Multiple primary tumours: challenges and approaches, a review

Multiple Primary Cancers With Hematologic Malignancies and Germline Predisposition: A Case Series

The term "multiple primary (MP) cancers" refers to the existence of more than one cancer in the same patient. The combination of MP cancers with hematological malignancies is relatively uncommon. In this study, we present five patients diagnosed with MP cancers concomitant with hematological malignancies. We comprehensively analyzed their clinical characteristics, cytogenetic profiles, and germline and somatic variants. As first primaries, two patients had solid cancer not followed by cytotoxic therapy and three had hematologic cancer, followed by cytotoxic therapy. The second primaries were all hematologic malignancies that did not meet the criteria for therapy-related myeloid neoplasm. Notably, two (40%) out of the five patients harbored pathogenic potential/presumed germline variants in cancer predisposition genes. Therefore, germline variant testing should be considered when MP cancers with hematological malignancies require consideration for related donor stem cell transplantation.

Characterization of discordance between mismatch repair deficiency and microsatellite instability testing may prevent inappropriate treatment with immunotherapy

In the Drug Rediscovery Protocol (DRUP), patients with cancer are treated based on their tumor molecular profile with approved targeted and immunotherapies outside the labeled indication. Importantly, patients undergo a tumor biopsy for whole-genome sequencing (WGS) which allows for a WGS-based evaluation of routine diagnostics. Notably, we observed that not all biopsies of patients with dMMR/MSI-positive tumors as determined by routine diagnostics were classified as microsatellite-unstable by subsequent WGS. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the discordance rate between routine dMMR/MSI diagnostics and WGS and to further characterize discordant cases. We assessed patients enrolled in DRUP with dMMR/MSI-positive tumors identified by routine diagnostics, who were treated with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) and for whom WGS data were available. Patient and tumor characteristics, study treatment outcomes, and material from routine care were retrieved from the patient medical records and via Palga (the Dutch Pathology Registry), and were compared with WGS results. Initially, discordance between routine dMMR/MSI diagnostics and WGS was observed in 13 patients (13/121; 11%). The majority of these patients did not benefit from ICB (11/13; 85%). After further characterization, we found that in six patients (5%) discordance was caused by dMMR tumors that did not harbor an MSI molecular phenotype by WGS. In six patients (5%), discordance was false due to the presence of multiple primary tumors (n = 3, 2%) and misdiagnosis of dMMR status by immunohistochemistry (n = 3, 2%). In one patient (1%), the exact underlying cause of discordance could not be identified. Thus, in this group of patients limited to those initially diagnosed with dMMR/MSI tumors by current routine diagnostics, the true assay-based discordance rate between routine dMMR/MSI-positive diagnostics and WGS was 5%. To prevent inappropriate ICB treatment, clinicians and pathologists should be aware of the risk of multiple primary tumors and the limitations of different tests. © 2024 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.

Synchronous small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the cervix and immature ovarian teratoma: A case report and literature review

The onset of two synchronous primary malignancies of the female genital tract is uncommon; therefore, the simultaneous occurrence of cervical small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma and ovarian immature teratoma is rare. The present study describes the case of a woman with cervical small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma complicated by ovarian immature teratoma. The clinical manifestations, and the histopathological and immunophenotypic features of the patient are recorded. Furthermore, all PubMed-indexed cases of synchronous primary malignancies in both the cervix and ovary have been briefly summarized.

Laser interstitial thermal therapy followed by consolidation stereotactic radiosurgery (LITT-cSRS) in patients with newly diagnosed brain metastasis

INTRODUCTION

The efficacy and safety of laser interstitial thermal therapy followed by consolidation radiosurgery (LITT-cSRS) was previously studied in brain metastasis that recurs locally after initial radiosurgery (BMRS). Here, we characterize the clinical outcome of LITT-cSRS in patients with newly diagnosed brain metastasis.

METHODS

Between 2017 and 2023, ten consecutive cancer patients with newly diagnosed brain mass of unclear etiology who underwent stereotactic needle biopsy (SNB) and LITT in the same setting followed by consolidation SRS (cSRS) with > 6 months follow-up were identified retrospectively. Clinical and imaging outcomes were collected.

RESULTS

The histology of the BM were: breast cancer (n = 3), melanoma (n = 3), non-cell cell lung cancer (n = 3), colon (n = 1). There were no wound or procedural complications. All patients were discharged home, with a median one-day hospital stay (range: 1-2 days). All patients were off corticosteroid therapy by the one-month follow-up. cSRS were carried out 12-27 days (median of 19 days) after SNB + LITT. There were no subsequent emergency room presentation, 30-day or 90-day re-admission. The Karnofsky Performance Score (KPS) remains stable or improved at the 3 months-follow-up. With a median follow-up of 416 days (13.8 mo; range: 199-1,096 days), there was one local recurrence at 384 days (12.8 mo) post-LITT-cSRS. With exception of this patient with local recurrence, all patients showed decreased FLAIR volume surrounding the LITT-cSRS treated BMRS by the six-month follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

To our awareness, this case series represent the first to describe LITT-cSRS in the setting of newly diagnosed BM. The results presented here provide pilot data to support the safety and efficacy of LITT-cSRS and lay the foundation for future studies.

Synchronous or metachronous breast and colorectal cancers in younger-than-average-age patients: a case series

BACKGROUND

The incidence of breast and colorectal cancer (CRC) in younger-than-average-age patients is rising and poorly understood. This is the largest study on patients with both cancers who are less than 60 years old and aims to characterize demographic, clinicopathologic, and genetic features and describe therapeutic dilemmas and management strategies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective medical records review of patients at the University of California San Francisco with both primary breast and CRC before age 60.

RESULTS

Fifty-one patients were identified; 41 had detailed medical records. Median age of diagnosis with breast cancer was 43 (range 27-59) and CRC was 50 (28-59). Most were Caucasian (38, 74.5%) and never smokers (23, 56.1%); about half were current alcohol consumers (20, 48.8%) and about one-third had sedentary jobs (14, 34.1%). Average BMI was 25.8 (range: 14-49), and 30% were overweight or obese. Breast was the first cancer diagnosed in 36 patients (70.6%) and 44 (86.3%) had a metachronous CRC diagnosis. Breast cancer was early stage (0-2) in 32 (78.0%) patients whereas CRC was split between early stage (1-2) in 14 (34.1%) and later stage (3-4) in 19 (46.2%). Ten patients (24.3%) had a known germline mutation, although 23 (56.1%) had a family history of cancer in a first-degree relative.

CONCLUSION

Younger patients with both breast and CRC are a unique cohort, often without known risk factors. Alcohol consumption and sedentary jobs were the most common risk factors, and about one-quarter had a known genetic predisposition. Comanagement of both cancers requires individualized, multidisciplinary care.

A rare occurrence of breast, thyroid, and stomach tumors in a single patient: A case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

There are only a few case reports to date that have described patients with three or more multiple primary tumors. However, they have been reported more in the last decade, so a precise screening in patients with or without risk factors could be helpful in early diagnosis and treatment. This work has been reported in line with the SCARE criteria.

CASE PRESENTATION

Here, we presented a 44-year-old female patient without any history of smoking, alcohol consumption, or cancer in her family. She had three metachronous primary tumors; breast, thyroid, and gastric cancer, which had metastasized to both her ovaries and colon. She died in January 2023 due to complex pneumonia and septic shock. To our knowledge, this article is the second case in which breast, thyroid, and stomach cancer are reported together.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

When it comes to Multiple primary malignancies (MPMs), not only screening in patients with risk factors should be considered, but patients without any other risk factors except current or past history of tumors should be screened precisely for early diagnosis and treatment. In this study, we discuss prevalence and causes of MPMs, prevalence of breast, thyroid, and stomach cancer, and also their possible relations with each other that may affect their occurrence.

CONCLUSION

Reporting other cases with MPMs by physicians could lead to establish an evidence based approach to these patients.

Synchronous occurrence of primary breast cancer and renal cell carcinoma: A case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Multiple Primary Malignant Neoplasms (MPMNs) are rare and refer to the occurrence of two or more distinct primary cancers with unrelated histopathological features in one patient. MPMNs can be classified as synchronous when tumors appear simultaneously or within six months of each other, and as metachronous when identified six months or more after the initial cancer diagnosis. While breast cancer often co-occurs with other primary cancers such as colorectal, endometrial, and ovarian cancers, the simultaneous presence of invasive lobular breast carcinoma and clear cell renal cancer is rare.

