Abstract OT2-04-05: Phase II trial of pre-operative stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) in early-stage breast cancer

Background:

Post-operative accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) has demonstrated efficacy in preventing in-breast tumor recurrence. Pre-operative administration of APBI may be advantageous as an intact breast tumor is smaller than its corresponding lumpectomy cavity, is easier to distinguish on treatment-planning images, and results in smaller and more accurately delineated target volumes. Pre-operative APBI may reduce the incidence of positive margins following breast-conserving surgery (BCS). Investigation is needed in the correlation of MR imaging with pathologic response 6 weeks after SABR. Also, evidence suggests that SABR induces immune activation in the tumor microenvironment; evaluation of excised tumor tissue will give insight into these processes.

Trial Design:

Treatment Planning and Delivery: CT simulation and treatment are performed in the prone position. Diagnostic MRI is fused to planning CT. GTV is delineated on registered breast MRI and includes the intact breast tumor. CTV is 15mm expansion of GTV. PTV is 3 mm expansion of CTV. VMAT or IMRT are permitted. Daily image-guidance aligning to tumor and biopsy-fiducial is mandatory. All subjects undergo pre-operative SABR to 28.5 Gy in 3 fractions of 9.5 Gy on different days separated by ≤48 hours. CTCAE v4 is used to assess toxicity 4-5 weeks after SABR. Pre-operative diagnostic MRI is performed 5-6 weeks following SABR. Imaging parameters to be evaluated include changes in tumor size, enhancement, and tumor margin description. BCS will be 6-8 weeks following SABR.

Tissue pathology: Margin status and degree of pathologic response are recorded from breast-conserving excisions, specimens are archived for future analysis.

Eligibility Criteria:

Inclusion criteria are women age ≥50 with biopsy proven invasive breast adenocarcinoma with tumor size ≤2cm on MRI, cN0 M0, ER+/HER2-, without history of invasive malignancy or prior breast/thoracic radiotherapy.

Exclusion criteria are active scleroderma or lupus erythematosus with skin involvement, MRI defined tumor within 10 mm of skin, implanted hardware prohibiting appropriate treatment planning or delivery, neoadjuvant chemotherapy, carrier of BRCA1 or 2 gene mutation, pregnancy.

Specific Aims:

The primary endpoint is pathologic complete response (pCR) in the breast tumor, secondary endpoints are incidence of adequate surgical margins (defined as “no tumor on ink”) and MRI response following SABR. Analyses of tumor immune response and microenvironment on pathologic specimens following SABR will also be performed.

Statistical Methods:

Fisher's exact test will be performed to examine associations between patient/tumor characteristics and pCR and surgical margins; these associations will be explored with multivariable logistic and linear regressions.

Accrual:

Present accrual is 9 subjects.

Expected accrual is 22 subjects; if ≥3 pCR are noted in the initial cohort, accrual will be expanded to 40 subjects.

Citation Format: Liveringhouse CL, Diaz R, Ahmed KA, Lee MC, Czerniecki B, Laronga C, Khakpour N, Weinfurtner RJ, Rosa M, Montejo ME. Phase II trial of pre-operative stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) in early-stage breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr OT2-04-05.

A multi-institutional analysis of intraoperative radiotherapy for early breast cancer: Does age matter?

BACKGROUND

Single-session intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) minimizes treatment demands associated with traditional whole breast radiation therapy (WBRT) but outcomes on local disease control and morbidity among the elderly is limited.

METHODS

A multi-institutional retrospective registry was established from 19 centers utilizing IORT from 2007 to 2013. Patient, tumor, and treatment variables were analyzed for ages <70 and ≥70.

RESULTS

We evaluated 686 patients (<70 = 424; ≥70 = 262) who were margin and lymph node negative. Patients <70 were more likely to have longer operative time, oncoplastic closure, higher rates of IORT used as planned boost, and receive chemotherapy and post-operative WBRT. Wound complication rates were low and not significantly different between age groups. Median follow-up was 1.06 (range 0.51-1.9) years for < 70 and 1.01 (range 0.5-1.68) years for ≥ 70. There were 5 (0.73%) breast recurrences (4 in <70 and 1 ≥ 70, p = 0.65) and no axillary recurrences during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

IORT was associated with a low rate of wound complication and local recurrence on short-term follow-up in this cohort.

Abstract P1-01-13: Patterns of definitive axillary management in the era prior to reporting ACOSOG Z0011: comparison between NCCN Centers and hospitals in Michigan

Background: The results of the ACOSOG- Z0011 trial have had potential practice changing implications for the management of patients with positive sentinel lymph node (SLN) undergoing lumpectomy and radiation for breast cancer. However, some evidence suggests a shift in axillary management even prior to the initial report of data supporting sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) alone in mid-2010. We analyzed data in the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) outcomes database from NCCN centers and the Michigan Breast Oncology Quality Initiative (MiBOQI) hospitals to examine institutional practice patterns with respect to use of completion axillary dissection (CALND) for SLN positive breast cancer in the years leading up to publication of these trial results. We hypothesized that CALND would be omitted more frequently in women treated at NCCN centers compared to those treated at MiBOQI programs.

Methods: We identified 2,172 women with clinical T1/T2 N0 breast cancer who underwent breast surgery and SLNB and had a positive SLN from 2007 through 2010 at one of 12 participating NCCN centers or 12 MiBOQI sites. Patient and tumor characteristics, definitive breast procedure, year of diagnosis, and institutional affiliation were analyzed as predictors of use of SLNB alone in univariate Chi-Square and multivariable logistic regression models.

Results: CALND was omitted in 314 (14.5%) of the 2,172 patients. Over time, there was a dramatic increase in the use of SLNB alone (12% in 2007 to 23% in 2010). In the univariate analyses, increased patient age, later year of diagnosis, lower T stage, and lower pathologic N stage were significant predictors of use of SLNB alone (all p &lt; .0001). There was no association between definitive breast surgery type, hormone receptor status, Her-2 Neu status, or institutional affiliation and use of SLNB alone. In the multivariable model, older age at diagnosis, later year of diagnosis, and lower pathologic N stage remained significant independent predictors of SLNB alone. There were no significant differences in rates of omission of CALND between NCCN and MIBOQI sites.

