Clinical Value of Timely Targeted Therapy for Patients With Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer With Actionable Driver Oncogenes

BACKGROUND

A recent real-world study observed that 24% of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (aNSCLC) with actionable driver oncogenes (ADOs) initiated nontargeted therapies before biomarker test results became available. This study assessed the clinical impact of the timing of first-line (1L) targeted therapies (TTs) in aNSCLC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective analysis of a nationwide electronic health record-derived deidentified database included patients aged ≥18 years diagnosed with aNSCLC with ADOs (ALK, BRAF, EGFR, RET, MET, ROS-1, and NTRK) from January 1, 2015, to October 18, 2022, by biomarker testing within 90 days after advanced diagnosis and received 1L treatment. Cohorts were defined by treatment patterns ≤42 days after test results: "Upfront TT" received 1L TT ≤42 days; "Switchers" initiated 1L non-TT before or after testing but switched to TT ≤42 days; and "Non-switchers" initiated non-TT before or after testing and did not switch at any time. Adjusted multivariate Cox regression evaluated real-world progression-free survival, real-world time to next treatment or death, and real-world overall survival.

RESULTS

A total of 3540 patients met the study criteria; 78% were treated in a community setting, and 50% underwent next-generation sequencing (NGS). There was no significant difference in outcomes between Switchers and Upfront TT; inferior outcomes were observed in Non-switchers versus Upfront TT.

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrated improved outcomes with upfront 1L TT versus non-TT in patients with aNSCLC with ADOs and observed timely switching to TT after biomarker test result had similar outcomes to Upfront TT. Opportunities remain to improve the use of NGS for early ADO identification and determination of 1L TT.

Young Woman with Unexplained Neutropenia and Neutrophils with Bilobed Nuclei: Marrow Findings

A 27-year-old female with a history of chronic sinusitis was referred for the evaluation of asymptomatic neutropenia. The differential demonstrated a mild neutropenia, which eventually resolved on subsequent evaluation. The liver and the spleen were not palpable. Peripheral flow cytometry was normal. Peripheral blood smear (PBS) demonstrated numerous Pelger-Huet anomalous neutrophils with characteristic "pince-nez" nuclei, without significant abnormalities in the other cell lines. Due to the benign clinical nature of hereditary PHA, a bone marrow biopsy is almost never required. However, our patient's persistent and worsening neutropenia was unusual for hereditary PHA, so a bone marrow biopsy was performed to rule out MDS and leukemia. Our patient's bone marrow smears showed dysplastic changes to other cell lines including the megakaryocytes and erythroid precursors. Due to our patient's young age and concern that she may have a more serious marrow disorder, genetic testing was pursued. Germline testing in the LBR gene revealed a heterozygous pathogenic mutation, namely, the PR57837.17 variant, confirming the diagnosis of hereditary disease. The bone marrow biopsy performed on our patient illustrates that the presence of dysplasia does not rule out hereditary PHA and further genetic testing should be done in the appropriate clinical scenario. This case was an atypical presentation of hereditary PHA with confounding morphological features that would typically classify the disease as an acquired or pseudo-PHA, hence acting as a Pseudo-Pseudo-Pelger-Huet Anomaly.

Improving biomarker testing in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer and metastatic colorectal cancer: experience from a large community oncology network in the USA

Aim: Biomarker testing detects actionable driver mutations to inform first-line treatment in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (aNSCLC) and metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). This study evaluated biomarker testing in a nationwide database (NAT) versus the OneOncology (OneOnc) community network. Patients & methods: Patients with aNSCLC or mCRC with ≥1 biomarker test in a de-identified electronic health record-derived database were evaluated. OneOnc oncologists were surveyed. Results: Biomarker testing rates were high and comparable between OneOnc and NAT; next-generation sequencing (NGS) rates were higher at OneOnc. Patients with NGS versus other biomarker testing were more likely to receive targeted treatment. Operational challenges and insufficient tissue were barriers to NGS testing. Conclusion: Community cancer centers delivered personalized healthcare through biomarker testing.

A randomized phase II study of SM-88 plus methoxsalen, phenytoin, and sirolimus in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer treated in the second line and beyond

BACKGROUND

This trial explores SM-88 used with methoxsalen, phenytoin, and sirolimus (MPS) in pretreated metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (mPDAC) METHODS: Forty-nine patients were randomized to daily 460 or 920 mg oral SM-88 with MPS (SM-88 Regimen). The primary endpoint was objective response rate (RECIST 1.1).

RESULTS

Thirty-seven patients completed ≥ one cycle of SM-88 Regimen (response evaluable population). Disease control rate (DCR), overall survival (OS), and progression-free survival (PFS) did not differ significantly between dose levels. Stable disease was achieved in 9/37 patients (DCR, 24.3%); there were no complete or partial responses. Quality-of-life (QOL) was maintained and trended in favor of 920 mg. SM-88 Regimen was well tolerated; a single patient (1/49) had related grade 3 and 4 adverse events, which later resolved. In the intention-to-treat population of 49 patients, the median overall survival (mOS) was 3.4 months (95% CI: 2.7-4.9 months). Those treated in the second line had an mOS of 8.1 months and a median PFS of 3.8 months. Survival was higher for patients with stable versus progressive disease (any line; mOS: 10.6 months vs. 3.9 months; p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

SM-88 Regimen has a favorable safety profile with encouraging QOL effects, disease control, and survival trends. This regimen should be explored in the second-line treatment of patients with mPDAC.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov Identifier: NCT03512756.

