Influence of Surgical Excision on the Survival of Patients With Stage 4 High-Risk Neuroblastoma: A Report From the HR-NBL1/SIOPEN Study

PURPOSE

To evaluate the impact of surgeon-assessed extent of primary tumor resection on local progression and survival in patients in the International Society of Pediatric Oncology Europe Neuroblastoma Group High-Risk Neuroblastoma 1 trial.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients recruited between 2002 and 2015 with stage 4 disease > 1 year or stage 4/4S with MYCN amplification < 1 year who had completed induction without progression, achieved response criteria for high-dose therapy (HDT), and had no resection before induction were included. Data were collected on the extent of primary tumor excision, severe operative complications, and outcome.

RESULTS

A total of 1,531 patients were included (median observation time, 6.1 years). Surgeon-assessed extent of resection included complete macroscopic excision (CME) in 1,172 patients (77%) and incomplete macroscopic resection (IME) in 359 (23%). Surgical mortality was 7 (0.46%) of 1,531. Severe operative complications occurred in 142 patients (9.7%), and nephrectomy was performed in 124 (8.8%). Five-year event-free survival (EFS) ± SE (0.40 ± 0.01) and overall survival (OS; 0.45 ± 0.02) were significantly higher with CME compared with IME (5-year EFS, 0.33 ± 0.03; 5-year OS, 0.37 ± 0.03; P < .001 and P = .004). The cumulative incidence of local progression (CILP) was significantly lower after CME (0.17 ± 0.01) compared with IME (0.30 ± 0.02; P < .001). With immunotherapy, outcomes were still superior with CME versus IME (5-year EFS, 0.47 ± 0.02 v 0.39 ± 0.04; P = .038); CILP was 0.14 ± 0.01 after CME and 0.27 ± 0.03 after IME (P < .002). A hazard ratio of 1.3 for EFS associated with IME compared with CME was observed before and after the introduction of immunotherapy (P = .030 and P = .038).

CONCLUSION

In patients with stage 4 high-risk neuroblastoma who have responded to induction therapy, CME of the primary tumor is associated with improved survival and local control after HDT, local radiotherapy (21 Gy), and immunotherapy.

Effect of Iopentol on Renal Function and its Use for Calculation of Glomerular Filtration Rate in Children

Nineteen children received 99mTc-DTPA for renography. The next day they received a simultaneous injection of the non-ionic contrast medium iopentol for urography and another injection of 99mTc-DTPA. The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was estimated from the plasma elimination of 99mTc-DTPA as well as iopentol. Serum concentrations of creatinine and β2-microglobulin, and urine concentrations of creatinine, β2-microglobulin, alkaline phosphatase, N-acetyl-glucosaminidase, and albumin were determined. A significant reduction (12 ± 3%) of GFR was observed after the injection of iopentol, without a subsequent rise in serum creatinine or β2-microglobulin. The urinary excretion of albumin and β2-microglobulin remained unchanged, while the excretion of alkaline phosphatase and N-acetyl-glucosaminidase was significantly increased after the urography, indicating some tubular effects of iopentol. Iopentol caused few and mild adverse events, the diagnostic yield was high, and the small changes in the renal tubular function parameters are presumed to be without clinical importance. The observed depressive effect on the GFR demands further investigations before iopentol can be recommended as a GFR-marker in children.

Influence of Urography on Renal Function in Children

Thirty-two children were given either metrizoate or iohexol for urography in a double blind study. Mild to moderate adverse reactions were observed in all patients receiving metrizoate (15/15) and in 4 receiving iohexol (4/17). Alkaline phosphatase in urine was significantly increased 4 hours after the injection of both media, but had returned to pre-injection levels 16 hours later. The excretion of β2-microglobulin and albumin was not altered. In 9 children in the metrizoate group and 11 in the iohexol group the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was determined before urography by the single injection 99Tcm-DTPA-technique and 3 to 4 hours after urography by measuring the plasma disappearance of the contrast medium with the x-ray fluorescence technique. No reduction of GFR was observed.

Influence of image-defined risk factors on the outcome of patients with localised neuroblastoma. A report from the LNESG1 study of the European International Society of Paediatric Oncology Neuroblastoma Group

BACKGROUND

The European multicenter study LNESG1 was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of surgical treatment alone in patients with localised neuroblastoma. In a retrospective, observational study we examined the impact of image-defined risk factors (IDRF) on operative complications and survival (EFS and OS).

PROCEDURE

534 patients with localised, non-MYCN amplified neuroblastoma were recruited between 1995 and 1999. Group 1 consisted of 291 patients without IDRF (Stage L1 in the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group (INRG) staging system), all treated with primary surgery. Group 2: 118 patients with IDRF (INRG Stage L2), also treated with primary surgery. Group 3: 125 patients in whom primary surgery was not attempted, 106 receiving neo-adjuvant chemotherapy.

RESULTS

In L1 patients (Group 1) 5-year EFS was 92% and OS 98%. In L2 patients (Group 2 and 3) EFS was 79% and OS 89%. The differences in both EFS and OS were significant. EFS and OS in Group 2 (86% and 95%) were significantly better than 73% and 83% in Group 3. In INSS stage 1, 2 and 3, EFS were respectively 94%, 81% and 76%. Except between stage 2 and 3 the differences were significant. OS were respectively 99%, 93% and 83%, all significantly different. The 17% operative complication rate in L2 patients was significantly higher than 5% in L1 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In localised neuroblastoma, IDRF at diagnosis are associated with worse survival rates and higher rates of operative complications. The impact of IDRF should become an integrated part of therapy planning.