Abstract P4-14-09: Feasibility of liposuction for treatment of arm lymphedema from breast cancer

Background: Lymphedema is a dreaded complication of breast cancer treatment affecting 20% of women having axillary node dissection. Liposuction minimizes unwanted fat in targeted areas. Our objective was to explore the feasibility of liposuction to reduce fat volume and thus arm lymphedema.

Methods: An IRB-approved prospective trial was conducted of women having unilateral arm lymphedema resulting from breast cancer treatment. At enrollment there was no evidence of cancer recurrence or arm cellulitis. Arm measurements (circumferential), volumes (water displacement and geometric calculation), and muscle strength differences between the affected and unaffected arms and quality of life/functionality were measured pre-operatively and post-operatively at 6 weeks, 6 months and one year(s). Descriptive statistical analysis was performed.

Results: Six breast cancer survivors underwent the liposuction procedure from 12/2008–4/2011. Median age was 54 yrs (range: 43–60) and median volume of fat aspirated was 700mls (range: 350–700). Average volume difference between the affected and unaffected arms at baseline was 522.5 mls (176–867) (geometric) and 589.2mls (280–770) (water displacement). No immediate complications; 1 cellulitis at 4 months post-operative. Average percent volume reductions for 5 of the 6 women at 6 weeks, 6 months and 1 year were 70%, 47%, 71% mls geometrically and 63%, 18%, 54% by water displacement respectively. Quality of life and functionality improved in all patients. Muscle strength remained unchanged. Pain lessened. Average follow-up is 15.49 months (range: 1.8–24.84 months).

Conclusion: Liposuction can safely reduce volume of arm lymphedema and improve functionality/quality of life. Larger studies (longer follow-up) are required to validate the durability of these early results.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2012;72(24 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-14-09.

Abstract P4-17-01: The effect of body mass index on breast reconstruction outcomes

Introduction: With increasing numbers of women choosing mastectomy for breast cancer treatment, breast reconstruction is consequentially on the rise. Obesity, a known predictor for wound healing complications, is also on the rise. Our objective is to review our institutional experience with the association between Body Mass Index (BMI) and breast reconstruction complications.

Methods: An IRB approved retrospective review of prospectively gathered patients having mastectomy with reconstruction was conducted. Data including patient demographics, stage at diagnosis, adjuvant treatment, type of mastectomy, type of reconstruction, and complications were collected. Patients were stratified by BMI into two categories: Normal weight (BMI 18.5–24.9), and overweight/obese (BMI 25 or greater). The statistical analysis was preformed using Wilcoxon Rank-Sum Test and Chi Squared Test, both using exact method with Monte Carlo estimation.

Results: From 06/1996 to 08/2011, 443 patients were identified having mastectomy and reconstruction. Of these, 218 patients had a normal weight at the time of mastectomy; 225 patients were overweight/obese. The overall median age was 49 years (range: 18–82). 780 mastectomies with reconstruction (106 unilateral, 337 bilateral) were performed. The most common reconstruction types included 477 tissue expander with implant reconstructions (62.8% of breasts), 106 latissimus flap with prosthesis (14.0%), and 103 pedicled TRAM flaps (13.6%). 245 patients (55.3%) experienced at least one complication; the most common complications were fat necrosis (80 patients, 18.1% of patients), infection (57, 12.9%), epidermolysis (41, 9.3%), and skin necrosis (39, 8.8%).

The overweight/obese group had a significantly higher prevalence of diabetes (6.3% vs. 0.9%, p = 0.0036) and hypertension (26.7% vs. 11.1%, p &lt; 0.0001) and was more likely to receive neoadjuvant chemotherapy (16.2% vs. 4.8% p = 0.0005), possibly due to presentation at a later stage, but no significant differences were identified. Other comorbid conditions, including smoking, history of breast cancer, adjuvant chemotherapy, and history of or postsurgical radiation, were similar between the two groups. One significant difference was that the overweight/obese group was significantly older than the normal weight group (p = 0.0005).

There were no significant differences identified in the incidence of any individual complication between the two BMI groups. Additionally, the incidence of a patient having any complication was similar between the two groups (128 overweight/obese patients for 56.9% and 117 normal weight patients for 53.7%, p = 0.4918). When using breasts instead of patients as the unit of measure, when an overweight/obese patient had a complication they were significantly more likely to require an unanticipated return to the OR (93/160 breasts with a complication for 58.1% vs. 67/154 for 43.5%, p = 0.0124).

Conclusion: Obesity does not increase the risk of breast reconstruction complications, but increases the severity of complications if one should arise. This supports the continued use of breast reconstruction in patients regardless of their weight, and emphasizes that when the correct procedure is selected for an overweight/obese patient, outcomes can be similar to patients that are of a normal weight.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2012;72(24 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-17-01.