Abstract 2267: Biomarker testing and treatment (tx) patterns in a large community oncology network

Introduction: Biomarker testing identifies actionable mutations to inform targeted tx for personalized healthcare. This study examined biomarker testing and tx patterns ≤ 90 days (d) after advanced (adv) or metastatic (met) diagnosis (Dx) at the OneOncology (OneOnc) network.

Methods: A retrospective observational study using the nationwide Flatiron Health electronic health record-derived de-identified database from selected OneOnc practices included patients (pts) ≥ 18 y, who had Dx between 1/1/18 - 4/30/21 with adv non-small cell lung cancer (aNSCLC), met breast cancer (mBC), met colorectal cancer (mCRC) or adv melanoma (aMel), with ≥ 1 visit ≤ 90 d after adv or met Dx, and who had ≥ 90 d follow-up. Descriptive analyses were conducted.

Results: Of the pts who met the inclusion criteria, 91% of 2,391 aNSCLC, 100% of 1,043 mBC, 92% of 1,344 mCRC and 84% of 358 aMel had ≥ 1 biomarker test at any time, where 78% aNSCLC, 82% mBC, 70% mCRC and 67% aMel were tested ≤ 90 d after adv or met Dx. Testing rates varied by biomarker (Table). Across indications, ≥ 70% commercial health insured vs. ≥ 50% Medicaid insured pts were tested. Commercial labs were used in 91% aNSCLC, 86% mBC, 80% mCRC and 93% aMel. Amongst treated pts, 14% of 1,693 aNSCLC, 2% of 725 mBC, 22% of 881 mCRC and 25% of 169 aMel received tx before test results were available. NGS was tested in 69% aNSCLC, 29% mBC, 70% mCRC, and 57% aMel. The median turnaround time (TAT) from adv or met Dx to 1st test result from NGS vs other biomarker tests was 26 vs 13 d in aNSCLC, 14 vs 5 d in mBC, 35 vs 10 d in mCRC and 44 vs 21 d in aMel.

Conclusions: The majority of testing occurred ≤ 90 d after adv or met Dx, while 18% - 33% of pts were not tested. The varying testing rates across indications reflect the intended use of biomarker tests to guide 1st line therapies. More than 75% pts treated after testing result available signal community oncologist recognizing the importance of biomarker testing in guiding tx decisions. Improvements in TAT for NGS may reduce the issue of tx decisions made prior to test results.

Table. Biomarker testing rate by indication amongst pts tested ≤ 90 d after adv or met Dx aNSCLCn=1,858 mBCn=859 mCRCn=936 aMeln=239 EGFR 89% ALK 87% BRAF 81% 80% 98% KRAS 67% 82% ROS1 86% PD-L1 85% 18% 27% ER 93% PR 93% HER2 92% BRCA 20% PIK3CA 28% MMR/MSI 93% NRAS 77% 49% KIT 50% ER, estrogen receptor; MMR, mismatch repair; MSI, microsatellite instability; PR, progesterone receptor.

Citation Format: Esprit Ma, Elaine Yu, Tania Szado, Richard Price, Craig S. Meyer, Anuj Shah, Baiyu Yang, Daniel Vaena, Davey Daniel, Dennis Slater, Harry Staszewski, Bruno Fang, Lasika Seneviratne, Lee Schwartzberg. Biomarker testing and treatment (tx) patterns in a large community oncology network [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2022; 2022 Apr 8-13. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2022;82(12_Suppl):Abstract nr 2267.

Evolution of biomarker testing in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (aNSCLC) and metastatic breast cancer (mBC) in U.S. community practices

