without concurrent antineoplastic therapy. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing epoetin alpha, epoetin beta or darbepoetin alpha plus red blood cell transfusions versus transfusion alone, for prophylaxis or therapy of anemia while or after receiving anti-cancer treatment. Patient-level data were obtained and analyzed by independent statisticians at two academic departments, using fixed-effects and random-effects meta-analysis. Analyses were according to the intention-to-treat principle. Primary endpoints were on study mortality and overall survival during the longest available follow-up, regardless of anticancer treatment, and in patients receiving chemotherapy. Tests for interactions were used to identify differences in effects of ESAs on mortality across pre-specified subgroups. The present review reports only the results for the primary endpoint. MAIN RESULTS A total of 13933 cancer patients from 53 trials were analyzed, 1530 patients died on-study and 4993 overall. ESAs increased on study mortality (combined hazard ratio [cHR] 1.17; 95% CI 1.06-1.30) and worsened overall survival (cHR 1.06; 95% CI 1.00-1.12), with little heterogeneity between trials (I(2) 0%, p=0.87 and I(2) 7.1%, p=0.33, respectively). Thirty-eight trials enrolled 10441 patients receiving chemotherapy. The cHR for on study mortality was 1.10 (95% CI 0.98-1.24) and 1.04; 95% CI 0.97-1.11) for overall survival. There was little evidence for a difference between trials of patients receiving different cancer treatments (P for interaction=0.42). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS ESA treatment in cancer patients increased on study mortality and worsened overall survival. For patients undergoing chemotherapy the increase was less pronounced, but an adverse effect could not be excluded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Bohlius
- University of BernInstitute of Social and Preventive MedicineBernSwitzerland3012
| | - Kurt Schmidlin
- University of BernInstitute of Social and Preventive MedicineBernSwitzerland3012
| | - Corinne Brillant
- University Hospital of CologneCochrane Haematological Malignancies Group, Department I of Internal MedicineKerpener Str. 62CologneGermany50924
| | - Guido Schwarzer
- Insitute of Medical Biometry and Medical InformaticsGerman Cochrane CentreUniversity Medical Center FreiburgStefan‐Meier‐Str. 26FreiburgGermanyD‐79104
| | - Sven Trelle
- University of BernInstitute of Social and Preventive MedicineBernSwitzerland3012
| | - Jerome Seidenfeld
- American Society of Clinical OncologyDepartment of Cancer Policy and Clinical Affairs1900 Duke Street, Suite 200AlexandriaVAUSA22314
| | - Marcel Zwahlen
- University of BernInstitute of Social and Preventive MedicineBernSwitzerland3012
| | - Mike J Clarke
- UK Cochrane CentreNational Institute for Health ResearchSummertown Pavilion, Middle WayOxfordUKOX2 7LG
| | - Olaf Weingart
- University Hospital of CologneCochrane Haematological Malignancies Group, Department I of Internal MedicineKerpener Str. 62CologneGermany50924
| | - Sabine Kluge
- University Hospital of CologneCochrane Haematological Malignancies Group, Department I of Internal MedicineKerpener Str. 62CologneGermany50924
| | - Margaret Piper
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield AssociationTechnology Evaluation Center225 N Michigan AvenueChicagoILUSA60501
| | - Maryann Napoli
- Center for Medical Consumers130 Macdougal StreetNew YorkUSA10012
| | - Dirk Rades
- University HospitalDepartment of Radiation OncologyLübeckGermany
| | | | - Benjamin Djulbegovic
- Center for Evidence Based Medicine and Health Outcomes Research, University of South FloridaProfessor of Medicine and Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer CenterUSF Health Clinical Research,12901 Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, MDC02TampaFloridaUSA33612
| | - Martin F Fey
- University and Inselspital BernDepartment of Medical OncologyEffingerstraße 102BernSwitzerland3010
| | | | - Volker Moebus
- Academic Hospital Frankfurt am Main HöchstDepartment of GynecologyGotenstraße 6‐8Frankfurt a.M.Germany65929
| | - Gillian Thomas
- University of TorontoOdette Sunnybrook Cancer CentreRoxborough Street WTorontoOntarioCanadaM5R 1V1
| | - Michael Untch
- Helios Hospital Berlin‐BuchClinic for GynaecologySchwanebecker Chaussee 50BerlinGermany13125
| | - Martin Schumacher
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Medical Informatics, University Medical Center FreiburgGerman Cochrane CenterFreiburgGermany
| | - Matthias Egger
- Institute of Social and Preventive MedicineInstitute of Social MedicineFinkenhubelweg 11BernSwitzerland3012
| | - Andreas Engert
- University Hospital of CologneCochrane Haematological Malignancies Group, Department I of Internal MedicineKerpener Str. 62CologneGermany50924