P4-09-28: Comparison of Oncotype DX (ODX) and Mammostrat (MS) Risk Estimations and Correlations with Histologic Tumor Features in Low Grade, ER-Positive Invasive Breast Carcinoma (BC)

Several molecular tests have been developed to estimate risk of distant recurrence (RDR) and help clinical decision-making regarding adjuvant chemotherapy in early stage BC. The ODX assay is a 21-gene expression profile mainly based on expression levels of genes related to hormone receptor / HER2 signaling and cell proliferation. MS is an immunohistochemistry-based assay measuring the expression of five markers thought to play a significant role in BC biology. Although both validated tests were shown to stratify patients into groups with low, intermediate and high RDR, the tests have not been compared head-to-head in the same cohort of patients and little data is available regarding their correlation with clinicopathologic tumor features. We have previously shown that a proliferative, cellular stroma and inflammatory cells associated with tumor cells may account for unexpected intermediate/high risk estimations based on ODX in low grade BC. In this study we compared the clinicopathologic tumor features with risk estimations by ODX and MS in 106 low grade ER-positive BC. The histologic features of tumors were prospectively determined without knowledge of test results. The tumor stroma was evaluated for increased cellularity and presence of inflammatory cells. Double immunostain for pancytokeratin and Ki67 was performed to assess cell proliferation in cancer vs stromal/inflammatory cells. Based on ODX and MS, among the 106 cases 68, 38 and 0, and 91, 14 and 1 tumors showed low, intermediate and high RDR, respectively. Assessment of the concurrence between the tests to predict low vs intermediate/high RDR showed a kappa value of 0.0541. There was no statistically significant correlation between ODX Recurrence Score (RS) and MS risk index values. We found no correlation between low vs intermediate/high risk estimation by either test and patient age, tumor size, nuclear atypia, mitotic rate, ER and HER2 expression levels. BC with intermediate/high RDR by ODX, but not by MS, showed significantly lower PR expression, increased stromal cellularity and presence of inflammatory cells. Double immunostains showed increased proliferation in stromal/inflammatory cells compared to cancer cells in cases showing intermediate/high RDR by ODX; no such association was seen with regards to MS risk estimations. The ratio of Ki67-positive stromal/inflammatory vs tumor cells &gt;1 had an area under the curve of 0.8929 (p&lt;0.0001) and 0.5026 (p=0.9823) to predict intermediate/high RDR based on ODX and MS, respectively. Cases showing intermediate/high RDR by ODX but low risk by MS were associated with increased stromal cellularity, presence of inflammatory cells and increased numbers of Ki-67 positive stromal/inflammatory cells, compared to cases showing low risk by both assays. Our results suggest that low grade ER-positive BC with increased stromal/inflammatory cell proliferation may show an apparent increased RDR as assessed by ODX, which uses RNA extracted from a mixture of tumor and stromal/inflammatory cells in the assay. MS, which examines cancer cells only (thus, not influenced by stromal and inflammatory cells), may provide a better estimation of likely tumor behavior in low grade BC.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2011;71(24 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-09-28.

P5-11-14: Flat Epithelial Atypia of the Breast: A Single Institution Experience

Background: Flat epithelial atypia of the breast is a relatively new entity of unknown significance. Our objective is to evaluate our surgical experience with this diagnosis.

Methods: A single institution database of breast patients from 2005–2010 was used to identify women who were diagnosed with flat epithelial atypia on core biopsy and subsequently underwent surgical excision. Patient data regarding history, type and reason for biopsy, and associated pathology was collected. Individuals diagnosed with flat epithelia atypia and cancer on core biopsies in the same breast were excluded.

Results: There were 52 patients who underwent surgical excision for the primary diagnosis of flat epithelial atypia. There were 3 (6%) patients with a personal history of breast cancer, 14 (27%) patients with a family history of breast cancer, and 11 (21%) patients with a concurrent new diagnosis of breast cancer in the contralateral breast. Core biopsy was recommended in most (81%) cases because of suspicious calcifications on mammography. Twenty-eight (54%) patients were found to have flat epithelial atypia associated with other atypical breast hyperplasia and 24 (46%) had flat epithelial atypia as the most significant lesion on core biopsy. In 8 (15%) patients, there was a sonographic correlate that was biopsied; 5 had only flat epithelial atypia and 3 had flat epithelial atypia associated with other atypical hyperplasia. Of the 52 patients there were 4 (8%) patients who upstaged to ductal carcinoma in-situ on surgical excision. There were no cases of invasive carcinoma. All ductal carcinoma in-situ cases were associated with other atypical breast hyperplasia, not flat epithelial atypia alone.

Conclusion: Though flat epithelial atypia may be associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, surgical excision of pure flat epithelial atypia may not be necessary. Larger studies are needed to corroborate these findings.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2011;71(24 Suppl):Abstract nr P5-11-14.

Results of Oncotype DX in early-stage invasive lobular carcinoma

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Background: The Oncotype DX (ODX) genomic assay has been used since 2004 to estimate prognosis and guide adjuvant treatment in patients with estrogen receptor-positive, node-negative invasive breast tumors. However, the impact of ODX assay testing in patients with invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) has not been specifically reported. We describe our experience in patients with ILC who underwent ODX assay testing and how this affected adjuvant treatment.

Methods: An IRB approved retrospective review was performed on all patients undergoing treatment for early stage, node-negative ILC from 2006-2011. All cases were reviewed by a single pathologist (GA) for verification of histology and subtype. The impact of ODX assay testing on treatment management was evaluated.

Results: Thirty-nine patients underwent ODX genomic assay testing of early stage, node-negative ILC with a median age of 62 years. ILC tumor classification included classic (67%), pleomorphic (23%) and mixed (10%) subtypes with a median tumor size of 2.0 cm (0.6-6.0). Ninety-seven percent of tumors were estrogen receptor-positive, 74% progesterone receptor-positive. Median ODX recurrence score was 15 (0-34) with an ODX 10-yr risk of 10% (3-23). ODX risk classification was: Low (N=26), Intermediate (N=12), and High (N=1). There was no difference in ODX recurrence score or risk classification between ILC subtypes (p=0.52 and p=0.35, respectively). Adjuvant chemotherapy was used in 26% (TC N=8, AC N=1, FEC 100 N=1). Tumor size or ILC tumor subtype were not significant for adjuvant chemotherapy use while tumor grade (p=0.046), ODX recurrence score (22.8 vs 13.6, p<0.0001), ODX risk classification (p=0.009) and ODX 10 year risk (15.9 vs 9.0, p<0.0001) were significant. With a median follow up of 16.5 months, there were no recurrences or tumor-related deaths.