CASE PRESENTATION

Here, we present the case of a 59-year-old postmenopausal woman who initially presented with breast carcinoma. Further investigation revealed a mass in the left kidney. The patient underwent a radical mastectomy and axillary dissection, followed by a left nephrectomy. After 8 months follow up, the patient is doing well and disease-free.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Based on our case and literature review, the co-occurrence of breast carcinoma with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is uncommon. Most reported cases involve metastatic tumors or metachronous breast malignancy with RCC. The etiology of synchronous malignancy is complex, and treatment options usually include a combination of surgery and/or adjuvant therapy.

CONCLUSION

This case report contributes valuable insights to the limited literature on synchronous breast cancer with renal cell carcinoma. The rarity of this simultaneous occurrence underscores the importance of considering such cases. Documenting these cases is crucial for increasing awareness and reducing the resulting morbidity and mortality.

Characteristics, aetiology and implications for management of multiple primary renal tumours: a systematic review

In a subset of patients with renal tumours, multiple primary lesions may occur. Predisposition to multiple primary renal tumours (MPRT) is a well-recognised feature of some inherited renal cancer syndromes. The diagnosis of MPRT should therefore provoke a thorough assessment for clinical and genetic evidence of disorders associated with predisposition to renal tumourigenesis. To better define the clinical and genetic characteristics of MPRT, a systematic literature review was performed for publications up to 3 April 2024. A total of 7689 patients from 467 articles were identified with MPRT. Compared to all patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC), patients with MPRT were more likely to be male (71.8% versus 63%) and have an earlier age at diagnosis (<46 years, 32.4% versus 19%). In 61.1% of cases MPRT were synchronous. The proportion of cases with similar histology and the proportion of cases with multiple papillary renal cell carcinoma (RCC) (16.1%) were higher than expected. In total, 14.9% of patients with MPRT had a family history of cancer or were diagnosed with a hereditary RCC associated syndrome with von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease being the most common one (69.7%), followed by Birt-Hogg-Dubé (BHD) syndrome (14.2%). Individuals with a known or likely genetic cause were, on average, younger (43.9 years versus 57.1 years). In rare cases intrarenal metastatic RCC can phenocopy MPRT. We review potential genetic causes of MPRT and their implications for management, suggest an approach to genetic testing for individuals presenting with MPRT and considerations in cases in which routine germline genetic testing does not provide a diagnosis.

Cetuximab combined with chemotherapy for simultaneous esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and colon adenocarcinoma: A case report

BACKGROUND

Multiple primary carcinomas (MPCs) are defined as two or more independent primary cancers that occur simultaneously or sequentially in the same individual. Synchronous MPCs are rarer than solitary cancers or metachronous MPCs. Accurate diagnoses of synchronous MPCs and the choice of treatment are critical for successful outcomes in these cases.

CASE SUMMARY

A 64-year-old patient presented with dysphagia, without obvious cause. A diagnosis of synchronous esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and colon adenocarcinoma with liver metastasis was confirmed based on examination and laboratory results. After multi-disciplinary consultations, combination chemotherapy (a 3-wk cycle with oxaliplatin 212 mg administered on day 1 and capecitabine 1.5 g twice daily on days 1-14) and esophageal cancer radiotherapy were initiated. Based on the results of genetic testing, we switched to a regimen of leucovorin + fluorouracil + oxaliplatin and cetuximab regimen for 8 cycles. Subsequently, capecitabine and bevacizumab were administered until the most recent follow-up, at which the tumor remained stable.

CONCLUSION

Successful cetuximab chemotherapy treatment provides a reference for the non-operative and homogeneous treatment of different pathological types of synchronous MCPs.

Risk of Subsequent Primary Cancers Among Adult-Onset 5-Year Cancer Survivors in South Korea: Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

The number of cancer survivors who develop subsequent primary cancers (SPCs) is expected to increase.

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the overall and cancer type-specific risks of SPCs among adult-onset cancer survivors by first primary cancer (FPC) types considering sex and age.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the Health Insurance Review and Assessment database of South Korea including 5-year cancer survivors diagnosed with an FPC in 2009 to 2010 and followed them until December 31, 2019. We measured the SPC incidence per 10,000 person-years and the standardized incidence ratio (SIR) compared with the incidence expected in the general population.

RESULTS

Among 266,241 survivors (mean age at FPC: 55.7 years; 149,352/266,241, 56.1% women), 7348 SPCs occurred during 1,003,008 person-years of follow-up (median 4.3 years), representing a 26% lower risk of developing SPCs (SIR 0.74, 95% CI 0.72-0.76). Overall, men with 14 of the 20 FPC types had a significantly lower risk of developing any SPCs; women with 7 of the 21 FPC types had a significantly lower risk of developing any SPCs. The risk of developing any SPC type differed by age; the risk was 28% higher in young (<40 years) cancer survivors (SIR 1.28, 95% CI 1.16-1.42; incidence: 30 per 10,000 person-years) and 27% lower in middle-aged and older (≥40 years) cancer survivors (SIR 0.73, 95% CI 0.71-0.74; incidence: 80 per 10,000 person-years) compared with the age-corresponding general population. The most common types of FPCs were mainly observed as SPCs in cancer survivors, with lung (21.6%) and prostate (15.2%) cancers in men and breast (18.9%) and lung (12.2%) cancers in women. The risks of brain cancer in colorectal cancer survivors, lung cancer in laryngeal cancer survivors, and both kidney cancer and leukemia in thyroid cancer survivors were significantly higher for both sexes. Other high-risk SPCs varied by FPC type and sex. Strong positive associations among smoking-related cancers, such as laryngeal, head and neck, lung, and esophageal cancers, were observed. Substantial variation existed in the associations between specific types of FPC and specific types of SPC risk, which may be linked to hereditary cancer syndrome: for women, the risks of ovarian cancer for breast cancer survivors and uterus cancers for colorectal cancer survivors, and for men, the risk of pancreas cancer for kidney cancer survivors.

CONCLUSIONS

The varying risk for SPCs by age, sex, and FPC types in cancer survivors implies the necessity for tailored prevention and screening programs targeting cancer survivors. Lifestyle modifications, such as smoking cessation, are essential to reduce the risk of SPCs in cancer survivors. In addition, genetic testing, along with proactive cancer screening and prevention strategies, should be implemented for young cancer survivors because of their elevated risk of developing SPCs.

Genetic Predisposition to Sarcoma: What Should Clinicians Know?

OPINION STATEMENT

Pathogenic germline variants in the setting of several associated cancer predisposition syndromes (CPS) may lead to the development of sarcoma. We would consider testing for a CPS in patients with a strong family history of cancer, multiple primary malignancies, and/or pediatric/adolescent/young adult patients diagnosed with other malignancies strongly associated with CPS. When a CPS is diagnosed in a patient with sarcoma, additional treatment considerations and imaging options for those patients are required. This applies particularly to the use of radiation therapy, ionizing radiation with diagnostic imaging, and the use of alkylating chemotherapy. As data and guidelines are currently lacking for many of these scenarios, we have adopted a shared decision-making process with patients and their families. If the best chance for cure in a patient with CPS requires utilization of radiation therapy or alkylating chemotherapy, we discuss the risks with the patient but do not omit these modalities. However, if there are treatment options that yield equivalent survival rates, yet avoid these modalities, we elect for those options. Considering staging imaging and post-therapy evaluation for sarcoma recurrence, we avoid surveillance techniques that utilize ionizing radiation when possible but do not completely omit them when their use is indicated.

Pretreatment Interstitial Lung Abnormalities Detected on Abdominal Computed Tomography Scans in Prostate Cancer Patients

OBJECTIVE

Prostate cancer and interstitial lung abnormality (ILA) share similar risk factor, which is men and older age. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of pretreatment ILA among prostate cancer patients who underwent abdominal computed tomography (CT) within 1 year at their first visit to the urology department. In addition, we aimed to assess the association between pretreatment ILA and long-term survival in prostate cancer patients.