Significance of clinical and biologic features in Stage 3 neuroblastoma: a report from the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group project

BACKGROUND

International Neuroblastoma Staging System (INSS) Stage 3 neuroblastoma is a heterogeneous disease. Data from the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group (INRG) database were analyzed to define patient and tumor characteristics predictive of outcome.

PROCEDURE

Of 8,800 patients in the INRG database, 1,483 with INSS Stage 3 neuroblastoma and complete follow-up data were analyzed. Secondary analysis was performed in 1,013 patients (68%) with MYCN-non-amplified (NA) tumors. Significant prognostic factors were identified via log-rank test comparisons of survival curves. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to identify factors independently predictive of event-free survival (EFS).

RESULTS

Age at diagnosis (P < 0.0001), tumor MYCN status (P < 0.0001), and poorly differentiating/undifferentiated histology (P = 0.03) were independent predictors of EFS. Compared to other Stage 3 subgroups, outcome was inferior for patients ≥ 547 days with MYCN-NA neuroblastoma (P < 0.0001), and within this cohort, serum ferritin ≥ 96 ng/ml was associated with inferior EFS (P = 0.02). For patients <547 days of age with MYCN-NA tumors, serum ferritin levels were prognostic of overall survival (OS) (P = 0.04) and chromosome 11q aberration was prognostic of EFS (P = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with INSS Stage 3 neuroblastoma patients, age at diagnosis, MYCN status and histology predict outcome. Patients <547 days of age with MYCN-NA tumors that lack chromosome 11q aberrations or those with serum ferritin <96 ng/ml have excellent prognosis and should be considered for therapy reduction. Prospective clinical trials are needed to identify optimal therapy for those patients ≥ 547 days of age with undifferentiated histology or elevated serum ferritin.

Neuroblastoma in older children, adolescents and young adults: a report from the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group project

BACKGROUND

Neuroblastoma in older children and adolescents has a distinctive, indolent phenotype, but little is known about the clinical and biological characteristics that distinguish this rare subgroup. Our goal was to determine if an optimal age cut-off exists that defines indolent disease and if accepted prognostic factors and treatment approaches are applicable to older children.

PROCEDURE

Using data from the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group, among patients ≥18 months old (n = 4,027), monthly age cut-offs were tested to determine the effect of age on survival. The prognostic effect of baseline characteristics and autologous hematopoietic cell transplant (AHCT) for advanced disease was assessed within two age cohorts; ≥5 to <10 years (n = 730) and ≥10 years (n = 200).

RESULTS

Older age was prognostic of poor survival, with outcome gradually worsening with increasing age at diagnosis, without statistical evidence for an optimal age cut-off beyond 18 months. Among patients ≥5 years, factors significantly prognostic of lower event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) in multivariable analyses were INSS stage 4, MYCN amplification and unfavorable INPC histology classification. Among stage 4 patients, AHCT provided a significant EFS and OS benefit. Following relapse, patients in both older cohorts had prolonged OS compared to those ≥18 months to <5 years (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite indolent disease and infrequent MYCN amplification, older children with advanced disease have poor survival, without evidence for a specific age cut-off. Our data suggest that AHCT may provide a survival benefit in older children with advanced disease. Novel therapeutic approaches are required to more effectively treat these patients.

Currarino syndrome at Rikshospitalet 1961-2012

BACKGROUND

Currarino syndrome is a rare hereditary condition with constipation as the main symptom. The typical patient has a combination of sacral, anorectal, intraspinal and presacral anomalies. Familial cases most often have a mutation in the MNX1 gene. The majority of Norwegian Currarino patients are treated at Rikshospitalet. This article gives an account of 50 years of experience with the condition.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

The study is based on the medical records of patients with Currarino syndrome, as well as some first-degree relatives, from the period 1961-2012. We recorded the results of mutation analysis, X-ray of the sacrum, and ultrasound, MRI and/or CT scans, as well as the treatments administered.

RESULTS

We treated 29 patients over the period in question, and in addition identified seven healthy relatives with a mutation in MNX1 and one relative with a pathognomonic sacral anomaly. There were 15 familial and 14 sporadic cases. Fourteen familial cases and one of the sporadic cases were shown to have a mutation in the MNX1 gene. Phenotypic variation was pronounced, and we saw no obvious correlation between genotype and phenotype. Twenty-six of the patients had constipation and 15 underwent a colostomy. Fourteen patients required neurosurgical and seven urogenital interventions. No patients had malignant disease.

INTERPRETATION

Patients with Currarino syndrome have a highly variable clinical presentation with constipation as the main problem. In patients with a familial syndrome, a mutation in the MNX1 gene can be expected.

Development of an open-source, flexible framework for complex inter-institutional disparate data sharing and collaboration

Clinical information, "-omic" datasets, and tissue samples are difficult to harmonize and manage for data mining. We have developed a platform for storing clinical research data while providing access to associated data from other information stores. Data on 34 metrics from 11,000 neuroblastoma patients were instantiated into a database. The Django web framework was used to create a model for rapid development of tools and views with a front-end interface for generating complex queries. Working with Nationwide Children's Hospital, we can now consume their tissue inventory data through an API. The end-user sees the number of patients who both match their search and have tissue available. Since initial implementation, the current tasks revolve around developing a governance structure and the necessary data use agreements. Efforts now are to (1) update the data with 5000 more patients, and (2) link to genomic data stores, facilitating disparate data acquisition for research studies.

