Time without symptoms or toxicity (TWiST) in patients with newly diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer receiving maintenance olaparib or placebo plus bevacizumab: Analysis of PAOLA-1/ENGOT-ov25 phase III trial

5562

Background: In the Phase III PAOLA-1/ENGOT-ov25 trial (NCT02477644), maintenance olaparib plus bevacizumab (bev) provided a significant progression-free survival (PFS) benefit, compared with placebo plus bev, in patients (pts) with newly diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer in response after platinum-based chemotherapy (Ray-Coquard et al. NEJM 2019). A subgroup analysis revealed a substantial PFS benefit in HRD-positive (including BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation) pts (median PFS 37.2 vs 17.7 months) leading to US and EU labels for this combination. We analyzed TWiST in PAOLA-1, using several definitions of toxicity (TOX) and by molecular subgroups. Methods: Pts were randomized 2:1 to maintenance olaparib (300 mg bid) plus bev (15 mg/kg, Day 1, q3w) or placebo plus bev, stratified by first-line treatment outcome and tumor BRCAm status. TWiST is defined as PFS minus time with TOX after randomization and before disease progression or censoring for progression, and was a prespecified exploratory endpoint. Definitions of significant symptoms or TOX were explored using the following approaches: 1) all grade ≥2 adverse events (AEs); and 2) all grade ≥2 AEs selected to be correlated to olaparib (fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and anemia). Area under PFS curve was split into TOX:TWIST ratio and compared between the two arms. Results: Between May 7, 2015 and August 31, 2017, 806 eligible pts were randomly assigned to olaparib plus bev (n = 537) or placebo plus bev (n = 269), with a median duration of treatment with olaparib of 17.3 months (range 0.03–33.0) for olaparib plus bev arm and 15.6 months (range 0.07–26.2) for placebo plus bev at data cutoff for primary endpoint analysis. In the Intent-to-treat population, median duration of TWiST for all grade ≥2 AEs for olaparib plus bev vs placebo plus bev arms was 14.1 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 12.5–16.1) vs 7.7 months (95% CI 5.9–9.1), respectively; and 21.9 months (95% CI 20.2–22.5) vs 16.6 months (95% CI 14.6–18.0) considering only grade ≥2 AEs linked to olaparib. The difference was particularly significant within the HRD-positive subgroup where median duration of TWiST was 24.4 months (95% CI 19.3–not evaluable [NE]) vs 7.4 months (5.8–11.2) for TOX linked to all grade ≥2 AEs, and 36.6 months (95% CI 31.9–NE) vs 17.4 months (15.1–19.4) linked to olaparib AEs only for the olaparib plus bev and placebo plus bev arms, respectively. Conclusions: The substantial PFS benefit provided by maintenance olaparib plus bev vs placebo plus bev in pts with newly diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer was supported by significant TWiST benefit. TWiST analyses, including all grade ≥2 symptoms or toxicity related to treatment, confirmed the clinically meaningful benefit from the combination, notably in the HRD-positive subgroup. Clinical trial information: NCT02477644.

Comprehensive molecular characterization of muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) treated with durvalumab plus olaparib in the neoadjuvant setting: Neodurvarib trial

546

Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitors have been incorporated to early-stage bladder carcinoma treatment recently. Durvalumab is a PD-L1 blocking antibody active in advance urothelial tumors and under evaluation in other settings of the disease. PARP inhibitors have shown activity in a variety of tumors with Homologous Recombination Deficiencies (HRD). The combination of Durvalumab plus Olaparib could present a synergistic effect, but its efficacy and potential biomarkers are under exploration. NEODURVARIB is a phase II clinical trial assessing the combination of Durvalumab plus Olaparib in MIBC (NCT03534492; SOGUG-2017-AIEC(VEJ)-2). Clinical activity and safety have been previously communicated by our group. Here we present the basal molecular profiles and their evolution under treatment with this combination. Methods: cT2-T4a MIBC aimed for cystectomy were treated during 6-8 weeks precystectomy. Pre- and post-treatment tumor and blood samples from 26 patients were collected. Pattern of immune infiltration was determined by IHQ. Genomics (mutational pattern, HRD and Tumor Mutation Burden [TMB]) and transcriptomics (differentially expressed loci, functional enrichment, molecular clustering and MIBC molecular subtyping) analysis were performed. Circulating immune populations were assessed using flow cytometry. Results: In basal (TURBT) samples, the frequency of mutations in genes commonly altered in MIBC ( TP53, MLL2, ARID1A, FGFR3, among others), HRD and TMB were similar to previous reports in MIBC and did not differ between responders and non-responders. Additionally, mutational patterns remained stable between baseline (TURBT) and post-treatment (cystectomy) samples. Regarding transcriptomics, GSEA showed enrichment of Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition (EMT), TGFβ and inflammatory/infection related classes in resistant tumors. Interestingly, differentially expressed genes in responders vs. non-responders were significantly regulated by epigenetic factors (EZH2/Suz12/PRC2 network). Transcriptomic-based estimations of the stromal/immune infiltration and MIBC molecular subtyping also showed a switch of the tumor microenvironment due to the treatment (luminal to basal/squamous transitions), reinforced by significant changes in the expression of immune markers (higher PDL1 and FAP scores in cystectomies). Lastly, circulating senescent T-cells were correlated with pathological complete response. Conclusions: Genetic alterations remained unchanged in bladder cancers treated with Durvalumab plus Olaparib. However, an enrichment of EMT signatures and a switch towards basal/squamous phenotypes were observed in resistant tumors. These findings underscore the relevance of modifications in gene expression as potential mechanisms of resistance to this combination. Clinical trial information: NCT03534492.

Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition Mediates Resistance to Maintenance Therapy with Vinflunine in Advanced Urothelial Cell Carcinoma

Simple Summary

Platinum-based chemotherapy is the first-line treatment for advanced urothelial cell carcinoma (aUCC). After first-line treatment, we previously showed that maintenance therapy with vinflunine improves progression-free survival. However, some patients are resistant to vinflunine and the specific mechanisms of resistance in aUCC are unclear. We analyzed the genomic landscape and the biological processes potentially related to vinflunine activity and found that epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a pivotal role as a resistance mechanism. In experiments with cell lines, curcumin reversed EMT and sensitized cells to vinflunine. We suggest that EMT mediates resistance to vinflunine and that the reversion of this process could enhance the effect of vinflunine in aUCC patients.

Abstract

In the phase II MAJA trial, maintenance therapy with vinflunine resulted in longer progression-free survival compared to best supportive care in advanced urothelial cell carcinoma (aUCC) patients who did not progress after first-line platinum-based chemotherapy. However, despite an initial benefit observed in some patients, unequivocal resistance appears which underlying mechanisms are presently unknown. We have performed gene expression and functional enrichment analyses to shed light on the discovery of these underlying resistance mechanisms. Differential gene expression profile of eight patients with poor outcome and nine with good outcome to vinflunine administered in the MAJA trial were analyzed. RNA was isolated from tumor tissue and gene expression was assessed by microarray. Differential expression was determined with linear models for microarray data. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was used for the functional classification of the genes. In vitro functional studies were performed using UCC cell lines. Hierarchical clustering showed a differential gene expression pattern between patients with good and poor outcome to vinflunine treatment. GSEA identified epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) as the top negatively enriched hallmark in patients with good outcome. In vitro analyses showed that the polyphenol curcumin downregulated EMT markers and sensitized UCC cells to vinflunine. We conclude that EMT mediates resistance to vinflunine and suggest that the reversion of this process could enhance the effect of vinflunine in aUCC patients.

Clinical Factors Associated With Long-Term Benefit in Patients With Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Treated With Axitinib: Real-World AXILONG Study

BACKGROUND

Axitinib monotherapy obtained approval in pre-treated mRCC patients and recently in combination with pembrolizumab or avelumab in the first-line setting. However, patient profiles that may obtain increased benefit from this drug and its combinations still need to be identified.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective multicentre analysis describing clinical characteristics associated with axitinib long-responder (LR) population by comparing two extreme-response sub-groups (progression-free survival [PFS] ≥9 months vs. disease progression/refractory patients [RP]). A multivariate logistic-regression model was used to analyse clinical factors. Efficacy and safety were also analysed.

RESULTS

In total, 157 patients who received axitinib in second or subsequent line were evaluated (91 LR and 66 RP). Older age at start of axitinib and haemoglobin levels > LLN were independent predictive factors for LR in multivariate analyses. In LR patients, median (m) PFS was 18.1 months, median overall survival was 36.0 months and objective response rate (ORR) was 45.5%. In 59 LR patients receiving axitinib in second-line, mPFS was 18.7 months, mOS was 44.8 months and ORR was 43.9%. mOS was significantly longer in second line compared to subsequent lines (44.8 vs. 26.5 months; P = .009). In LR vs. RP, mPFS with sunitinib in first-line was correlated with mPFS with axitinib in second-line (27.2 vs. 10.9 months P < .001). The safety profile was manageable and consistent with known data.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms the long-term benefits of axitinib in a selected population, helping clinicians to select the best sequential approach and patients who could obtain a greater benefit from axitinib.

Expert recommendations on the management of patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer who progress after CHAARTED or LATITUDE

Objective

Our aim was to provide practical recommendations on the management of patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) who have progressed after docetaxel plus androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) or abiraterone plus ADT.

Methods

Systematic literature review (SLR), nominal group meeting, and Delphi process. A panel of 12 experts was established who defined the scope, users, and sections of the document. We performed an SLR in order to assess the efficacy and safety of available drugs in patients with mCRPC. Abstracts from the American Society of Oncology and European Society for Medical Oncology meetings were also examined. The results were discussed during an expert meeting in which 14 recommendations were generated. The level of agreement with the recommendations was also tested by 13 additional experts following the Delphi process. Recommendations were voted by means of scores ranging from 0 (total disagreement) to 10 (total agreement). We defined agreement when at least 70% of the experts voted ⩾7. Next, we assigned a level of evidence and grade to the recommendation using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine Levels of Evidence, following which the final document was drafted.

Results

The literature search did not find any articles meeting the inclusion criteria. Finally, 13 out of 14 recommendations were accepted after two Delphi rounds (two were modified after the first round). They pertain to general and individual case-based treatment recommendations.

Conclusions

In mCRPC patients who have progressed after docetaxel or abiraterone plus ADT in the metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer setting, these recommendations may support treatment decision-making, due to the lack of evidence or other globally accepted sequencing algorithms.