Conclusions: ODX testing on early stage node-negative ILC may serve as a useful adjunct when counseling patients on the decision for adjuvant therapy. The long-term impact on recurrence or survival in patients with ILC who receive adjuvant chemotherapy based on ODX recurrence score remains undetermined and warrants further testing.

Abstract P6-01-03: Invasive Micropapillary Carcinoma (IMPC) of the Breast: An Uncommon but Aggressive Special Type of Breast Cancer

IMPC is an uncommon type of invasive breast cancer. However, in comparison to invasive ductal carcinoma of no special type (IDC), it is reported to have a more aggressive behavior. Our objective was to compare and contrast IMPC with IDC in terms of clinicopathologic features and outcome. One hundred-thirty-one IMPC cases were compared to 1295 IDC and 189 invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC). Medical records and pathology slides were reviewed for traditional factors (tumor grade, lymphatic invasion [LVI], lymph node [LN] status, stage, receptor status, treatment) and specific tumor features (extent of retraction artifact [RA]). Clinicopathologic features between groups were compared and clinical outcome of IMPC was recorded. All patients were women with a median age of 57.6 yrs (range 22-93) for IMPC, 56.3 yrs (range 22-96) for IDC and 60.7 (range35-85) for ILC, respectively (P&lt;0.0001). There were no differences noted for family history, race, or presentation (symptomatic vs. screening). Surgical treatment was partial mastectomy in 770 (47.7%) and mastectomy in 845 (52.3%). All patients had axillary lymph node biopsy. The median tumor size was 2.2 (range 0.3-15.2) cm for IMPC, 2.0 (range 0.05-11.0) cm for ILC and 1.7 (range 0.05-19.0) cm for IDC, respectively (P&lt;0.). The extent of micropapillary features in IMPC ranged from 3% to 100% with a median value of 20%. LVI was more likely to be present in IMPC (67.9%) compared to IDC (28.3%) and ILC (6.9%) (P&lt;0.0001). Axillary LN metastases were seen in 71.8% of IMPC compared to 44.1 % of IDC and 54.5% of ILC (P&lt;0.0001). IMPC and ILC was significantly more frequently ER and PR positive (P&lt;0.0001 each) compared to IDC, while ILC was significantly less frequently HER2 positive (2.8%) compared to IDC (17.9%) and IMPC (8.2%). The mean percent of tumors showing retraction artifact (RA) was 60.2% in IMPC compared to 25.4% in IDC and 3.8% in ILC (P&lt;0.0001). During a median follow-up of 24.3 months 19 (14.5%) and 17 (13.0%) IMPC patients developed local and distant recurrence, respectively. IMPC is an uncommon special type of invasive breast cancer but it is more aggressive in reference to IDC and ILC based on larger tumor size and more frequent the presence of LVI and LN metastases. The presence of IMPC features in breast cancers, even if present focally, should alert the clinician for the high likelihood of lymphatic tumor spread and an adverse biologic behavior.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2010;70(24 Suppl):Abstract nr P6-01-03.

Estimation of Risk of Recurrence of Early Stage Estrogen Receptor Positive Breast Carcinoma by Surgical and Medical Oncologists and Pathologists Compared to the Oncotype Dx® Recurrence Score

Background: The decision to use adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with early stage breast cancer is based in part on the estimation of risk of tumor recurrence by physicians, which traditionally relies heavily on tumor size, nodal status and a set of biologic tumor characteristics such as hormone receptor and HER2 expression. The Oncotype DX® assay is a 21-gene expression profile aiming to improve risk stratification, recurrence prediction and optimize selection of patients for adjuvant chemotherapy.Methods: We selected 154 consecutive patients with early stage estrogen receptor (ER) positive breast cancer and available Oncotype Dx® recurrence score (RS) for the study. Clinicopathologic data, including patient age, menopausal status, tumor size, histologic type, grade, mitotic activity, presence of lymphatic invasion (LVI), nodal status, hormone receptor and HER2 status on all patients were provided to four surgical oncologists, four medical oncologists and three pathologists, specializing in breast cancer diagnosis and management. Participants were asked to estimate the risk of recurrence of tumors based on available clinicopathologic data and to provide the three most important tumor features their risk estimates were based on. Risk estimates of participants were compared with RS results.Results: Based on the Oncotype Dx® results, 95 (61.7%), 45 (29.2%) and 14 (9.1%) tumors were of low (RS &lt;18), intermediate (RS 18-30) and high (RS ≥31) risk, respectively. RS values showed a highly significant correlation with tumor grade, mitotic activity, LVI, hormone receptor and HER2 status, while no correlation with patient age, menopausal status, tumor size and histologic type was found. Participants' risk estimates agreed with those of the Oncotype Dx® assay in 54.2 ± 2.3 % (mean ± SEM, range 41.6 - 63.0%) of cases, while the risk of recurrence was over- and underestimated compared to RS results in 31.8 ± 3.1% (16.2 - 43.5%) and 14.1 ± 1.4% (7.1 - 22.7%), respectively. The rates of overestimation were significantly higher than those of underestimation (p = 0.0003). Although medical oncologists tended to overestimate the risk more frequently (38.1 ± 2.0%) compared to surgeons (28.7 ± 5.9%) and pathologists (27.5 ± 7.8%), the difference did not reach statistical significance. Estimation of the agreement of participants' risk assessment with RS results showed a mean kappa value of 0.2955 (range 0.1506 - 0.4123). No statistically significant difference in overall concurrence with RS results was found between surgeons, medical oncologists and pathologists. Participants ranked tumor stage/nodal status, hormone receptor status and tumor size to be the most important features when estimating recurrence risk.Conclusions: Based on traditional clinicopathologic features alone, surgeons, medical oncologists and pathologists tend to overestimate the risk of tumor recurrence as compared to Oncotype Dx® assay results. The RS may provide additional information regarding the intrinsic biological features of ER positive breast cancers and help tailoring treatment recommendations.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(24 Suppl):Abstract nr 4061.