A 5.8 kb deletion removing the entire MNX1 gene in a Norwegian family with Currarino syndrome

Currarino syndrome (CS) is a clinically variable disorder characterized by anorectal, sacral and presacral anomalies. It is associated with loss-of-function mutations in the motor neuron and pancreas homeobox 1 (MNX1) gene. Inheritance is autosomal dominant, expression variable and penetrance incomplete. We describe a Norwegian family with typical CS in which a heterozygous deletion removes the entire MNX1 gene but no other known genes. We also report MNX1 mutations in three other Norwegian families and confirm that the GCC12 repeat (c.373_375[12]) is a normal allelic variant. This work underscores the importance of dosage analysis of MNX1 when Sanger sequencing is negative.

Segmental chromosomal alterations have prognostic impact in neuroblastoma: a report from the INRG project

Background:

In the INRG dataset, the hypothesis that any segmental chromosomal alteration might be of prognostic impact in neuroblastoma without MYCN amplification (MNA) was tested.

Methods:

The presence of any segmental chromosomal alteration (chromosome 1p deletion, 11q deletion and/or chromosome 17q gain) defined a segmental genomic profile. Only tumours with a confirmed unaltered status for all three chromosome arms were considered as having no segmental chromosomal alterations.

Results:

Among the 8800 patients in the INRG database, a genomic type could be attributed for 505 patients without MNA: 397 cases had a segmental genomic type, whereas 108 cases had an absence of any segmental alteration. A segmental genomic type was more frequent in patients >18 months and in stage 4 disease (P<0.0001). In univariate analysis, 11q deletion, 17q gain and a segmental genomic type were associated with a poorer event-free survival (EFS) (P<0.0001, P=0.0002 and P<0.0001, respectively). In multivariate analysis modelling EFS, the parameters age, stage and a segmental genomic type were retained in the model, whereas the individual genetic markers were not (P<0.0001 and RR=2.56; P=0.0002 and RR=1.8; P=0.01 and RR=1.7, respectively).

Conclusion:

A segmental genomic profile, rather than the single genetic markers, adds prognostic information to the clinical markers age and stage in neuroblastoma patients without MNA, underlining the importance of pangenomic studies.

Development of an open-source, flexible framework for interinstitutional data sharing and collaboration

9583

Background: Clinical information, “-omic” datasets, and tissue samples are becoming more difficult to harmonize and manage for advanced data mining. We believe that clinical research data can be centralized and provide direct access to sample availability and associated data from a variety of information stores. Methods: We obtained a standardized set of anonymized patient data from the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group. The cohort consists of more than 11,000 children diagnosed worldwide between 1974 and 2002. The data consist of 34 metrics, such as age at diagnosis, stage of tumor, and other clinical and biological markers. We instantiated the dataset into a Postgres database, and using the Django web framework, created a data model for rapid development of tools and views and built a front-end interface for generating complex queries. To test the feasibility of accessing information on disparate and geographically distinct data samples, we have a formal agreement with the Children's Oncology Group Tumor Bank at The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Based on query results, we consume the Tumor Bank tissue inventory data through a web-facing application programming interface. The end-user is presented only with the number of patients who match their query search terms and for whom tissue samples are available. Results: We have completed our initial implementation and have agreements for collaboration with other international consortium groups. We have created a paradigm for statisticians to securely update and add data, and a verification system checks for internal validity and provides a report of the transaction. Our system can initiate queries and accept results in a variety of standards-compliant formats, and will be available in demonstration form by May 2012. Conclusions: Querying patient data while interrogating external sources allows researchers to observe which ancillary data and samples are available and to quickly download data or request any samples. While designed around a neuroblastoma dataset, our system can be applied to a variety of clinical scenarios and will be made available through an open-source license.

Clinical and biologic features predictive of survival after relapse of neuroblastoma: a report from the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group project

PURPOSE

Survival after neuroblastoma relapse is poor. Understanding the relationship between clinical and biologic features and outcome after relapse may help in selection of optimal therapy. Our aim was to determine which factors were significantly predictive of postrelapse overall survival (OS) in patients with recurrent neuroblastoma--particularly whether time from diagnosis to first relapse (TTFR) was a significant predictor of OS.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with first relapse/progression were identified in the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group (INRG) database. Time from study enrollment until first event and OS time starting from first event were calculated. Cox regression models were used to calculate the hazard ratio of increased death risk and perform survival tree regression. TTFR was tested in a multivariable Cox model with other factors.

RESULTS

In the INRG database (N = 8,800), 2,266 patients experienced first progression/relapse. Median time to relapse was 13.2 months (range, 1 day to 11.4 years). Five-year OS from time of first event was 20% (SE, ± 1%). TTFR was statistically significantly associated with OS time in a nonlinear relationship; patients with TTFR of 36 months or longer had the lowest risk of death, followed by patients who relapsed in the period of 0 to less than 6 months or 18 to 36 months. Patients who relapsed between 6 and 18 months after diagnosis had the highest risk of death. TTFR, age, International Neuroblastoma Staging System stage, and MYCN copy number status were independently predictive of postrelapse OS in multivariable analysis.

CONCLUSION

Age, stage, MYCN status, and TTFR are significant prognostic factors for postrelapse survival and may help in the design of clinical trials evaluating novel agents.

