Curative irradiation of limited endobronchial carcinomas with high-dose rate brachytherapy. Results of a pilot study

Bronchoscopic treatment of inoperable nonsmall cell lung cancer

Patients with unresectable lung cancer range from those with early-stage or pre-invasive disease with comorbidities that preclude surgery to those with advanced stage disease in whom surgery is contraindicated. In such cases, a multidisciplinary approach to treatment is warranted, and may involve medical specialties including medical oncology, radiation oncology and interventional pulmonology. In this article we review bronchoscopic approaches to surgically unresectable lung cancer, including photodynamic therapy, brachytherapy, endoscopic ablation techniques and airway stenting. Current and past literature is reviewed to provide an overview of the topic, including a highlight of potential emerging approaches.

Role of bronchoscopy in management of central squamous cell lung carcinoma in situ

Squamous cell carcinoma in situ (SCIS) is the pre-invasive stage of squamous cell carcinoma. Early detection and management of SCIS can prevent further progression. Although surgery and external beam radiation therapy are treatment options for SCIS, smaller lesions can be easily managed by bronchoscopic modalities like photodynamic therapy (PDT), cryotherapy, mechanical debulking with biopsy forceps, electrocautery and argon plasma coagulation (APC). Endobronchial brachytherapy (EBBT) and lasers may be judiciously utilized in selected cases. Although, previous studies of treatment modalities may have inadvertently included cases of invasive carcinomas, the advent of new technologies like radial probe endobronchial ultrasound (RP-EBUS) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) can help accurately determine the of depth of invasion. Superficial extent can also be better demarcated with techniques like auto-fluorescence bronchoscopy and narrow band imaging (NBI). New drugs for PDT with deeper penetration and less phototoxicity are being developed. These advances hopefully will allow us to perform superior clinical trials in future and improve our understanding of diagnosis and management of SCIS.

Salvage treatment with sole high-dose-rate endobronchial interventional radiotherapy (brachytherapy) for isolated endobronchial tumor recurrence in non-small-cell lung cancer patients: a 20-year experience

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to report on the use of high-dose-rate (HDR) endobronchial interventional radiotherapy (brachytherapy) for isolated endobronchial tumor recurrence in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer, in whom a surgery or external radiation treatment is not possible.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

A retrospective review of the patients with endobronchial tumors treated with HDR-endobronchial interventional radiotherapy at our institution (1995-2015) was performed. Treatment results and treatment-related toxicity were recorded. Clinical response was evaluated by bronchoscopy 3 months after treatment. Disease-free survival and overall survival were analyzed.

RESULTS

One hundred twenty-six patients were identified. The median age was 63 years, and median followup time was 67.2 months. Three-month complete local response was 86.5%. At 5 years, disease-free survival was 41.4% and overall survival was 23.6%. 12.7% of the patients died from massive hemoptysis.

CONCLUSION

HDR-endo brochial brachytherapy is an effective treatment option with acceptable toxicity for patients with endobronchial tumor recurrence in whom surgery and external beam radiotherapy are contraindicated.

Endoluminal brachytherapy: Bronchus and oesophagus

Endobronchial brachytherapy could be proposed in case of endoluminal tumours either as a palliative or a curative treatment. As a curative treatment, endobronchial brachytherapy could obtain a high local control rate in case of limited disease. In palliative setting, endobronchial brachytherapy improved thoracic symptoms in more than 80% of cases, but it is less efficient than external beam radiation therapy for palliation. It could be also proposed to maintain the airway open after laser therapy. Oesophageal brachytherapy is a valuable option as a palliative treatment, underused at this time. It causes less side effects and a better quality of life compared to self-expanded metallic stents. For a curative aim, there is today no demonstration that a combination of external beam radiotherapy and oesophageal brachytherapy give better results than external beam radiotherapy alone in locally advanced tumours. For superficial diseases, the combination of external beam radiotherapy and oesophageal brachytherapy seems, on the contrary, promising.

Endobronchial brachytherapy with curative intent: the impact of reference points setting according to the bronchial diameter

Endobronchial brachytherapy (EBB) is an effective treatment for endobronchial tumors. However, bronchial toxicity caused by over-irradiation remains problematic. To decrease bronchial toxicity, we developed a source-centralizing applicator for EBB. The purpose of the present study was to assess the efficacy and safety of EBB with varying reference dose points according to the bronchial diameter, using a source-centralizing applicator. We reviewed 15 patients with endobronchial carcinoma who were treated with curative intent using a combination of external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and high-dose-rate EBB between 2005 and 2014. During each EBB session, we used a source-centralizing applicator that maintained the source-delivering catheter in the center of the bronchial lumen. Reference dose points were 5-7 mm from the source axis, depending on the bronchial diameter. The median radiation doses of EBRT and EBB were 40 Gy in 20 fractions and 18 Gy in 3 fractions, respectively. The median observation period was 36 months. The 3-year overall survival, progression-free survival and local control rates were 79%, 77% and 100%, respectively. Grade 2 radiation pneumonitis was observed in two cases. Bronchial toxicities, such as hemoptysis or the symptoms of chronic bronchitis, were not observed. EBB with varying reference dose points according to bronchial diameter, using a source-centralizing applicator, is a promising procedure that may be effective for tumor elimination and reducing toxicity to the bronchial wall.

Techniques of endoscopic airway tumor treatment

Interventional bronchoscopy has a predominant role in the management of both early and advanced-stage airway tumors. Given the very poor prognosis of lung cancer, there is a need for new tools to improve early detection and bronchoscopic treatment of endo-bronchial precancerous lesions. In more advanced stages, interventional bronchoscopy plays an important role, as nearly a third of lung cancers lead to proximal airway obstruction. This will cause great discomfort or even life-threatening symptoms related to local extension, such as dyspnea, post-obstructive pneumonia, and hemoptysis. Surgery for very locally advanced disease is only effective for a limited number of patients and the effects of conventional antitumor therapies, like radiation therapy or chemotherapy, are inconstant and are too delayed in a palliative context. In this review, we aim to provide pulmonologists with an exhaustive technical overview of (I) the bronchoscopic management of benign endobronchial lesions; (II) the bronchoscopic management of malignant tumors, including the curative treatment of localized lesions and palliative management of malignant proximal airway stenosis; and (III) descriptions of the emerging endoscopic techniques used to treat peripheral lung tumors.

