Implementation of the Targeted Axillary Dissection Procedure in Clinically Node-Positive Breast Cancer: A Retrospective Analysis

BACKGROUND

The targeted axillary dissection (TAD) procedure is used in clinically positive lymph node (cN+) breast cancer to assess whether pathological complete response (pCR) is achieved after neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NST) to decide on de-escalation of axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). In this study, we review the implementation of the TAD procedure in a large regional breast cancer center.

METHODS

All TAD procedures between 2016 and 2022 were reviewed. The TAD procedure consists of marking pre-NST the largest suspected metastatic lymph node(s) using a radioactive I-125 seed. During surgery, the marked node was excised together with a sentinel node procedure. Axillary therapy (ALND, axillary radiotherapy, or nothing) recommendations were based on the amount of suspected positive axillary lymph nodes (ALNs < 4 or ≥ 4) pre-NST and if pCR was achieved after NST.

RESULTS

A total of 312 TAD procedures were successfully performed in 309 patients. In 134 (43%) cases, pCR of the TAD lymph nodes were achieved. Per treatment protocol, 43 cases (14%) did not receive any axillary treatment, 218 cases (70%) received adjuvant axillary radiotherapy, and 51 cases (16%) underwent an ALND. During a median follow-up of 2.8 years, 46 patients (14%) developed recurrence, of which 11 patients (3.5%) had axillary recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Introduction of the TAD procedure has resulted in a reduction of 84% of previously indicated ALNDs. Moreover, 18% of cases did not receive adjuvant axillary radiotherapy. These data show that implementation of de-escalation axillary treatment with the TAD procedure appeared to be successful.

Head-to-head comparison of [11C]methionine PET, [11C]choline PET, and 4-dimensional CT as second-line scans for detection of parathyroid adenomas in primary hyperparathyroidism

PURPOSE

Accurate preoperative localization is imperative to guide surgery in primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT). It remains unclear which second-line imaging technique is most effective after negative first-line imaging. In this study, we compare the diagnostic effectiveness of [11C]methionine PET/CT, [11C]choline PET/CT, and four dimensional (4D)-CT head-to-head in patients with pHPT, to explore which of these imaging techniques to use as a second-line scan.

METHODS

We conducted a powered, prospective, blinded cohort study in patients with biochemically proven pHPT and prior negative or discordant first-line imaging consisting of ultrasonography and 99mTc-sestamibi. All patients underwent [11C]methionine PET/CT, [11C]choline PET/CT, and 4D-CT. At first, all scans were interpreted by a nuclear medicine physician, and a radiologist who were blinded from patient data and all imaging results. Next, a non-blinded scan reading was performed. The scan results were correlated with surgical and histopathological findings. Serum calcium values at least 6 months after surgery were used as gold standard for curation of HPT.

RESULTS

A total of 32 patients were included in the study. With blinded evaluation, [11C]choline PET/CT was positive in 28 patients (88%), [11C]methionine PET/CT in 23 (72%), and 4D-CT in 15 patients (47%), respectively. In total, 30 patients have undergone surgery and 32 parathyroid lesions were histologically confirmed as parathyroid adenomas. Based on the blinded evaluation, lesion-based sensitivity of [11C]choline PET/CT, [11C]methionine PET/CT, and 4D-CT was respectively 85%, 67%, and 39%. The sensitivity of [11C]choline PET/CT differed significantly from that of [11C]methionine PET/CT and 4D-CT (p = 0.031 and p < 0.0005, respectively).

CONCLUSION

In the setting of pHPT with negative first-line imaging, [11C]choline PET/CT is superior to [11C]methionine PET/CT and 4D-CT in localizing parathyroid adenomas, allowing correct localization in 85% of adenomas. Further studies are needed to determine cost-benefit and efficacy of these scans, including the timing of these scans as first- or second-line imaging techniques.

Optimizing surgical strategy in locally advanced breast cancer: a comparative analysis between preoperative MRI and postoperative pathology after neoadjuvant chemotherapy

PURPOSE

In the treatment of breast cancer, neo-adjuvant chemotherapy is often used as systemic treatment followed by tumor excision. In this context, planning the operation with regard to excision margins relies on tumor size measured by MRI. The actual tumor size can be determined through pathologic evaluation. The aim of this study is to investigate the correlation and agreement between pre-operative MRI and postoperative pathological evaluation.

METHODS

One hundred and ninety-three breast cancer patients that underwent neo-adjuvant chemotherapy and subsequent breast surgery were retrospectively included between January 2013 and July 2016. Preoperative tumor diameters determined with MRI were compared with postoperative tumor diameters determined by pathological analysis. Spearman correlation and Bland-Altman agreement methods were used. Results were subjected to subgroup analysis based on histological subtype (ER, HER2, ductal, lobular).

RESULTS

The correlation between tumor size at MRI and pathology was 0.63 for the whole group, 0.39 for subtype ER + /HER2-, 0.51 for ER + /HER2 + , 0.63 for ER-/HER2 +, and 0.85 for ER-/HER2-. The mean difference and limits of agreement (LoA) between tumor size measured MRI vs. pathological assessment was 4.6 mm (LoA -27.0-36.3 mm, n = 195). Mean differences and LoA for subtype ER + /HER2- was 7.6 mm (LoA -31.3-46.5 mm, n = 100), for ER + /HER2 + 0.9 mm (LoA -8.5-10.2 mm, n = 33), for ER-/HER2+ -1.2 mm (LoA -5.1-7.5 mm, n = 21), and for ER-/HER- -0.4 mm (LoA -8.6-7.7 mm, n = 41).

CONCLUSION

HER2 + and ER-/HER2- tumor subtypes showed clear correlation and agreement between preoperative MRI and postoperative pathological assessment of tumor size. This suggests that MRI evaluation could be a suitable predictor to guide the surgical approach. Conversely, correlation and agreement for ER + /HER2- and lobular tumors was poor, evidenced by a difference in tumor size of up to 5 cm. Hence, we demonstrate that histological tumor subtype should be taken into account when planning breast conserving surgery after NAC.