Guidelines for imaging and staging of neuroblastic tumors: consensus report from the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group Project

Neuroblastoma is an enigmatic disease entity; some tumors disappear spontaneously without any therapy, while others progress with a fatal outcome despite the implementation of maximal modern therapy. However, strong prognostic factors can accurately predict whether children have "good" or "bad" disease at diagnosis, and the clinical stage is currently the most significant and clinically relevant prognostic factor. Therefore, for an individual patient, proper staging is of paramount importance for risk assessment and selection of optimal treatment. In 2009, the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group (INRG) Project proposed a new staging system designed for tumor staging before any treatment, including surgery. Compared with the focus of the International Neuroblastoma Staging System, which is currently the most used, the focus has now shifted from surgicopathologic findings to imaging findings. The new INRG Staging System includes two stages of localized disease, which are dependent on whether image-defined risk factors (IDRFs) are or are not present. IDRFs are features detected with imaging at the time of diagnosis. The present consensus report was written by the INRG Imaging Committee to optimize imaging and staging and reduce interobserver variability. The rationales for using imaging methods (ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and scintigraphy), as well as technical guidelines, are described. Definitions of the terms recommended for assessing IDRFs are provided with examples. It is anticipated that the use of standardized nomenclature will contribute substantially to more uniform staging and thereby facilitate comparisons of clinical trials conducted in different parts of the world.

Changes over three decades in outcome and the prognostic influence of age-at-diagnosis in young patients with neuroblastoma: a report from the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group Project

PURPOSE

Increasing age has been an adverse risk factor in children with neuroblastoma (NB) since the 1970's, with a 12-month age-at-diagnosis cut-off for treatment stratification. Over the last 30 years, treatment intensity for children >12 months with advanced-stage disease has increased; to investigate if this strategy has improved outcome and/or reduced the prognostic influence of age, we analysed the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group (INRG) database.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data from 11,037 children with NB (1974-2002) from Australia, Europe, Japan, North America. Cox modelling of event-free survival (EFS) tested if the era and prognostic significance of age-of-diagnosis, adjusted for bone marrow (BM) metastases and MYCN status, effects on outcome had changed.

RESULTS

Outcome improved over time: 3-year EFS 46% (1974-1989) and 71% (1997-2002). The risk for those >18 months against ≤12 decreased: hazard ratio (HR); 4.61 and 3.94. For age 13-18 months, EFS increased from 42% to 77%. Outcome was worse if: >18 months (HR 4.47); BM metastases (HR 4.00); and MYCN amplified (HR 3.97). For 1997-2002, the EFS for >18 months with BM involvement and MYCN amplification was 18%, but 89% for 0-12 months with neither BM involvement nor MYCN amplification.

CONCLUSIONS

There is clear evidence for improving outcomes for children with NB over calendar time. The adverse influence of increasing age-at-diagnosis has declined but it remains a powerful indicator of unfavourable prognosis. These results support the age-of-diagnosis cut-off of greater than 18 months as a risk criterion in the INRG classification system.

Significance of tumor biology compared to metastatic pattern (INSS 4 versus 4s) and age for prognosis of neuroblastoma less than 18 months of age

10010

Background: Neuroblastoma is a heterogeneous disease with variability in outcome among different risk groups. Historically, INSS stage 4s neuroblastoma (age less than 12 months, stage 1 or 2 primary tumor with metastases limited to liver, skin and bone marrow) has a more favorable outcome than infant stage 4 disease. The aim was to determine if metastatic pattern (4 vs 4s) predicted favorable prognosis in infants < 12 months or in toddlers aged 12–18 months when stratifying by biology. Methods: Outcome was analyzed by log rank tests and Cox models for 656 infants with stage 4s neuroblastoma and 1,019 stage 4 patients < 18 months of age in the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group database (n=8,800). Prognostic factors (tumor ploidy, histology, grade, MKI, LDH, MYCN, 11q, 1p, primary site) were tested for association with age/stage subgroups (Fisher's exact test) and in Cox models. Results: MYCNamplification, 1p aberration, diploidy, and high MKI and LDH were more frequent in infant stage 4 than infant 4s tumors. The incidence of unfavorable biology was higher in toddlers aged 12–18 months, but did not differ with stage 4 vs. 4s pattern. EFS was significantly better for infants <12 months with stage 4s than stage 4 (p=0.0004). EFS was similar for toddlers 12–18 months for stage 4 vs. 4s pattern (p=0.3893). Within the 717 patients with 4s pattern of metastases, age 12–18 months had worse EFS than <12 months (p<0.0001). After adjustment for age in 6 separate models, MYCN, 11q, 1p, MKI, and LDH were statistically significant prognostic factors. Although treatment regimens differed, EFS was similar for <12 months vs. 12–18 months for MYCN not amplified patients in both 4S pattern (p=0.8469) and stage 4 (p=0.3783). Conclusions: For patients with MYCN not amplified tumors, outcome for patients 12–18 months is similar to those <12 months regardless of the pattern of metastases. Tumor biology is more critical than metastatic pattern for prognosis of patients aged 12–18 months with stage 4 neuroblastoma. [Table: see text]

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

The International Neuroblastoma Risk Group (INRG) staging system: an INRG Task Force report

PURPOSE

The International Neuroblastoma Risk Group (INRG) classification system was developed to establish a consensus approach for pretreatment risk stratification. Because the International Neuroblastoma Staging System (INSS) is a postsurgical staging system, a new clinical staging system was required for the INRG pretreatment risk classification system.

METHODS

To stage patients before any treatment, the INRG Task Force, consisting of neuroblastoma experts from Australia/New Zealand, China, Europe, Japan, and North America, developed a new INRG staging system (INRGSS) based on clinical criteria and image-defined risk factors (IDRFs). To investigate the impact of IDRFs on outcome, survival analyses were performed on 661 European patients with INSS stages 1, 2, or 3 disease for whom IDRFs were known.