Cabazitaxel versus enzalutamide/abiraterone in CARD eligible mCRPC patients with or without germline HRR defects

5554

Background: The CARD trial proved that in mCPRC patients (pts), previously treated with docetaxel and an androgen-receptor signaling inhibitor (ARSi), cabazitaxel (CBZ) significantly improves progression-free (PFS) and Overall Survival (OS) compared with the alternative ARSi. Concurrently, the PROFOUND study showed the superiority of olaparib vs. ARSi in pts with similar prior treatment history and genetic alterations in Homologus Recombination DNA repair related genes (HRR). Methods: PROREPAIR-B (NCT03075735) is a prospective study which aimed to demonstrate the prognostic role of germline deleterious mutations in (g)HRR genes and the benefit of first (1L), second (2L) and subsequent therapy lines for mCRPC. Outcomes with 1-2L have been previously reported. Here we evaluated radiographic (r)-PFS, clinical (c)-PFS, and OS in PROREPAIR-B pts who meet CARD study eligibility criteria and who received CBZ and/or ARSi. Survival analysis were performed using Kaplan Meier method and Cox regression models. Results: 95 out of 419 mCRPC pts included in PROREPAIR-B meet CARD eligibility criteria and received CBZ (n=60) or ARSi (n=35) including 14 gHRR carriers, 8/6 treated with CBZ/ARSi, respectively. Visceral metastases were more frequent among pts treated with CBZ (p=0.01). ECOG 2, M1 at diagnosis, Abiraterone as 1st ARSi and prior radiographic PD (all p<0.05) were more frequent in our pts than in the CARD study. Overall, CBZ was superior to ARSi in terms of rPFS (median 6.0 vs. 3.7 months (m), p=0.03), cPFS (median 4.4 vs. 3.4 m, p=0.01) and PSA50 responses (39% vs. 17%, p=0.027). Differences in OS were not observed, although approximately 60% of patients in ARSi had crossed to CBZ at the time of the analyses. Results of subgroups analyses were similar to those reported by CARD. In this series, gHRR carriers had a significant worse prognosis (OS HR 1.9; rPFS HR 2.4; cPFS HR 2.6) than non-carriers. In gHRR carriers CBZ was not superior to ARSi in terms of rPFS (2.5 vs. 3.0 m, p=0.8), cPFS (2.5 vs. 2.4 m, p=0.8) and OS (4.5 vs. 3.7, p=0.8). Cox MVA models adjusted for unbalances and CARD grouping factors confirmed a significant interaction between treatment and gHRR status for rPFS and cPFS, suggesting that the benefit of CBZ was not observed in gHRR. Conclusions: Our results confirm the benefit of CBZ treatment over a second ARSi (either abiraterone or enzalutamide) in unselected mCRPC population. However, the outcomes in gHRR carriers are poor with either CBZ or ARSi supporting the need of novel therapies in this setting. Clinical trial information: NCT03075735 .

Atezolizumab (atezo) therapy for upper tract (UT) urothelial carcinoma (UC): Subgroup analysis of the single-arm international SAUL study in pretreated locally advanced/metastatic urinary tract carcinoma

488

Background: UTUC is rarer than bladder UC and typically responds poorly to standard chemotherapy. Analysis of 220 biomarker-evaluable atezo-treated patients (pts) in phase II/III trials suggested worse outcomes in UT vs lower tract UC [Galsky, ESMO 2018]. We explored clinical outcomes in pts with UTUC (renal pelvis or ureter) treated with atezo in the SAUL study. Methods: The single-arm SAUL study (NCT02928406) [Sternberg, Eur Urol 2019] enrolled a broader pt population, including pts with poor clinical characteristics and/or immune-mediated conditions, more representative of real-world practice than typically enrolled in randomized phase III immunotherapy trials. Pts with urinary tract carcinoma received atezo 1200 mg q3w until disease progression/unacceptable toxicity. Baseline characteristics, safety and efficacy were analyzed in subgroups of pts with UTUC (subdivided into renal pelvis or ureter UC) vs bladder UC. Results: Baseline characteristics in the 4 subgroups were generally similar, except for a numerically lower proportion of pts with 0 prior lines of therapy for metastatic disease in the UTUC vs bladder UC subgroup (30% vs 41%). Treatment exposure, safety and efficacy are shown below. Conclusions: These exploratory analyses of SAUL showed very similar efficacy and safety in UT vs bladder UC. This provides reassurance that atezo is active and has an acceptable safety profile in pts with UTUC, who are generally expected to have worse outcomes than bladder UC pts. Clinical trial information: NCT02928406 . [Table: see text]

Impact of the combination of durvalumab (MEDI4736) plus olaparib (AZD2281) administered prior to surgery in the molecular profile of resectable urothelial bladder cancer: NEODURVARIB Trial