Integration of interventional bronchoscopy in the management of lung cancer

Tracheal or bronchial proximal stenoses occur as complications in 20-30% of lung cancers, resulting in a dramatic alteration in quality of life and poor prognosis. Bronchoscopic management of these obstructions is based on what are known as "thermal" techniques for intraluminal stenosis and/or placement of tracheal or bronchial prostheses for extrinsic compressions, leading to rapid symptom palliation in the vast majority of patients. This invasive treatment should only be used in cases of symptomatic obstructions and in the presence of viable bronchial tree and downstream parenchyma. This review aims to clarify 1) the available methods for assessing the characteristics of stenoses before treatment, 2) the various techniques available including their preferred indications, outcomes and complications, and 3) the integration of interventional bronchoscopy in the multidisciplinary management of proximal bronchial cancers and its synergistic effects with the other specific treatments (surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy).

Brachytherapy in the treatment of lung cancer - a valuable solution

The majority of patients with lung cancer are diagnosed with clinically advanced disease. Many of these patients have a short life expectancy and are treated with palliative aim. Because of uncontrolled local or recurrent disease, patients may have significant symptoms such as: cough, dyspnea, hemoptysis, obstructive pneumonia, or atelectasis. Brachytherapy is one of the most efficient methods in overcoming difficulties in breathing that is caused by endobronchial obstruction in palliative treatment of bronchus cancer. Efforts to relieve this obstructive process are worthwhile, because patients may experience improved quality of their life (QoL). Brachytherapy plays a limited but specific role in definitive treatment with curative intent in selected cases of early endobronchial disease as well as in the postoperative treatment of small residual peribronchial disease. Depending on the location of the lesion, in some cases brachytherapy is a treatment of choice. This option is fast, inexpensive, and easy to perform on an outpatient basis. Clinical indications, different techniques, results, and complications are presented in this work.

Diagnosis and treatment of bronchial intraepithelial neoplasia and early lung cancer of the central airways: Diagnosis and management of lung cancer, 3rd ed: American College of Chest Physicians evidence-based clinical practice guidelines

BACKGROUND

Bronchial intraepithelial lesions may be precursors of central airway lung carcinomas. Identification and early treatment of these preinvasive lesions might prevent progression to invasive carcinoma.

METHODS

We systematically reviewed the literature to develop evidence-based recommendations regarding the diagnosis and treatment of intraepithelial lesions.

RESULTS

The risk and timeline for progression of bronchial intraepithelial lesions to carcinoma in situ (CIS) or invasive carcinoma are not well understood. Multiple studies show that autofluorescence bronchoscopy (AFB) is more sensitive that white light bronchoscopy (WLB) to identify these lesions. In patients with severe dysplasia or CIS in sputum cytology who have chest imaging studies showing no localizing abnormality, we suggest use of WLB; AFB may be used as an adjunct when available. Patients with known severe dysplasia or CIS of central airways should be followed with WLB or AFB, when available. WLB or AFB is also suggested for patients with early lung cancer who will undergo resection for delineation of tumor margins and assessment of synchronous lesions. However, AFB is not recommended prior to endobronchial therapy for CIS or early central lung cancer. Several endobronchial techniques are recommended for the treatment of patients with superficial limited mucosal lung cancer who are not candidates for resection.

CONCLUSION

Additional information is needed about the natural history and rate of progression of preinvasive central airway lesions. Patients with severe dysplasia or CIS may be treated endobronchially; however, it remains unclear if these therapies are associated with improved patient outcomes.

Definitive high-dose-rate endobronchial brachytherapy of bronchial stump for lung cancer after surgery

PURPOSE

The aim of this work was to evaluate outcomes after definitive high-dose-rate endobronchial brachytherapy (HDR-BT) for lung cancer.

METHODS AND MATERIAL

We treated 34 patients after surgery for lung cancer, without nodal or distant metastases, with HDR-BT. Two groups were analyzed, one with local recurrence in stump after prior surgery (n = 13) and a second with nonradical primary lobar resection found in histopathologically positive margins (n = 21). There were 27 men and 7 women with a median age of 57.4 years. Twenty-five patients received sole brachytherapy with 4 fractions of 7.5 Gy and 9 received combined treatment consisting of 2 fractions of 6 Gy (HDR-BT) and 50 Gy from external beam radiotherapy. Overall survival time (OS) and overall disease-free survival time (OFS) were compared with prognostic factors.

RESULTS

The complete local and radiologic response rate evaluated at the first month after HDR-BT was 73.5% (25/34). The partial response rate was 26.5%. OFS time in total group was 17.4 months; OS was 18.8 months. Differences were found in OS between both groups-primary tumor or recurrence (log-rank test, p = 0.048). Differences were not found according to gender (p = 0.36), clinical stage (p = 0.76), histopathology (p = 0.93), treatment dose (p = 0.45), sole or combined treatment (p = 0.16), or grade of remission in week 4 (p = 0.15).

CONCLUSIONS

HDR-BT of a stump recurrence or after nonradical resection leads to a long-term OS rate in patients with localized lung cancer and could be considered curative. We found no correlations between OS and chosen clinical data; adjuvant HDR-BT gave better results.

Mature results of a randomized trial comparing two fractionation schedules of high dose rate endoluminal brachytherapy for the treatment of endobronchial tumors

Purpose

To determine the efficacy of high dose rate endobronchial brachytherapy (HDR-BT) for the treatment of centrally located lung tumors, two different fractionation schedules were compared regarding local tumor response, side effects and survival. Mature retrospective results with longer follow-up and more patients were analyzed. Initial results were published by Huber et al. in 1995.