Clinical evaluation of the clinicopathologic and gene expression profile (CP-GEP) in patients with melanoma eligible for sentinel lymph node biopsy: A multicenter prospective Dutch study

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is recommended for patients with >pT1b cutaneous melanoma, and should be considered and discussed with patients diagnosed with pT1b cutaneous melanoma for the purpose of staging, prognostication and determining eligibility for adjuvant therapy. Previously, the clinicopathologic and gene expression profile (CP-GEP, Merlin Assay®) model was developed to identify patients who can forgo SLNB because of a low risk for sentinel node metastasis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical use and implementation of the CP-GEP model in a prospective multicenter study in the Netherlands. Both test performance and feasibility for clinical implementation were assessed in 260 patients with T1-T4 melanoma. The CP-GEP model demonstrated an overall negative predictive value of 96.7% and positive predictive value of 23.7%, with a potential SLNB reduction rate of 42.2% in patients with T1-T3 melanoma. With a median time of 16 days from initiation to return of test results, there was sufficient time left before the SLNB was performed. Based on these outcomes, the model may support clinical decision-making to identify patients who can forgo SLNB in clinical practice.

Current clinical practice in the management of phyllodes tumors of the breast: an international cross-sectional study among surgeons and oncologists

PURPOSE

Phyllodes tumors of the breast are rare fibroepithelial lesions that are classified as benign, borderline or malignant. There is little consensus on best practice for the work-up, management, and follow-up of patients with phyllodes tumors of the breast, and evidence-based guidelines are lacking.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of surgeons and oncologists with the aim to describe current clinical practice in the management of phyllodes tumors. The survey was constructed in REDCap and distributed between July 2021 and February 2022 through international collaborators in sixteen countries across four continents.

RESULTS

A total of 419 responses were collected and analyzed. The majority of respondents were experienced and worked in a university hospital. Most agreed to recommend a tumor-free excision margin for benign tumors, increasing margins for borderline and malignant tumors. The multidisciplinary team meeting plays a major role in the treatment plan and follow-up. The vast majority did not consider axillary surgery. There were mixed opinions on adjuvant treatment, with a trend towards more liberal regiments in patients with locally advanced tumors. Most respondents preferred a five-year follow-up period for all phyllodes tumor types.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows considerable variation in clinical practice managing phyllodes tumors. This suggests the potential for overtreatment of many patients and the need for education and further research targeting appropriate surgical margins, follow-up time and a multidisciplinary approach. There is a need to develop guidelines that recognize the heterogeneity of phyllodes tumors.

Use of Merlin Assay to identify patients with a low-risk for SN metastasis in a prospective multicenter Dutch study of a primary melanoma gene-signature (CP-GEP model) to predict sentinel node status during COVID-19

9571

Background: Approximately 70%-85% of patients who undergo sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNb) show no nodal metastasis in the sentinel node (SN). The clinicopathological and gene expression profile (CP-GEP) model ( Merlin Assay) was developed and validated to identify patients that may forgo the SLNb surgery due to their low risk for for nodal metastasis This study was initiated during the first wave of Covid-19 pandemic to allow for surgical triage on SLNb and evaluate the implementation of the Merlin assay in clinical practice. Methods: This study was conducted in four designated melanoma centers in the Netherlands. Patients (age > 18y) with newly diagnosed melanoma of the skin, eligible to undergo SLNb were screened for study inclusion. Main exclusion criteria was prior history of primary melanoma ( > T1b) in the past 5 years. After enrollment, tissue sections of the primary melanoma were centrally reviewed at the Erasmus MC Cancer Institute to determine Breslow thickness at primary diagnosis. FFPE tumor tissue was dispatched for molecular analysis of eight target genes known to play a role in cancer development. In combination with age, Breslow thickness, and GEP outcome, risk of having nodal metastasis was calculated. Results were binary presented as 'CP-GEP low risk' and 'CP-GEP high risk'. SLNb status was used as gold standard for comparison. Results: A total of 177 patients were analyzed using the CP-GEP model. Median age was 64 years (IQR 52-73) Median Breslow thickness was 1.4mm (IQR 1.0-2.4). Of all patients 28.2% was diagnosed with T1, 40.7% with T2 and 20.9% with T3 melanoma. Corresponding positivity rate was 7%, 14% and 29% respectively. A total of 24 out of 177 patients had a positive SLNb. Median turn-around time from inclusion to CP-GEP result was 15 days. Overall 37.1.% of patients had a CP-GEP low risk profile. The CP-GEP model had a NPV of 94.6%. Conclusions: This is the first prospective multicenter implementation study for the Merlin assay. Results are in line with previous validation studies. The CP-GEP model could accurately identify patients at low risk for SN metastasis. Implementation in clinical practice is feasible based on current turn-around time. In the future, using the Merlin assay to deselect patients for SLNB may allow for a reduction of surgery in patients with melanoma.

Surgical treatment of anorectal melanoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Anorectal melanoma is a rare neoplasm with a poor prognosis. The surgical approaches for anorectal melanoma can be categorized into local excision (procedures without lymph node removal and preservation of the rectum) and extensive resection (procedures with rectum and pararectal lymph node removal). The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the survival of patients who underwent extensive resection with that of patients who underwent local excision, stratifying patients according to tumour stage.

Methods

A literature review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines by searching MEDLINE/PubMed for manuscripts published until March 2021. Studies comparing survival outcomes in patients with anorectal melanoma who underwent local excision versus extensive resection were screened for eligibility. Meta-analysis was performed for overall survival after the different surgical approaches, stratified by tumour stage.

Results

There were 347 studiesidentified of which 34 were included for meta-analysis with a total of 1858 patients. There was no significant difference in overall survival between the surgical approaches in patients per stage (stage I odds ratio 1.30 (95 per cent c.i. 0.62 to 2.72, P = 0.49); stage II odds ratio 1.61 (95 per cent c.i. 0.62 to 4.18, P = 0.33); stage I–III odds ratio 1.19 (95 per cent c.i. 0.83 to 1.70, P = 0.35). Subgroup analyses were conducted for the time intervals (<2000, 2001–2010 and 2011–2021) and for continent of study origin. Subgroup analysis for time interval and continent of origin also showed no statistically significant differences in overall survival.