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Background: Biomarker testing has advanced from single-gene to NGS. This study examined aNSCLC and mBC biomarker testing ≤ 90d of advanced (adv) or metastatic (met) diagnosis (Dx) and treatment (tx) patterns at US practices. Methods: A retrospective observational study used Flatiron Health electronic health-record-derived de-identified database at OneOncology (OO) community and non-OO Flatiron Health nationwide (NAT) sites (̃90% community, ̃10% academic). Patients (Pts) ≥ 18y, with Dx of aNSCLC or mBC from 1/1/18 - 4/30/21, with ≥ 1 visit ≤ 90d after adv/met Dx and ≥ 90d follow-up were evaluated. Descriptive analyses and logistic regression were used. Results: A total of 16,882 pts with aNSCLC (2366 OO; 14,516 NAT), and 6500 pts with mBC (1026 OO; 5474 NAT) were included. Overall testing was high and stable (OO: 85% aNSCLC, 98% mBC; NAT: 84%, 97%) with higher NGS testing at OO (58% aNSCLC; 28% mBC) vs NAT (49%; 16%) (Table), which reflected more pts with aNSCLC tested for all 6 mutations (ALK, BRAF, KRAS, ROS-1, EGFR, PD-L1; 54% OO vs 50% NAT, p<0.001) and more pts with mBC tested for PIK3CA (27% OO vs 16% NAT, p<0.001). In aNSCLC, NGS testing increased similarly for OO and NAT over time (p>0.05); mBC NGS testing increased faster at NAT vs OO (p<0.05). Of pts tested and treated, 16% aNSCLC (1945 OO; 11,376 NAT) and < 3% mBC (14 OO; 108 NAT) received tx before test results were available. For pts with aNSCLC with ≥ 1 actionable mutation (ALK, BRAF, ROS-1, EGFR), 18% OO and 22% NAT had tx before test results. Cancer immunotherapy plus chemotherapy was the most common tx (36 % OO vs 40 % NAT); after test results, 33% vs 56% OO and 45% vs 44% NAT pts stayed on tx vs switched to targeted tx. For pts with aNSCLC with ≥ 1 aforementioned actionable mutations who waited until test results were available, 65% received targeted tx at OO and NAT. Conclusions: Biomarker testing has become standard of care in aNSCLC and mBC in US community settings. NGS rates increased over time and were higher at OO vs NAT. Differences in pts treated before test results reflects the need to wait for NGS results to inform initial tx in aNSCLC vs non-NGS results for mBC. This study shows NGS testing in US community practices has increased since 2018, particularly in mBC, but opportunities remain to optimize NGS results into tx decisions.[Table: see text]

The adoption of relugolix for treatment of prostate cancer (PCa) in a large community medical oncology practice

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Background: Relugolix was approved by the FDA in late 2020 as an oral gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor antagonist for the treatment of adults with advanced PCa. The approval was based on a large randomized trial (Shore et al NEJM) of patients with evidence of biochemical or clinical relapse after local primary intervention with curative intent (50%), newly diagnosed mCSPCa (23%), and advanced localized disease not suitable for primary surgical intervention with curative intent (28%). Our study aims to observe the adoption of relugolix in a large community-based medical oncology practice with affiliated urologists. Methods: A retrospective study using our EMR identified 39 males with PCa for whom relugolix was initiated between January 2021 and December 2021. The charts were analyzed for demographics, indications for treatment, barriers encountered to initiation of treatment, duration of therapy, previous therapies, specialty, primary insurance, and cardiovascular history. Results: Thirty-nine (39) patients with either localized PCa (40%) or with metastases to lymph nodes or distant sites (51%) were recommended initiation of relugolix by either urology (26%) or oncology (74%). Of these, 77% actually started the medication. 9 patients did not start therapy, of which 3 were due to insurance denial, 1 due to death, 2 changed their mind, and 3 did not start for unclear reasons. Medicare covered 56% of the patients. Cardiovascular disease was notable in 87%. 28% switched from another ADT due to intolerance, 10% started relugolix due to progressive disease, and 33% started as initial ADT. 13% discontinued within 6 months. Of these, 1 completed planned therapy, 3 were intolerant, 1 was switched to alternate therapy due to progression, and 1 had complications due to COVID. In comparison, 689 patients initiated ADT with leuprolide over the same time. Conclusions: ADT using GnRH agonists or antagonists form the backbone of PCa treatment, typically given as injections. The HERO trial showed that relugolix, a newer oral therapy, is associated with lower rates of cardiovascular events compared to leuprolide. While having at least one cardiovascular risk factor is a consideration for patients to either start with or switch to relugolix, the large majority of our patients still received first-line therapy with leuprolide. This study demonstrates limitations to initiating relugolix including financial constraints (e.g., insurance coverage), patient preference, and medication intolerance.[Table: see text]

Oral SM-88 plus MPS, an effective yet less toxic treatment option in second-line advanced pancreatic cancer? Final phase II/III study results