Methods and materials

142 patients with advanced, centrally located malignant tumors with preferential endoluminal growth were randomized to receive 4 fractions of 3.8 Gy (time interval: 1 week, n = 60, group I) or 2 fractions of 7.2 Gy (time interval: 3 weeks, n = 82, group II) endobronchial HDR-BT.

Age, gender, tumor stage, Karnofsky Performance Score and histology were equally distributed between both groups.

Results

Local tumor response with 2 fractions of 7.2 Gy was significantly higher as compared to 4 fractions of 3.8 Gy (median 12 vs. 6 weeks; p ≤ 0.015). Median survival was similar in both groups (19 weeks in the 4 fractions group vs. 18 weeks in the 2 fractions group). Fatal hemoptysis was less frequent following irradiation with 2 × 7.2 Gy than with 4 × 3.8 Gy, although the difference did not achieve statistical significance (12.2% vs. 18.3%, respectively. p = 0,345). Patients presenting with squamous cell carcinoma were at higher risk of bleeding compared to other histology (21.9% vs. 9%, p = 0,035).

Multivariate analysis with regard to overall survival, revealed histology (p = 0.02), Karnofsky Performance Score (p < 0.0001) and response to therapy (p < 0.0001) as significant prognostic factors. For patients showing complete response the median survival was 57 weeks, while for patients with progressive disease median survival time was 8 weeks, p < 0.0001.

The KPS at the start of the treatment was significantly correlated with survival. Patients presenting with a KPS ≤ 60 at the start had a significantly (p = 0,032) shorter survival time (10 weeks) than patients with a KPS > 60 (29 weeks).

Moreover, the Karnofsky Performance Score of most patients improved during therapy (p = 0,001), suggesting successful palliation of cancer associated symptoms.

Multivariate analysis with regard to local tumor control found no significant factors.

Conclusion

Endobronchial HDR-BT is an effective local treatment for advanced centrally located malignant tumors with endoluminal tumor growth. Local tumor response was significantly higher after HDR-BT with 2 × 7.2 Gy.

Palliative endobronchial brachytherapy for non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

This is an updated version of the original review published in Issue 2, 2008 of The Cochrane Library. Non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) constitute about 80% of all lung cancer cases. Although surgery is the only curative treatment of NSCLC, fewer than 20% of tumors can be radically resected. Radiotherapy is one of the main treatment modalities in lung cancer, contributing to both its cure and palliation. Endobronchial brachytherapy (EBB) has been used as one approach to improve local control either alone or in combination with other treatments.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of palliative EBB compared with external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) or other alternative endoluminal treatments in controlling thoracic symptoms and increasing survival in patients with advanced NSCLC.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL,The Cochrane Library, Issue 1 2012), MEDLINE (OvidSP) (1966 to January 2012), EMBASE (Ovid) (1974 to January 2012) and other databases as well as reference lists, and we handsearched selected journals and conference proceedings.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing different regimens of palliative EBB with EBRT or other endobronchial interventions in patients with advanced NSCLC.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently extracted data and conducted risk of bias assessment.

MAIN RESULTS

We included fourteen RCTs involving 953 participants. We included a new study assessing a variety of different fractionation schedules of high dose rate palliative EBB in this update. There were important differences in the doses of radiotherapy investigated, in the patient characteristics and in the outcomes measured. We found trials comparing EBB to EBRT alone, EBB plus EBRT to EBRT alone, EBB plus chemotherapy to EBB alone, EBB to neodymium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd-YAG) laser and comparisons between various fractionation schedules of high dose rate EBB. From the heterogeneous information obtained from several small RCTs, we concluded that EBRT alone is more effective for palliation of NSCLC symptoms than EBB alone. Our findings did not provide conclusive evidence to recommend EBB plus EBRT to relieve symptoms compared to EBRT alone. Overall, for the primary endpoint of survival there was no evidence of benefit for EBB compared to EBRT and Nd-YAG laser or for the combination of EBB with chemotherapy. Additionally, findings from one trial suggested that twice 7.4 Gy was superior to the four times per week 3.8 Gy schedule for mean time of local control and fatal hemoptysis. No significant differences were found for fatal hemoptysis as an adverse event of EBB.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The evidence did not provide conclusive results that EBB plus EBRT improved symptom relief over EBRT alone. We were not able to provide conclusive evidence to recommend EBB with EBRT, EBB in preference to EBRT, chemotherapy or Nd-YAG laser. From heterogeneous information obtained from several small RCTs, we conclude that EBRT alone is more effective for palliation than EBB alone. For patients previously treated by EBRT who are symptomatic from recurrent endobronchial central obstruction, EBB may be considered in selected cases.

Preinvasive lesions of the bronchus

It has been proposed that invasive carcinoma of the bronchus develops through a transition from preinvasive lesions to overt malignancy. Newer diagnostic technologies have provided a more sensitive way to diagnose preinvasive lesions and a better understanding of the prevalence of such lesions. The natural history of preinvasive lesions has not been well defined; however, there is evidence that high-grade lesions are at a higher risk of progression to carcinoma. Molecular alterations have been described in preinvasive lesions and may help better predict which lesions will progress. Several noninvasive techniques are available for the treatment of high-grade lesions.

Optical detection of preneoplastic lesions of the central airways

Current routine diagnosis of premalignant lesions of the central airways is hampered due to a limited sensitivity (white light bronchoscopy) and resolution (computer tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET)) of currently used techniques. To improve the detection of these subtle mucosal abnormalities, novel optical imaging bronchoscopic techniques have been developed over the past decade. In this review we highlight the technological developments in the field of endoscopic imaging, and describe their advantages and disadvantages in clinical use.