542

Background: Cisplatin-based chemotherapy remains the perioperative treatment in muscle-invasive bladder carcinoma (MIBC). Recent evidence suggests that immune checkpoint inhibitors could be incorporated in this setting. Olaparib is a PARP inhibitor with well-established activity in HRD tumor. Results from trials assessing the combination of durvalumab and olaparib suggest a synergistic effect. However, a molecular characterization is crucial to warrant a rational development. Methods: A phase II clinical trial was designed to assess the impact of neoadjuvant treatment with the combination of durvalumab plus olaparib in the molecular profile of MIBC (NCT03534492; SOGUG-2017-A-IEC(VEJ)-2). Efficacy and safety were secondary objectives. Subjects with cT2-T4a MIBC aimed for cystectomy were treated during 6 to 8 weeks pre-cystectomy. Diagnostic and surgical samples, pre and postreatment blood samples have been collected for the molecular analysis. We present results regarding efficacy and safety. Results: From November 2018 to October 2019 28 patients have been enrolled. 52%/48% of patients had PS 0/1. Median age was 70. TNM stage was: pT2 in 73,6% patients, pT3 in 10.6%, pT4 in 15.8% and 10.6% presented nodal spread. 13 patients have completed neoadjuvant treatment so far and 12 have undergone cystectomy. A wound dehiscence and one death related to surgical procedures were postoperative complications. Pathological complete response rate is 44,5%. Radiological evaluation is ongoing. 10 serious adverse events non-treatment related have been communicated. Any grade of toxicity has been reported in 91% of patients but adverse events grade 3-4 was detected in only 8.3% of cases. Grade 1 pruritus was the unique IR adverse event described in one patient. PARP inhibitors-related adverse events were grade 1 nausea and vomiting (25%), and grade 1 anemia (25%). Conclusions: Preliminary clinical data suggest that Durvalumab in combination with Olaparib could be active and well-tolerated neoadjuvant treatment of MIBC. Molecular characterization and biomarker discovery will be presented separately. Clinical trial information: NCT03534492.

Retrospective study to identify clinical factors related to a high benefit of axitinib in mRCC: Results from AXILONG Spanish real-world study

650

Background: AXILONG is a Pfizer observational multi-institutional retrospective study, evaluating clinical factors which could be related with a higher benefit of axitinib in pretreated mRCC patients in two pre-specified subgroups with extreme response to axitinib. Methods: Medical records from 157 patients treated in 40 Spanish hospitals with axitinib under clinical practice were retrospectively reviewed and included in the study. Of note, patients had to had an extreme response with axitinib, which means being a long responder (LR) to axitinib, defined as those patients who achieved a median Progression Free Survival (mPFS) of 9 months or longer, or refractory patients (RP) those who achieved a Progression Disease (PD) as best response. Results: In this analysis, we describe the results of a subgroup of patients who received axitinib in second-line after sunitinib, which represents the 68,2% (n=107) of the patients included in the whole study. The 55,1% (n=59) of this subgroup were LR and the 44,9% (n=48) were RP. In this sub-group of patients, the mPFS in LR was 18,7 months (95%CI; 12,9-24,4) and the overall response rate (ORR) was 43,9% (3,5% CR). Median overall survival (mOS) since the start of axitinib was 28,2 months for both sub-groups included, being 44,8 months in the LR patients and 7,3 months in the RP (95% CI, 12.79–34.65; p <0,001). In this population the 1st line mPSF was 27,2 months in LR and 10,9 months in RP (95%CI; 12,97-20,15; p ≤0,001). Conclusions: Despite the limitations of the AXILONG study there were a subgroup of patients who can be considered long responders o axitinib in whom we can obtain a high benefit in terms of efficacy, when treating with the sequence sunitinib-axitinib. Clinical trial information: NCT03538717 .[Table: see text]

PTEN expression and mutations in TSC1, TSC2 and MTOR are associated with response to rapalogs in patients with renal cell carcinoma

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway inhibitors are key drugs for the treatment of many tumor types, however, there are no predictive biomarkers in clinical use. Here, we performed a molecular and immunohistochemical characterization of key mTOR pathway components in a series of 105 renal cell carcinoma patients treated with rapalogs, aimed at identifying markers of treatment response. Mutational analysis in MTOR, TSC1 and TSC2 was performed through targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS), and immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed for PTEN, pAKT, pS6K1, pS6 and p21. Among patients with NGS data, 11 of 87 (13%) had mTOR pathway mutations (8 in MTOR, 1 in TSC1 and 2 in TSC2). When comparing the molecular data to the response of the patients, we found that partial response was more frequent in cases with mTOR pathway mutations than in those without mutations (odds ratio [OR] = 0.08, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.008-0.79, p = 0.030 univariate; p = 0.038 multivariable). Regarding IHC, negative PTEN staining was detected in 58% of the tumors, and it was more frequent in rapalog responder patients (OR = 0.24, 95% CI = 0.065-0.86, p = 0.029 univariate; p = 0.029 multivariable). Mutations and PTEN IHC were not mutually exclusive events and its combination improved response prediction (OR = 0.16, 95% CI = 0.04-0.62, p = 0.008 univariate; p = 0.013 multivariable). The staining of other proteins did not show and association with response and no association with PFS was observed in unselected patients. In conclusion, our findings suggest that mTOR pathway mutations, negative PTEN IHC and their combination are potential markers of rapalog response.