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The use of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents in patients with non-myeloid hematological malignancies: a systematic review. Ann Hematol 2008; 87:961-73. [DOI: 10.1007/s00277-008-0525-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2007] [Accepted: 05/30/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Steurer M, Wagner H, Gastl G. Prevalence and management of anaemia in haematologic cancer patients receiving cyclic nonplatinum chemotherapy: results of a prospective national chart survey. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2004; 116:367-72. [PMID: 15291288 DOI: 10.1007/bf03040915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Anaemia is common in patients with haematologic malignancies. In contrast to solid tumours there are only a few studies exploring anaemia in haematologic cancers. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of anaemia (haemoglobin [Hb] <12 g/dL) in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), multiple myeloma (MM), non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), and Hodgkin's disease (HD) who were scheduled to receive cyclic chemotherapy. Predictive factors for anaemia development and anaemia treatment were also assessed. METHODS This prospective chart survey was conducted at 35 oncology centers in Austria. A total of 273 patients were followed through four cycles of nonplatinum chemotherapy, and Hb-levels and anaemia therapy were documented. RESULTS At baseline, prevalence of anaemia was greatest in patients with MM (77.4%). Prevalence of anaemia increased for all malignancies after cycle 4, with the largest increases noted for patients with NHL (from 35.1% at baseline to 73.7%) and HD (from 21.9% to 54.5%). Cyclic chemotherapy and prior anticancer treatment indicated an increased risk for developing anaemia. Notably, 27.5% of patients with Hb levels <10.5 g/dL remained untreated. Transfusions were most often given to patients with severe anaemia (Hb < 8 g/dL), and erythropoietin most often given to patients with mild or moderate anaemia. CONCLUSIONS Our data confirm that anaemia prevalence in patients with haematologic malignancies is high and increases with chemotherapy. The current practice of anaemia management in these patients leaves room for improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Steurer
- Division of Haematology and Oncology, Innsbruck University Hospital, Innsbruck, Austria.
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Littlewood TJ, Nortier J, Rapoport B, Pawlicki M, de Wasch G, Vercammen E, Schuette W, Wils J, Freund M. Epoetin alfa corrects anemia and improves quality of life in patients with hematologic malignancies receiving non-platinum chemotherapy. Hematol Oncol 2004; 21:169-80. [PMID: 14735555 DOI: 10.1002/hon.722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Anemia, a commonly occurring morbidity in patients with cancer, often leads to diminished quality of life (QOL). Numerous clinical trials have shown that epoetin alfa treatment improves hematologic and QOL variables in cancer patients. The clinical trial analysis reported here was performed to assess response to epoetin alfa in patients with hematologic malignancies. Cancer patients with anemia undergoing non-platinum-based chemotherapy who were enrolled in a multinational, randomized (2:1), double-blind, placebo-controlled trial were prospectively stratified by tumor type (hematologic, solid). Efficacy endpoints included proportion of patients transfused after day 28; change in hemoglobin (Hb) level from baseline to last assessment; proportion of treatment responders (increase in Hb > or =2 g/dl unrelated to transfusion) and correctors (patients whose Hb levels reached > or =12 g/dl during the study); and QOL. The protocol was amended before unblinding to prospectively collect and assess survival data 12 months after the last patient completed the study, and survival for the full study cohort was estimated using Kaplan-Meier techniques. Efficacy analyses of hematologic and QOL variables, as well as Kaplan-Meier estimates of survival, were performed post hoc for the hematologic tumor stratum. Among patients with hematologic malignancies, the mean increase in Hb levels was greater with epoetin alfa than with placebo treatment (2.2 vs. 0.3 g/dl). Transfusion requirements were lower in patients who received epoetin alfa versus placebo (25.2 vs. 43.1%), and the proportion of responders and correctors was higher with epoetin alfa than with placebo (75.2 vs. 16.7% and 72.6 vs. 14.8%, respectively). Patients who received epoetin alfa had improved QOL while patients who received placebo had decreased QOL. These results are similar to those seen in the full study cohort, where differences between epoetin alfa and placebo were significant (P<0.05) for all five primary cancer- and anemia-specific QOL domains evaluated. Although the study was not powered for survival, Kaplan-Meier estimates showed a trend in overall survival favoring epoetin alfa in both the full study cohort and the hematologic subgroup. Epoetin alfa treatment was well tolerated. Epoetin alfa therapy increased Hb levels, reduced transfusion requirements, and improved QOL in patients with anemia undergoing non-platinum chemotherapy for hematologic malignancies.