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Background: Metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (mPDAC) has a poor prognosis in refractory patients (pts). SM-88 Regimen, which comprises oral SM-88 (racemetyrosine, TYME Inc) plus 10mg methoxsalen, 50mg phenytoin, and 0.5mg sirolimus (MPS), has previously shown clinical activity in mPDAC. Methods: We report on the final results (primary objective, ORR) of our multicenter, prospective open-label phase II/III RCT (TYME-88-Panc Part 1, NCT03512756) of SM-88 Regimen in pts with mPDAC who had received at least one prior line of therapy. Subjects received either 230 mg BID or 460 mg BID PO SM-88; oral MPS QD was given at the same dose in both arms. Results: The last subject was enrolled on Mar 12, 2019. As of Sep 1, 2021, 49 subjects were randomized to either 460 (n = 26) or 920mg (n = 23) SM-88 plus MPS daily (ITT population); 37 were deemed evaluable after completing at least one 28-day cycle of treatment (min 23 days on treatment). The study population was heterogeneous: a majority (32/37 = 86.5%) had failed at least 2 prior lines of chemotherapy. Twenty pts (54.1%) had received FOLFIRINOX in the first line and 16 pts (43.2%), a gemcitabine-based regimen. For evaluable pts, the overall disease control rate (DCR) was 27.0%: 10/37 subjects reached RECIST v1.1-verified stable disease (SD); 3 of the 10 had RECIST-confirmed SD. For the 49 ITT pts, mOS was 3.4 months (mo). For the 37 evaluable pts, mOS was 3.9 mo, and mPFS was 1.9 mo. mOS, mPFS, and DCR did not differ significantly by SM-88 dose. mOS and mPFS trended toward improvement in subjects with fewer prior lines of treatment: for pts in the second line (n = 5), mOS was 8.1 mo (95% CI: 3.0 – no UL), and mPFS was 3.8 mo (95% CI: 0.9 – no UL). Although not confirmatory, exploratory analyses showed that circulating tumor cells decreased on SM-88 Regimen. SM-88 Regimen was well tolerated: only one pt of the 48 ever dosed (2.1%) experienced related SAEs on treatment (Grade 3 abdominal pain, Grade 4 hypotension), which were eventually resolved. Enrollment criteria specified ECOG < = 2 at study entry; these scores were maintained or improved for most pts (24/37 = 64.9%) while on treatment. Overall health and quality of life (QOL) scores via EORTC QLQ-C30 were maintained, trending toward superiority for pts on 920 mg vs. 460 mg (p = ns). Conclusions: This final analysis confirmed that SM-88 Regimen was well tolerated, with pts attaining an overall DCR of 27%. Of note, for the small subset of pts treated in the second line, the mOS and mPFS were on par with results achieved in other published randomized PhIII second-line trials for mPDAC. Moreover, SM-88 Regimen exhibited far fewer Grade 3 and 4 AEs than other commonly used cytotoxic regimens in the second line. The 27% DCR, 8.1 mo mOS, and 3.8 mo mPFS in the second line, with minimal toxicity and preserved QOL, resulted in the active investigation of SM-88 Regimen in a large, ongoing second-line trial in mPDAC (NCT04229004). Clinical trial information: NCT03512756.

Biomarker testing patterns and actionability in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (aNSCLC) at OneOncology (OneOnc)

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Background: Recent approvals of targeted treatments (tx) have improved personalized care in aNSCLC. Biomarker testing is crucial for patients (pts) to receive optimal tx expeditiously. This study examined aNSCLC biomarker testing and tx patterns at OneOnc. Methods: Pts diagnosed with aNSCLC (stage ≥ IIIb) from 1/1/2015 to 5/31/2020, aged ≥ 18 years, and with ≥ 1 visit ≤ 90 days of advanced (Adv) diagnosis (Dx) were retrospectively evaluated using the nationwide Flatiron Health electronic health record derived de-identified database from selected OneOnc sites. Descriptive analyses were conducted to evaluate testing patterns for ALK, BRAF, EGFR, KRAS, PD-L1, and ROS-1 biomarkers and actionable mutation tx pattern. Results: Overall 3,860 aNSCLC pts were included, median age was 69 years, 47% females, 66% non-squamous, 29% squamous, 4% histology NOS, and 23% with ECOG performance status 0-1. Of the 3,152 (82%) pts tested for any biomarker, 64% received next-generation sequencing (NGS) vs. 36% received other biomarker tests only. Testing rates varied by biomarker: EGFR (74%), ALK (72%), ROS-1 (66%), PD-L1 (57%), BRAF (56%), KRAS (54%). Pts who received all 6 biomarker tests increased from 12% (2015), 23% (2016), 40% (2017), 41% (2018), 48% (2019) to 56% (2020). Among the tested pts, the median time from Adv Dx to the first test result was 20 days (d) and from specimen collection after Adv Dx to the first test result was 12 d. Pts tested and treated before test result available declined from 28% (2015) to 16% (2020). Of 1,207 pts with actionable mutations, 390 (32%) received tx before the test result: 35% chemotherapy (chemo) only, 28% chemo + cancer immunotherapy (CIT), and 15% CIT only. After the test result, 26% to 81% of pts received no or other tx not specific to actionable mutations [Table]. Conclusions: Findings from this study demonstrated an increase in aNSCLC biomarker testing at OneOnc over time, while 44% pts in 2020 did not receive testing on all 6 biomarkers. Some pts had tx prior to the test result, but this trend appeared to decline. Further studies are warranted to better understand the reasons for pts receiving tx that were not specific to their actionable mutations.[Table: see text]

NGS testing patterns in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (aNSCLC) and metastatic breast cancer (mBC): OneOncology (OO) sites compared to Flatiron Health Nationwide (NAT)