Margin Assessment in Breast Conservation for Ductal Carcinoma In Situ

IntroductionBreast conserving surgery in the setting of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) produces many challenges. Re-excision rates for close or negative margins after lumpectomy are common due to difficulty in intraoperative margin status assessment. The objective of this study was to review our experience with various margin assessment techniques in the setting of a preoperative diagnosis of DCIS on core needle biopsy (CNB).MethodsA prospectively gathered database of surgically-treated breast cancer patients was reviewed for patients with a diagnosis of DCIS as the most significant lesion on CNB from 1997 to 2009. Of 425 patients with a diagnosis of DCIS by CNB, 231 patients underwent a lumpectomy. Patients' age, tumor characteristics, type of surgery, margin assessment technique, and follow up data were recorded.Results231 patients underwent a lumpectomy following a CNB of DCIS. 138 patients (59.7%) had intra-operative touch prep (TP) analysis of all 6 margins, 39 patients (16.9%) underwent intra-operative gross evaluation of margins, 53 (22.9%) patients had no intra-operative analysis, and one patient (0.4%) had a frozen section analysis. Success at achieving negative margins (&gt;2mm) with initial lumpectomy was 66.7% (92/138) for TP analysis, 56.4% (22/39) for gross evaluation, and 52.8% (28/53) for no margin assessment. These percentages did not reach statistical significance by odds ratios (TP to Gross p= 0.24, TP to None p=0.08, Gross to None p=0.73). After excluding patients that required mastectomy following an unsuccessful lumpectomy, ipsilateral breast recurrence rates were 6.3% (8/127) for the touch prep patients after a mean follow up of 4.0 years, 0.0% (0/31) for the gross evaluation patients after a mean follow up of 1.9 years, and 10.5% (4/38) for the patients with no intraoperative assessment after a mean follow up of 3.8 years. Characteristics of each group are listed in Table 1.ConclusionsReexcision for close or positive margins is required for a significant percentage of patients who undergo lumpectomy after a preoperative diagnosis of DCIS on CNB. Although intraoperative TP analysis had the highest success of preventing reexcision, long term data suggest that recurrence rates between intraoperative TP and gross evaluation are both acceptable with short term follow up.Table 1: Characteristics of patients undergoing lumpectomy with a preoperative diagnosis of DCIS on CNBMargin AssessmentTouch PrepGrossNoneFrozenNumber of cases13839531Patient Median Age59.758.956.359.8Cases not needing Reexcision66.7%(92/138)56.4% (22/39)52.8% (28/53)0%(0/1)Cases that received mastectomy8.0%(11/138)20.5%(8/39)26.4%(14/53)100%(1/1)DCIS Grade3- 512- 631- 22Unk- 23- 162- 151- 5Unk- 33-252-201- 7Unk- 13- 02- 01- 1Unk- 0Cases with Necrosis50%(69/138)53.9%(21/39)62.3%(33/53)0%(0/1)Cases upgraded to Invasive Cancer12.3%(17/138)15.4%(6/39)35.9%(19/53)0%(0/1)ReceivedRadiation after lumpectomy85.0%(108/127)67.7% (21/31)76.3%(29/38)0%(0/1)ReceivedTamoxifen after lumpectomy34.7%(44/127)25.8%(8/31)31.2%(12/38)0%(0/1)Ipsilateral breastRecurrence after lumpectomy6.3%(8/127)0%(0/31)10.5% (4/38)0%(0/1)Follow up after lumpectomy (years)4.0(0-10.6)1.9(0.19-5.6)3.8(0.17-9.4)6.0 

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(24 Suppl):Abstract nr 4122.

The Effect of Oncotype Dx® Recurrence Score on Treatment Recommendations for Patients with Early Stage Estrogen Receptor Positive Breast Cancer

Background: Current guidelines recommend administration of chemotherapy for patients with breast carcinomas &gt;1 cm in size, with consideration for patient age, comorbidities and tumor grade. However, it is unknown which patients actually benefit from therapy and overtreatment of a significant proportion of patients is a major concern. We investigated the impact of the Oncotype Dx® Recurrence Score (RS) on chemotherapy recommendations in early stage estrogen receptor (ER) positive breast cancer patients.Methods: We selected 154 patients with early stage ER positive breast cancer and available RS for the study. Clinicopathologic data, including age, menopausal status, tumor size, type, grade, mitotic activity, presence of lymphatic invasion, nodal status, hormone receptor and HER2 status on all patients were provided to four surgical oncologists, four medical oncologists and three pathologists, specializing in breast cancer diagnosis and management. Assuming that all patients were in good general health and would receive endocrine therapy, participants were asked whether they would also advovate adjuvant chemotherapy based on clinicopathologic data with and without knowledge of the RS, and to provide the three salient clinicopathologic features on which their recommendations were based. Changes in recommendations of participants following inclusion of RS data were compared.Results: Based on RS results, 95 (61.7%), 45 (29.2%) and 14 (9.1%) tumors were of low (RS &lt;18), intermediate (RS 18-30) and high (RS ≥31) risk, respectively. The results are summarized in Table 1. Assuming that the hypothesis previously put forward that patients with low to intermediate risk RS are not likely to benefit from chemotherapy, 82.3 ± 1.3% (75.5 - 89.0%) and 69.0 ± 6.9% (5.9 - 85.7%) of patients for whom chemotherapy was recommended by the participants would be "overtreated" without and with the use of RS results (p = 0.0322). No statistically significant difference was found among surgeons, medical oncologists and pathologists. Participants ranked patient age/menopausal status, hormone receptor status and tumor stage/nodal status to be the most important features when recommending chemotherapy.Conclusions: Although current recommendations for adjuvant chemotherapy for early stage ER positive breast cancer patients are largely in line with published guidelines, inclusion of RS alters recommendations in about 25% of cases. While medical oncologists recommended chemotherapy more frequently compared to surgeons and pathologists, they were more likely to change recommendations in light of RS results.Table 1. Summary of results SurgeonsMedical oncologistsPathologistsp* Mean ± SEMRangeMean ± SEMRangeMean ± SEMRange Chemo without RS (%)29.2 ± 1.824.0 - 31.859.0 ± 5.046.8 - 70.846.8 ± 3.741.6 - 53.90.0156Chemo with RS (%)27.0 ± 5.611.0 - 36.438.6 ± 9.517.5 - 63.644.4 ± 5.833.8 - 53.90.1794No change (%)75.3 ± 7.054.5 - 85.766.7 ± 6.851.3 - 83.885.9 ± 6.478.6 - 98.70.3682Add chemo (%)11.2 ± 4.13.2 - 22.76.5 ± 1.93.2 - 11.75.8 ± 3.20.6 - 11.70.6882Avoid chemo (%)13.5 ± 3.94.5 - 22.726.8 ± 7.94.5 - 41.68.2 ± 4.50.6 - 16.20.2186*Kruskal-Wallis test