RESULTS

In the INGRSS, locoregional tumors are staged L1 or L2 based on the absence or presence of one or more of 20 IDRFs, respectively. Metastatic tumors are defined as stage M, except for stage MS, in which metastases are confined to the skin, liver, and/or bone marrow in children younger than 18 months of age. Within the 661-patient cohort, IDRFs were present (ie, stage L2) in 21% of patients with stage 1, 45% of patients with stage 2, and 94% of patients with stage 3 disease. Patients with INRGSS stage L2 disease had significantly lower 5-year event-free survival than those with INRGSS stage L1 disease (78% +/- 4% v 90% +/- 3%; P = .0010).

CONCLUSION

Use of the new staging (INRGSS) and risk classification (INRG) of neuroblastoma will greatly facilitate the comparison of risk-based clinical trials conducted in different regions of the world.

Significance of MYCN amplification in international neuroblastoma staging system stage 1 and 2 neuroblastoma: a report from the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group database

PURPOSE

Treatment of patients with localized neuroblastoma with unfavorable biologic features is controversial. To evaluate the outcome of children with low-stage MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma and develop a rational treatment strategy, data from the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group (INRG) database were analyzed.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The database is comprised of 8,800 patients. Of these, 2,660 patients (30%) had low-stage (International Neuroblastoma Staging System stages 1 and 2) neuroblastoma, known MYCN status, and available follow-up data. Eighty-seven of these patients (3%) had MYCN amplified tumors.

RESULTS

Patients with MYCN-amplified, low-stage tumors had less favorable event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) than did patients with nonamplified tumors (53% +/- 8% and 72% +/- 7% v 90% +/- 1% and 98% +/- 1%, respectively). EFS and OS were statistically significantly higher for patients whose tumors were hyperdiploid rather than diploid (EFS, 82% +/- 20% v 37% +/- 21%; P = .0069; OS, 94% +/- 11% v 54% +/- 15%; P = .0056, respectively). No other variable had prognostic significance. Initial treatment consisted of surgery alone for 29 (33%) of 87 patients. Details of additional therapy were unknown for 14 patients. Twenty-two patients (25%) underwent surgery and moderate-intensity chemotherapy; another 22 underwent surgery, intensive chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Nine of the latter 22 underwent stem cell transplantation. Survival in patients who received transplantation did not differ from survival in those who did not receive transplantation.

CONCLUSION

Among patients with low-stage, MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma, outcomes of patients with hyperdiploid tumors were statistically, significantly better than those with diploid tumors. The data suggest that tumor cell ploidy could potentially be used to identify candidates for reductions in therapy. Further study of MYCN-amplified, low-stage neuroblastoma is warranted.

The International Neuroblastoma Risk Group (INRG) classification system: an INRG Task Force report

PURPOSE

Because current approaches to risk classification and treatment stratification for children with neuroblastoma (NB) vary greatly throughout the world, it is difficult to directly compare risk-based clinical trials. The International Neuroblastoma Risk Group (INRG) classification system was developed to establish a consensus approach for pretreatment risk stratification.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The statistical and clinical significance of 13 potential prognostic factors were analyzed in a cohort of 8,800 children diagnosed with NB between 1990 and 2002 from North America and Australia (Children's Oncology Group), Europe (International Society of Pediatric Oncology Europe Neuroblastoma Group and German Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Group), and Japan. Survival tree regression analyses using event-free survival (EFS) as the primary end point were performed to test the prognostic significance of the 13 factors.

RESULTS

Stage, age, histologic category, grade of tumor differentiation, the status of the MYCN oncogene, chromosome 11q status, and DNA ploidy were the most highly statistically significant and clinically relevant factors. A new staging system (INRG Staging System) based on clinical criteria and tumor imaging was developed for the INRG Classification System. The optimal age cutoff was determined to be between 15 and 19 months, and 18 months was selected for the classification system. Sixteen pretreatment groups were defined on the basis of clinical criteria and statistically significantly different EFS of the cohort stratified by the INRG criteria. Patients with 5-year EFS more than 85%, more than 75% to < or = 85%, > or = 50% to < or = 75%, or less than 50% were classified as very low risk, low risk, intermediate risk, or high risk, respectively.

CONCLUSION

By defining homogenous pretreatment patient cohorts, the INRG classification system will greatly facilitate the comparison of risk-based clinical trials conducted in different regions of the world and the development of international collaborative studies.

Lung metastases in neuroblastoma at initial diagnosis: A report from the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group (INRG) project

BACKGROUND

Neuroblastoma is the most common extracranial pediatric solid cancer. Lung metastasis is rarely detected in children with newly diagnosed neuroblastoma. We aimed to describe the incidence, clinical characteristics, and outcome of patients with lung metastasis at initial diagnosis using a large international database.

PROCEDURE

The subset of patients from the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group database with INSS stage 4 neuroblastoma and known data regarding lung metastasis at diagnosis was selected for analysis. Clinical and biological characteristics were compared between patients with and without lung metastasis. Survival for patients with and without lung metastasis was estimated by Kaplan-Meier methods. Cox proportional hazards methods were used to determine the independent prognostic value of lung metastasis at diagnosis.

RESULTS

Of the 2,808 patients with INSS stage 4 neuroblastoma diagnosed between 1990 and 2002, 100 patients (3.6%) were reported to have lung metastasis at diagnosis. Lung metastasis was more common among patients with MYCN amplified tumors, adrenal primary tumors, or elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels (P < 0.02 in each case). Five-year overall survival +/- standard error for patients with lung metastasis was 34.5% +/- 6.8% compared to 44.7% +/- 1.3% for patients without lung metastasis (P = 0.0002). However, in multivariable analysis, the presence of lung metastasis was not independently predictive of outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Lung metastasis at initial diagnosis of neuroblastoma is associated with MYCN amplification and elevated LDH levels. Although lung metastasis at diagnosis was not independently predictive of outcome in this analysis, it remains a useful prognostic marker of unfavorable outcome.