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Background: Personalized treatment (tx) decisions can be improved through diagnostic tests with NGS by detecting different actionable mutations. OO, a research-focused network of community practices, has a network-wide precision oncology initiative and has advocated for NGS testing in advanced cancers since 2019. This study evaluated NGS testing patterns in aNSCLC and mBC populations descriptively in OO community sites and Flatiron Health NAT. Methods: This study used the Flatiron Health EHR derived de-identified database from [1] four OO sites, and [2] NAT. Patients (pts) diagnosed (Dx) with aNSCLC (stage ≥ IIIb) or mBC from 1/1/2015 to 5/31/2020, aged ≥ 18 years, had ≥ 1 visit ≤ 90 days (d) of advanced or metastatic Dx, and had ≥ 1 biomarker test were included. NAT NGS was confirmed via abstraction from patient records. Descriptive analyses were conducted to assess NGS testing patterns and pts characteristics by tumor type. Results: Of biomarker tested pts at OO vs. NAT (community:academic: 90%:10% aNSCLC; 93%:7% mBC), 2,029 of 3,152 (64%) OO vs. 13,681 of 29,572 (46%) NAT in aNSCLC and 514 of 1,282 (40%) OO vs. 2,458 of 12,175 (20%) NAT in mBC received NGS ± other tests. Testing rate of all 5 aNSCLC biomarkers (ALK, BRAF, EGFR, ROS-1, and KRAS) was higher with NGS vs. other tests for OO (87% vs. 6%) and NAT (87% vs. 11%). In mBC, a higher testing rate of BRCA with NGS vs. other tests (OO: 68% vs. 26%, NAT: 71% vs. 28%) and similar testing rate on HER2 (OO: 98% vs. 98%, NAT: 100% vs. 99%). Median time from Dx to NGS test result at OO vs. NAT was 33 d vs. 32 d in aNSCLC and 70 d vs. 188 d in mBC. NGS testing rates increased over time, with higher rates at OO vs. NAT [Table]. Pts with NGS vs. other tests were slightly younger in aNSCLC (OO: 68 y vs. 70 y, p = 0.001; NAT: 69 y vs. 70 yr, p < 0.001) and mBC (OO: 61 y vs. 67 y, p < 0.001; NAT: 61 y vs. 66 y, p < 0.001), and slightly more commercially insured in aNSCLC (OO: 48% vs. 45%, p = 0.3; NAT: 37% vs. 33%, p < 0.001) and mBC (OO: 54% vs. 48% OO, p = 0.053; NAT: 42 % vs. 36 %, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The adoption of NGS differed by cancer type and NGS testing rates have increased over time in aNSCLC and mBC. While some pts may have received testing outside of the Flatiron network, OO had a higher NGS uptake than NAT, and had a shorter time to testing in mBC that was possibly related to a network wide strategy recommending testing at Dx of advanced disease. Future studies on tx pattern after NGS testing are warranted to improve the actionability of NGS to foster personalized tx. [Table: see text]

Utilization of liquid biopsy in a large community oncology practice

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Background: Analysis of tumor cell free DNA, or liquid biopsy, is emerging as a useful adjunct to tissue biopsies in advanced solid tumors. These tests may reduce the need for repeating invasive biopsies, and may be performed serially with minimal risk to patients.The purpose of our study is to document how liquid biopsies are being used in a large, diverse community based practice in Long Island, NY and how often the results lead to changes in treatment. The aim is to derive guidelines within the practice for appropriate use of liquid biopsies going forward. Methods: The practice electronic medical record (EMR) was retrospectively examined for the first 100 patients with solid tumors who had a specimen sent to a commercial laboratory for a liquid biopsy. The EMR was also reviewed to establish the treatment regimens each patient was receiving prior to the liquid biopsy, as well as any changes to the regimen based on liquid biopsy results. Results: This analysis was based on 100 patients: 11 out of 100 patients (11%) were excluded due to loss of follow up and 89 out of 100 (89%) patients were included, 59% female and 41% male. 11 out of 100 patients (11%) were not found to have any tumor alterations on liquid biopsy. The most prevalent cancers were lung (40.4%), ovarian (17.0%), breast (6.4%), colon (5.3%) and prostate (5.3%). Treatment was changed 43% of the time after liquid biopsy results were obtained and there was no change in 57% of the time see Table. This change was irrespective of type of cancer, gender, or types of current regimen. Conclusions: Liquid biopsy has proven to be a useful adjunct to molecular testing of tumor tissue in a large community oncology practice, but ongoing examination of our results should better define its optimal use. [Table: see text]

A single-center analysis of initial imaging in multiple myeloma (MM)