Conclusion

No significant survival benefit exists for patients with anorectal melanoma treated with local excision or extensive resection, independent of tumour stage.

Survival following surgical treatment for anorectal melanoma seems similar for local excision and extensive resection regardless of nodal involvement

BACKGROUND

Anorectal melanoma is a rare malignancy with a dismal prognosis. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the survival per stage is influenced by the surgical approaches (local excision or extensive resection), to assess prognostic factors of survival, and to answer the question whether the practiced surgical approaches changed over time.

METHODS

Dutch cancer registry organizations (IKNL and PALGA) were queried for all patients with a diagnosis of anorectal melanoma (1989-2019). Patients with disseminated disease at diagnosis were excluded. Survival outcomes were compared for the two surgical approaches stratified by stage (clinical node negative (cN0) and clinical node positive (cN+)) and date of diagnosis.

RESULTS

A total of 103 patients were included in this study. In both cN0 and cN+ patients the surgical strategy did not significantly influence survival (cN0: 21.7% 5-year survival, median 25 months for local excision versus 13.7% 5-year survival, median 17 months for extensive resection (p = 0.228), cN+: 11.1% 5-year survival for local excision, median 17 months versus 8.7% 5-year survival, median 14 months for extensive resection (p = 0.741)). Stage and date of diagnosis showed to be prognostic factors of survival. The ratio between the two surgical approaches was unchanged over three decades.

CONCLUSIONS

Extensive resection does not seem to improve survival in both cN0 and cN+ anorectal melanoma patients compared to local excision. However in the past three decades no shift towards local excision has been found. cN+ stage and an older date of diagnosis are predictors for worse survival.

Non-adherence to consensus guidelines on preoperative imaging in surgery for primary hyperparathyroidism

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the adherence to consensus guidelines on preoperative imaging of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT) in real local practice.

METHODS

This was a retrospective multicenter cohort study of 411 patients undergoing parathyroidectomy for pHPT from 2007 to 2017 in three referral centers.

RESULTS

In 286/411 patients (69%) the preoperative imaging workup adhered to guidelines (utilizing ultrasound and parathyroid scintigraphy). In patients in whom guidelines were followed 63% were discharged within one day versus 37% in whom guidelines were not followed (P < .0005). The use of a bimodality imaging workup, starting with ultrasound and parathyroid scintigraphy followed by imaging upscaling aiming for anatomical and functional concordance, was a predictor for the performance of a minimally invasive parathyroidectomy (OR 4.098, 95% CI 2.296-7.315, P < .0005).

CONCLUSION

The level of compliance to preoperative imaging guidelines is suboptimal in this population. Patients in whom adherence was achieved showed a shorter length of stay. More education of physicians is required regarding the appropriate preoperative imaging workup in pHPT.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2b (individual cohort study).

The MELFO Study: A Multicenter, Prospective, Randomized Clinical Trial on the Effects of a Reduced Stage-Adjusted Follow-Up Schedule on Cutaneous Melanoma IB-IIC Patients-Results After 3 Years

Background

This study compares well-being, recurrences, and deaths of early-stage cutaneous melanoma patients in follow-up, as recommended in the Dutch guideline, with that of patients in a stage-adjusted reduced follow-up schedule, 3 years after diagnosis, as well as costs.

Methods

Overall, 180 eligible pathological American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage IB–IIC, sentinel node staged, melanoma patients (response rate = 87%, 48% male, median age 57 years), randomized into a conventional (CSG, n = 93) or experimental (ESG, n = 87) follow-up schedule group, completed patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) at diagnosis (T1): State-Trait Anxiety Inventory–State version (STAI-S), Cancer Worry Scale (CWS), Impact of Event Scale (IES), and RAND-36 (Mental and Physical Component scales [PCS/MCS]). Three years later (T3), 110 patients (CSG, n = 56; ESG, n = 54) completed PROMs, while 42 declined (23%).

Results

Repeated measures analyses of variance (ANOVAs) showed a significant group effect on the IES (p = 0.001) in favor of the ESG, and on the RAND-36 PCS (p = 0.02) favoring the CSG. Mean IES and CWS scores decreased significantly over time, while those on the RAND-36 MCS and PCS increased. Effect sizes were small. Twenty-five patients developed a recurrence or second primary melanoma, of whom 13 patients died within 3 years. Cox proportional hazards models showed no differences between groups in recurrence-free survival (hazard ratio [HR] 0.71 [0.32–1.58]; p = 0.400) and disease-free survival (HR 1.24 [0.42–3.71]; p = 0.690). Costs per patient after 3 years (computed for 77.3% of patients) were 39% lower in the ESG.

Conclusion

These results seemingly support the notion that a stage-adjusted reduced follow-up schedule forms an appropriate, safe, and cost-effective alternative for pathological AJCC stage IB–IIC melanoma patients to the follow-up regimen as advised in the current melanoma guideline.

Abstract P5-22-02: Surgical strategy after neoadjuvant therapy in patients with operable breast cancer can be optimized by knowledge of the level of agreement of measured tumor size on MRI after neoadjuvant therapy and final pathologic assessment

Introduction

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is increasingly applied in the treatment of patients with operable breast cancer. Wide local excision after NAC aims to remove the complete residual tumor with no tumor on ink, without compromising cosmetics. Therefore, surgical strategies are determined based on the remaining tumor size after NAC visualized on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Recent studies on the correlation between preoperative MRI and pathological response demonstrate inconsistent results. A need remains to adequately guide surgical decisions after NAC. The aim of this study was to not only investigate the correlation between MRI and pathological evaluation but to gain knowledge of the exact level of agreement, specified for different tumor subtypes, which could further guide surgical decision making.