Update on the development of the international neuroblastoma risk group (INRG) classification schema

9503

Background: Modern treatment strategies for neuroblastoma (NB) are tailored according to patient risk. However, it is not currently possible to compare the results of clinical studies conducted around the globe because the criteria used to define risk are not uniform. A committee of international investigators with expertise in NB have worked during the past 2 years to develop a uniform International NB Risk Group (INRG) Classification System for pre-treatment stratification. Methods: Investigators from North America and Australia (COG); Europe (SIOPEN and Germany), and Japan collated data on 8,800 children with NB diagnosed between 1990 and 2002. Survival tree regression analyses tested 13 potential prognostic factors. Tumor differentiation, MKI, and diagnostic category were evaluated individually in lieu of the International NB Pathology Classification (INPC) system to determine if these histologic features had prognostic value independent from age. To stage patients at the time of diagnosis prior to surgery, a new staging system was developed (INRGSS) based on the presence or absence of image-defined risk factors (IDRFs) and metastases. Results: Since statistical analyses demonstrated support for an optimal age cut- off between 14–19 months, 18 months was selected. In addition to age, stage, MYCN amplification, tumor differentiation, ploidy, and genetic aberrations of 11q were found to be the most highly prognostically significant factors. These clinical and biological factors were combined to define 15 INRG pre-treatment groups. Patients with low- (3 groups), intermediate- (4 groups), high- (4 groups), or ultra-high-risk NB (4 groups) had EFS of ≥85%, >70–85%, >50–70%, or <50%, respectively. Conclusion: International collaborative studies in NB will be greatly facilitated by the INRG classification system which will allow comparisons of different risk-based therapeutic approaches in homogeneous patient cohorts.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

[Surgical treatment of solid malignant tumours in childhood]

BACKGROUND

Surgery is an important part of the multidisciplinary treatment of solid malignant tumours in childhood. This article gives an update on the types and numbers of tumour operations in Paediatric Surgical Service, Department of Surgery, Rikshospitalet. The presentation is restricted to the surgical part of the treatment; data on chemotherapy and irradiation are not included.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Epidemiological data are presented for all patients treated surgically for malignant - or potentially malignant tumours during the 20 years from 1985 to 2004 in our department. Survival data have been checked with the Public Registry (Folkeregisteret).

RESULTS

341 operations have been performed in 310 patients. 58% of the patients came from the regional health enterprise for southern Norway, where Rikshospitalet is located, and 42% came from the other 4 Norwegian health regions. Since 1993, 30 of 203 patients have been referred from the other 4 regional hospitals. There was no perioperative mortality, but 3 patients died during the first postoperative month. 85% of the patients were alive in January 2006. The survival rates for the individual tumours ranged from 100% for ovarian tumours and 98% for Wilms' tumour to 62% for neuroblastoma.

INTERPRETATION

The Paediatric Surgical Service at Rikshospitalet has operated solid malignant tumours in children from all parts of Norway. A large spectrum of tumours have been treated without operative mortality.

Surgical Risk Factors in Primary Surgery for Localized Neuroblastoma: The LNESG1 Study of the European International Society of Pediatric Oncology Neuroblastoma Group

Purpose

Although tumor resection is the mainstay of treatment for localized neuroblastoma, there are no established guidelines indicating which patients should be operated on immediately and which should undergo surgery after tumor reduction with chemotherapy. In an effort to develop such guidelines, the LNESG1 study defined surgical risk factors (SRFs) based on the imaging characteristics.

Patients and Methods

A total of 905 patients with suspected localized neuroblastoma were registered by 10 European countries between January 1995 and October 1999; 811 of 905 patients were eligible for this analysis.

Results

Information on SRFs was obtained for 719 of 811 patients; 367 without and 352 with SRFs. Of these 719 patients, 201 patients (four without and 197 with SRFs) underwent biopsy only. An attempt at tumor excision was made in 518 patients: 363 of 367 patients without and 155 of 352 patients with SRFs (98.9% v 44.0%). Complete excision was achieved in 271 of 363 patients without and in 72 of 155 patients with SRF (74.6% v 46.4%), near-complete excision was achieved in 81 and 61 patients (22.3% v 39.3%), and incomplete excision was achieved in 11 and 22 patients (3.0% v 14.2%), respectively. There were two surgery-related deaths. Nonfatal surgery-related complications occurred in 45 of 518 patients (8.7%) and were less frequent in patients without SRFs (5.0% v 17.4%). Associated surgical procedures were also less frequent in patients without SRFs (1.6% v 9.7%).

Conclusion

The adoption of SRFs as predictors of adverse surgical outcome was validated because their presence was associated with lower complete resection rate and greater risk of surgery-related complications. Additional studies aiming to better define the surgical approach to localized neuroblastoma are warranted.

Translevator anal anomalies with cutaneous fistulae passing deep to the scrotum

METHODS

The authors present a series of 9 patients collected from 4 centers with translevator anal anomalies, each of which has a fistula tracking forward deep to the scrotum and opening at the peno-scrotal junction. Whereas some would appear to be covered ani in type, others are deeper and would appear to fit in with an intermediate type of classification emphasizing the idea of a "spectrum" of malformation.

RESULTS

The anatomic arrangement, associated anomalies (eg, 2 had hypospadias), and surgical management is described briefly in each case. Careful examination may be necessary to identify the fistula.