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Background: Current recommendations for the evaluation of MM include a skeletal survey (SS) and possibly an MRI. The literature documents a discrepancy in the detection of important skeletal lesions between these two techniques. There is limited data on the relationship between symptoms and spinal MRI findings. We analyzed the correlation of symptoms with an abnormal MRI in our patients. Methods: We analyzed 66 unselected,retrospectively identified patients with MM using lab values, ISS scores, the initial SS, and MRI. Skeletal symptoms, interval between studies, discordance between imaging by modality, and interventions were also tabulated. Risk ratios (RR) were calculated for the probability of radiologic abnormalities based on symptoms. Fischer's exact test was applied. Results: The baseline characteristics by age, gender, race, ISS score, and other lab values were similar between groups. 53% (35/66) of patients had an MRI at diagnosis. 51.4% (18/35) of these had different findings from the SS (95% CI, 35.6% - 67.0%). 30.8% (8/26) of patients with an MRI abnormality were asymptomatic or had symptoms in a different location than seen on MRI (95% CI, 16.3% - 50.1%). 15.4% (4/26) of these patients were asymptomatic at presentation (95% CI, 5.5% - 34.2%). (RR) for patients with any reported symptom and abnormal MRI finding is 2.6 (95% CI, 1.1 - 5.6, p< 0.01), while the RR for a symptom corresponding to its anatomic area on MRI is 1.3 (95%CI .8 - 2.1, p = 0.23). Conclusions: 30% of our patients with an abnormal MRI were asymptomatic or reported symptoms in a different area. The RR for an abnormal MRI result in patients with any symptom was significant, but the symptomatic area did not correlate with the anatomic MRI abnormality. This suggests that a significant amount of disease is missed because imaging may be confined to the symptomatic area and asymptomatic patients are less likely to have an MRI. Within this limited data set, there appears to be an advantage to performing routine initial MRI

Retrospective review of colorectal cancer specimens in individuals younger than age 50 for microsatellite instability testing and DNA mismatch repair enzyme expression

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Background: Data from studies performed at tertiary referral centers suggest that the yield of patients with the underlying defect in hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer (HNPCC) could be improved by screening every colon cancer for the phenotypic expression of the MMR defect by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and/or an assay for microsatellite instability (MSI). We propose to determine the incidence of microsatellite unstable colon cancers and the incidence of absence of expression of DNA MMR enzymes in de-identified colorectal cancer specimens from patients under the age of 50 who have presented to Winthrop University Hospital over the past ten years. This incidence will be compared with those suggested by recent large retrospective studies in tertiary care centers.

Methods: Immunoperoxidase staining for MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 and PMS2 were performed on formalin-fixed tissue. MSI assays were performed on microdissected DNA from paraffin-embedded tissue blocks. All cases were tested with five mononucleotide repeat markers (BAT-25, BAT-26, NR-21, NR-24 and MONO-27) and two pentanucleotide repeat markers (Penta C and Penta D). Tumor samples in which two or more altered monoclonal repeat markers were found out of five were classified as MSI-H.

Results: Screening for expression of DNA mismatch repair enzymes and MSI in an enriched selected (by age <50) population of colorectal cancer patients resulted in detection of 7/51 (14%) specimens that were MSI-H and 7/61 (12%) that were “positive” for lack of expression of at least one DNA mismatch repair enzyme.

Conclusions: Our results are similar to those reported in the literature in unselected series of patients with colorectal cancer. IHC staining or MSI analysis alone may be insufficient in selecting those colorectal cancer patients that should be referred for genetic testing for HNPCC. However, screening of an unselected population with both these modalities should have a low but clinically significant yield. Since other research have shown that traditional criteria such as the Bethesda guidelines are inadequate, we support the use of both measures prospectively in all colorectal cancer patients.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Prognostic factors and jaw and renal complications among multiple myeloma patients treated with zoledronic acid

Few studies have evaluated prognostic factors among patients with multiple myeloma (MM) since new therapies have become available. Monthly zoledronic acid (ZOL) has been incorporated into many treatment regimens to reduce skeletal-related events (SREs), but outcomes among patients receiving this bisphosphonate have not been well-defined. The aim of this retrospective study was to determine baseline and on-treatment prognostic factors in these patients. Data were collected from the date of diagnosis on 300 consecutive MM patients treated with ZOL. Median duration of ZOL was 18 months (range 1-121 months). The skeletal morbidity rate was 0.116 events per patient year. Five-year overall survival (OS) was 69%. Risk factors for shortened OS included SREs, increased serum creatinine, and International Staging System (ISS) Stage II or III. Thirty-four (11%) patients showed worsening renal function. In 28 of these patients, ZOL was discontinued and restarted in half of these patients following a brief delay. Only 5 of the 34 patients showed worsening of their renal function. Fourteen patients (4.7%) developed osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). All patients with ONJ are in remission or with stable disease except one patient who died of a myocardial infarction while in remission. Only two patients showed some worsening of ONJ despite of ongoing monthly ZOL. Overall, these results suggest that skeletal complications are an important prognostic factor for MM. Although ONJ and renal deterioration may infrequently occur with ZOL, most patients do not experience worsening of these conditions with ongoing treatment with this bisphosphonate.