METHODS

This study was conducted in patients who had a first visit for prostate cancer at urology department between 2005 and 2016 and underwent an abdominal CT within 1 year. A thoracic radiologist evaluated the presence of ILA through inspecting the lung base scanned on an abdominal CT. The association between pretreatment ILA and survival was assessed using Kaplan-Meier analysis with log-rank test. Specific survival rates at 12, 36, and 60 months according to the presence of ILA were evaluated using z -test. Cox regression analysis was used to assess the risk factors of mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 173 patients were included (mean age, 70.23 ± 7.98 years). Pretreatment ILA was observed in 10.4% of patients. Patients with ILA were more likely to be older and current smokers. Pretreatment ILA was associated with poor survival ( P < 0.001). Age ≥70 years (hazards ratio [HR], 1.98; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.24-3.16; P = 0.004), metastatic stage (HR, 2.26; 95% CI, 1.36-3.74; P = 0.002), and ILA (HR, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.06-3.60; P = 0.031) were the independent risk factors of mortality. An ILA (HR, 3.94; 95% CI, 1.78-8.72; P = 0.001) was the only independent risk factor of mortality in localized stage prostate cancer patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides important insights into the unexplored effect of pretreatment ILA in prostate cancer patients. Pretreatment ILAs were observed considerably in the lung bases scanned on the abdominal CT scans among prostate cancer patients. Furthermore, pretreatment ILAs were the risk factor of mortality. Therefore, lung bases should be routinely inspected in the abdominal CT scans of prostate cancer patients. This result may help clinicians in establishing personalized management strategy of prostate cancer patients.

Variation in patterns of second primary malignancies across U.S. race and ethnicity groups: a Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) analysis

PURPOSE

One in six incident cancers in the U.S. is a second primary cancer (SPC). Although primary cancers vary considerably by race and ethnicity, little is known about the population-based occurrence of SPC across these groups.

METHODS

Using Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) 12 data and relative to the general population, we calculated standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for SPC among 2,457,756 Hispanics, non-Hispanic Asian American/Pacific Islanders (NHAAPI), non-Hispanic black (NHB), and non-Hispanic whites (NHW) cancer survivors aged 45 years or older when diagnosed with a first primary cancer (FPC) from 1992 to 2015.

RESULTS

The risk of second primary bladder cancer after first primary prostate cancer was higher than expected in Hispanic (SIR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.01-1.38) and NHAAPI (SIR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.20-1.65) men than NHB and NHW men. Among women with a primary breast cancer, Hispanic, NHAAPI, and NHB women had a nearly 1.5-fold higher risk of a second primary breast cancer, while NHW women had a 6% lower risk. Among men with prostate cancer whose SPC was diagnosed 2 to <12 months, NHB men were at higher risk for colorectal cancer and Hispanic and NHW men for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. In the same time frame for breast cancer survivors, Hispanic and NHAAPI women were significantly more likely than NHB and NHW women to be diagnosed with a second primary lung cancer.

CONCLUSION

Future studies of SPC should investigate the role of shared etiologies, stage of diagnosis, treatment, and lifestyle factors after cancer survival across different racial and ethnic populations.

Secondary hematological malignancies in patients with sarcoma: A single‑center retrospective study

The present retrospective study investigated the clinical features and prognosis of secondary hematological malignancies (SHMs) in patients with sarcoma at Korea Cancer Center Hospital (Seoul, South Korea). Patients who had been diagnosed with SHMs after having received treatment for sarcoma between January 2000 and May 2023 were enrolled. Clinical data were collected from the patients' medical records. Clinical characteristics were analyzed, including SHM incidence, type and prognosis. Of 2,953 patients with sarcoma, 18 (0.6%) were diagnosed with SHMs. Their median age at the time of sarcoma diagnosis was 39.5 (range, 9-72) years, and 74% (n=14) of these patients were male. The histological features of sarcoma varied, with osteosarcoma diagnosed in nine patients (50%). All patients with sarcoma underwent surgical treatment, and 16 (88.8%) received chemotherapy. The most common type of SHMs was acute myeloid leukemia (n=6; 33.3%), followed by myelodysplastic syndrome (n=5; 27.7%). The median latency period between the sarcoma diagnosis and SHM identification was 30 (range, 11-121) months. A total of 13 (72.2%) patients received treatment for the SHM. The median overall survival after SHM diagnosis was 15.7 (range, 0.4-154.9) months. The incidence of SHMs in sarcoma in the present study was consistent with that reported previously. The presence of SHMs was associated with a poor patient prognosis, especially if treatment for SHMs was not administered.

Multiple primary tumors in patients with surgically treated pancreatic cancer: a SEER population-based study

Background

With improving survival after pancreatic cancer (PC) resection, questions emerge concerning risk and patterns of metachronous tumors. We aimed to determine the incidence of multiple primary cancers among postoperative PC survivors.

Methods

Patients undergoing PC surgery from 1975 to 2020 were identified in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registry. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) compared observed-to-expected cancers based on U.S. population rates. Cumulative incidence of secondary tumors was analyzed with Cox regression and cancer-specific survival with Kaplan-Meier curves.

Results

Of 6,100 resected PC patients, 267 (4.38%) developed multiple cancers over 6.2 years median follow-up period. Subsequent malignancies showed a rising cumulative incidence extending beyond 5 years. Lung cancer was the predominant second primary in both males (n=36, SIR 1.87) and females (n=32, SIR 2.17). Prostate (n=33) and breast (n=25) cancers were also common. Risk varied by latency period and gender.

Conclusions

Postoperative PC patients face a measurable risk for secondary cancers. Enhanced long-term surveillance has the potential to improve early detection and outcomes in this survivor population. Our data provides real-world evidence which could help inform surveillance guidelines in the future.

Prognostic Factors Affecting Survival of Patients With Single Primary Breast Cancer vs Patients With Multiple Primary Cancers in Lifetime, One of Which is Breast Cancer

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate the demographic and molecular characteristics, overall survival (OS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and prognostic factors affecting the survival of patients with single primary breast cancer (SPBC) and patients with multiple primary cancers in their life time in which one of them is breast cancer (MPC).

METHODS

Using data from SEER 17 Research Plus, patients with breast cancer diagnosed between 2010 and 2019 were included in this study. Race, marital status, laterality, tumor size, molecular subtype, grade, stage, radiotherapy-chemotherapy treatment, and surgery data were analyzed in the data obtained after excluding patients with missing values. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used for survival analysis, and Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate the prognostic factors.

RESULTS

573175 patients were included in the study. The mean age of MPC patients was significantly higher than SPBC patients (65.99 ± 12.68, 60.33 ± 13.47, P < .001, respectively). Patients with SPBC had significantly more hormone receptor (HR)-positive/Her2 positive, HR-negative/Her2-negative, and HR-negative/Her2-positive molecular subtypes; patients with MPC had more HR-positive/Her2-negative subtypes (P < .001). Grade 3 tumor status, locoregional spread, and distant metastasis were significantly higher in SPBC patients (P < .001). Overall survival and CSS rates were significantly higher in SPBC patients (P < .001). In MPC patients, overall hazard ratio was 1.631 times higher than SPBC, and the cancer-specific hazard ratio was 1.096 times higher (95% CI [1.606-1.656], 95% CI [1.071-1.121], respectively).

CONCLUSION

Although patients with SPBC have worse prognostic tumor characteristics, OS and CSS rates are better than patients with MPC.

A Rare Case of Concurrent Chromophobe Renal Cell Cancer with Lung Neuroendocrine Tumor: A Case Report and Literature Review

Introduction

Multiple primary malignancies (MPM) may be in one organ or in multiple separate organs. They are categorized into synchronous and metachronous according to the time interval between the two malignancies. Multiple risk factors could be attributed to the development of second primary malignancy.

Case presentation

The authors report a case of a 51-year-old male patient with renal cell carcinoma. During his evaluation, he seemed to have a lung mass which revealed to be a carcinoid tumour. As the patient had two primary malignancies, he was managed according to the treatment options for each tumour.

Discussion

Although MPMs have been reported increasingly in the past decade, overall incidence is still very rare. Appropriate management and survival depend on distinguishing between dual primary tumours from metastatic disease.

Conclusion

Multidisciplinary approach is very crucial for diagnosis and management such rare cases.

Serum Raman spectroscopy: Evaluation of tumour load variations in experimental carcinogenesis

Several serum Raman spectroscopy (RS) studies have demonstrated its potential as an oral cancer screening tool. This study investigates influence of low tumour load (LTL) and high tumour load (HTL) on serum RS using hamster buccal pouch model of experimental oral carcinogenesis. Sera of untreated control, LTL, and HTL groups at week intervals during malignant transformation were employed. Serum Raman spectra were subjected to multivariate analyses-principal component analysis, principal component-based linear discriminant analysis (for stratification of study groups), and multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares (MCR-ALS) (to comprehend biomolecular differences). Multivariate analysis revealed misclassifications between LTL and HTL at all week intervals. MCR-ALS components showed statistically significant abundances between control versus LTL and control versus HTL, but could not discern LTL and HTL. MCR-ALS components exhibited spectral mixtures of proteins, lipids, heme and nucleic acids. Thus, these findings support use of serum RS as a screening tool as varying tumour load is not a confounding factor influencing the technique.