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(24 Suppl):Abstract nr 4058.

Medical Oncology Breast Cancer Quality Indicators: Adherence by the Florida Initiative for Quality Cancer Care (FIQCC) Consortium

Background: The Florida Initiative for Quality Cancer Care (FIQCC) is comprised of 11 practice sites across the state that participate in a comprehensive review of quality of care specific to cancer patients across many disease sites. Quality indicators were scripted based on accepted QOPI, NCCN, ACOS, and site-specific PI panel consensus indicators for breast cancer (BRCA) patients. An evaluation was performed to assess adherence to the performance indicators across sites within the FIQCC.Methods: Comprehensive chart reviews were conducted for all patients with BRCA first seen in 2006 by a medical oncologist at one of the 11 FIQCC sites (3 academic/8 community). Quality measures included: 1) documentation of menopausal status; 2) documentation of receptor status in the chart and evidence that it guided treatment recommendations accordingly; 3) documentation that consent for chemotherapy was obtained; 4) documentation of the planned chemotherapy regimen; and 5) documentation that chemotherapy started within 8 weeks of surgery. A pilot measure included: 6) documentation of fertility preservation being addressed in pre-menopausal women. Pearson's Chi-square test was used to test variability on the quality measurements across practice sites.Results: Charts of 622 patients (99% female), median age of 60 years (range 22-95) were reviewed. Menopausal status was documented in 49% (307/622). Documentation of the receptor status (ER/PR/ Her2Neu) was excellent, 99% (532/537). For those with ER/PR positive, non-metastatic disease measuring at least 1cm, 98% (432/441) were considered for an aromatase inhibitor or tamoxifen within one year of diagnosis. For patients with Stage II-III BRCA with over-expression of Her2Neu (H2N), consideration or administration of trastuzumab was documented in 82% (95/116). With respect to chemotherapy, there was documentation of consent in 75% (247/330), planned chemotherapy regimen in 75% (226/302), and initiation of chemotherapy with 8 weeks of surgery in 84% (233/279). Fertility preservation was only addressed in 11% (10/88) of patients who were documented as pre-menopausal. A statistically significant difference (p&lt; 0.05) across the sites was found for all quality indicators above, except two: documentation of consideration or administration of trastuzumab and discussions of fertility preservation.Discussion: The FIQCC allows for the identification of the need for quality improvements in multiple aspects of breast cancer care. Findings based on 2006 cases identified need for improvements in documentation and consenting for chemotherapy, reporting of menopausal status, consideration and administration of trastuzumab, and consideration of fertility counseling. These findings are now being used at the participating institutions to guide quality improvement efforts.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(24 Suppl):Abstract nr 1078.

Neoadjuvant Intratumoral Injection of Dendritic Cells in Breast Cancer

Backround: Autologous intratumoral dendritic cell injections were used to modulate the tumor reduction effects of standard neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Dendritic cells are important in the regulation of T cell immunity and have been shown to have activity in cancer patients. The neoadjuavant combination therapy was designed to expose dendritic cells to tumor cell apoptosis leading to induction of tumor antigen-specific responses.Methods: Seventeen women with stage II or III breast cancer with breast tumors at least 3 cm in size and had a confirmed initial breast biopsy were entered into this trial from August 2007 through 2009. All patients participating in the clinical trial had tumors that expressed either carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) or survivin and were HER2-neu negative. They received 4 cycles of paclitaxel at 175 mg/m2 followed by 4 cycles of doxorubicin 60 mg/m2 and cyclophosphamide 600 mg/m2 (AC) in a bi-weekly dose dense fashion. Pegfilgrastim 6 mg subcutaneous injection was administered 24 hours after each cycle of chemotherapy. Autologous intratumoral dendritic cell injections were administered one week following the first three paclitaxel treatments. All patients consented to a pre-treatment biopsy and a second tumor biopsy after 4 cycles of paclitaxel to evaluate responses to the intratumoral dendritic cell injections. The endpoints of this trial included assessment of clinical and pathologic response in the breast, safety of the intratumoral dendritic cell injection, evaluation of tumor response, and induction of T cell responses to tumor antigens.Results: Fourteen patients are evaluable for response. The median age was 51.5, the median tumor size was 5.6 cm, and 64 % were estrogen receptor positive. A complete clinical response was observed in 57%, a partial response in 36%, and one stable disease response. A pathologic complete response with no evidence of tumor in the breast was confirmed in 2 patients (14 %). Treatment was well tolerated with no incidence of toxicity observed related to the intratumoral dendritic cell injections. Grade 3/4 hematologic toxicity was as expected for the chemotherapy. Other grade 3/4 toxicity related to the chemotherapy included fatigue, hand-foot, infection, mucositis, and hypocalcemia.Discussion: Combination neoadjuvant therapy with dose-dense paclitaxel followed by AC and autologous intratumoral dendritic cell injections administered between the first three cycles of paclitaxel is safe with no toxicity observed related to the intratumoral dendritic cell injections. Immune response to the treatment is being evaluated by proliferation and interferon-gamma production by peripheral blood mononuclear cells in response to tumor cell lysates, survivin, and CEA. Initial evaluation indicates that treatment resulted in generation of tumor specific responses in more than half of all treated patients.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(24 Suppl):Abstract nr 4128.