Methods

All patients operated for breast cancer after NAC between January 2013 and July 2016 in a large teaching hospital were retrospectively included. Longest residual tumor diameter was determined with MRI and correlated with postoperative pathological findings. Tumors were subdivided based on estrogen receptor (ER) status and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). Spearman correlation was used to correlate MRI and pathological tumor size findings. Bland-Altman method was used to evaluate the agreement between both measurements.

Results

193 patients with 195 breast cancers were included. The correlation between tumor size at MRI and pathology was 0.63 for the whole group, 0.39 for tumors with subtype ER+/HER2-, 0.55 for ER+/HER2+, 0.63 for ER-/HER2+ and 0.85 for ER-/HER2-. The correlation for lobular carcinomas was 0.44. The mean difference and limits of agreement (LoA), between tumor size measured at MRI and pathological size was 4.6 mm (LoA -27.0 to 36.3 mm, n=195). Mean difference and LoA for subtype ER+/HER2- was 7.6 mm (LoA -31.3 to 46.5 mm, n=100), for ER+/HER2+ 0.9 mm (LoA -8.5 mm to 10.2 mm, n=33), for ER-/HER2+ -1.2 mm (LoA -5.1 to 7.5 mm, n=21), for ER-/HER- -0.4 mm (LoA -8.6 to 7.7 mm, n=41) and 19.4 mm (LoA -16.8 to 55.6 mm, n=14) for lobular carcinoma.

Conclusion

The correlation and agreement between the post-NAC MRI and postoperative pathological assessment of residual tumor size for ER+/Her2- and lobular tumors is weak. The agreement shows a wide variation in over- and underestimation of tumor size in mm by MRI and thus surgical strategy can still be poorly guided. It does however provide us with exact information on the possible range of margins we should take into account at surgery. As demonstrated in other studies ER+/HER2+, ER-/HER2+ and ER-/HER2- tumors demonstrate a clear correlation. Also, the level of agreement in these tumor subtypes shows that we can use MRI evaluation as a reliable predictive tool of tumor residual size to base our surgical strategy upon with a small variation in over- and underestimation of tumor size. Because the lobular carcinoma and HER2+ subgroups were small, conclusions should of course be viewed cautiously.

Citation Format: Boersma C, van Veen JLC, Maaskant JM, Van der Starre-Gaal J, Van 't Veer-Ten Kate M, Francken AB, Noorda EM. Surgical strategy after neoadjuvant therapy in patients with operable breast cancer can be optimized by knowledge of the level of agreement of measured tumor size on MRI after neoadjuvant therapy and final pathologic assessment [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P5-22-02.

Abstract P5-22-06: Less axillary lymph node dissections in patients with locally advanced breast cancer since implementation of the MARI-procedure

Introduction

Over the last years patients with locally advanced breast cancer are increasingly treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). This can lead to downstaging of the breast tumor, leading to less extensive surgery and can also impact axillary tumor burden. In multiple reported series downstaging of axillary lymphogenic metastasis has been reported to complete pathological response (pCR) in 20-42% of patients. Radioactive iodine seeds have been used to mark the axillary metastatic node (MARI-procedure). This node is selectively removed after NAC. The need for additional surgery or radiotherapy of the axilla depends on the postoperative pathological outcome. This study shows the results of implementation of the MARI-procedure and its impact on postoperative axillary treatment.

Methods

A retrospective analysis done on outcome of the MARI-procedure in consecutive patients from 2015 - 2017 treated with NAC for stage III breast cancer in a large teaching hospital. Patients' axillary status was determined pre-NAC by axillary ultrasonography, FNA and PET-scan. In these patients the metastatic lymph node was selectively marked with iodine seed. At surgery post-NAC the lymph node was removed. Adjuvant treatment was determined in the tumor board depending on the pathological result. Table 1 demonstrates the used algorithm for adjuvant axillary treatment. Descriptive statistics in terms of measured frequencies and central tendencies were used to describe the outcomes.

Table 1: adjuvant axillary treatment algorithm   FNA proven axillary lymph node metastasis    N1   N2-3 pCR Residual tumor pCR Residual tumorNo axillary treatment Axillary radiotherapy Axillary radiotherapy ALND + axillary radiotherapy

Results

In total 50 consecutive patients were included and analyzed. Thirty one patients were staged cN1. Ten of these patients demonstrated a complete pathological response (ypN0) and did not receive any adjuvant axillary treatment. Sixteen patients had residual pathological tumour activity (ypN1) and received axillary radiotherapy. Five patients with residual disease underwent ALND (two patients ypN1, three patients ypN2). In the two patients staged ypN1, the algorithm was not followed due to progressive disease in the breast and the other because of occult axillary disease.Nineteen patients were staged cN2. Twelve of these patients had a complete pathological response (ypN0) and received axillary radiotherapy and seven patients had residual disease (ypN1 or ypN2) and treated with ALND. If ypN2 axillary radiotherapy was added. In total, 20% of patients did not receive any adjuvant axillary treatment, 56% received adjuvant axillary radiotherapy and 24% patients underwent ALND.

Conclusion

The number of patients with locally advanced breast cancer treated with ALND is obviously decreased since implementation of the MARI procedure after NAC. Hereby, one out of five patients could be spared any adjuvant axillary treatment. There is a need for follow up of long term results to assess recurrence risk and overall survival.

Citation Format: Boersma C, Koopman-Kuin D, Van der Starre-Gaal J, Korte JH, Roeloffzen EMA, Francken AB, Noorda EM. Less axillary lymph node dissections in patients with locally advanced breast cancer since implementation of the MARI-procedure [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P5-22-06.