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Pangalis GA, Vassilakopoulos TP, Dimopoulou MN, Siakantaris MP, Kontopidou FN, Angelopoulou MK. B-chronic lymphocytic leukemia: practical aspects. Hematol Oncol 2002; 20:103-46. [PMID: 12203655 DOI: 10.1002/hon.696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
B-CLL is the most common adult leukemia in the Western world. It is a neoplasia of mature looking B-monoclonal lymphocytes co-expressing the CD5 antigen (involving the blood, the bone marrow, the lymph nodes and related organs). Much new information about the nature of the neoplastic cells, including chromosomal and molecular changes as well as mechanisms participating in the survival of the leukemic clone have been published recently, in an attempt to elucidate the biology of the disease and identify prognostic subgroups. For the time being, clinical stage based on Rai and Binet staging systems remains the strongest predictor of prognosis and patients' survival, and therefore it affects treatment decisions. In the early stages treatment may be delayed until progression. When treatment is necessary according to well-established criteria, there are nowadays many different options. Chlorambucil has been the standard regimen for many years. During the last decade novel modalities have been tried with the emphasis on fludarabine and 2-chlorodeoxyadenosine and their combinations with other drugs. Such an approach offers greater probability of a durable complete remission but no effect on overall survival has been clearly proven so far. Other modalities, included in the therapeutic armamentarium, are monoclonal antibodies, stem cell transplantation (autologous or allogeneic) and new experimental drugs. Supportive care is an important part of patient management and it involves restoring hypogammaglobulinemia and disease-related anemia by polyvalent immunoglobulin administration and erythropoietin respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerassimos A Pangalis
- Hematology Section, 1st Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laikon General Hospital, Athens, Greece.
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Coccia MA, Cooke K, Stoney G, Pistillo J, Del Castillo J, Duryea D, Tarpley JE, Molineux G. Novel erythropoiesis stimulating protein (darbepoetin alfa) alleviates anemia associated with chronic inflammatory disease in a rodent model. Exp Hematol 2001; 29:1201-9. [PMID: 11602322 DOI: 10.1016/s0301-472x(01)00723-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We developed a rodent model of noninfectious systemic inflammation to examine the pathogenesis of the associated anemia of chronic disorders (ACD), to evaluate the similarity of this ACD model to human ACD, and to evaluate the potential efficacy of novel erythropoiesis stimulating protein (darbepoetin alfa) as an ACD therapy. METHODS Lewis rats were immunized with peptidoglycan-polysaccharide polymers (PG-APS), the chronic inflammation and associated ACD were characterized, and the effects of darbepoetin alfa treatment on complete blood counts (CBC), red blood cell (RBC) indices, and iron metabolism were analyzed weekly. RESULTS Acutely inflamed rats had reduced peripheral blood (PB) RBC counts and hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations and increased reticulocyte counts. PB RBC numbers normalized during chronic inflammation, but RBC remained hypochromic and microcytic. Consequently, the rats remained chronically anemic. Anemic rats had fluctuating serum erythropoietin (EPO) concentrations, but mean EPO concentrations never varied significantly from baseline control levels. Histology of anemic rat spleen sections revealed reticuloendothelial siderosis. Total serum iron concentrations were chronically low. Peritoneal exudate cells (PEC) isolated from anemic rats and stimulated with PG-APS in vitro produced more interleukin (IL)-1alpha and interferon (IFN)-gamma, and significantly more tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha and IL-10 than control cultures. Darbepoetin alfa restored Hb concentrations to baseline levels within 2 to 7 weeks, depending on dosage. A refined treatment strategy restored Hb to baseline and maintained those levels with reduced dosing. CONCLUSION ACD in this rodent model closely replicates human ACD. Darbepoetin alfa treatment reversed ACD in this model by increasing RBC production and RBC hemoglobinization while reducing siderosis and hypoferremia.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Coccia
- Pharmacology & Pathology Department, Amgen Inc., Thousand Oaks, Calif. 91320, USA.