Identification of prognostic variables in advanced ovarian cancer based on real-world patients from big data analytics

e17104

Background: Prognosis of advanced ovarian cancer is dismal with most cases recurring after initial surgery. Current factors able to predict the evolution of the disease are limited to BRCA status and platinum sensitivity. We aim to explore the potential of different clinical variables as prognostic factors using big data analytics in currently available hospitalary departmental information systems. Methods: An observational study with two cohorts (one prospective and one retrospective) was designed. Inclusion criteria were adult patients ( > 18 years old) diagnosed with epithelial ovarian cancer stage IC or superior.Clinical and histological data were recorded by a central data manager to ensure homogeneity in data collection. Big data analytics consisted on building an approximation to the statistical distribution of the tests to distinguish different kinds of features (metric, categorical, free text). Bootstrap resampling allowed to characterize the confidence regions for proportion differences, average differences, and text-profile differences in exitus vs in non-exitus groups. Results: Up to 265 patients in four different hospitals were recruited. Median age was 59 years (range 20-87), stage distribution was 48 (18%) I, 20 (8%) II, 122 (46%) III, 41 (15%) IVand 34 (13%) NA. Histology distribution was 158 (60%) papillary serous, 31 (12%) endometrioid, 18 (7%) clear cell, 11 (4%) mucinous and 47 (18%) NA. 152 (58%) patients underwent upfront surgery, 76 (29%) interval surgery and 10 (4%) no surgical intervention, 27 (10%) NA. 207 (78%) achieved optimal cytoreduction. 232 (88%) received adjuvant chemotherapy, most with carboplatin plus paclitaxel 180 (68%) and 48 (18%) also with bevacizumab. Median follow up was 81.4 months (CI95% 64.1-98.7) The proposed Big Data analytics identified a higher frequency of upfront surgery (vs interval surgery) and bevacizumab administration (vs chemotherapy alone) in the non-exitus group. Conclusions: Our results point to the notion that performance of upfront surgery and bevacizumab administration could have a long term impact in ovarian cancer. Simple Big Data analytics can contribute to identify new prognostic factors and to assess their real impact on patients managed in daily practice.

Treatment sequence in elderly metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) patients (pts) in a prospective cohort study

5053

Background: Abiraterone (Abi), enzalutamide (Enza) and docetaxel (Doc) are all valid first-line (1L) mCRPC treatment options. SIOG guidelines (Droz, Eur Urol 2017) recommend that fit elderly pts should receive the same treatment as younger patients. Evidence of the optimal treatment sequence in this patient subpopulation is lacking. Methods: We evaluated the outcome of elderly (≥ 75 years [yrs]) pts treated in the prospective PROREPAIR-B cohort study (NCT03075735). We assessed the impact of 1L treatment option (Doc vs Abi/Enza) on overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) to 1L-therapy following PCWG2criteria. Uni- (UV) and multivariable (MV) cox-regression models were used. MV model covariates included local therapy, Gleason Score, stage IV at diagnosis, visceral metastases, ALP (≥ULN), LDH (≥ULN), haemoglobin (Hb; ≤LNL), albumin (≤LNL) and ECOG PS. Results: 419 pts were included in the study. Of these, 137 (32,7%) had age ≥ 75 yrs. 48 (35%) received docetaxel and 88 (64.2%) had Abi/Enza as first-line therapy. Of the 121 pts that progressed on 1L-therapy, 30 (24.8%) did not receive 2L therapy. Choice of 2L-therapy was: Doc in 37 (30,6%), Abi/Enza in 38 (31.4%), Cabazitaxel in 9 (7.4%) and Radium-223 in 7 (5.8%) pts. Pts treated with 1L-Doc had higher rates of visceral metastases (22.9% vs 5.7%; p=0.003), high ALP (68.8% vs 43.2%; p=0.004) and low Hb (12.5% vs 3.4%). PFS to 1L-therapy was longer for Abi/Enza than for Doc treated pts (9.6 vs 8.3m; HR: 0.52; p=0.001). The pattern of disease progression (PSA, radiographic, clinical) was similar in Doce and Abi/Enza treated pts. No difference between pts treated with initial Abi/Enza vs Doc was observed in OS (28.2 vs 24.8m; HR:1.18; p=0.474). No significant OS differences were observed in the MV model. Conclusions: No differences in OS were observed between treatment sequences starting with Doc vs Abi/Enza in pts ≥ 75 yrs. Pts treated with 1L-Doc had worse baseline prognostic features. Age should not be considered as a factor for treatment choice in elderly mCRPC pts based on treatment outcome.

Correlation between time to PSA progression (TTPP), radiographic progression-free survival (rPFS) and overall survival (OS) in first-line abiraterone/enzalutamide (Abi/Enza) and docetaxel (Doc) treated patients in a prospective cohort study

267

Background: Abiraterone, enzalutamide and docetaxel represent first-line (1L) treatment options in mCRPC. A significant correlation between rPFS and OS has been reported for patients treated with 1L abi and enza in mCRPC. It is however unclear whether TTPP or rPFS present a similar magnitude of correlation with OS in Doc-treated pts. Methods: We evaluated the association of TTPP and rPFS with OS in pts treated with 1L Abi/Enza or Doc in a prospective multicenter observational cohort study. TTPP and rPFS were defined as per PCWG2. Correlation between TTPP and rPFS with OS was evaluated with Spearman rho coefficients (r), and by calculating the concordance index (c-index) in Cox-regression models. Results: 406 out of 419 pts received 1L Abi/Enza or Doc. After a median follow-up of 40 months (m), 253 mCRPC-related deaths were observed, with a median OS of 31.3 m (95% CI: 27.6-35). Median rPFS and TTPP were 10.8 m (95% CI:9.7-11.9) and 7.2 m (95% CI:6.7-7.7), respectively. Significant correlations between rPFS/TTPP and OS were observed in all pts treated at 1L, as well as in Abi/Enza and Doc treated pts (Table). R and c-index were consistently higher in Abi/Enza treated pts than in Doc treated pts, with a higher difference in predictive accuracy of the Cox regression model observed when comparing the association between TTPP and OS (c-index 0.788 in Abi/Enza treated pts vs 0.627 in Doc treated pts). Conclusions: Differences in r and c-index were observed when evaluating the association between TTPP/rPFS and OS in Abi/Enza and Doc treated pts, suggesting rPFS and TTPP may better predict OS in Abi/Enza than in Doc-treated pts. Indirect comparisons of TTPP in Abi/Enza vs Doc pts may therefore not reflect their true impact on OS. Further insight on the exact significance of TTPP is needed. Clinical trial information: NCT03075735. [Table: see text]