Towards omitting breast cancer surgery in select patient groups: Assessment of pathologic complete response after neoadjuvant systemic therapy using biopsies—The MICRA trial

TPS593

Background: Improvements in systemic treatments for breast cancer patients has led to increasing rates of pathologic complete response (pCR). In addition, the identification of a pCR has been greatly improved with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In patients with a pCR, surgical resection of (part of) the original tumor area is performed to confirm the absence or presence of pCR and is not likely to contribute to locoregional control. With the MICRA trial (Minimally Invasive Complete Response Assessment) we aim to omit breast surgery in breast cancer patients achieving pathologic complete response (pCR) after neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NST) using biopsies, thus preventing overtreatment and improving quality of life. Methods: The MICRA trial is a multi-center observational prospective cohort study. In all breast cancer patients receiving NST, a marker is placed in the center of the tumor area before NST. 440 patients with radiologic complete response or partial response (0.1-2.0 cm residual contrast enhancement, ≥30% decrease in tumor size according to RECIST criteria) on contrast enhanced MRI will be included in the MICRA trial. Patients with hormone receptor positive, triple negative and Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor 2 tumors are eligible. After NST, 8 ultrasound-guided biopsies are obtained in the region surrounding the marker, while the patient is under general anesthesia. Immediately hereafter, breast surgery is performed and pathology results of the biopsies and resected specimens are compared. The primary endpoint is specificity of post-NST biopsies. In addition, sensitivity and positive and negative predictive value will be calculated. We will perform a multivariable analysis using data on MRI and ultrasound findings, pre-NST pathology parameters and post-NST biopsy results to determine what the most reliable method is to assess pCR and how many biopsies are needed for this purpose. Conclusion: With the MICRA-trial we aim to select a group of breast cancer patients in whom surgery of the breast after NST can be omitted, by predicting the presence of a pCR on biopsies. Clinical trial information: NTR6120.

The MELFO-Study: Prospective, Randomized, Clinical Trial for the Evaluation of a Stage-adjusted Reduced Follow-up Schedule in Cutaneous Melanoma Patients-Results after 1 Year

Background

Guidelines for evidence-based follow-up in melanoma patients are not available. This study examined whether a reduced follow-up schedule affects: patient-reported outcome measures, detection of recurrences, and follow-up costs.

Methods

This multicenter trial included 180 patients treated for AJCC stage IB-II cutaneous melanoma, who were randomized in a conventional follow-up schedule group (CSG, 4 visits first year, n = 93) or experimental follow-up schedule group (ESG, 1–3 visits first year, n = 87). Patients completed the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, cancer worry scale, impact of events scale, and a health-related quality of life questionnaire (HRQoL, RAND-36). Physicians registered clinicopathologic features and the number of outpatient clinic visits.

Results

Sociodemographic and illness-related characteristics were equal in both groups. After 1-year follow-up, the ESG reported significantly less cancer-related stress response symptoms than the CSG (p = 0.01), and comparable anxiety, mental HRQoL, and cancer-related worry. Mean cancer-related worry and stress response symptoms decreased over time (p < 0.001), whereas mental HRQoL increased over time (p < 0.001) in all melanoma patients. Recurrence rate was 9 % in both groups, mostly patient-detected and not physician-detected (CSG 63 %, ESG 43 %, p = 0.45). Hospital costs of 1-year follow-up were reduced by 45 % in the ESG compared to the CSG.

Conclusions

This study shows that the stage-adjusted, reduced follow-up schedule did not negatively affect melanoma patients’ mental well-being and the detection of recurrences compared with conventional follow-up as dictated by the Dutch guideline, at 1 year after diagnosis. Additionally, reduced follow-up was associated with significant hospital cost reduction.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1245/s10434-016-5263-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Abstract P3-13-04: Radioactive seed localization in non-palpable breast cancer compared to wire-guided localization and radio-guided occult lesion localization: Results of a comparative study

Introduction Almost 25% of women diagnosed with breast cancer have a non-palpable tumor. In breast-conserving therapy, it is important to have oncologic clear margins while excising minimal healthy tissue with good cosmetic outcome. The three most used techniques for non-palpable tumor localization pre-operative are radioactive seed localization (RSL), wire-guided localization (WGL), and radio-guided occult lesion localization (ROLL). Besides the advantage of tumor localization, each technique has its own disadvantages. When RSL is used, the major concern is safe handling of the seeds because of the used radioactive material. In case of WGL, the ideal skin incision and accurate positioning of the wire do not always match. The tip of the wire is non-palpable during surgery, which increases the risk of positive margins and increases the risk of enlarging resection volume resulting in poor cosmetic outcome. Moreover, the wire can get displaced or can be transsected during surgery. Disadvantages of ROLL include diffuse spread of the radioactive tracer in the breast tissue, which can result in higher excision volumes and problems with the concurrent sentinel node procedure. Thus far, no study has been performed comparing these three techniques. Therefore, this study analyzed the outcomes of RSL, WGL, and ROLL in non-palpable breast cancer in a single institution.

Methods Women diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ or non-palpable invasive breast carcinoma (stadium I or II) and were operated from January 2011 to December 2013 were retrospectively included in this study (N=278). In all included women in this study, RSL (n=71), WGL (n=78) or ROLL (n=132) was performed for intra-operative tumour localization. Outcome measures were weight of the resected specimen, oncological margins, re-excision and recurrence of disease.

Results In total 278 lumpectomies were performed in 272 patients. Mean resection volumes were not significant higher in RSL (mean 97.8 cm3), compared to WGL (mean 80.9 cm3) and ROLL (mean 84.8cm3). RSL was associated with significant less tumor-positive margins (n=55, 96.5%) compared to the WGL (n=55, 73.3%) and ROLL (n=111, 84.1%). Also, RSL was associated with significant lower re-excision rates (n=1, 1.4%) as compared to WGL (n=12, 15.4%) and ROLL (n=14, 10.6%). In only one patient with ROLL, recurrence of disease was seen. The median follow-up of all patients was 27 months (9 – 44).

Conclusion This study revealed that RSL is an effective technique for excision of non-palpable breast cancer and is associated with fewer tumor-positive margins and therefore lower re-excision rates.

Citation Format: Theunissen CIJM, Noorda EM, Rust EAZ, Bandel C, Ooster- van den Berg JGv, Edens MA, Jager PL, Francken AB. Radioactive seed localization in non-palpable breast cancer compared to wire-guided localization and radio-guided occult lesion localization: Results of a comparative study. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-13-04.