Palliative endobronchial brachytherapy for non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) constitutes about 80% of all lung cancer cases. Although surgery is the only curative treatment of NSCLC, fewer than 20% of tumors can be radically resected. Radiotherapy is one of the main treatment modalities in lung cancer, contributing to both its cure and palliation. Endobronchial brachytherapy (EBB) has been used as one approach to improve local control either alone or in combination with other treatments.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of palliative EBB in increasing survival and to control thoracic symptoms in patients with advanced NSCLC compared with external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) or other alternative endoluminal treatments.

SEARCH STRATEGY

The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE and other databases were searched, as were reference lists and handsearching of selected journals and conference proceedings.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing different regimens of palliative EBB with EBRT or other endobronchial interventions in patients with advanced NSCLC.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Thirteen RCTs were included. There were important differences in the doses of radiotherapy investigated, patient characteristics and the outcomes measured. Because of this heterogeneity no meta-analysis was attempted.

MAIN RESULTS

We found trials comparing EBB to EBRT alone, EBB plus EBRT to EBRT alone, EBB plus chemotherapy to EBB alone, EBB to Nd-YAG laser and comparisons between diverse fractionation schedules of high dose rate EBB. From the heterogeneous information obtained from several small RCTs, we concluded that EBRT alone is more effective for palliation of NSCLC symptoms than EBB alone. Our findings did not provide conclusive evidence to recommend EBB plus EBRT to relieve symptoms compared to EBRT alone. Overall, for the primary endpoint of survival there was no evidence of benefit for EBB compared to EBRT and Nd-YAG laser or for the combination of EBB with chemotherapy. Additionally, findings from one trial suggested that twice 7.4 Gy was superior to the four times per week 3.8 Gy schedule for mean time of local control and fatal haemoptysis. No significant differences were found for fatal haemoptysis as an adverse event of EBB.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The evidence did not provide conclusive results that EBB plus EBRT improved symptom relief over EBRT alone. We were not able to provide conclusive evidence to recommend EBB with EBRT, chemotherapy or Nd-YAG laser. For patients previously treated by EBRT who are symptomatic from recurrent endobronchial central obstruction, EBB may be considered in selected cases.

Bronchial Intraepithelial Neoplasia/Early Central Airways Lung Cancer

BACKGROUND

An evidence-based approach is necessary for the localization and management of intraepithelial and microinvasive non-small cell lung cancer in the central airways.

METHODS

Material appropriate to this topic was obtained by literature search of a computerized database. Recommendations were developed by the writing committee and then reviewed by the entire guidelines panel. The final recommendations were made by the Chair and were voted on by the entire committee.

RESULTS

White light bronchoscopy has diagnostic limitations in the detection of microinvasive lesions. Autofluorescence bronchoscopy (AFB) is a technique that has been shown to be a sensitive method for detecting these lesions. In patients with moderate dysplasia or worse on sputum cytology and normal chest radiographic findings, bronchoscopy should be performed. If moderate/severe dysplasia or carcinoma in situ (CIS) is detected in the central airways, then bronchoscopic surveillance is recommended. The use of AFB is preferred if available. In a patient being considered for curative endobronchial therapy to treat microinvasive lesions, AFB is useful. A number of endobronchial techniques as therapeutic options are available for the management of CIS and can be recommended to patients with inoperable disease. In patients with operable disease, surgery remains the mainstay of treatment, although patients may be counseled about these techniques.

CONCLUSIONS

AFB is a useful tool for the localization of microinvasive neoplasia. A number of endobronchial techniques available for the curative treatment can be considered first-line therapy in inoperable cases. For operable cases, the techniques may be considered and discussed with the patients.

Toward endobronchial Ir-192 high-dose-rate brachytherapy therapeutic optimization

A number of patients with lung cancer receive either palliative or curative high-dose-rate (HDR) endobronchial brachytherapy. Up to a third of patients treated with endobronchial HDR die from hemoptysis. Rather than accept hemoptysis as an expected potential consequence of HDR, we have calculated the radial dose distribution for an Ir-192 HDR source, rigorously examined the dose and prescription points recommended by the American Brachytherapy Society (ABS), and performed a radiobiological-based analysis. The radial dose rate of a commercially available Ir-192 source was calculated with a Monte Carlo simulation. Based on the linear quadratic model, the estimated palliative, curative and blood vessel rupture radii from the center of an Ir-192 source were obtained for the ABS recommendations and a series of customized HDR prescriptions. The estimated radius at risk for blood vessel perforation for the ABS recommendations ranges from 7 to 9 mm. An optimized prescription may in some situations reduce this radius to 4 mm. The estimated blood perforation radius is generally smaller than the palliative radius. Optimized and individualized endobronchial HDR prescriptions are currently feasible based on our current understanding of tumor and normal tissue radiobiology. Individualized prescriptions could minimize complications such as fatal hemoptysis without sacrificing efficacy. Fiducial stents, HDR catheter centering or spacers and the use of CT imaging to better assess the relationship between the catheter and blood vessels promise to be useful strategies for increasing the therapeutic index of this treatment modality. Prospective trials employing treatment optimization algorithms are needed.

PDT in early central lung cancer

Resources are needed to use the full potential of photodynamic therapy

Irradiated volume and the risk of fatal hemoptysis in patients submitted to high dose-rate endobronchial brachytherapy

To determine risk factors associated with fatal hemoptysis (FH) in endobronchial high dose-rate brachytherapy (EHDRB) 84 patients treated with EHDRB from January 1991 to June 2002 were studied. Clinical and technical parameters (including treatment volumes) were analyzed. Eight (9.5%) patients died of FH, all but one with recurrent or persistent local disease. Median interval until death due to FH was 4 months versus 6 months for the whole group. The only factor with significant correlation with FH was the 100% isodose volume (V100) (p=0.04). Larger irradiated volumes were related to FH. Analysis of volume parameters is suggested, together with the dose and number of fractions prescribed for each patient.

Long-term results of endobronchial brachytherapy: A curative treatment?

PURPOSE

To evaluate outcomes after high-dose-rate endobronchial brachytherapy (HDR-EBBT) for limited lung carcinoma.