Value of 18F-FDG PET/CT in breast cancer with second primary malignancies

PURPOSE

To investigate the value of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) in breast cancer (BC) with second primary malignancies (SPMs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

149 BC patients (149/1419, 10.5 %) ultimately diagnosed with SPMs were included in the study. The following data were evaluated: age, location, the treatment of the first BC, the interval between the first BC and SPMs, the maximum diameter of SPMs, the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) of SPMs, and SPMs metastases. The overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) of follow-up patients were analyzed. The diagnostic efficiency of 18F-FDG PET/CT for SPMs and consistency with the pathological findings were calculated.

RESULTS

The most common SPMs of BC was lung cancer (81/149, 54.4 %), particularly early-stage lung adenocarcinoma. There were the shorter maximum diameter of SPMs, the lower SUVmax of SPMs, and the fewer SPMs metastases in the lung cancer group than non-lung cancer group (P<0.001). The OS and PFS of the follow-up patients in the lung cancer group were longer than non-lung cancer group (P<0.001). The SPMs metastases was independent prognostic indicator of OS. The pathological grouping and the SPMs metastases were independent prognostic indicators of PFS. 18F-FDG PET/CT efficacy in diagnosing SPMs in BC patients was high. Compared with the pathological findings, the consistency was good (P = 0.010).

CONCLUSION

Applying 18F-FDG PET/CT in BC patients might be helpful in detecting SPMs and partially predicting patient prognosis, in addition to its primary function in the diagnosis and staging of BC.

Tumor-to-Tumor Metastasis of Lung Cancer to Kidney Cancer: A Review of the Literature and Our Experience

Tumor-to-tumor metastasis (TTM) is a rare phenomenon documented in patients with multiple primary cancers. This condition is defined as a metastasis between two true primary tumors. The most frequently reported recipient tumor is renal cell carcinoma (RCC), and the lung carcinomas are the most common metastatic tumor donors. Therefore, this paper attempts to address the current gap in knowledge about this rare phenomenon. The first part of this review outlines the recently proposed models and mechanisms involved in the TTM process. The second part then summarizes and analyzes previous case reports in the literature. We also present our experience with the case of lung cancer that metastasized into RCC. Given the sporadic incidence of TTM, no specific management guidelines exist. Therefore, considering TTM in patients with multiple primary tumors is important as it could potentially modify the oncological management offered.

A case report of two synchronous primary urologic malignancies in one patient

It is quite unusual to have numerous primary malignant tumors at the same time in the same patient. These cancers are classified as metachronous or synchronous. The occurrence of synchronous urologic tumors poses diagnostic and treatment challenges and has always been a subject of controversy in the clinical decision-making process. Unfortunately, no clear standardized management protocols for these patients exist. Therefore, diagnosis and treatment may be difficult, especially with few resources. We present a 75-year-old man with simultaneous prostate and kidney cancers successfully treated at our center. This is one of the rare cases in the English literature with two primary urologic cancers.

Emerging trends in the coexistence of primary lung Cancer and hematologic malignancy: a comprehensive analysis of clinicopathological features and genetic abnormalities

BACKGROUND

The incidence of multiple primary cancers (MPC), especially involving primary lung cancer (PLC) and primary hematologic malignancies (PHM), is rising. This study aims to analyze clinicopathological features, gene abnormalities, and prognostic outcomes in individuals diagnosed with PLC-PHM MPC.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis included 89 patients diagnosed with PLC-PHM MPC at the Respiratory or Hematology Departments of Ruijin Hospital from 2003 to 2022 (a total of 842,047 people). Next-generation sequencing (NGS) assessed lung cancer specimens, while Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and NGS were used for hematologic malignancy specimens. Statistical analysis involved survival analysis and Cox regression.

RESULTS

PLC-PHM MPC incidence surged from 1.67 per year (2011-2013) to 16.3 per year (2020-2022). The primary demographic for PLC-PHM MPC consists predominantly of elderly (average age 66 years) males (59.6%), with a high prevalence of metachronous MPC (89.9%). The prevailing histological types were lung adenocarcinoma (70.8%) in lung cancer (LC) and mature B-cell lymphomas (50.6%) in hematologic malignancies (HM). Notably, in a molecular testing cohort of 38 LC patients, 84.2% of lung cancer cases exhibited driver mutations, in which EGFR mutations frequence prevalent was 74.2%. In total group of 85 cases achieved a median overall survival (mOS) of 46.2 months, with a 5-year survival rate of 37.9% and advanced LC patients with LC gene mutations achieved a mOS was 52.6 months, with a 5-year OS rate of 30.6%. The median progression-free survival (PFS) following first-line treatment of 11 advanced patients with lung cancer-associated driver gene mutations is 26.6 months. Multivariate Cox regression revealed a favorable OS associated with surgery for LC, favorable PS score, adenocarcinoma pathology of LC, and the presence of genetic abnormalities associated with HM.

CONCLUSION

PLC-PHM MPC incidence is rising, characterized by a significant proportion of lung adenocarcinoma and a high prevalence of positive driver genes, especially in EGFR. Despite suffering from two primary tumors, the PLC-PHM MPC patients had superior data of both PFS and OS, suggesting an inherently intricate background of genetic abnormalities between the two kinds of tumors.

Prognostic analysis of lung squamous cell carcinoma patients with second primary malignancies: a SEER database study

Background

As lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) patients are at increased risk of developing a second primary cancer, this complicates the patient's condition and thus makes prognostic assessment more difficult, posing a significant prognostic challenge for clinicians. Our goal was to assess the prognosis of LUSC patients with a second primary tumor, and provide insights into appropriate therapy and monitoring strategies.

Methods

Data was obtained for LUSC patients from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. The LUSC patients were divided into three groups (LS-SPM, OT-LUSC and LUSC-only). Univariate and stratified analyses were performed for the baseline and clinical characteristics of the participants. Multiple regression and Kaplan-Meier survival analyses were also performed, followed by a final life table analysis.

Results

In our sample of 101,626 patients, the HR for OS in the LS-SPM group was 0.40 in univariate analysis. Kaplan-Meier survival curves showed that LS-SPM patients had considerably longer lifespans compared to the other groups. The LS-SPM patients had median and mean survival times of 64 months and 89.11 months. Unadjusted and adjusted multiple regression analyses showed that LS-SPM patients had a superior survival compared to LUSC-only and OT-LUSC groups.

Conclusion

LS-SPM patients have a good prognosis with aggressive therapy and immune monitoring. The present study offers novel insights into the pathophysiological causes and treatments for LS-SPM.

Adverse independent prognostic effect of initial lung cancer on female patients with second primary breast cancer: a propensity score-matched study based on the SEER database

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prognostic impact of initial lung cancer (LC) on second primary breast cancer after LC (LC-BC) and further develop a nomogram for predicting the survival of patients.

METHODS

All patients diagnosed with LC-BC and first primary BC (BC-1) during 2000-2017 were collected from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Pathological features, treatment strategies and survival outcomes were compared between LC-BC and BC-1 before and after propensity score matching (PSM). Cox regression analysis was performed to identify the prognostic factors associated with LC in patients with LC-BC. Additionally, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analysis was used to select clinical characteristics for nomogram construction, which were subsequently evaluated using the concordance index (C-index), calibration curve and decision curve analysis (DCA).

RESULTS

827 429 patients with BC-1 and 1445 patients with LC-BC were included in the analysis. Before and after PSM, patients with BC-1 had a better prognosis than individuals with LC-BC in terms of both overall survival (OS) and breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS). Furthermore, characteristics such as more regional lymph node dissection, earlier stage and the lack of chemotherapy and radiation for LC were found to have a stronger predictive influence on LC-BC. The C-index values (OS, 0.748; BCSS, 0.818), calibration curves and DCA consistently demonstrated excellent predictive accuracy of the nomogram.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, patients with LC-BC have a poorer prognosis than those with BC-1, and LC traits can assist clinicians estimate survival of patients with LC-BC more accurately.