Factors that determine survival among patients with multiple myeloma (MM) treated with zoledronic acid (ZOL)

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Background: Although the overall survival of MM patients has improved with new treatment options, few studies have evaluated prognostic factors since these new therapies have become available. Monthly ZOL has been incorporated into many of these regimens to reduce skeletal complications. Side effects from ZOL have been reported but their frequency and outcomes have not been well-defined. This retrospective study aimed to identify key baseline and on-treatment prognostic factors among MM patients treated with ZOL. Methods: Three hundred patient charts were consecutively reviewed. Data was collected from the date of MM diagnosis to the date of chart review. Patient chart inclusion criteria required a diagnosis of MM and having received at least one dose of ZOL. Results: The median survival of among patients in this study was 131 months. Significant early risk factors for overall survival included skeletal-related events (SRE), increased serum creatinine, elevated serum calcium, and ISS Stage II or III at diagnosis. Fourteen patients (4.7%) developed osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) after 9–96 months of ZOL treatment. Notably, there was a trend toward an increased risk of ONJ among diabetic patients. Thirteen patients with ONJ remain alive and currently are in remission or with stable disease. One patient with ONJ died while in remission from a myocardial infarction. Among the patients with a follow up of 4–49 months from the diagnosis of ONJ, 2 showed some worsening of this complication, 5 remained stable, while 7 improved or resolved. Patients with ONJ showed an improved overall survival using both landmark and time-dependent analysis. In addition, the overall skeletal morbidity rate (SMR; SREs/year) was 0.16. Notably, patients who developed ONJ had a lower SMR than among patients who did not develop ONJ. Conclusions: These results suggest that skeletal complications are an important prognostic factor for MM. Although ONJ occurs in MM patients, most patients show improvement with proper management and this complication appears to be associated with a reduced risk of SREs and improved overall survival.

[Table: see text]

Metastatic adenocarcinoma of the colon and follicular lymphoma within the same lymph node: a case report and review of the literature

Concomitant adenocarcinoma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, both located in the intestinal tract, are unusual. We report a unique case of moderately differentiated of the cecum and a simultaneous follicular lymphoma, Grade 1, of the terminal ileum and regional lymph nodes in a 55-yr-old man. One lymph node was involved by both adenocarcinoma and follicular lymphoma. To our knowledge, this is the fifteenth reported case of concurrent adenocarcinoma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the intestine, but this is the first case with involvement of follicular lymphoma and adenocarcinoma within the same lymph node.

Is pylorospasm a cause of delayed gastric emptying after pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy?

BACKGROUND

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) occurs in 14% to 61% of patients after pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy, but its pathogenesis is unclear. We hypothesized that DGE may be due to pylorospasm secondary to vagal injuries at operation and may be preventable by the addition of pyloromyotomy.

METHODS

Patients operated on consecutively between April 2000 and August 2003 were studied. Pyloromyotomy was of the Fredet-Ramstedt type combined with antroplasty. DGE-free recovery was defined as tolerance of a diet for three successive days by postoperative day 8. The symptom of nausea was used as a basis for nasogastric tube removal and diet resumption. A gastric emptying test (GET) with solid food was obtained. Patients with difficulty swallowing were fed via a feeding tube.

RESULTS

There were 47 patients. Two patients were excluded because of death (n = 1) and ileus with pancreatic fistula (n = 1). Diagnoses were pancreatic cancer (n = 23), chronic pancreatitis (n = 11), ampullary cancer (n = 5), mucinous cystic neoplasm (n = 5), and duodenal villous adenoma (n = 3). Median times to nasogastric tube removal, start of liquid diet, and start of solid diet were postoperative days 2, 3, and 5, respectively. Two patients had tube feedings. Preoperative GET was abnormal in 51%, and postoperative GET was abnormal in 37%. The average length of stay was 9.5 days (median, 7 days). DGE occurred in only one patient (2.2%). There were no late complications during a 6-month follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of pyloromyotomy to pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy is effective in preventing DGE. Results are supportive of the hypothesis that DGE may be caused by operative injuries of the vagus innervating the pyloric region.

Hematological paraneoplastic syndromes

Because routine blood testing is so common in modern medicine, many cancers are first detected by the discovery of a blood test abnormality. Cancer may indirectly affect both the cellular elements of the blood as well as the coagulation system. This review of the more common hematological syndromes associated with neoplasia provides an overview of the more common entities found in clinical practice. These syndromes are important to recognize for several reasons. They provide insight into disease mechanisms and may allow earlier detection of cancer. Even if the cancer is resistant to antitumor therapy, treatment of the hematologic disorder may provide significant symptom relief.

Myonecrosis due to Clostridium septicum in a patient with unexplained neutropenia: successful treatment with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor

We report a case of sepsis due to Clostridium septicum successfully treated with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF). This case prompted our review of clostridial sepsis and considerations regarding the use of GCSF in cases of drug-induced neutropenia.

Diffuse pulmonary infiltrates in immunocompromised patients. Reconciling theory and practice

Management of immunocompromised patients with diffuse pulmonary infiltrates remains a common and stubbornly difficult problems. The range of diagnostic possibilities is wide, noninvasive diagnostic procedures have little utility, and the drugs available for empirical therapy have toxic effects that are sometimes severe. Although guidelines for management have been developed, they may be predicated on data from a single institution or depend on diagnostic procedures and laboratory support that are not necessarily available to physicians in all locations. Controversy exists as to whether making a definitive diagnosis in these patients has an impact on overall outcome. An individualized approach must consider local resources, the patient's age and prognosis, type of immunosuppression, opinions of patient and family regarding invasive measures and heroic support, and previous patterns of infection in the institution. Before invasive procedures are performed, thought must be given to what changes in treatment may be made when results are known. Familiarity with and critical appraisal of the literature on pulmonary infiltration in immunocompromised patients can contribute to a clear diagnostic and management plan.