METHODS

A total of 106 patients with endobronchial lung cancer and not eligible for surgery or external beam radiotherapy, without nodal or visceral metastases, were treated with HDR-EBBT. They had developed disease relapse after surgery (n = 43) or external beam radiotherapy (n = 27) or had early lung cancer with respiratory insufficiency (n = 36). Treatment consisted of six fractions of 5 or 7 Gy, usually delivered 1 cm from the source.

RESULTS

The complete histologic response rate, evaluated at 3 months after HDR-EBBT, was 59.4%. At 3 and 5 years, the local control, overall survival, and cause-specific survival rates were 60.3% and 51.6%, 47.4 and 24%, and 67.9 and 48.5%, respectively. Factors significantly associated with local failure were high tumor volume (tumor length >2 cm, bronchial obstruction >25%, tumor visibility on CT scan) and previous endoscopic treatment. Cause-specific survival, but not overall survival, was significantly associated with local control, probably because of the high rate of deaths not related to lung cancer. Five deaths were attributed to the HDR-EBBT procedure (two from fatal hemoptysis and three from bronchial necrosis).

CONCLUSION

High-dose-rate-EBBT achieved a long-term cause-specific survival rate of 50% of the patients with localized endobronchial carcinoma and could be considered curative.

Photodynamic therapy in early lung cancer: a report of two cases

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) that is based on the science of photochemistry has been recognized as a lung sparing local therapeutic modality that can achieve remarkable responses. It is an alternative treatment for early stage lung cancer patients who have poor lung function or multiple sites of cancer. Recently we treated a 70-year-old man who presented with squamous carcinoma in situ at a previous pneumonectomy site, and a 64-year-old man with a newly developed secondary superficial lung cancer, with PDT. There were no complications related to the procedure. Both patients had poor lung function due to prior lung cancer surgery. Clinical and histological complete remissions were achieved without any evidence of recurrence during 30 months of follow-up in both patients.

Usefulness of mini-tracheostomy and torque controlled insertion of applicator in fractionated endobronchial brachytherapy

Endobronchial brachytherapy was developed as effective treatment of endobronchial cancer and fractionated schedule is applied to decrease late toxicity. However, repeated bronchofiberscopy is onerous to the patient and restricts the treatment schedule itself. We applied mini-tracheostomy for a ready access route, and a torque controlled technique for easy insertion of the endobronchial applicator. Eight patients with tracheobronchial cancer invasion were treated with endobronchial brachytherapy of 18-30 Gy/3-5 fractions/1.5-2.5 weeks (median 24 Gy/4 fractions/2 weeks) at reference points of 5 mm from the bronchial surface. The averaged individual irradiation and single session times were 4 min and 24 min, respectively. There were no procedure-related complications. These technical improvements may facilitate flexible fractionated dose prescriptions.

Endobronchial brachytherapy and optimization of local disease control in medically inoperable non-small cell lung carcinoma: a matched-pair analysis

PURPOSE

External beam radiation therapy (EBRT) alone for early stage, medically inoperable non-small cell lung cancer (MILC) can produce local disease control and sometimes cure. We have previously reported that higher EBRT doses result in improved disease control and, for patients with tumors > or =3.0 cm, improved survival. This report describes the impact of dose escalation with endobronchial brachytherapy boost during or following EBRT upon local disease control.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Medical records of 404 patients with MILC treated with radiotherapy alone were reviewed. Thirty-nine patients received a planned endobronchial brachytherapy boost during or following a course of EBRT. A matched-pair analysis of disease control and survival was performed by matching each brachytherapy patient to 2 EBRT patients from a reference group of the remaining patients.

RESULTS

Endobronchial brachytherapy boost significantly improved local disease control over EBRT alone (58% vs. 32% at 5 years). The local control benefit for brachytherapy was found to be limited to patients with T(1-2) disease or tumors < or =5.0 cm. Among these patients treated with endobronchial boost, EBRT doses of > or =6500 cGy were necessary to optimize local disease control. No overall survival differences were observed at 3 years. Excess toxicity with brachytherapy was not observed.

CONCLUSION

Endobronchial brachytherapy boost enhances local disease control rates in MILC treated with EBRT. Local control outcome is optimized when radical EBRT doses are used in conjunction with brachytherapy.

High dose rate brachytherapy: its clinical applications and treatment guidelines

Brachytherapy has the advantage of delivering a high dose to the tumor while sparing the surrounding normal tissues. With proper case selection and delivery technique, high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy has great promise, because it eliminates radiation exposure, allows short treatment times, and can be performed on an outpatient basis. Additionally, use of a single-stepping source, allows optimization of dose distribution by varying the dwell time at each dwell position. However, when HDR brachytherapy is used, the treatments must be executed carefully, because the short treatment times do not allow any time for correction of errors, and mistakes can result in harm to patients. Hence, it is very important that all personnel involved in HDR brachytherapy be well trained and be constantly alert. It is expected that the use of HDR brachytherapy will greatly expand over the next decade and that refinements will occur primarily in the integration of imaging (computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, intraoperative ultrasonography) and optimization of dose distribution. It is anticipated that better tumor localization and normal tissue definition will help to optimize dose distribution to the tumor and reduce normal tissue exposure. The development of well-controlled randomized trials addressing issues of efficacy, toxicity, quality of life, and costs-versus-benefits will ultimately define the role of HDR brachytherapy in the therapeutic armamentarium.