SEOM clinical guideline for treatment of muscle-invasive and metastatic urothelial bladder cancer (2018)

The goal of this article is to provide recommendations about the management of muscle-invasive (MIBC) and metastatic bladder cancer. New molecular subtypes of MIBC are associated with specific clinical–pathological characteristics. Radical cystectomy and lymph node dissection are the gold standard for treatment and neoadjuvant chemotherapy with a cisplatin-based combination should be recommended in fit patients. The role of adjuvant chemotherapy in MIBC remains controversial; its use must be considered in patients with high-risk who are able to tolerate a cisplatin-based regimen, and have not received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Bladder-preserving approaches are reasonable alternatives to cystectomy in selected patients for whom cystectomy is not contemplated either for clinical or personal reasons. Cisplatin-based combination chemotherapy is the standard first-line protocol for metastatic disease. In the case of unfit patients, carboplatin–gemcitabine should be considered the preferred first-line chemotherapy treatment option, while pembrolizumab and atezolizumab can be contemplated for individuals with high PD-L1 expression. In cases of progression after platinum-based therapy, PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors are standard alternatives. Vinflunine is another option when anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy is not possible. There are no data from randomized clinical trials regarding moving on to immuno-oncology agents.

Image-guided brachytherapy in cervical cancer: Experience in the Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra

Purpose

To evaluate dosimetric and clinical findings of MRI-guided HDR brachytherapy (HDR-B) for cervical carcinoma.

Material and methods

All patients had a CT, MRI and pelvic-paraaortic lymphadenectomy. Treatment: pelvic (+/-)para-aortic3D/IMRT radiotherapy (45 Gy), weekly cisplatin and HDR-B and pelvic node/parametrial boost 60 Gy until interstitial brachytherapy was done. Two implants: 2008-2011: 5 fractions of 6 Gy, 2011: 2016, 4 fractions of 7 Gy. MRI/TAC were done in each implant. The following were defined: GTV, CTH-HR, CTV-IR; OAR: rectum, bladder and sigmoid.

Results

From 2007 to 2016: 57 patients. Patients: T1b2-T2a: 4p, T2b 41p, T3a: 2p; T3B 8p T4a: 2p; N0: 32p, N1 21p, no lymphadenectomy: 4p. Median follow up: 74.6 m (16-122 m), recurrence: 5p local, 6p node, 9p metastasis and 37p without recurrence.Local control 5 years: 90.1%; Ib2-IIB: 94.8%, III-IVa: 72.2%. (p:0.01). RDFS 5y was 92.5%; IB2-IIB: 93%, III: 85% (p:0.024); for pN0: 100%; pN+ iliac-paraaortic: 71.4% (p: 0.007). MFS 5y was 84.1%. Overall survival (OS) at 5y: 66.6% and the cancer specific survival (CEOS) was 74%. Univariate analysis survival: stage Ib2-II 83% vs. III-IVa 41% (p = 0.001); histology: squamous 78%, adenocarcinoma 59.7% (p: ns); lymph node: N0 85% vs. PA+P- 72%, and PA+P+ 35% (p = 0.010). In relation with: HR-CTV dose > 85 Gy, CEOS: 82.5% vs. 77%, and volume CTV-HR < 30 cc: 81.8% and >30 cc: 67%; p: ns. Acute grade 2-3 toxicity: rectal 15.7%, intestinal 15.7% and vesical 15.5%.

Conclusion

Use of interstitial HDR-BQ guided by RM increased CTV-HR dose and local control, like EMBRACE results. Nodal boost improves RDFS and perhaps OS.

Gene expression analyses determine two different subpopulations in KIT-negative GIST-like (KNGL) patients

Introduction

There are limited findings available on KIT-negative GIST-like (KNGL) population. Also, KIT expression may be post-transcriptionally regulated by miRNA221 and miRNA222. Hence, the aim of this study is to characterize KNGL population, by differential gene expression, and to analyze miRNA221/222 expression and their prognostic value in KNGL patients.

Methods

KIT, PDGFRA, DOG1, IGF1R, MIR221 and MIR222 expression levels were determined by qRT-PCR. We also analyzed KIT and PDGFRA mutations, DOG1 expression, by immunohistochemistry, along with clinical and pathological data. Disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) differences were calculated using Log-rank test.