A patient with multiple primary malignant neoplasms with high variant allele frequencies of RB1, TP53, and TERT

Multiple primary malignant neoplasms are a rare disease with tumors of different histology or morphology arising in various sites. Next-generation sequencing is essential in the etiology, diagnosis, treatment, and surveillance of this disease. No eight primary malignant neoplasm cases with high variant allele frequencies of RB1, TP53, and TERT have been reported. Herein, we report a 65-year-old male who exhibited eight primary malignancies of the vocal cord, pharynx, kidney, mouth floor, esophagus, and urinary bladder with different pathological types. The first seven tumors were early-stage tumors; the last tumor, small cell carcinoma of urinary bladder, showed liver metastasis at diagnosis. Next-generation sequencing results revealed extremely high somatic variant allele frequencies of RB1 c.1472 T > C, TP53 c.576A > G, and TERT c.-58-u66C > T (95.5%, 95.1%, and 51.0%, respectively). No germline mutations were detected. These findings denoted a heavy tumor burden and poor prognosis. This is the first report of eight primary malignant neoplasm cases with high variant allele frequencies of RB1, TP53, and TERT.

Second Hematologic Malignancies Associated With Primary Mediastinal Germ Cell Tumors: A Population-based Study

BACKGROUND

Studies addressing second hematologic malignancies (SHMs) in patients with primary mediastinal germ cell tumors (PMGCTs) are scarce. To better describe this phenomenon, we analyzed a large case series from a population-based registry.

METHODS

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database was used to report the clinical characteristics and incidence of SHMs in patients with PMGCT.

RESULTS

Among 1297 PMGCTs, 27 cases (2.08%) of SHM were found, with a median latency period of 12 months (95% CI: 5-41). All SHM occurred in males, 20 of whom (74.1%) had a previous nonseminomatous tumor. Acute myeloid leukemia was the most frequent SHM, accounting for 13 cases, 4 of which were acute megakaryoblastic leukemia that occurred within 5 months of diagnosis. The median survival after the diagnosis of SHM was 6 months (95% CI: 2-41). The risk of SHM was significantly higher than expected for the reference population, with a standardized incidence ratio of 6.21 (95% CI: 3.31-10.62) and an absolute excess risk of 19.19 per 10,000 person-years.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with PMGCT are at a higher risk of developing SHMs than the general population, particularly acute myeloid leukemia. This risk ranges from synchronous diagnosis of acute megakaryoblastic leukemia to the later onset of other hematological disorders that might be related to PMGCT therapies. Our findings may help create follow-up schedules for patients with PMGCT and raise the level of suspicion surrounding this association.

Risk of Parkinson's disease-related death in cancer survivors: A population-based study in Japan

BACKGROUND

The risk of Parkinson's disease (PD)-related death in patients with cancer largely unexplored.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the Neoplasms ANd other causes of DEath (NANDE) study, which investigates the causes of death in patients with cancer in Japan. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated to compare the risk of PD-related deaths in patients with cancer to that of the general population. Poisson regression models were employed to estimate the relative risk of PD-related death in the subgroups.

RESULTS

The cohort included 548,485 patients with cancer, yielding 2,047,398 person-years at risk from 1995 to 2013. During the study period, 242,250 patients died and 145 deaths were attributable to PD. The SMR for PD-related death was 2.34 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.99-2.75). Patients who were diagnosed with cancer before 70 years of age had a high SMR (>5) for PD-related deaths. The SMR of patients with mouth-to-stomach cancers (lip, oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus, and stomach cancers) was 3.72 (95% CI: 2.84-4.86), while that of those with other cancers was 1.93 (95% CI: 1.57-2.37). The multivariate Poisson regression model revealed that patients with mouth-to-stomach cancers were more likely to die of PD than those without (relative risk 2.07, 95 % CI; 1.46-2.93).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with cancer are at a high risk of PD-related death; particularly, mouth-to-stomach cancers and potentially obstructing medication for PD are attributable to a high mortality risk. Careful management, including adequate PD treatment, would benefit cancer survivors with PD and reduce the risk of PD-related death.

A pancancer analysis of the clinical and genomic characteristics of multiple primary cancers

Multiple primary cancer (MPC) denotes individuals with two or more malignant tumors occurring simultaneously or successively. Herein, a total of 11,000 pancancer patients in TCGA database (1993-2013) were divided into MPC or non-MPC groups based on their history of other malignant tumors. The incidence of MPC has risen to 8.5-13.1% since 2000. Elderly individuals, males, early-stage cancer patients, and African Americans and Caucasians are identified as independent risk factors (p < 0.0001). Non-MPC patients exhibit significantly longer overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) (p = 0.0038 and p = 0.0014). Age (p < 0.001) and tumor staging at initial diagnosis (p < 0.001) contribute to this difference. In our center, MPC was identified in 380 out of 801 tumor events based on SEER criteria. The peak occurrence of secondary primary was about 1-5 years after the first primary tumor, with a second small peak around 10-15 years. Multiple tumors commonly occur in the same organ (e.g., breast and lung), constituting 12.6%. Certain cancer types, notably skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM), exhibit significantly higher tumor mutational burden (TMB) in the MPC group (17.31 vs. 6.55 mutations/MB, p < 0.001), with high TMB associated with improved survival (p < 0.001). High TMB in MPC may serve as a predictor for potential immunotherapy application.

Combination of Osimertinib and Olaparib Therapy to Treat Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer and High-Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinoma: A Case Report

We present the case of a 75-year-old female with simultaneous EGFR-mutated stage IV lung cancer and advanced BRCA2-mutated ovarian cancer, treated with a unique regimen. In this case report, the patient was treated with alternating months of osimertinib and olaparib to control her lung and ovarian cancers, respectively. When both diseases showed progression, the patient underwent a trial of concurrent therapy with both drugs, yet this was discontinued due to patient-reported adverse side effects. Combination targeted drug therapy may be required to treat complex diagnoses such as dual malignancies. However, combination drug therapy consisting of osimertinib and olaparib has not previously been explored. This case report represents the first to demonstrate osimertinib and olaparib combination therapy as a unique treatment regimen for concurrent lung and ovarian cancers. These two drugs can either be given in an alternating way or given together, short-term, with a higher but tolerable toxicity profile.

Correlation between second and first primary cancer: systematic review and meta-analysis of 9 million cancer patients

BACKGROUND

Many survivors of a first primary cancer (FPCs) are at risk of developing a second primary cancer (SPC), with effects on patient prognosis. Primary cancers have different frequencies of specific SPC development and the development of SPCs may be closely related to the FPC. The aim of this study was to explore possible correlations between SPCs and FPCs.

METHODS

Relevant literature on SPCs was retrospectively searched and screened from four databases, namely, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and PMC. Data on the number of patients with SPC in 28 different organ sites were also collected from The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) 8 Registry and NHANES database.

RESULTS

A total of 9 617 643 patients with an FPC and 677 430 patients with an SPC were included in the meta-analysis. Patients with a first primary gynaecological cancer and thyroid cancer frequently developed a second primary breast cancer and colorectal cancer. Moreover, those with a first primary head and neck cancer, anal cancer and oesophageal cancer developed a second primary lung cancer more frequently. A second primary lung cancer and prostate cancer was also common among patients with first primary bladder cancer and penile cancer. Patients with second primary bladder cancer accounted for 56% of first primary ureteral cancer patients with SPCs.

CONCLUSIONS

This study recommends close clinical follow-up, monitoring and appropriate interventions in patients with relevant FPCs for better screening and early diagnosis of SPCs.

Acute myeloid leukemia post‑cytotoxic therapy following chemotherapy for thymoma: A case report

The present study reports the case of a patient with acute myeloid leukemia post-cytotoxic therapy (AML-pCT) that developed following chemotherapy for thymoma. A 64-year-old female patient underwent surgical resection for a mediastinal tumor and was diagnosed with stage IVa thymoma. She received chemotherapy, including carboplatin/etoposide, carboplatin/paclitaxel and amrubicin monotherapy. At 56 months following surgery, she developed blastosis and was diagnosed with AML-pCT. As demonstrated herein, although treatment for thymoma is associated with a markedly lower frequency of myeloid neoplasms post-cytotoxic therapy (MN-pCT) than treatment for other malignancies, such as breast carcinoma, it is important to be aware that MN-pCT may occur as a late complication of thymoma treatment.