Breast cancer in women at high risk: the role of rapid genetic testing for BRCA1 and -2 mutations and the consequences for treatment strategies

Specific clinical questions rise when patients, who are diagnosed with breast cancer, are at risk of carrying a mutation in BRCA1 and -2 gene due to a strong family history or young age at diagnosis. These questions concern topics such as 1. Timing of genetic counseling and testing, 2. Choices to be made for BRCA1 or -2 mutation carriers in local treatment, contralateral treatment, (neo)adjuvant systemic therapy, and 3. The psychological effects of rapid testing. The knowledge of the genetic status might have several advantages for the patient in treatment planning, such as the choice whether or not to undergo mastectomy and/or prophylactic contralateral mastectomy. The increased risk of developing a second breast cancer in the ipsilateral breast in mutation carriers, is only slightly higher after primary cancer treatment, than in the general population. Prophylactic contralateral mastectomy provides a substantial reduction of contralateral breast cancer, although only a small breast cancer specific survival benefit. Patients should be enrolled in clinical trials to investigate (neo)-adjuvant drug regimens, that based on preclinical and early clinical evidence might be targeting the homologous recombination defect, such as platinum compounds and PARP inhibitors. If rapid testing is performed, the patient can make a well-balanced decision. Although rapid genetic counseling and testing might cause some distress, most women reported this approach to be worthwhile. In this review the literature regarding these topics is evaluated. Answers and suggestions, useful in clinical practice are discussed.

Breslow thickness in the Netherlands: a population-based study of 40 880 patients comparing young and elderly patients

BACKGROUND

Melanoma incidence has increased rapidly in the last decades, and predictions show a continuing increase in the years to come. The aim of this study was to assess trends in melanoma incidence, Breslow thickness (BT), and melanoma survival among young and elderly patients in the Netherlands.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with invasive melanoma between 1994 and 2008 were selected from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Incidence (per 100 000) over time was calculated for young (<65 years) and elderly patients (≥65 years). Distribution of BT for young and elderly males and females was assessed. Regression analysis of the log-transformed BT was used to assess changes over time. Relative survival was calculated as the ratio of observed survival to expected survival.

RESULTS

Overall, 40 880 patients were included (42.3% male and 57.7% female). Melanoma incidence increased more rapidly among the elderly (5.4% estimated annual percentage change (EAPC), P<0.0001) than among younger patients (3.9% EAPC, P<0.0001). The overall BT declined significantly over time (P<0.001). Among younger patients, BT decreased for almost all locations. Among elderly males, BT decreased for melanomas in the head and neck region (P=0.001) and trunk (P<0.001), but did not decrease significantly for the other regions. Among elderly females, BT only decreased for melanomas at the trunk (P=0.01). The relative survival of elderly patients was worse compared with that of younger patients (P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Melanoma incidence increases more rapidly for elderly than for younger patients and the decline in BT is less prominent among elderly patients than among young patients. Campaigns in the Netherlands should focus more on early melanoma detection in the elderly.

Optimizing the Frequency of Follow-Up Visits for Patients Treated for Localized Primary Cutaneous Melanoma

Purpose

To develop more evidence-based guidelines for the frequency of patient follow-up after treatment of localized (American Joint Committee on Cancer [AJCC] stage I or II) melanoma.

Methods

We used data from Melanoma Institute Australia on an inception cohort of 3,081 consecutive patients first diagnosed with stage I or II melanoma between January 1985 and December 2009. Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox models were used to characterize the time course and predictors for recurrence and new primaries. We modeled the delay in diagnosis of recurrence or new primary as well as the number of monitoring visits required using two monitoring schedules: first, according to 2008 Australian and New Zealand guidelines and, second, with fewer visits, especially for those at lowest risk of recurrence.

Results

For every 1,000 patients beginning follow-up, 229 developed recurrence and 61 developed new primary within 10 years. There was only a small difference in modeled delay in diagnosis (extra 44.9 and 9.6 patients per 1,000 for recurrence and new primary, respectively, with delay greater than 2 months) using a schedule that requires far fewer visits (3,000 fewer visits per 1,000 patients) than recommended by current guidelines. AJCC substage was the most important predictor of recurrence, whereas age and date of primary diagnosis were important predictors of developing new primary.

Conclusion

By providing less intensive monitoring, more efficient follow-up strategies are possible. Fewer visits with a more focused approach may address the needs of patients and clinicians to detect recurrent or new melanoma.

Follow-up schedules after treatment for malignant melanoma

BACKGROUND

Existing follow-up guidelines after treatment for melanoma are based largely on dated literature and historical precedent. This study aimed to calculate recurrence rates and establish prognostic factors for recurrence to help redesign a follow-up schedule.

METHODS

Data were retrieved from the Sydney Melanoma Unit database for all patients with a single primary melanoma and American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage I-II disease, who had received their first treatment between 1959 and 2002. Recurrence rates, timing and survival were recorded by substage, and predictive factors were analysed.

RESULTS

Recurrence occurred in 18.9 per cent (895 of 4748) of patients overall, 5.2 per cent (95 of 1822) of those with stage IA disease, 18.4 per cent (264 of 1436) with IB, 28.7 per cent (215 of 750) with IIA, 40.6 per cent (213 of 524) with IIB and 44.3 per cent (86 of 194) with IIC disease. Overall, the median disease-free survival time was 2.6 years, but there were marked differences between AJCC subgroups. Primary tumour thickness, ulceration and tumour mitotic rate were important predictors of recurrence.

CONCLUSION

A new follow-up schedule was proposed: stage I annually, stage IIA 6-monthly for 2 years and then annually, stage IIB-IIC 4-monthly for 2 years, 6-monthly in the third year and annually thereafter.