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Siakantaris MP, Angelopoulou MK, Vassilakopoulos TP, Dimopoulou MN, Kontopidou FN, Pangalis GA. Correction of disease related anaemia of B-chronic lymphoproliferative disorders by recombinant human erythropoietin: maintenance is necessary to sustain response. Leuk Lymphoma 2000; 40:141-7. [PMID: 11426615 DOI: 10.3109/10428190009054891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Thirty three B-chronic lymphoproliferative disorder (B-CLD) patients [22 with B-chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL), 5 with small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) and 6 with lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (LPL)] with anaemia (Ht <32%) of no other cause but their disease, received recombinant human erythropoietin (r-HuEPO). The treatment protocol provided r-HuEPO in a dose of 150 U/kg s.c. thrice weekly for 3 mo. After 1.5 mo of r-HuEPO administration, if response was not satisfactory, r-HuEPO dose escalation was utilised by giving incremental doses of 50 U/kg more than the previous dose up to a maximum dose of 300 U/kg tiw. After maximal response, half of the responding patients discontinued therapy, while the other half received maintenance therapy at a dose of 150 U/kg s.c./w. Oral iron was given throughout the study. Pretreatment EPO levels were determined in all patients. A complete response (CR) was defined when Ht was >38% and a partial response (PR) when there was an increase of the Ht >6% from the initial value was achieved. Sixteen of the 22 B-CLL patients had Rai stage III disease and 6 stage IV, with a median duration of anaemia 27 months (6-38); twelve of them were receiving chlorambucil while the rest were on no treatment. Of the SLL and LPL group, 4 patients had Ann Arbor stage III disease and 7 stage IV with a median duration of anaemia 24 months (5-36); 8 patients were on chlorambucil. Complete response was achieved in 50% of the B-CLL group and 54% of the SLL and LPL group, with an overall response rate of 77% and 81% respectively. All patients on maintenance therapy had a continuous response, while all patients, in whom rHuEPO was discontinued, relapsed. No correlation was found between patients: with low or high pretreatment serum EPO levels; those receiving concomitant therapy or not; those with B-symptoms or not; those with a non-diffuse or diffuse bone marrow infiltration pattern; and with splenomegaly or not. Life quality was significantly improved and no major side effects were encountered. We conclude from our study that r-HuEPO is very effective in correcting disease-related anaemia in B-CLD, resulting in down-staging of Rai stage III patients and that maintenance therapy is necessary. Whether the correction of anaemia improves patients' overall survival, still remains to be seen.
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Affiliation(s)
- M P Siakantaris
- First Department of Internal Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University, School of Medicine, Laikon General Hospital, Athens, Greece
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Abstract
Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is the most common form of adult leukaemia in Western countries. The diagnosis requires mature-appearing lymphocytes in the peripheral blood to >5 x 10(9)/L. The immunophenotype typically includes B cell antigens CD19, CD20 and CD23, low expression of surface immunoglobulin and CD5+, with other T cell antigens absent. Bone marrow biopsy, although not required for diagnosis, must show at least 30% lymphocytes. Cytogenetic abnormalities are frequent in patients with CLL, and may be associated with poor prognosis. Clinically, most patients are asymptomatic at presentation, with incidental lymphadenopathy and/or hepatosplenomegaly in the routine physical examination. Infections by opportunistic pathogens are the major cause of death. Aggressive transformation occurs in 10% of patients with CLL, most commonly prolymphocytic leukaemia (PLL) and Richter's syndrome. PLL de novo must be differentiated from PLL of an aggressive transformation. The incidences of autoimmune diseases and solid or haemopoietic secondary malignancies are increased in patients with CLL. Clinical stage is the strongest prognostic factor in CLL. There is no indication for early intervention. The current recommendation to start treatment includes disease-related symptoms, massive and/or progressive hepatosplenomegaly or lymphadenopathy, increasing bone marrow failure, autoimmune disease, and recurrent infections. Alkylating agents (e.g. chlorambucil) and nucleoside analogues (e.g. fludarabine) are the most active agents for CLL. Fludarabine induces higher response rates, but no improvement in overall survival has been observed. Fludarabine is the drug of choice for the majority of patients with CLL. Chlorambucil may be helpful for elderly patients with poor performance, and for patients who do not tolerate fludarabine. No drug combination is better than single agents. For patients refractory to initial treatment, referral to a clinical trial is the best choice. Other salvage therapy includes retreatment with the same initial agent (chlorambucil or fludarabine) if initial response was observed, or fludarabine for patients refractory to chlorambucil. Promising new approaches include cycle-active agents, nelarabine, biological therapy such as anti-CD52 monoclonal antibody, bone marrow transplantation, including the use of submyeloablative preparative regimens ('minitransplant') to induce graft-versus-leukaemia effect, and gene therapy. Prophylactic antibacterials and intravenous immunoglobulin should not be used routinely during supportive care. Epoetin may be helpful for patients who have anaemia without obvious cause. Assessment of response to therapy in CLL has been updated by the National Cancer Institute Working Group, and these guidelines are used worldwide for clinical trials.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use
- Combined Modality Therapy
- Humans