A Competing Risk Nomogram for Prediction of Prognosis in Patients With Primary Squamous Cell Thyroid Carcinoma

Objective: Primary squamous cell thyroid carcinoma (PSCTC) is an extremely rare carcinoma, accounting for less than 1% of all thyroid carcinomas. However, the factors contributing to PSCTC outcomes remain unclear. This study aimed to identify the prognostic factors and develop a prognostic predictive model for patients with PSCTC. Methods: The analysis included patients diagnosed with thyroid carcinoma between 1975 and 2016 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Prognostic differences among the 5 pathological types of thyroid carcinomas were analyzed. To determine prognostic factors in PSCTC patients, the Cox regression model and Fine-Gray competing risk model were utilized. Based on the Fine-Gray competing risk model, a nomogram was established for predicting the prognosis of patients with PSCTC. Results: A total of 198,757 thyroid carcinoma patients, including 218 PSCTC patients, were identified. We found that PSCTC and anaplastic thyroid cancer had the worst prognosis among the 5 pathological types of thyroid carcinoma (P < .001). According to univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses, age (71-95 years) was an independent risk factor for poorer overall survival and disease-specific survival in PSCTC patients. Using Fine-Gray regression analysis, the total number of in situ/malignant tumors for patient (Number 1) (≥2) was identified as an independent protective factor for prognosis of PSCTC. The area under the curve, the concordance index (C-index), calibration curves and decision curve analysis revealed that the nomogram was capable of predicting the prognosis of PSCTC patients accurately. Conclusion: The competing risk nomogram is highly accurate in predicting prognosis for patients with PSCTC, which may help clinicians to optimize individualized treatment decisions.

Breast MRI-the Importance of Type II and III Dynamic Curves Evaluation and Framing in BI-RADS 4C and 5 Score

BACKGROUND

Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) offers the highest sensitivity in detecting breast cancer among existing clinical and imaging techniques, making it a crucial component of breast imaging protocols. This study aims to investigate MRI importance in correlation with previous imaging discordant procedures performed as echography and/or mammography to evaluate characteristics and framing in high-risk BI-RADS 4C or 5 categories based on morphological features and kinetic curves of masses found in the breasts of patients from our database.

METHODS

A retrospective study with related statistical analysis was performed on a group of 33 cases, selected from a total of 488 patients who underwent breast MRI examinations at SPAD Imaging International S.R.L. Craiova, between 01.01.2021 and 31.12.2023, aged between 33 and 75 years. In all patients, MRI images parameters were analysed.

RESULTS

In 33 patients, 23 had a single lesion and 10 had multiple lesions, 9 of them in the ipsilateral breast and, as a particularity, one of them, located in the contralateral breast. In 21 of the total patients with multiple or single lesions they had type III curves, which were classified in the BI-RADS 5 category, considering both criteria-morphology and type of curve, where the other previous techniques had not mentioned an increased risk, hence revealing that the situation in a percentage of 63.63 in the case of MRI investigation proved to be clearly superior.

CONCLUSION

Combining both kinetic and morphologic criteria can enhance the diagnostic accuracy of MRI in breast lesion evaluation.

Cumulative incidence of second primary cancers in a large nationwide cohort of Danish cancer survivors: a population-based retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

A new primary cancer is a serious late effect of a pre-existing cancer diagnosis, and can be attributed to hereditary cancer syndromes, immune or hormonal factors, cancer treatment, or modifiable lifestyle or environmental factors. We investigated the absolute and relative incidence of second primary cancers in a large cohort of Danish cancer survivors. Furthermore, we examined the association between alcohol-related, smoking-related, virus-related, and hormone-related first and second primary cancers.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, we identified a cohort of Danish adults (aged ≥40 years) diagnosed with cancer from Jan 1, 1997, to Dec 31, 2014 and alive 1 year after diagnosis. Follow-up was from date of first cancer diagnosis and lasted up to 24 years, ending on Dec 31, 2020. Cohort identification and information on second primary cancers was obtained from the Danish Cancer Registry, and comorbidity and sociodemographic information was obtained from Danish population-based registries. Overall, and for 27 cancer types, cumulative incidence functions and Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to estimate the incidence of second primary cancer and death, and hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs of second primary cancer adjusted for sex, age and year of diagnosis, cohabitation status, income, and comorbidity.

FINDINGS

457 334 Danish adults were included in our study (230 150 [50·3%] male individuals and 227 184 [49·7%] female individuals; median age at diagnosis 68·3 years, IQR 59·7-76·6; median follow-up 3·6 years, IQR 0·6-9·3). The cumulative incidence of second primary cancer increased over time from 6·3% (95% CI 6·2-6·4) 5 years after diagnosis to 10·5% (10·4-10·6) 10 years after diagnosis and to 13·5% (13·4-13·7) 15 years after diagnosis. The highest cumulative incidence of second primary cancer 10 years after diagnosis was observed in survivors of cancers in the larynx (21·8%, 20·5-23·1), oropharynx and oral cavity (19·5%, 18·7-20·3), and bladder and urinary tract (18·5%, 18·0-19·0). Survivors of cancers related to alcohol (HR 1·09, 95% CI 1·06-1·13), smoking (1·73, 1·68-1·78), diet high in red or processed meat (1·32, 1·24-1·39), or virus (1·23, 1·13-1·35) were at increased risk of developing a second cancer with the same aetiology, whereas having had a hormone-related first cancer was associated with lower risk of a second hormone-related cancer (0·77, 0·73-0·81).

INTERPRETATION

Our results could help optimise prevention efforts targeting modifiable risk factors to reduce risk of developing a second primary cancer.

FUNDING

Nordic Cancer Union and The Health Foundation (Helsefonden).

Primary Invasive Ductal Carcinoma of the Breast Occurring in a Patient With a History of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Developing From Focal Nodular Hyperplasia: A Case Report and Literature Review

The risk of developing another primary malignancy after an initial liver cancer diagnosis is rare, and the management of multiple primary cancers is not typically discussed. Focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) is considered a benign tumor, but there have been cases reported that describe hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) arising from or within FNH. Here, we report a woman in her 70s who had a longstanding history of FNH, later found to be HCC upon resection, who also developed invasive ductal carcinoma. She had no family history of cancer and no genetic testing results were available. Each of her cancers was managed independently, hepatectomy for HCC and neoadjuvant therapy followed by mastectomy for her breast carcinoma. This case demonstrates that the diagnosis of FNH based on radiographic imaging may necessitate a biopsy to confirm diagnosis for a symptomatic patient or those with lesions suspicious for malignancy. It also showcases the importance of close follow-up after a primary cancer diagnosis for the possibility of another primary malignancy emerging. Fresh tissue biopsy for new lesions could help determine primary malignancy or metastasis. Genetic sequencing may help identify driver mutations or genetic alterations that can be targeted.

Clinical impact of mixed pulmonary carcinoma and carcinoid: the driver from their mono-clonal origin

The combination of neuroendocrine/non neuroendocrine lung tumors (CNNELT) mentioned in the last edition of the World Health Organization (WHO) of Thoracic Tumors refers to small cell carcinoma (SCLC) or large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) mixed with any other non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). Typical Carcinoid (TC)/Atypical Carcinoid (AC) combined with NSCLC is not included among this category. However, case reports of TC/AC combined with NSCLC have been described. We previously reported 2 cases of lung adenocarcinoma (LUA) mixed with carcinoid sharing mutations in both components supporting the hypothesis of a clonal origin. We extended our analysis to other four cases of mixed NSCLC-carcinoid by performing targeted-DNA and RNA-based NGS analysis in both primary and their paired lymph nodes metastasis. In all cases, LUA and AC components shared at least 1 common mutation (KRAS driver mutation p.Gly12Val in cases 1 and 3, AKAP13-RET fusion in case 2, and missense KRAS driver mutation p.Gly12Ala in case 4, reinforcing the hypothesis of a clonal origin. Moreover, the same mutation was detected in the metastasis constituted only by AC (cases 2 and 4). Although it is a rare malignancy in the lung, mixed LUA and TC/AC could be included among the histotypes for which a deep molecular characterization of both components is needed to identify the presence of potential druggable genetic alterations.

Dual primary gastric and colorectal cancer: A complex challenge in surgical oncology

The intricate interplay of colorectal cancer (CRC) and gastric cancer (GC) as dual primary malignancies presents a significant challenge in surgical oncology. CRC is the most common secondary malignancy in GC patients, and vice versa, evidence highlighted by advances in diagnostic procedures and therapy modalities that impact patient survival. A recent study titled "Features of synchronous and metachronous dual primary gastric and colorectal cancer" explores this enigmatic dual malignancy, uncovering crucial insights into the clinical characteristics and prognostic distinctions between synchronous and metachronous presentations. Notably, metachronous cases with a second primary cancer discovered more than six months after the first diagnosis have a better outcome, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment. This study underscores the prognostic role of GC stage in patient outcomes. It also sheds light on the complexities faced by synchronous cases, often presenting with unresectable CRC. Surgery-related procedures, like gastrectomy and colon resection, stand out as important predictors of increased survival, necessitating a reevaluation of current therapeutic approaches. A tailored and patient-centered strategy, considering the health of each patient individually and the feasibility of radical treatments, is essential. Continuous follow-up and monitoring are crucial as most second primary cancers arise within five years. In conclusion, early diagnosis, surgical intervention, and watchful surveillance are pivotal in managing dual primary gastric and colorectal cancer patients. Since the incidence of gastric and colorectal cancers continues to rise, the imperative need for further research, ideally with larger sample sizes, becomes evident in our pursuit of comprehensive insights that will refine clinical approaches for this intricate dual malignancy.