CONCLUSIONS

It is recommended that the surgery be individualized depending on the findings. On a theoretical embryologic basis there is abnormality in the formation of the outer genital folds, and there also may be abnormality in some cases of the inner genital folds.

Placental site trophoblastic tumor (PSTT) in mother and child: first report of PSTT in infancy

BACKGROUND

To the authors' knowledge, placental site trophoblastic tumors occurring simultaneously in mother and infant have not previously been reported.

PROCEDURE

The clinicopathologic features of metastatic placental site trophoblastic tumor in a mother and her 4-month-old son are described.

RESULTS

The disease in the infant was aggressive, and he died in multiorgan failure within 5 weeks of hospital admission. Autopsy showed widespread metastases to liver, lungs, pleura, kidney, mesentery and lymph nodes. The mother, who had a uterine tumor and lung metastases, was treated with chemotherapy and hysterectomy and has no evidence of disease 26 months post-treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

This report shows that placental site trophoblastic tumors can metastasize in both mother and child.

A homeobox gene, HLXB9, is the major locus for dominantly inherited sacral agenesis

Partial absence of the sacrum is a rare congenital defect which also occurs as an autosomal dominant trait; association with anterior meningocoele, presacral teratoma and anorectal abnormalities constitutes the Currarino triad (MIM 176450). Malformation at the caudal end of the developing notochord at approximately Carnegie stage 7 (16 post-ovulatory days), which results in aberrant secondary neurulation, can explain the observed pattern of anomalies. We previously reported linkage to 7q36 markers in two dominantly inherited sacral agenesis families. We now present data refining the initial subchromosomal localization in several additional hereditary sacral agenesis (HSA) families. We excluded several candidate genes before identifying patient-specific mutations in a homeobox gene, HLXB9, which was previously reported to map to 1q41-q42.1 and to be expressed in lymphoid and pancreatic tissues.

[Better survival in neuroblastoma?]

This study compares the five year absolute survival rates among neuroblastoma patients treated at the National Hospital, Oslo, during two periods of time, 1985-90 and 1967-81. The treatment regimens differed, the main difference was more radical operations and more intensive chemotherapy during the period 1985-90 (n = 27) than in 1967-81 (n = 58). The intensified treatment was accomplished without operative mortality and without lethal complications associated with the cytostatic medication. For localized neuroblastoma the survival rate rose from 64% to 93%. The results obtained for disseminated neuroblastoma (Evans' stage IV) remained poor, however, with survival rates of 0% in 1967-81 and 17% in 1985-90.

Effect of iopentol on renal function and its use for calculation of glomerular filtration rate in children

Nineteen children received 99mTc-DTPA for renography. The next day they received a simultaneous injection of the non-ionic contrast medium iopentol for urography and another injection of 99mTc-DTPA. The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was estimated from the plasma elimination of 99mTc-DTPA as well as iopentol. Serum concentrations of creatinine and beta 2-microglobulin, and urine concentrations of creatinine, beta 2-microglobulin, alkaline phosphatase, N-acetyl-glucosaminidase, and albumin were determined. A significant reduction (12 +/- 3%) of GFR was observed after the injection of iopentol, without a subsequent rise in serum creatinine or beta 2-microglobulin. The urinary excretion of albumin and beta 2-microglobulin remained unchanged, while the excretion of alkaline phosphatase and N-acetyl-glucosaminidase was significantly increased after the urography, indicating some tubular effects of iopentol. Iopentol caused few and mild adverse events, the diagnostic yield was high, and the small changes in the renal tubular function parameters are presumed to be without clinical importance. The observed depressive effect on the GFR demands further investigations before iopentol can be recommended as a GFR-marker in children.

[Better results with early surgical intervention in biliary atresia. Icterus in infants older than 14 days should be investigated!]

The average survival of patients with biliary atresia that remains untreated is 12 months. Early portoenterostomy, and subsequent liver transplantation if necessary, have improved survival dramatically. The success rate after portoenterostomy is inversely related to age at primary operation, and the results after liver transplantation are best in children who receive the transplant after the age of one year. Thus, early portoenterostomy will buy time and bring the patient into a group with a better prognosis if liver transplantation is performed later. Among infants older than two weeks of age with neonatal jaundice, patients with conjugated hyperbilirubinemia must be identified and referred for investigation. In this case ultrasonography is most important for discovering biliary atresia.

Progress in the treatment of biliary atresia: a plea for surgical intervention within the first two months of life in infants with persistent cholestasis

During the period 1984-1991, 21 infants with biliary atresia were treated with Kasai's portoenterostomy. The median survival in infants operated on before the age of 60 days (55 (range 5-82) months) was significantly longer than the survival of children operated on after the age of 60 days (15 (1.5-38) months). At present there are 10 survivors with a median age of 54 (17-96) months; 6 with portoenterostomy and 4 after liver transplantation. Eight patients died of progressive liver failure and 3 died of causes not related to biliary atresia. Apart from blood tests, ultrasonography was the most important investigation before laparotomy in infants with cholestatic jaundice. Scintigraphy and liver biopsy added no further decisive information. Because early diagnosis and surgical treatment is important, only the well documented presence of a normal gallbladder can warrant postponement of an operation.

The clearance of iohexol as a measure of the glomerular filtration rate in children with chronic renal failure

The plasma clearances of technetium-99m-labelled DTPA ([99Tcm]-DTPA) and the non-ionic contrast medium iohexol were estimated in 11 children with chronic renal failure for determination of the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Equal values were obtained with the two substances provided plasma sampling was simultaneous, but when plasma was sampled within 3.5 h after injection of iohexol and [99Tcm]-DTPA the GFR was overestimated by more than 50%. For clearance values below 20 ml min-1 1.73 m-2, valid GFR estimates were obtained both from two plasma samples taken 3 h and 24 h after the injection of iohexol and from a single plasma sample taken 24 h after the injection.