Detection of second primary cutaneous melanomas

AIMS

There have been few studies investigating the value of follow-up in the detection of second primary melanomas (SPMs) and there is scant information on the role of self-surveillance by the patient. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of patient detection of both first primary melanomas (FPMs) and SPMs.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients were interviewed to determine who detected their FPM and SPM (in situ or invasive). The associations between clinical and pathological factors and the person who identified the FPM and SPM were examined using multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

One hundred and twelve patients with a recently diagnosed SPM were treated at the Sydney Melanoma Unit (July 2001 to March 2003). Patients detected 59% of the FPMs as compared with 46% of the SPMs. Female gender, greater Breslow tumour thickness and younger age were significant predictors for a patient-detected FPM (Odds Ratio: 4.9 (Confidence Interval 1.5-16.0), 3.2 (1.65-6.04), and 0.9 (0.9-1.0), respectively). Greater tumour thickness and ready visibility of the lesion to the patient were predicting factors for patient detection of a SPM (Odds Ratio: 1.9 (Confidence Interval 1.1-3.3) and 3.6 (1.4-9.1), respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

A history of melanoma does not increase the ability of patients to detect new or thinner primary melanomas themselves. Therefore, patients may benefit from regular clinical review by clinicians, who play an important role in the detection of new melanomas.

[Detection of the first recurrence in patients with melanoma: three quarters by the patient, one quarter during outpatient follow-up]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the benefit of frequent outpatient follow-up after the initial diagnosis and treatment of melanoma.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

METHOD

Patients from the Groningen University Medical Centre with a first recurrence ofa previously treated primary melanoma (American Joint Committee on Cancer stage I-III) were interviewed to determine how many of them had detected the recurrence themselves. Patient data and recurrence characteristics were compared with data from a previous Australian study in order to evaluate the differences between the Dutch and the Australian population.

RESULTS

70 patients with a first recurrence of melanoma were studied. Of the 70 first recurrences, 53 (76%) had been detected by the patient; 10% of the patients had a sign or symptom, but did not detect the recurrence themselves; 11% of the first recurrences were detected as a consequence of self-examination. The proportion of detection by the patient versus detection by a doctor was roughly equal in the Dutch and Australian populations.

CONCLUSION

Three quarters of the first recurrences of a treated melanoma had been detected by the patients themselves, the largest number by accident and only 11% by self-examination. It is not likely that the continuation of frequent follow-up visits will contribute to the detection of recurrences. These findings are no different from the results in the Australian population.

Detection of First Relapse in Cutaneous Melanoma Patients: Implications for the Formulation of Evidence-Based Follow-up Guidelines

BACKGROUND

The value of follow-up surveillance for patients with cutaneous melanoma remains uncertain. In this prospective study the frequency of detection of first melanoma recurrence (FMR) by patient or doctor was analyzed to assist in the future design of evidence-based follow-up guidelines.

METHODS

Patients who had a recurrence of a previously treated American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage I-III primary melanoma (PM) were interviewed to ascertain how their PM and FMR were detected. Factors predicting the detection of PM and FMR were analyzed.

RESULTS

The study group comprised 211 patients. In 168 patients, information on detection of their PM was available; 102 PMs (61%) were detected by the patient and 18 (11%) by their partner. Higher AJCC stage, visible location for the patient, and female sex were independent predictive factors for patient-detected PM (P = .03, .002, and .02 respectively). The FMR type was local in 28 (13%), in transit in 35 (17%), in regional lymph nodes in 97 (46%), and distant in 51 (24%). Seventy-three percent of all FMRs were detected by the patient. The presence of a symptom was the only independent predictor of a patient-detected FMR (P < .0001). There was no statistically significant survival difference between the patient-detected and doctor-detected FMRs.

CONCLUSIONS

Three-quarters of FMRs were detected by patients or their partners, and it should be possible to improve this rate even further by better education. More frequent follow-up visits are thus unlikely to be valuable. Reductions in follow-up frequency may therefore be safe and economically responsible.

Detection of metastatic disease in patients with uveal melanoma using positron emission tomography

OBJECTIVE

Positron emission tomography with [(18)F]fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG-PET) is of proven value in the detection of metastases in patients with cutaneous melanoma. However, little is known about its value in uveal melanoma (UM). In this study the results of FDG-PET in patients with UM were evaluated.

METHODS

Patients with UM recorded in the Sydney Melanoma Unit database who had been assessed with FDG-PET were selected. Comparative data (imaging or histopathology) providing information about metastatic disease were obtained within 14 weeks of the FDG-PET study and compared with the FDG-PET result. Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and positive and negative predictive values for the detection of liver metastases (LMs) by FDG-PET were calculated.

RESULTS

FDG-PET was performed in 22 patients with UM between April 1993 and March 2003. The presence of at least one focus of metastatic melanoma was confirmed in 14 of 18 patients with positive FDG-PET, and three of four negative FDG-PET studies were confirmed. LMs were demonstrated by FDG-PET in 17 patients. In 15 of these patients this finding was confirmed with anatomical imaging. In two patients LMs indicated by FDG-PET initially appeared to be false positive, but in one of them the diagnosis was confirmed after longer follow-up. Seven of the confirmed lesions were isolated LMs. For LMs FDG-PET showed sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of 100%, 67% and 90% respectively, a positive predictive value of 88% and a negative predictive value of 100%.

CONCLUSION

FDG-PET is a valuable investigation for the detection of LMs in UM patients. It appears to be particularly useful in the detection of isolated LMs that are potentially resectable.

Follow-up in patients with localised primary cutaneous melanoma

Follow-up services for patients with localised cutaneous melanoma are widely discussed but there is no international consensus. Our aim was to discuss frequency and duration of follow-up, type of health professional involved, optimum intensity of routine investigation, and patients' satisfaction with follow-up. Searches of the published work were directed at publications between January, 1985, and February, 2004 on recurrences, subsequent primary melanoma, routine tests, and patients' satisfaction. In a selection of 72 articles, 2142 (6.6%) recurrences were reported, 62% of which were detected by the patients themselves. 2.6% of patients developed a subsequent primary melanoma. Most investigators do not support high-intensity routine follow-up investigations. Of the various follow-up investigations requested by physicians, only medical history and physical examination seem to be cost effective. Lymph-node sonography seems to be a promising method for detection, although survival benefit remains to be proven. Patients were found to be anxious about follow-up visits, although other research showed that provision of information to patients was much appreciated. Published work on the follow-up of patients with cutaneous melanoma has mainly been retrospective and descriptive. Recommendations can be given with only a low grade of evidence. For meaningful guidelines to be developed, prospective, high-quality methodological research is needed.