What is early lung cancer? A review of the literature

The dismal cure rate of patients with lung cancer and the stage shift hypothesis have propelled the interest to perform screening at large, despite that previous randomized clinical trials failed to show any mortality benefit and the controversial issue of overdiagnosis. Due to early detection programs, a larger number of individuals at risk will be found to harbor small and potentially malignant early stage lesions. The application of non- and minimal invasive techniques for early detection, staging and treatment will become increasingly important. This review deals with the available clinical, surgical and pathological data focusing on early lung cancer lesions < or =1 cm. Literature data from both centrally located and parenchymal lesions < or =3 cm. have been analyzed. For all sub-centimeter lesions, minimal invasive staging and treatment approaches must still be considered inappropriate. Less invasive and less extensive treatment methods may be considered in high risk individuals with < or =1 cm. peripheral lesion showing > or =50 ground glass opacity on high resolution CT scan and those with superficial lesion in their central airways without deeper tumor invasion in the bronchial wall. Caution is necessary, however, as clinical staging remains inferior to pathological staging which is based on tissue samples collected after complete tumor removal and mediastinal lymph nodes dissection have been performed.

Sequential photodynamic therapy (PDT) and high dose brachytherapy for endobronchial tumour control in patients with limited bronchogenic carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Bulky endobronchial tumours in patients with lung cancer are difficult to treat. Brachytherapy and photodynamic therapy (PDT) are variably effective, and the combination of these treatments is not often recommended. However, cell culture studies and animal studies indicate a possible synergistic effect of combining PDT with ionising radiation. We assessed the safety and effectiveness of combined brachytherapy and PDT in patients with bulky endobronchial lung cancer.

METHODS

Patients with histologically proven non-small cell bronchogenic carcinoma and bulky endobronchial tumours were treated using a combination of PDT (Photofrin, 2 mg/kg) and brachytherapy. Six weeks after PDT, brachytherapy was applied with five fractions of 4 Gy at weekly intervals. Follow up was performed with standard and autofluorescence bronchoscopy and tissue biopsies every 3 months.

RESULTS

Thirty two patients were treated. Tumours were extensive with lengths ranging from 10 to 60 mm along the bronchus and estimated volumes ranging from 40 to 3500 mm3. At a mean follow up of 24 months, 26 patients were free of residual tumour and local recurrence. The remaining patients received a second treatment with PDT, brachytherapy, Nd:YAG laser coagulation, or external beam radiation. Distant metastases (lung, lymph node) developed in two of the six patients. Currently, all 32 patients are well. There is no evidence of residual or local recurrent endobronchial cancer in 28 patients and none had severe complications.

CONCLUSION

The combination of PDT and brachytherapy for treating patients with lung cancer and extensive endobronchial tumour is safe and, in this study, had excellent therapeutic efficacy.

Lung cancer screening: a different paradigm

Thoracic computed tomography (CT) is a sensitive method for detecting early lung cancer but has a high false-positive rate and is not sensitive for detecting central preinvasive and microinvasive cancer. Our hypothesis was that automated quantitative image cytometry (AQC) of sputum cells as the first screening method may improve detection rate by identifying individuals at highest risk for lung cancer. A total of 561 volunteer current or former smokers 50 years of age or older, with a smoking history of more than or equal to 30 pack/years, were studied. Among these, 423 were found to have sputum atypia defined as five cells or more with abnormal DNA content using AQC. Noncalcified pulmonary nodules were found in 46% (259/561). Of the 14 detected cancers, 13 were detected in subjects with sputum atypia-nine by CT and four carcinoma in situ/microinvasive cancers by autofluorescence bronchoscopy. One cancer was detected by CT alone. AQC of sputum cells improved the detection rate of lung cancer from 1.8 to 3.1%. CT scan alone would have missed 29% of the cancers. This screening paradigm shift has the additional potential of reducing the number of initial CT scans by at least 25% with further savings in follow-up investigations and treatment.

Lung cancer . 3: Fluorescence bronchoscopy: clinical dilemmas and research opportunities

Recent developments in the detection of pre-invasive lesions of the large airways by fluorescence bronchoscopy are reviewed and the clinical and biological implications discussed.

[Endobronchial brachytherapy: technique and indications]

The endobronchial brachytherapy procedure involves the insertion of an afterloading catheter into bronchus in close proximity to an endoluminal lesion, and to perform limited irradiation sparing as much as possible normal health tissues. The catheter is inserted during a classical flexible bronchoscopy. Three types of indications have been discussed: (i) palliative treatment of lung carcinoma, with or without laser desobstruction: an improvement in respiratory symptoms was observed in 60 to 80% of the cases; (ii) curative treatment for localised endobronchial carcinomas, in previously irradiated patients, or in case of contraindication of surgery or external beam irradiation; local control rate range from 60 to 70% at 2 years; (iii) combination of external irradiation and brachytherapy in the first line treatment of lung cancers. Two randomised trials did not show any improvement in survival for this approach; however, they have included advanced diseases. In the opposite, this association seems very effective for early stage lung carcinomas. Two major complications were regularly reported, haemoptysis and radiation bronchitis. Predictive factors for these toxicities are actually better known: haemoptysis could be due to a progressive disease more often than to brachytherapy itself; technical factors (dose, volume, fractionation), however, could explain a number of radiation bronchitis, and their incidence could decrease in the future.

Endobronchial therapy of neoplasms

The techniques and modalities provided by interventional pulmonology play a major role in the management of patients with symptomatic airways obstruction. The majority of these obstructions are part of pulmonary involvement by primary lung neoplasms or metastatic lesions from other organs. Benign lesions, although capable of producing similar symptoms, are more rare. Performance of successful interventional pulmonology is dependent on the skill and dexterity of the operator paired with a highly trained and dedicated ancillary team of nurses, anesthetists, and respiratory therapists. Successful endobronchial management of airway obstruction not only provides significant improvement in patients' quality of life, it also adds to their survival time. Both results fulfill the stated goals of appropriate and desired palliative therapy. Interventional pulmonology also contributes to research of the process of lung carcinogenesis and the introduction of targeted therapy for early minimally invasive cancer and the potential chemotherapy of premalignant lesions.

Treatment of early stage non-small cell lung cancer

Photodynamic therapy (PDT), brachytherapy, electrocautery, cryotherapy, and Nd-YAG laser therapy are therapeutic options available for management of endobronchial malignancies. All of these treatment modalities have been used for both palliation of late obstructing cancers, and more recently have been used as primary treatment of early radiographically occult cancers. We reviewed the evidence for the use of these treatment options in the management of early lung cancer.