Surgical/Pathologic Breast Cancer Indicators: Adherence by the Florida Initiative for Quality Cancer Care (FIQCC) Consortium

Background: The FIQCC is comprised of 11 practice sites across the state that participate in a comprehensive review of quality of care specific to cancer patients across many disease sites. Quality indicators were scripted based on the accepted QOPI, NCCN, ACOS, and site-specific PI panel consensus indicators for breast cancer patients. An evaluation was done to assess adherence to performance indicators among the sites.Methods: Comprehensive chart reviews were conducted for all patients with breast cancer first seen in 2006 by a medical oncologist at one of the 11 FIQCC sites (3 academic/8 community). Quality measures included: 1) presence and completeness of the pathology report (tumor size, grade, specimen orientation, margins inked, margin status, receptor status); 2) documentation of surgery type (breast conserving vs. mastectomy); 3) documentation of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) and if SLNB positive for metastatic disease documentation of a complete axillary node dissection; 4) mammogram usage post surgery; and 5) referral to radiation. Statistical comparisons were performed using chi-square test.Results: Charts of 622 patients (99% female) with a median age of 60 years (range 22-95) were reviewed. With respect to pathologic reporting, there was strong compliance (&gt;90%) for documentation of a pathology report, AJCC or TMN staging, tumor size and grade, status of margins, and receptor status. However, only 370 of 537 (69%) reports documented that the specimen was oriented and 474 of 537 (88%) stated the margins were inked. Breast conserving surgery was performed in 294 of 539 patients (55%). In clinical N0 patients, SLNB was performed in 447 of 543 (82%). Of the patients with a metastatic SLNB, 123 of 156 (79%) went on to have a complete axillary node dissection. Compliance was highly variable with obtaining a mammogram within 14 months of surgery (77%; range 26-98%). However, referral to radiation within 1 year was highly consistent (97%; range 80-100%). Significant variances across practice sites were noted for the reporting of margin orientation (p&lt;0.001), inking of the margins (p&lt;0.001), performance of SLNB (p&lt;0.001), and obtaining a mammogram within 14 months of surgery (p&lt;0.001).Discussion: The FIQCC allows for identification of the need for quality improvement in multiple aspects of breast cancer care. Findings based on 2006 cases identified a need for improvements in margin orientation and inking, use of SLNB and obtaining mammograms in follow-up after breast conserving surgery. These findings are now being used at the participating sites to guide quality improvement efforts.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(24 Suppl):Abstract nr 1079.

Male breast cancer: follow-up recommendations after surgery

Abstract #4130

Introduction: National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines for female breast cancer treatment and surveillance are well established, but data on male breast cancers are not collected. As an NCCN institution, our objective was to examine practice patterns and follow-up for male breast cancer.&#x2028; Methods: After IRB approval, a prospective breast database from 1990-2008 was queried for male patients. Medical records were examined for traditional factors (TNM, receptor status, treatment, gynecomastia) and follow-up practices such as mammogram use. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method with 95% confidence intervals (CI) generated for 5-yr estimates. The logrank test was used to compare node positive/negative cohorts.&#x2028; Results: Of the 19,132 patients in the database, 71 (0.4%) were male; 64 had complete data. The median age for the 64 patients was 68.8yrs (range 29-85yrs). 89.1% presented with a palpable mass. 12.5% had gynecomastia in the cancer breast and 9.4% had contralateral gynecomastia. 18/64 (28.1%) had a familial history of breast, ovarian or colon cancer. One patient had bilateral synchronous breast cancer. Seven (10.9%) had previous prostate cancer and 4 (6.25%) had other synchronous cancers (2 papillary thyroid, 2 lung). Genetic testing was offered to all 64; 3 accepted. Two men had contralateral prophylactic mastectomy years later. The mean/median invasive tumor size was 2.0/1.6cm (range 0.0-10.0cm) and all but 2 tumors were ductal. 63 had a mastectomy (65.1% with axillary node dissection; 34.9% with sentinel lymph node biopsy). Lymph node involvement occurred in 25/64 (39.1%). Under NCCN guidelines, 49/64 (76.6%) should receive chemotherapy and chest wall radiation should be given to 27/64 (42.2%) based on tumor size and nodal status. Chemotherapy was offered to 50.0%; 35.9% received chemotherapy. Chest wall radiation was given in 59.3%. 63/64 were ER positive; 49 (77.8%) received hormone therapy. Follow-up annual mammograms were obtained in 27/64 (42.2%)[all BIRADs 1 or 2], not obtained in 28/64 (43.8%), and unknown in 9/64 (14.0%). Median follow-up was 26.1mos (range: 0.26-377.8mos). The 5-yr survival estimates and 95% CI for node positive and negative diseases were 75% (95% CI=46-90%) and 93% (95% CI=74-98%) respectively. For comparison, 5-yr survival rates from the NSABP B-04 trial were 60% in node-positive and 75% in node-negative disease. Four patients (6.3%) died of disease; 10 (15.6%) are alive with distant disease; 47 (73.4%) have no evidence of disease; and 3 (4.7%) are unknown or dead of other causes. There were 2 local recurrences (3.1%) [1 chest wall, 1 in-breast] and no metachronous contralateral breast cancer development. Conclusions: Male breast cancer is uncommon, as is contralateral breast cancer. Men were less likely to receive/accept chemotherapy/hormone therapy/genetic testing/annual mammograms and more likely to receive radiation based on NCCN guidelines, but survival compared to historic females was no worse. Creation of follow-up guidelines for males may be different than females.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(2 Suppl):Abstract nr 4130.