Flavimonas oryzihabitans (CDC group Ve-2) bacteraemia associated with Hickman catheters

Flavimonas oryzihabitans is a potential pathogen that may infect patients who have major medical illnesses, especially those who are undergoing surgery or have indwelling venous catheters in situ. Flavimonas oryzihabitans has been isolated from a wide range of body sites, and the portals of entry are major wounds or implanted foreign materials. We report two cases of F. oryzihabitans bacteraemia associated with the use of Hickman catheters for administration of the patients' chemotherapeutic agents. However, a common source for these infections could not be demonstrated.

Systemic Castleman's disease in association with Evan's syndrome and vitiligo

Systemic Castleman's disease is a lymphoproliferative disorder which has been associated with autoimmune phenomena. We report a case of the plasma cell variant of Castleman's disease that was associated with autoimmune hemolytic anemia and autoimmune thrombocytopenia (Evan's syndrome), and vitiligo, the association of which has not been previously reported.

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: report of a case with a possible response to high-dose intravenous gamma globulin

The case history of a 71-year-old woman with three episodes of a microangiopathic hemolytic anemia over a 22-year span is detailed. During the last episode a possible response of her thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP)-like syndrome to the administration of intravenous immunoglobulin is documented. In retrospect it became apparent that she only improved in her prior episodes after receiving plasma-containing blood products. Prior case reports of TTP responses to intravenous immunoglobulin are reviewed with specific attention to the dosage used. Since a prospectively randomized series is unlikely to be reported, investigators should be encouraged to report their experience with intravenously administered gamma globulin.

Minimal change disease as the etiology of the nephrotic syndrome in a patient with angioimmunoblastic lymphadenopathy

Glomerular lesions have rarely been reported with angioimmunoblastic lymphadenopathy (AILD). A patient with histologically documented AILD developed the nephrotic syndrome. Renal biopsy demonstrated minimal change disease. Both the lymphadenopathy and the nephrotic syndrome spontaneously remitted in this patient. Prior reports of renal disease in AILD and atypical lymphoproliferative disorders are discussed. An association between the minimal change lesions and AILD is suggested.

Clinical study of a new antimetastatic compound, Nafazatrom (Bay g 6575). Effects on platelet consumption and monocyte prostaglandin production in patients with advanced cancer

Nafazatrom (Miles Laboratories, West Haven, CT) is a potent inhibitor of metastasis in several animal model systems. The compound is active whether cancer cells are injected intravenously or are allowed to spontaneously metastasize from established tumors. Before studying the antimetastatic effects of Nafazatrom in a long-term randomized clinical trial, the authors conducted a preliminary study to evaluate its toxicity as well as its effects on certain parameters hat have been associated with the biology of metastasis. Since the interaction of platelets, monocytes, and tumor cells may be important for metastasis formation, the authors serially evaluated plasma levels of factors secreted from activated platelets (beta-thrombo-globulin and platelet factor 4) that are inversely correlated with platelet survival. Products of arachidonate metabolism from monocytes were also measured since Nafazatrom is known to modulate prostaglandin production. Thirty-one patients received doses of Nafazatrom ranging from 75 to 1500 mg/m2 orally three times a day. The dose was escalated every 2 weeks. There was no toxicity at any dose level. No major antitumor responses were observed. There was no consistent change in levels of platelet factors either within individual patients or for the population as a whole. Although Nafazatrom (20 microM) decreased tritiated arachidonate incorporation into peripheral blood monocytes from normal subjects in vitro, this effect was not seen in patients treated with the drug. Release of 3PGE2 and 3HETE from cultured monocytes was also not altered by treatment with Nafazatrom. It was concluded that Nafazatrom is safe and well-tolerated up to total doses of 4500 mg/day. The data suggest that the antimetastatic activity of Nafazatrom in vivo is mediated by mechanisms other than by a decrease in platelet consumption or by modulation of arachidonate metabolism by monocytes.

Gallium nitrate inhibits calcium resorption from bone and is effective treatment for cancer-related hypercalcemia

Approximately two-thirds of patients who receive the anticancer drug gallium nitrate develop mild hypocalcemia. To evaluate the mechanism of drug-induced hypocalcemia, we tested the effects of gallium nitrate upon in vitro release of 45Ca++ from explanted fetal rat bones. The drug significantly inhibited 45Ca++ release in response to stimulation with both parathyroid hormone and a lymphokine preparation with osteoclast activating factor activity. The inhibitory effects on bone resorption were both time- and dose-dependent. Later, in a pilot study, we treated 10 patients who had cancer-related hypercalcemia with gallium nitrate administered by continuous infusion. All patients responded by a reduction of total serum calcium to normal or subnormal concentrations (13.8 +/- 1.05 mg/dl, mean +/- SD pretreatment, to 8.03 +/- 1.03 mg/dl, mean posttreatment nadir). Our results indicate that gallium nitrate effectively treats cancer-related hypercalcemia and that it probably acts by inhibiting calcium release from bone.