Results

Hierarchical cluster analyses from gene expression data identified two groups: group I had KIT, DOG1 and PDGFRA overexpression and IGF1R underexpression and group II had overexpression of IGF1R and low expression of KIT, DOG1 and PDGFRA. Group II had a significant worse OS (p = 0.013) in all the series, and showed a tendency for worse OS (p = 0.11), when analyzed only the localized cases. MiRNA222 expression was significantly lower in a control subset of KIT-positive GIST (p < 0.001). OS was significantly worse in KNGL cases with higher expression of MIR221 (p = 0.028) or MIR222 (p = 0.014).

Conclusions

We identified two distinct KNGL subsets, with a different prognostic value. Increased levels of miRNA221/222, which are associated with worse OS, could explain the absence of KIT protein expression of most KNGL tumors.

Outcomes of metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) patients with DNA repair germline mutations (gDDR) following first taxane-based treatment

247

Background: Germline DDR have been identified in up to 12% of mCRPC patients. Initial results from various retrospective series have reported discordant impact in clinical outcomes associated to these gDDR following conventional treatments. PROREPAIR-B (Castro et al ESMO 2017) is the first prospective study to address this question. In this planned sub-analysis, we report mCRPC treatment outcomes associated to taxanes. Methods: PROREPAIR-B (NCT03075735) is a prospective multicentre observational cohort study. Patients diagnosed with mCRPC, with unknown mutational status at study entry and who were going to start a first-line treatment for mCRPC were eligible. For this sub-analysis patients who received docetaxel or cabazitaxel as first-taxane were selected. The endpoints of this sub-analysis included to assess the impact of BRCA1, BRCA2, ATM and PALB2 and other gDDR on cause-specific survival (CSS), progression free survival (PFS), time to PSA progression (bPFS) and response to the first administered taxane as 1st or 2nd line therapy. Results: 326 (12 BRCA2, 8 ATM and 1 BRCA1 mutation carrier [gMUT]) out of 419 patients were eligible for this analysis. Diagnostic characteristic included Stage IV 51%, G8-10 60%. At the time of taxane initiation median PSA was 30.1 ng/mL, 84%, 48% and 11% of patients had bone, nodal and visceral metastases. CSS from first-taxane were not significantly different between gMUT and non-carriers (NC) (16.9 vs 23.2 m, p > 0.05). However, in BRCA2 carriers was significantly shorter than in NC (13.1 vs 23.3 m, p = 0.026). Despite a trend to higher PSA response rates in gMUT compared to NC (n = 288, 63% vs 42%, p = 0.07, BRCA2 55%, p > 0.05), PFS were not significantly different between both groups (7.2 vs 7.8 m, p > 0.05), with a trend to shorter survival in BRCA2 carriers (4.5 vs 7.4 m, P = 0.11). Conclusions: These results suggest that DDR mutation carriers respond to taxanes with similar time to progression compared to NC, with the exception of BRCA2 carriers, who despite to the initial response to taxanes, presented worse survival outcomes. This highlights the need for close monitoring and novel therapies in this population. Clinical trial information: NCT03075735.

Open label phase II clinical trial of orteronel (TAK-700) in metastatic or advanced non-resectable granulosa cell ovarian tumors: The Greko II study

5577

Background: Granulosa-cell tumors (GCT) of the ovary are a rare entity characterized by presenting a punctual mutation at the FOXL2 gene 402C→G (C134W). Such mutation leads to a disregulation and overstimulation of the steroidogenic pathway and, ultimately, hormone overproduction. A prior trial by our group (GREKO I trial-GETHI 2011-03; NCT01584297) showed promising activity of ketoconazole, a CYP17 inhibitor used to control steroidogenesis in several conditions. Thus, we aimed to assess the activity of Orteronel (TAK700), a selective inhibitor of 17, 20-lyase, in GCT. Methods: An open-label phase II single arm clinical trial was designed for women with metastatic or locally advanced non-resectable GCT who harbored the somatic mutation FOXL2 402C→G (C134W) and who had not received prior treatment with any CYP17 inhibitor. Treatment consisted on Orteronel 300mg BID, given orally, continuously in a 28-day treatment cycle. The primary objective was clinical benefit rate; secondary objectives were response rate, progression free and overall survival, assessment of the impact of Orteronel in reducing hormonal overproduction and toxicity. Sample size calculation was based on a two stage Simon´s design. A power of 80% was set to differentiate between a 5% and a 25% clinical benefit rate. 20% of losses had been assumed thus 20 patients were scheduled to be enrolled. Results: Since 30/06/2014 to 11/01/2017 10 patients have been included in 9 participating institutions members of Spanish Group for Research in Orphan and Unfrequent Tumors (GETHI). Due to a low recrutiment rate the study was terminated early. Median PFS was 3 months 95%CI (0-12) with 3 patients achieving disease stabilization longer than 12 months. 2 patients remain on treatment after 16 and 14 months. Clinical benefit rate (CR + PR + SD) was 50%, 95%CI (19%-81%). Seven patients have progressed and 2 have died. Only 6 suspected unresected adverse reactions (SUSARs) have been communicated so far (chest pain, fever, febrile neutropenia, eosinophila, neutropenia and anemia). Conclusions: Orteronel achieved a significant clinical benefit in advanced GCT with an favorable toxicity profile. Clinical trial information: NCT02101684.