A single plasma sample method for estimation of the glomerular filtration rate in infants and children using iohexol, II: Establishment of the optimal plasma sampling time and a comparison with the 99Tcm-DTPA method

The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) can be determined from the plasma disappearance rate of the non-ionic contrast medium iohexol. A preceding study established the empirical formulae enabling the development of a single plasma sample method for estimation of GFR in infants and children. In the present study the validity of these empirical formulae was confirmed in examinations in 143 patients. The results of the single plasma sample method were similar to those of a standard 99Tcm-DTPA method, and also with those of a two plasma sample iohexol method. Evaluation of the results obtained with plasma sampling 1 h, 2 h, 3 h and 4 h after the injection of the contrast medium showed that the optimal sampling time was about 3 h after the injection.

A single plasma sample method for estimation of the glomerular filtration rate in infants and children using iohexol, I: Establishment of a body weight-related formula for the distribution volume of iohexol

This study was performed in order to develop a method for estimation of the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) from a single plasma sample based upon the plasma disappearance rate of the non-ionic contrast medium iohexol. The apparent distribution volume for iohexol was measured in 100 infants and children and used for establishment of a weight-related empirical formula for the distribution volume. Using the distribution volume obtained by this formula, a preliminary GFR was calculated from the iodine concentration measured in a plasma sample taken 3 h after injection of iohexol. When this estimate was corrected by another empirically established correction factor, a high degree of agreement was found between a GFR reference method and the 3-h single plasma sample method. In another group of 13 children the 3-h single plasma sample GFR was estimated twice with a 2-day interval, and the day-to-day variations were found to be similar to those obtained with other standard methods.

[Autologous bone marrow transplantation in children--experience with neuroblastoma]

Autologous bone marrow transplantation permits the use of greatly intensified cytoreductive therapy for cancer. Since 1983 seven children with disseminated neuroblastoma (stage IV) were treated by this method. Five were treated in first, and one in second complete remission; one child was in partial remission. Tumor cell purging of the marrow inoculum was performed in five cases. All children had engraftment and were discharged from hospital free of disease. Relapse was observed in three children within two years. Four children remain healthy at follow-up 5-77 months after autotransplantation. We describe and discuss indications, methods, side effects and results.

Glomerular filtration rate estimated by X-ray fluorescence technique in children: comparison between the plasma disappearance of 99Tcm-DTPA and iohexol after urography

The total plasma disappearance of the non-ionic contrast medium iohexol was determined by X-ray fluorescence technique following intravenous urography in 10 children aged between 2 and 13 years. For comparison the plasma disappearance of 99Tcm-DTPA was estimated both 2 days before and simultaneously with the iohexol study. High correlations between the three sets of data were found and no change in the glomerular filtration rate was detected following injection of contrast medium. It was also found that reliable estimates of the glomerular filtration rate can be obtained from two plasma samples of 1 ml each, taken 3 h and 4 h after the injection of the contrast medium.

Influence of urography on renal function in children. A double blind study with metrizoate and iohexol

Thirty-two children were given either metrizoate or iohexol for urography in a double blind study. Mild to moderate adverse reactions were observed in all patients receiving metrizoate (15/15) and in 4 receiving iohexol (4/17). Alkaline phosphatase in urine was significantly increased 4 hours after the injection of both media, but had returned to pre-injection levels 16 hours later. The excretion of beta 2-microglobulin and albumin was not altered. In 9 children in the metrizoate group and 11 in the iohexol group the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was determined before urography by the single injection 99Tcm-DTPA-technique and 3 to 4 hours after urography by measuring the plasma disappearance of the contrast medium with the x-ray fluorescence technique. No reduction of GFR was observed.

Torsion of a wandering spleen in an infant. Report of a case and a brief review of the literature

A case of torsion of the wandering spleen in an infant is presented. The value and limitations of various imaging modalities in making a correct preoperative diagnosis are discussed and a brief review of the literature is given.

Distribution of ouabain-binding sites along the dog nephron

To quantify the relative amount of ouabain bound to different segments of the nephron after in vivo injection of the drug, an autoradiographic (ARG) study was carried out. After intrarenal injection of [3H]ouabain (120 nmol kg-1 body wt, 0.9-1.2 Ci mol-1) to intact kidneys of three anaesthetized dogs, 69-89% of renal Na,K-ATPase activity was inhibited. Sodium reabsorption decreased by 21-54%. Sections for ARG were obtained from tissue slices frozen in liquid Freon, freeze-dried and embedded in resin. Almost no loss of activity occurred during processing and background activity was negligible after 23-36 days' exposure. The density of [3H]ouabain grains per mu 2 of tubular walls was 3.8 times higher over medullary ascending limbs of Henle's loop (MAL) and distal cortical tubules (DT) as compared to proximal tubules (PT). In terms of tubular length, the grain density of MAL exceeded that of PT by merely 35% since the cross-sectional area of the MAL was only 25% of that of PT. In DT, grain density in terms of tubular length was lower than in PT by 10%. Based on previous estimate of the absolute ouabain-binding capacity in MAL of 60 fmol mm-1 tubule, the ouabain-binding capacity in PT and DT would equal 45 and 40 fmol mm-1, respectively. From composite microphotographs, the relative volume of PT was estimated to be 42% of the total renal volume. This means that 47% of the total renal ouabain-binding sites are localized to PT, whereas MAL and DT together contain 51%.