Susceptibility Genes Associated with Multiple Primary Cancers

With advancements in treatment and screening techniques, we have been witnessing an era where more cancer survivors harbor multiple primary cancers (MPCs), affecting approximately one in six patients. Identifying MPCs is crucial for tumor staging and subsequent treatment choices. However, the current clinicopathological criteria for clinical application are limited and insufficient, making it challenging to differentiate them from recurrences or metastases. The emergence of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology has provided a genetic perspective for defining multiple primary cancers. Researchers have found that, when considering multiple tumor pairs, it is crucial not only to examine well-known essential mutations like MLH1/MSH2, EGFR, PTEN, BRCA1/2, CHEK2, and TP53 mutations but also to explore certain pleiotropic loci. Moreover, specific deleterious mutations may serve as regulatory factors in second cancer development following treatment. This review aims to discuss these susceptibility genes and provide an explanation of their functions based on the signaling pathway background. Additionally, the association network between genetic signatures and different tumor pairs will be summarized.

Heart Disease Mortality in Cancer Survivors: A Population-Based Study in Japan

BACKGROUND

Data on the risk of cardiovascular-related mortality in patients with cancer are limited.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This retrospective cohort study used data from the Osaka Cancer Registry and vital statistics in Japan between 1985 and 2013. The causes of death were investigated, and the risk of fatal heart disease was analyzed. Standardized mortality ratios were calculated to compare the risk of fatal heart disease between patients with cancer and the general population. Fine and Gray competing risk regression models were used to assess the risk of fatal heart disease among patients with cancer. In total, 682 886 patients with cancer were included in the analysis, and 335 635 patients died during the study period. Heart disease was the leading cause of noncancer deaths, with 10 686 deaths. Among the patients who died of heart disease, 5017 had ischemic heart disease, 3598 had heart failure, 356 had hypertensive disease, and 1715 had other heart diseases. The standardized mortality ratio for heart disease was 2.80 (95% CI, 2.74-2.85). The standardized mortality ratio for ischemic heart disease, heart failure, and hypertensive disease were 3.26 (95% CI, 3.17-3.35), 2.69 (95% CI, 2.60-2.78), and 5.97 (95% CI, 5.38-6.63), respectively. The risk of fatal heart disease increased over time after cancer diagnosis. Men were more likely to die of heart disease than women (subdistribution hazard ratio, 1.08 [95% CI, 1.02-1.16]). The risk of fatal heart disease among cancer survivors has decreased in recent years.

CONCLUSIONS

Cancer survivors have a higher risk of fatal heart disease than the general population.

Atypical fibroxanthoma and pleomorphic dermal sarcoma: Local recurrence and metastasis in a nationwide population-based cohort of 1118 patients

BACKGROUND

The prognosis of patients with atypical fibroxanthoma (AFX) and pleomorphic dermal sarcoma (PDS) remains uncertain and no standardized follow-up programs have been established.

OBJECTIVE

To recommend a standardized follow-up program of patients with AFX and PDS based on nationwide long-term estimates of local recurrence and metastasis.

METHODS

All patients with AFX and PDS in Denmark between 2002 and 2022 were included. Danish National Registries were used to estimate the risks of local recurrence and metastasis for AFX and PDS.

RESULTS

The 5-year risk of local recurrence was 10% for AFX and 17% for PDS. The 5-year risk of metastasis was 0.8% for AFX and 16% for PDS. PDS metastasized within 3 years in >90% of the patients with the lungs as the primary metastasis site (50%). Invasion beyond the subcutis, perineural/intravascular infiltration, and increasing age significantly increased the risk of PDS relapse.

LIMITATIONS

Risk of misclassification and lack of detailed surgical information.

CONCLUSION

The follow-up of patients with AFX can be limited to clinical visits for 4 years. Patients with PDS should be followed with clinical visits and PET/CT twice a year for the first 3 years and once a year for a minimum of 1 year.

Synchronous ovarian and Bartholin gland carcinoma: Case report and review of literature

To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of synchronous ovarian and vulva (Bartholin gland) cancer. A postmenopausal woman presented with a complex multiloculated left adnexal mass and 2-cm right Bartholin gland mass. CA 125 was 59 IU/mL. Computed tomography of chest, abdomen, and pelvis showed a very large (32 × 13.5 × 22.5 cm) complex mass arising from the pelvis and extending to the level of the T12/L1 disk space. A right Bartholin mass with suspicious right inguinal nodes was seen. Midline laparotomy, total abdominal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophrectomy, infracolic omentectomy, pelvic peritoneal biopsies, and peritoneal washings were carried out. Wide local excision of the right Bartholin gland mass was carried out in the same setting. Histopathology came back as Stage 2B left ovarian clear-cell carcinoma and synchronous right Bartholin gland adenoid cystic carcinoma with lymphovascular invasion, incompletely excised, staged at least FIGO Stage 1B. Following local multidisciplinary team discussion and positron emission tomography scan review, the local committee agreed to start three cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy then proceed with Bartholin gland scar re-excision and bilateral groin lymph node dissection. After the three cycles, the groin lymph nodes came back as metastatic adenocarcinoma with overall morphologic and immunohistochemical features consistent with metastatic ovarian clear-cell carcinoma. Postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy was given. Initial follow-up period over 9 months was uneventful.

Challenging Diagnosis of Lytic Bone Lesions Between Multiple Myeloma and Bone Metastasis of Primary Breast Cancer

Lytic bone lesions include various differential diagnoses, such as bone metastasis of cancer, multiple myeloma, primary bone cancers, and infections. Here, we report a rare case of primary breast cancer complicated by lytic bone lesions mimicking bone metastasis, which was subsequently diagnosed as multiple myeloma. Despite the development of several imaging modalities, such as magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography/computed tomography, diagnosing lytic bone lesions with either multiple myeloma or tumor metastasis is highly challenging. Urinalysis is a noninvasive diagnostic method that includes useful diagnostic information; thus, physicians should evaluate urine protein levels when lytic bone lesions are observed.

Analysis of the development of gastric cancer after resecting colorectal lesions using large-scale health insurance claims data

BACKGROUND

Colorectal endoscopic resection (C-ER) is spreading due to the increase of colorectal cancer (CRC) in Japan. Gastric cancer (GC) sometimes occurs after C-ER. We aimed to analyze the status of GC after C-ER using large-scale data.

METHODS

We retrospectively used commercially anonymized health insurance claims data of 5.71 million patients from 2005 to 2018, and extracted 62,392 patients ≥ 50 years old who received C-ER. The incidence and risk factors of GC were analyzed. Additionally, subjects were divided into ≥ 2 cm group and < 2 cm group and risks of GC were analyzed.

RESULTS

The median age (range) was 58 (50-75) years and the overall rate of GC was 0.68% (423/62,392). Multivariate analysis showed that significant risk factors for GC [odds rates (OR), 95% confidence interval (CI)] were colorectal lesion size ≥ 2 cm (1.75, 1.24-2.47, p = 0.002), age ≥ 65 y.o. (1.65, 1.31-2.07, p < 0.001), male (2.35, 1. 76-3.13, p < 0.001), diabetes mellitus (1.40, 1.02-1.92, p = 0.035), liver disease (1.54, 1.06-2.24, p = 0.025), Helicobacter pylori infection (2.10, 1.65-2.67, p < 0.001), chronic atrophic gastritis (1.58, 1.14-2.18, p = 0.006), and CRC (1.72, 1.10-2.68, p = 0.017). The rate of GC in the ≥ 2 cm was significantly higher than that in < 2 cm groups (1.17% and 0.65%, p < 0.001). According to the number of significant risk factors, the rates of GC and the hazard ratios of GC (95%CI) were 0.64% and 3.64 (2.20-6.02) and 1.95% and 11.17 (6.57-19.00) for patient with 1-2 and ≥ 3 risk factors, compared with patients without risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Using large-scale data, risk factors for GC, including colorecal lesions ≥ 2 cm after C-ER could be investigated.