High dose rate endobronchial brachytherapy in combination with external beam radiotherapy for stage III non-small cell lung cancer

INTRODUCTION

A phase-II study was planned to test the effect of external beam radiotherapy in combination with endobronchial brachytherapy on the local control and survival of stage-III non-small cell lung cancer patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty patients with stage-III non-small cell lung cancer have been treated with 60 Gy external beam radiotherapy and 3 x 5 Gy HDR endobronchial brachytherapy to control tumor and to prolong survival.

RESULTS

Therapy regimen was found to be very effective for the palliation of major symptoms, palliation rates were 42.8% for cough, 95.2% for hemoptysis, 88.2% for chest pain and 80.0% for dyspnea. There was a 76.7% tumor response (53.3% complete, 23.3% partial) verified by chest CT scans and bronchoscopy. However, median locoregional disease free survival was 9+/-4 months (95% CI: 1-17) and it was only 9.6% at 5 years. Major side effects were radiation bronchitis (70.0%), esophagitis (6.6%) in the acute period and bronchial fibrosis (25%), esophagial fibrosis (12.5%) and fatal hemoptysis (10.5%) in the late period. Median survival was 11+/-4 months (95% CI: 4-18),and 5-year actuarial survival was 10%. Locoregional disease free survival (P=0.008) and the overall survival was longer (P<0.001) in the patients younger than 60, survival was also improved in the patients with complete response (P=0.019). There were no major complications during catheterisation; early side effects were quite tolerable but severe late complications were around 10%.

CONCLUSIONS

It is concluded that endobronchial brachytherapy in combination with external irradiation provides a good rate of response, however does not eradicate locoregional disease and does not prolong survival except for some subgroups such as younger patients.

Cryotherapy in early superficial bronchogenic carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Treatment of early superficial bronchogenic carcinoma (ESBC) is under debate, and no consensus has been achieved. Different therapeutic methods have been proposed, including surgical resection and endoscopic methods.

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy of cryotherapy in patients with ESBC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients included in the study had histologically proven ESBC after fiberoptic bronchoscopy. Cryotherapy was performed through a rigid bronchoscope. Efficacy was assessed by endoscopy with multiple biopsies 1 month after treatment and during the follow-up period. Parameters studied were response to treatment, adverse effects, and survival.

RESULTS

We included 35 patients (34 men and 1 woman). The mean age was 61 +/- 9 years. Multiple locations of ESBC were observed in seven patients (20%). Complete response rate at both 1 month and 1 year was 91% (32 patients). No severe adverse effects were noted. Local recurrence was observed within 4 years in 10 patients (28%). A follow-up period of at least 4 years was available in 22 patients; of them, 11 patients (50%) were long-term survivors.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that cryotherapy is an effective method of treatment in patients with ESBC. Due to its relative tolerance compared to surgery, cryotherapy could be proposed as a first-line therapy in this population with high carcinogenic risk.

Fiberoptic bronchoscopic balloon dilatation in malignant tracheobronchial disease: indications and results

STUDY OBJECTIVES

Bronchoscopic balloon dilatation (BBD) has become a valuable tool in the treatment of benign tracheobronchial stenoses. The objective of this study was to assess indications for and results of fiberoptic BBD in treating malignant lesions.

DESIGN

One hundred twenty-six balloon dilatation procedures were performed in 78 patients with predominantly bronchial carcinoma. BBD was only performed when alternative modes of local treatment (eg, laser therapy or stent implantation) were not indicated or were inappropriate. Indications were symptomatic stenoses of the tracheobronchial tree: dyspnea or stridor (52%), retention pneumonia (15%), atelectasis (10%), retention of secretions (21%), or lung abscess (2%).

RESULTS

Fifty-five percent of all procedures consisted of dilatations of tracheal or bronchial lesions (group 1). In 22% of procedures, a stent was dilated (group 2). In 13%, BBD was used to facilitate stent placement (group 3), and in 10% to enable the correct positioning of irradiation probes for brachytherapy (group 4). In group 1 and group 2, 2 of 2 lung abscesses resolved, 5 of 8 atelectases resolved, and 11 of 12 retention pneumonias resolved. Dyspnea improved in only 12 of 32 patients. No abscess recurred. Two pneumonias and two atelectases reappeared due to restenosis. Stent implantation and brachytherapy procedures were facilitated in 90% of cases. In 52% of cases, BBD was supported by high-frequency jet ventilation. Complications consisted of one fatal hemoptysis caused by a lacerated pulmonary artery, and minor bleeding not necessitating specific therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Fiberoptic BBD is useful in the management of airway stents prior to and postimplantation, as well as in the placement of brachytherapy catheters. BBD is also successful in the resolution of poststenotic lung abscesses, retention pneumonias, and atelectases.

External irradiation and intraluminal irradiation using middle-dose-rate iridium in patients with roentgenographically occult lung cancer

PURPOSE

Therapeutic results were analyzed in 39 patients with roentgenographically occult lung cancer (ROLC), and the significance and optimal dose of this therapy were evaluated.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

The subjects were 39 patients who underwent intraluminal irradiation between May 1987 and August 1999. Radiotherapy was performed by combining external irradiation with intraluminal irradiation using middle-dose-rate iridium (four 370-MBq wires) through a catheter with a spacer, which held the source in the center of the bronchus. The doses of radiation were 22-66 Gy (median value 45 Gy) by external irradiation and 10-46 Gy (median value 28 Gy) by intraluminal irradiation.

RESULTS

The therapeutic effect was CR in 38 patients and PR in 1, and local recurrence was observed in a PR case and 3 of the 38 patients who showed CR. The 3-year and 5-year relapse-free survival rates were both 87%. No severe radiation injury was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering that ROLC often occurs as multiple cancers and that many patients with ROLC have reduced lung function, radiation therapy by a combination of intraluminal irradiation and external irradiation is expected to replace surgery as the first choice for the treatment of this disease in the twenty-first century.