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/pathology
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/therapy
- Leukemia, Prolymphocytic/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Prolymphocytic/therapy
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Affiliation(s)
- N Kalil
- National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
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Russo F, Guadagni S, Mattera G, Esposito G, Abate G. Combination of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) anf erythropoietin (EPO) for the treatment of advanced non-responsive chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Eur J Haematol 1999; 63:325-31. [PMID: 10580564 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0609.1999.tb01135.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We report the use of a colony-stimulating granulocyte-macrophage factor (GM/CSF) and erythropoietin (EPO) combination as salvage treatment in four heavily-pretreated patients with refractory/ recurrent B-CLL. Induction therapy was subcutaneous GM-CSF 2.5 microg/ kg, and EPO, 150 units/kg both daily for the first 14 d. Maintenance therapy was GM-CSF on days 1, 3 and 5 and Epo on days 2, 4 and 6 at the same doses with weekly recycling. All the patients responded favourably. A significant reduction of lymphocytosis, lymphoadenomegaly, and organomegaly was obtained within one month of therapy. The number of infections and transfusional requirement decreased dramatically. The hemoglobin increased to over 11 g/dl in 3 out of 4 patients. With a median follow-up of 11 months (range 5-13) we observed 4 partial responses (NCI/IWCLL) and only one progression after a 10-month partial response. This combination regimen seems very active, safe and easy to administer. It may represent a promising therapeutical option in heavily pretreated patients. Further clinical and biological studies on a larger cohort of patients are needed to confirm these preliminary data, to clarify the hypothetical interactions between these cytokines and B-CLL cell proliferation pathways, and to establish if this therapy may have an impact on survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Russo
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Fondazione G. Pascale, Divisione di Ematologia Oncologica, Naples, Italy
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Tsiara ST, Kaiafas P, Kapsali E, Christou L, Bourantas KL. Recombinant human erythropoietin for the treatment of refractory anemia in lymphoproliferative disorders: preliminary results. Eur J Haematol 1998; 60:317-9. [PMID: 9654164 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0609.1998.tb01048.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Davidson TG. Recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) in the management of anemia and fatigue associated with hematologic malignancies and the myelodysplastic syndromes. J Oncol Pharm Pract 1998. [DOI: 10.1177/1078155298004004s03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Anemia is a common complication in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, non- Hodgkin's lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and the myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Al though an inappropriately low serum erythro poietin level often correlates with anemia in these malignancies, this is not always the case. Nevertheless, recombinant human erythropoie tin (rhEPO) has been studied in various hemato logic malignancies and in MDS to correct the anemia and avoid the use of red blood cell transfusions. Clinical benefit has been demon strated in most hematologic malignancies or disorders; however, patients with refractory anemia with ringed sideroblasts, a subset of MDS, are resistant to rhEPO therapy. Interest ingly, the combined use of rhEPO and granulo cyte colony-stimulating factor appears to en hance the response in this subset of patients. Most studies did not include extensive phar macoeconomic or quality of life analyses. Thus, it will be important to define more clearly the lowest effective dose and to identify patients with a high probability of response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terri G Davidson
- Cortex Communications, Inc. and Clinical Pharmacy Associates,
Inc., 305 West Country Drive, Duluth, GA 30097
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Montserrat E, Bosch F, Rozman C. B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia: Recent progress in biology, diagnosis, and therapy. Ann Oncol 1997. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/8.suppl_1.s93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Abstract
Anemia is a common association of malignant disease. It may be the first diagnostic clue to an underlying malignant disease, it may contribute to the patient's symptoms from the disease, and it may affect treatment decisions. It is important to recognize that a number of underlying mechanisms may contribute to the anemia, and to exclude those that are treatable. The recognition that tumor-associated cytokine production is a major factor in the anemia of malignancy, and that recombinant EPO can overcome this suppression, are major steps forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- E P Frenkel
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, USA
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MESH Headings
- Aged
- Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use
- Chlorambucil/therapeutic use
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
- Humans
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/complications
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/diagnosis
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/etiology
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/therapy
- Middle Aged
- Prognosis
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Affiliation(s)
- C Rozman
- Postgraduate School of Hematology Farreras Valentí, Department of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Spain
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