Negative cell cycle regulator 14-3-3sigma stabilizes p27 Kip1 by inhibiting the activity of PKB/Akt

The 14-3-3sigma (sigma) protein is a human cancer marker downregulated in various tumors, but its function has not been fully established. 14-3-3sigma is a negative regulator of cell cycle when overexpressed, but it is not clear whether 14-3-3sigma regulates cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27(Kip1) to negatively affect cell cycle progression. Protein kinase B/Akt is a crucial regulator of oncogenic signal and can phosphorylate p27(Kip1) to enhance p27(Kip1)degradation, thereby promoting cell growth. Here, we show that 14-3-3sigma-mediated cell cycle arrest concurred with p27(Kip1) upregulation and Akt inactivation. We show that 14-3-3sigma blocks Akt-mediated acceleration of p27(Kip1) turnover rate. 14-3-3sigma inhibits Akt-mediated p27(Kip1) phosphorylation that targets p27(Kip1) for nuclear export and degradation. 14-3-3sigma inhibits cell survival and tumorigenicity of Akt-activating breast cancer cell. Low expression of 14-3-3sigma in human primary breast cancers correlates with cytoplasmic location of p27(Kip1). These data provide an insight into 14-3-3sigma activity and rational cancer gene therapy by identifying 14-3-3sigma as a positive regulator of p27 and as a potential anticancer agent.

A treatment algorithm for pneumothoraces complicating central venous catheter insertion

BACKGROUND

We investigated the role of observation or insertion of a small French pigtail catheter with Heimlich valve as alternative management to a tube thoracostomy for iatrogenic pneumothorax complicating central venous catheter (CVC) insertion.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 9,637 consecutive patients who had had subclavian CVCs inserted on an outpatient basis identified 100 patients with pneumothoraces. Treatment consisted of (1) observation, (2) outpatient insertion of a Heimlich valve, or (3) inpatient tube thoracostomy.

RESULTS

The median pneumothorax size was 10% (range 1% to 100%). Fifty-eight patients had observation as initial treatment, and this strategy was successful in 35 (60%). Thirty-four patients were treated initially with Heimlich valves, and this strategy was successful in 29 (85%). Tube thoracostomy as initial therapy was successful in 7 (88%) of 8 patients. Patients in who initial treatment failed were treated with insertion of a Heimlich valve or tube thoracostomy.

CONCLUSION

In appropriately selected patients, pneumothorax after insertion of a subclavian CVC can be successfully managed in the outpatient setting with observation. Patients in whom observation fails can be treated with insertion of a Heimlich valve. Tube thoracostomy can be reserved for refractory PTX or emergent situations.

Association of the cyclin-dependent kinases and 14-3-3 sigma negatively regulates cell cycle progression

14-3-3 sigma, implicated in cell cycle arrest by p53, was cloned by expression cloning through cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) association. 14-3-3 sigma shares cyclin-CDK2 binding motifs with different cell cycle regulators, including p107, p130, p21(CIP1), p27(KIP1), and p57(KIP2), and is associated with cyclin.CDK complexes in vitro and in vivo. Overexpression of 14-3-3 sigma obstructs cell cycle entry by inhibiting cyclin-CDK activity in many breast cancer cell lines. Overexpression of 14-3-3 sigma can also inhibit cell proliferation and prevent anchorage-independent growth of these cell lines. These findings define 14-3-3 sigma as a negative regulator of the cell cycle progression and suggest that it has an important function in preventing breast tumor cell growth.

The incidence of occult nipple-areola complex involvement in breast cancer patients receiving a skin-sparing mastectomy

BACKGROUND

Surgical treatment of breast cancer traditionally has included resection of the nipple-areola complex (NAC), in the belief that this area had a significant probability of containing occult tumors. The purpose of this study was to investigate the true incidence of NAC involvement in patients who underwent a skin-sparing mastectomy (SSM) and to determine associated risk factors.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted of 326 patients who had a SSM at our institution from 1990 to 1993. NAC involvement was reviewed in 286 mastectomy specimens. The charts were analyzed for tumor size, site, histology, grade, nodal status, recurrence, survival, and NAC involvement.

RESULTS

Occult tumor involvement in the NAC was found in 5.6% of mastectomy specimens (16 patients). Four patients would have had NAC involvement identified on frozen section if they had been undergoing a skin-sparing mastectomy with preservation of the NAC. There were no significant differences between NAC-positive (NAC+) and NAC-negative (NAC-) patients in median tumor size, nuclear grade, histologic subtype of the primary tumor, or receptor status. There were significant differences in location of the primary tumor (subareolar or multicentric vs. peripheral) and positive axillary lymph node status. NAC involvement was not a marker for increased recurrence or decreased survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Occult NAC involvement occurred in only a small percentage of patients undergoing skin-sparing mastectomies. NAC preservation would be appropriate in axillary node-negative patients with small, solitary tumors located on the periphery of the breast.

Special considerations in breast cancer risk and survival

Experimental and clinical evidence suggests that breast neoplasia appears to be a hormone-dependent process that may also be influenced by dietary factors in many women. Conflicting reports on the relationship between exogenous hormones and the development, progression, and recurrence of breast cancer are critically examined in this report. The absolute breast cancer risk associated with either hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptive use has not been clearly defined. Data from some large prospective studies have actually documented lower mortality rates for women taking hormone replacement compared with those for women who did not have hormone replacement therapy. In this regard, age, duration of use, and preexisting breast cancer risk factors must be taken into account. Although the results of two major prospective clinical trials addressing the role of timing of surgery within the menstrual cycle are forthcoming, the majority of studies have found no consistent association between timing of surgery and breast cancer survival. Recently reported prospective randomized data showing that selective-estrogen-receptor-modulators can act as effective chemoprevention agents in women at increased risk for breast cancer development are presented. Finally, information regarding the effect of dietary manipulation on breast cancer risk and survival is reviewed.