Conjugated Nanoparticles for Solid Tumor Theranostics: Unraveling the Interplay of Known and Unknown Factors

Cancer diagnoses have been increasing worldwide, and solid tumors are among the leading contributors to patient mortality, creating an enormous burden on the global healthcare system. Cancer is responsible for around 10.3 million deaths worldwide. Solid tumors are one of the most prevalent cancers observed in recent times. On the other hand, early diagnosis is a significant challenge that could save a person's life. Treatment with existing methods has pitfalls that limit the successful elimination of the disorder. Though nanoparticle-based imaging and therapeutics have shown a significant impact in healthcare, current methodologies for solid tumor treatment are insufficient. There are multiple complications associated with the diagnosis and management of solid tumors as well. Recently, surface-conjugated nanoparticles such as lipid nanoparticles, metallic nanoparticles, and quantum dots have shown positive results in solid tumor diagnostics and therapeutics in preclinical models. Other nanotheranostic material platforms such as plasmonic theranostics, magnetotheranostics, hybrid nanotheranostics, and graphene theranostics have also been explored. These nanoparticle theranostics ensure the appropriate targeting of tumors along with selective delivery of cargos (both imaging and therapeutic probes) without affecting the surrounding healthy tissues. Though they have multiple applications, nanoparticles still possess numerous limitations that need to be addressed in order to be fully utilized in the clinic. In this review, we outline the importance of materials and design strategies used to engineer nanoparticles in the treatment and diagnosis of solid tumors and how effectively each method overcomes the drawbacks of the current techniques. We also highlight the gaps in each material platform and how design considerations can address their limitations in future research directions.

Bidirectional Mendelian randomization analysis of the genetic association between primary lung cancer and colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

With the development and popularization of low-dose chest CT technology, the diagnosis and survival rates of patients with early lung cancer (LC) have significantly improved. The occurrence of colorectal cancer (CRC) as the second primary cancer (SPC) in primary lung cancer (PLC) survivors has become an essential factor affecting the prognosis of early LC. This study explored the potential association between PLC and CRC genetically, laying a foundation for developing SPC-CRC prevention strategies after primary early LC.

METHODS

Based on a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) design, this study systematically screened genetic instrumental variables (IVs) based on the genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of PLC and CRC, applied inverse variance weighted (IVW) as the main method to assess the incidence association between the two cancers, and used a variety of other MR methods for supplementary analysis. Finally, the Genetic Risk Scores (GRS) method was used for secondary analysis to verify the results robustness further.

RESULTS

From LC to CRC forward MR analysis, 20 genetic IVs of overall LC, 15 genetic IVs of squamous cell lung carcinoma (LUSC), and 10 genetic IVs of adenocarcinoma of the lung (LUAD) were screened. In the reverse MR analysis from CRC to LC, 47 genetic IVs for overall CRC, 37 for colon cancer, and 25 for rectal cancer were screened. The IVW method and a variety of MR methods all found that overall LC and CRC were significantly associated at the genetic level. Subgroup analysis also showed that LUSC was associated with CRC. And the results of the GRS method were consistent with those of the main analysis, confirming the robustness of the study. Our MR study found an association between LC and CRC, with an increased risk of SPC-CRC following PLC, especially LUSC. Our study provides an essential basis for the precise prevention of SPC-CRC after PLC, suggesting that we should pay more attention to the population with a history of PLC in clinical work, and pay close attention to the incidence of SPC-CRC, and carry out intervention and treatment as soon as possible.

Prognostic impact of the presence or absence of prior cancer in patients with cancer using cure models: A population-based study

Developing a subsequent cancer is one of the major concerns for cancer survivors; however, whether prior cancer could affect their prognosis is unknown. We therefore aimed to analyze how prognosis varies depending on prior cancer in patients with newly developed cancer, focusing on cancer that had been "cured." We used the record-linked database of the Osaka Cancer Registry and Vital Statistics to select 186,798 patients with stomach, colorectal, or lung cancer aged ≥40 years from 1995 to 2009 in Osaka, Japan. These cancers were defined as index cancers. We classified the patients into two groups according to whether they had a prior cancer diagnosis within 10 years before the index cancer diagnosis. The cured proportion was defined as the proportion of cancer patients with the same mortality as the general population and was estimated using the parametric mixture cure model. The cured proportion of patients with prior cancer by sex and age group was not significantly lower than those without prior cancer, except for patients with stomach cancer aged ≥65 years. According to the index cancer stage in the localized stomach or colorectal cancer, the cured proportion in patients with prior cancer was lower than in those without prior cancer. However, at any stage of lung cancer, the proportion of patients with prior cancer who had been cured was similar to patients without prior cancer, therefore prior cancer had a prognostic impact only in some patient groups based on the characteristics of their index cancer.

A Rare Case of a Chylous Pleural Effusion as the Initial Manifestation of Synchronous Tumors

Multiple primary malignancies (MPMs) are defined as two or more histopathologically distinct malignancies in the same individual. MPMs are classified as synchronous when tumors are diagnosed within six months of each other. The most common malignancies in MPMs are melanoma, breast, lung, and prostate cancer. Synchronous lymphoma and solid tumors are relatively rare. In these cases, a multi-disciplinary approach to treatment is essential. The early detection of additional primary malignancies such as myeloid and lymphatic tumors will enable prompt management with curative intent. The authors present a case of diffuse B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma and invasive lobular breast carcinoma presented as a chylous pleural effusion.

Temporal correlation between the first melanoma and the first noncutaneous tumor in CKDN2A genotyped patients

CDKN2A pathogenic variants are well known to be associated with cutaneous melanoma and noncutaneous tumors (NCTs). Herein, we investigated the temporal correlation between the first cutaneous melanoma and NCT both in CDKN2A mutation carriers (MUT) and in wild-type melanoma patients, a poorly explored issue to date. Two hundred forty-five cutaneous melanoma patients were genotyped for the CDKN2A gene and divided into 51 MUT and 189 wild-type; the remaining five variant carriers were excluded from the analyses. MUT developed a significantly higher number of cutaneous melanoma than wild-type, while 13.7% in both genotyped groups received a diagnosis of at least one malignant NCT, without statistically significant differences. The onset of the first cutaneous melanoma preceded that of the first malignant or benign NCT in both MUT and wild-type patients by an average of 4.5 and 3.02 years, respectively. Considering only malignant tumors, the diagnosis of melanoma preceded that of the first NCT on an average of 8 and 4.34 years, in MUT and wild-type patients respectively. We emphasize the relevance to adopt a global vision for the primary and secondary surveillance of patients affected by cutaneous melanoma, not only limited to high-risk for multiple primary skin cancers but also to NCT that may develop several years after the diagnosis of the first cutaneous melanoma.

Multiple synchronous primary malignant neoplasms: A case report and literature review

Multiple primary malignant neoplasms (MPMN) are defined as two or more primary malignancies diagnosed in an individual. There is no association between these cancers, which can be classified into synchronous and heterochronous cancers depending on the time of diagnosis. The present study presented a rare case of bilateral breast, endometrial, cervical and ovarian cancers. Through thorough physical examination, pathology and immunohistochemistry, it could be determined that bilateral breast, endometrial and cervical cancers were primary malignant tumors and that ovarian cancer cannot be excluded as a result of metastasis. the present study also summarized the definitions, risk factors, prevalence characteristics, diagnostic ideas and treatment options for MPMN by reviewing the literature.

Successful delivery after in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer in a woman with metachronous primary cancer of ovary and endometrium: a case report

BACKGROUND

The appearance of malignancies at various times in the same individual, excluding metastases of the initial primary cancer, is termed multiple primary cancers. Double primary gynecological cancers cause inevitable damage to female reproductive function, and the preservation of fertility in such patients remains a challenging issue as relatively few cases have been reported. This case report provides management options for dual primary ovarian and endometrial cancers, including the choice of ovulation induction protocols, considerations during pregnancy and parturition, with the aim of providing assistance to clinicians.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report a case of a 39-year-old woman with primary infertility and a medical history of right-sided ovarian mucinous borderline tumor with intraepithelial carcinoma, left-sided ovarian mucinous cystadenoma and endometrial cancer, who successfully conceived with in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) after three different ovulation induction protocols. During her pregnancy, she was complicated by central placenta praevia with placental implantation and eventually delivered a healthy female infant by caesarean section at 33 gestational weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

For patients with double primary gynecological cancers who have an intense desire for fertility, the most appropriate oncological treatment should be applied according to the patient's individual situation, and fertility preservation should be performed promptly. Ovulation induction protocol should be individualized and deliberate, with the aim of ensuring that the patient's hormone levels do not precipitate a recurrence of the primary disease during induction of ovulation and maximizing fertility outcomes. In addition, the risk of postpartum hemorrhage due to placental factors cannot be neglected in such patients.