High-dose rate brachytherapy of bronchial cancer: treatment optimization using three schemes of therapy

PURPOSE

Our aim is to demonstrate that a fractionated high-dose rate endobronchial brachytherapy (HDRBT) treatment is tolerable for patients with advanced (IIIA-IIIB) non-small cell lung cancer and gives an improvement of symptoms. Patients and Methods. From January 1992 to July 1997, we treated 320 patients with external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and concomitant HDRBT with Ir192. Eighty-four patients received 10 Gy in one fraction from January 1992 to March 1993 (Group A); 47 patients received two fractions of 7 Gy each from April 1993 to December 1993 (Group B), and 189 patients received three fractions of 5 Gy each from January 1994 to July 1997 (Group C).

RESULTS

Mean survival from diagnosis is 11.1 months and mean survival from last HDRBT is 9.7 months. The symptomatic response rate is 90% for dyspnea, 82% for cough, 94% for hemoptysis and 90% for obstructive pneumonia. Performance status was improved in 70% of patients. Follow-up is in the range of 5-36 months with 280/320 evaluable patients (87.5%) (40 patients were lost to follow-up). For the patients treated with three fractions of HDRBT plus EBRT, a smaller number of side effects occurred while relief from symptoms linked to bronchial obstruction and survival was similar for the three groups.

CONCLUSIONS

A three-fraction brachytherapy results in fewer side effects, such as bronchial fibrosis with or without stenosis, while survival and symptomatic relief are similar in the three groups treated.

High-dose-rate brachytherapy as sole modality for early-stage endobronchial carcinoma

PURPOSE

To evaluate exclusive high-dose-rate brachytherapy for localized early-stage non-small-cell bronchial carcinoma; to develop new insights in treatment-catheter positioning and tumor-volume assessment by computed tomography (CT) scan.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Between 1992 and 1996, 34 patients with non-small-cell bronchial carcinoma were treated by brachytherapy alone. All patients were medically inoperable and had contraindications for external beam irradiation. The treatment protocol was six sessions of 5 Gy over 6 weeks. The treatment catheter was placed under fiberoscopy and was positioned with the help of spacer catheters or with a surrounding plastic tube; CT scan was performed in 50% of the cases to measure the spacing between the applicator and the bronchial wall. Dose prescription was individually based on clinical and radiologic evaluation of tumor volume.

RESULTS

Local disease failure occurred in 5 patients (15%). With a median follow-up of 2 years, the local control rate was 85% and the survival rate 78%. No acute toxicity was found, except one pneumothorax.

CONCLUSION

Brachytherapy alone can give an optimal therapeutic ratio in small endobronchial carcinomas without radiation-induced morbidity. Such results are achieved after careful tumor volume evaluation and individualized treatment catheter positioning.

Treatment of roentgenographically occult endobronchial carcinoma with external beam radiotherapy and intraluminal low-dose-rate brachytherapy: second report

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of treatment with external beam radiotherapy and intraluminal low-dose-rate brachytherapy for roentgenographically occult endobronchial carcinoma (ROEC).

METHOD AND MATERIALS

A total of 79 lesions (71 cases) of ROEC were treated with external beam radiotherapy and intraluminal low-dose-rate brachytherapy from July 1991 to December 1998. Of these lesions, 68 (64 cases) were treated with our standard dose (external beam radiotherapy of 40 Gy and intraluminal low-dose-rate brachytherapy of 25 Gy) and are the subject of this report. All 64 patients were males, and their ages ranged from 55 to 80 (median, 68) years. The histologic diagnosis was squamous cell carcinoma in all patients.

RESULTS

In all cases, the scheduled treatment was carried out within 2 months. Follow-up period ranged from 4 to 91 (median, 44) months from the beginning of this treatment. Acute toxicity was tolerable. Grade 2 radiation pneumonitis was observed in 4 cases, and there was no case of greater than Grade 2 radiation fibrosis. Nineteen cases of bronchial stenosis and 23 cases of bronchial obstruction were observed on follow-up bronchoscopy. However, no Grade 2 or greater deterioration of respiratory function due to radiotherapy, prolonged symptoms, or fatal toxicity was observed. Nine patients suffered recurrence, 5 of whom were rescued by surgery and external beam radiotherapy, and 4 of whom died of disease. The 5-year cause-specific survival, overall-survival, and disease-free rate were 96.1%, 72.3%, and 87.3%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Combined treatment with external beam radiotherapy and intraluminal low-dose-rate brachytherapy is effective and results in acceptable complications for ROEC.

[High dose endobronchial brachytherapy: a curative treatment]

PURPOSE

New endobronchial techniques of treatment allow a good unblocking. Nevertheless, only high dose rate brachytherapy delivers a curative treatment for invasive carcinomas. This study analyses the results of the first 33 consecutive patients treated with curative intent by this technique from 1994 to 1997, and followed-up more than one year.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Thirty-seven lesions were treated, with usual schedule delivering 30 Gy at 1 cm depth in six fractions and three to five weeks. All the patients were meticulously selected on the local involvement of the tumour and absolute contraindications to a surgical treatment. All of them have a pulmonary disease history or a general contraindication.

RESULTS

With a 14-month follow-up, the local control at two months after the treatment was 95% (endoscopic and histologic), and 90% of the patients presented a prolonged local control. Four patients died of the treated cancer, another of a controlateral cancer. Ten patients died of another disease, five of them from a respiratory insufficiency. The overall survival rate at two years was 53% and the specific survival rate 80%. The acute tolerance was good, without incident. Asymptomatic bronchial stenoses, described by endoscopic follow-up, were described for seven patients.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that, on the basis of a good selection of the patients and a respect of the indications, high dose rate endobronchial brachytherapy is an effective curative treatment. It offers a new curative option and must be proposed for the small invasive carcinomas in non-operable patients.