Reduction of adult height in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia survivors after prophylactic cranial irradiation

BACKGROUND

Impaired linear growth is a well-recognized complication in long-term childhood ALL survivors who received cranial irradiation. However, as many patients achieve a final height between the 5th and the 95th centile, the true incidence of linear growth impairment might be underestimated.

METHODS

Reduction of adult height (RAH) was estimated in adult childhood ALL survivors with and without cranial irradiation. RAH was calculated as the difference between target height (TH) and final height (FH). TH was calculated according to the formula TH = {[(height father + height mother +/- 12)/2] + 3}. RAH was assessed in 79 adult childhood ALL survivors in first complete remission who had received cranial irradiation 25 Gy (Group I, n = 53), 18 Gy (Group II, n = 10) or chemotherapy alone (controls, n = 16).

RESULTS

RAH was 8.6 +/- 8.2 cm in Group I (P = 0.001 vs. controls), 6.2 +/- 3.2 cm in Group II (P = 0.01 vs. controls), and 1.7 +/- 4.6 in controls (chemotherapy only). There was no significant difference between Group I and Group II. In Group I females had more RAH than males (P = 0.02). RAH was related to younger age at diagnosis (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The deficit between target height and final height highlights the reduction of adult height in the majority of male and female childhood ALL survivors who had received prophylactic cranial irradiation, in particular in those who were diagnosed at a younger age. This reduction would have been masked if patients FH was only compared with standard methods. RAH might be a sensitive predictor for growth hormone deficiency as these results suggest that radiation-induced growth hormone deficiency in these patients is the rule rather than the exception.

Detection of unsuspected spinal cord compression in melanoma patients by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose—positron emission tomography

AIM

Positron emission tomography (PET) using (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose can detect early or small metastatic deposits of melanoma and guide subsequent correlative anatomical imaging and treatment. The aim of this study was to assess the value of PET in demonstrating spinal cord compression by otherwise unsuspected metastatic disease.

METHODS

Reports of 1365 PET studies performed on patients with melanoma were reviewed. Fifty patients considered to be at risk of spinal cord compression on the basis of PET were identified and 35 patients were analysed. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography were used to confirm or refute the diagnosis. The symptoms and signs at the time of PET and follow-up status were compared between patients with and without confirmed spinal cord compression.

RESULTS

In nine patients (26%) compression of the spinal cord or adjacent neurological structures was confirmed and eight of these patients had immediate treatment. Survival was poor in both patient groups, but three patients with confirmed compression maintained good neurological functional status following treatment.

CONCLUSION

PET can detect imminent, unsuspected spinal cord compression in patients with metastatic melanoma. Immediate anatomical imaging of the spine is recommended in patients who have evidence of spinal cord compression on PET.

The prognostic importance of tumor mitotic rate confirmed in 1317 patients with primary cutaneous melanoma and long follow-up

BACKGROUND

The late Dr. Vincent McGovern (1915 to 1983) was an international authority on melanoma pathology and one of the first to suggest that assessment of tumor mitotic rate (TMR) might provide useful prognostic information. Data for a large cohort of patients, now with extended follow-up, whose tumors had been assessed by Dr. McGovern were analyzed to reassess the independent prognostic value of TMR in primary localized, cutaneous melanoma.

METHODS

Information was extracted from the Sydney Melanoma Unit database for 1317 patients treated between 1957 and 1982 for whom there was complete clinical information and whose primary lesion pathology, which included tumor thickness, ulcerative state, and TMR, had been assessed by Dr. McGovern. All these assessments were made according to the recommendations of the Eighth International Pigment Cell Conference, held in Sydney in 1972 under the auspices of the International Union Against Cancer. Factors predicting melanoma-specific survival were analyzed with the Cox proportional hazards regression model.

RESULTS

Stage, according to the recently revised American Joint Committee on Cancer Staging System (which is based on tumor thickness and ulceration) was the most predictive factor for survival (P<.0001). This was followed by primary lesion site (P<.0001), patient age (P=.0005), and TMR (P=.008).

CONCLUSIONS

TMR was confirmed to be an important independent predictor of survival of patients with primary cutaneous melanoma. However, its predictive value was less than it was when assessed according to the 1982 revisions of the 1972 TMR recommendations.

What importance do women attribute to the size of the penis?

OBJECTIVE

A great deal of men consider that the size of the penis is directly proportional to its sexual power. Some men, who are worried that their penis is too small, wish to be considered for surgical lengthening or thickening procedures. The argumentation for this chiefly points in the direction of women. However, have women actually been asked about the extent to which they consider the size of the penis to be of importance from a sexual point of view? Or asked what they think about ideas surrounding the size of the penis in relation with actual sexual functioning?

PATIENTS AND METHODS

To address these questions, 375 sexually active women who had recently given birth at the University Hospital Groningen were asked a number of questions about sexual functioning and the importance they attach to the size of their partner's penis.

RESULTS

A total of 170 questionnaires were returned (response rate 45%); 20% of the women found the length of the penis important and 1% very important; 55% and 22% of the women found the length of the penis unimportant and totally unimportant, respectively. Opinions about the girth of the penis followed the same trend. Length was less important than girth: 21% and 32%, respectively. The women who found the girth of the penis important had the same opinion about the length of the penis (correlation 0.71, p=-0.001). Median division into two subgroups (girth important/unimportant; t-test) did not reveal any significant differences in relation with demographic data. Correlation analysis did not reveal any significant correlation between sexual functioning (measured with the NSF) and opinions about the girth of the penis.

CONCLUSION

Although clearly in the minority, a nevertheless considerable percentage of the women respondents attached substantial importance to the size of the male sexual organ.