Recent advances in genitourinary tumors: A review focused on biology and systemic treatment

Updated information published up to 2016 regarding major advances in renal cancer, bladder cancer, and prostate cancer is here presented. Based on an ever better understanding of the genetic and molecular alterations that govern the initial pathogenic mechanisms of tumor oncogenesis, an improvement in the characterization and treatment of urologic tumors has been achieved in the past year. According to the Cancer Genome Atlas (ATLAS) project, alterations in the MET pathway are characteristics of type 1 papillary renal cell carcinomas, and activation of NRF2-ARE pathway is associated with the biologically distinct type 2. While sunitinib and pazopanib continue to be the standard first-line treatment in metastatic renal cell carcinoma of clear cell histology, nivolumab and cabozantinib are now the agents of choice in the second-line setting. In relation to urothelial bladder carcinoma, new potential molecular targets such as FGFR3, PI3K/AKT, RTK/RAS, CDKN2A, ARIDIA, ERBB2 have been identified. Response to adjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy appears to be related to basal, luminal, and p53-like intrinsic subtypes. A phase II study with eribulin and a maintenance phase II trial with vinflunine have shown promising results. Similarly, the use of the check point inhibitors in advanced disease is likely to revolutionize the management of patients who have progressed after cisplatin-based chemotherapy. In prostate cancer, seven mutually exclusive molecular subtypes have been identified by the TCGA project. Chemotherapy has been consolidated as a key treatment for castration-sensitive metastatic prostate cancer, and abiraterone, enzalutamide, cabazitaxel, and radium-223 remain standard therapeutic options for men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. All this progress will undoubtedly contribute to the development of new treatments and therapeutic strategies that will improve the survival and quality of life of our patients.

Docetaxel in prostate cancer: a familiar face as the new standard in a hormone-sensitive setting

The increasing knowledge of prostate cancer is leading to many questions about its natural history and to reconsider conventional therapeutic strategies. Androgen ablation therapy has been the standard therapy in the advanced setting. Although docetaxel has demonstrated increased survival in patients with metastatic prostate cancer who had progressed to hormone treatments, due to its potential toxicity the role of chemotherapy has been relegated to patients who were symptomatic or who had high tumor burden. Several studies have assessed whether docetaxel could have a role in hormone-sensitive disease or even in earlier stages with no distant metastases. In the CHAARTED and STAMPEDE studies, docetaxel provides an unprecedented increase in overall survival (OS). This review summarizes the evidence behind the paradigm shift to strengthening docetaxel as a new standard of treatment that prolongs survival in earlier stages of prostate cancer.

Predictors for survival with cabazitaxel (CBZ) in metastatic, castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC): Long term follow-up of the Spanish registry

e602

Background: The clinical experience with CBZ in mCRPC patients (pts) has enriched notably since its approval for clinical use, but there is still a lack of well-defined prognostic/predictive factors to better characterize the profile of pts that could achieve the best therapeutic benefit. Analysis of the final expanded cohort and mature long-term follow-up are presented. Methods: Medical records from mCRPC pts progressing during or after docetaxel and treated with CBZ at 21 centres in Spain were reviewed retrospectively. Baseline characteristics, overall survival (OS), radiographic progression-free survival (rPFS), and toxicity were collected. Univariate and multivariate analysis of a variety of factors predicting OS were conducted. Results: 187 consecutive pts (median age 69) with intermediate-poor prognostic baseline characteristics (Table 1) received a median of 6 cycles (range 2-59) of CBZ. Median OS from first CBZ cycle was 15.3 [CI: 11.7; 18.0] months (mo) and median clinical and/or rPFS was 7.9 mo [CI: 6.8; 10.3]. Gleason score (GS) < 8 (vs ≥ 8), time under first-line androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) ( > 16.1 (median) vs < 16.1 mo) and the number of chemotherapy lines before CBZ did not significantly influence OS. Median follow-up was 9.5 mo. Febrile neutropenia occurred in 4 pts and 1 pt had neutropenic infection. Main nonhematologic grade ≥ 3 toxicities were asthenia (2.7%) and diarrhea (1.6%). Alopecia, nails disorders and peripheral neuropathy were uncommon. Conclusions: CBZ administered in the daily clinical practice is associated with consistent OS, similar to that observed in pivotal clinical trials. GS, median time under first-line ADT and number of chemotherapy lines before CBZ did not influence clinical benefit. CBZ has an acceptable safety profile. Funding: Sanofi [Table: see text]

Sequencing in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC): Updated results of the FLAC International Database

267

Background: Optimal sequencing of new androgen-receptor targeted agents (ART) abiraterone and enzalutamide with docetaxel (DOC) and cabazitaxel (CABA) is unknown. In this large retrospective cohort of mCRPC patients (pts) treated with CABA after docetaxel (DOC), we evaluated the impact of 3 different sequences: DOC → CABA (group 1, n = 267) Or DOC → ART → CABA (group 2, n = 183) Or DOC → CABA → ART (group 3, n = 124). Methods: Records of 574 consecutive mCRPC patients were retrospectively collected in 44 centres in 6 European countries (France, Spain, UK, Greece, Poland, Turkey) from August 2012 to July 2016. Disease history and clinical characteristics at initiation of DOC therapy and outcomes were collected. Factors influencing OS were evaluated using multivariate stepwise logistic regression. Results: At DOC initiation, median age was 67 years, 83% of pts were ECOG 0-1, 45.1% had pain and 10.8% had visceral metastases. Median number of DOC cycles was 7 (6 in group 2, 7 in groups 1 and 3). Median number of CABA cycles was 6 (6 in groups 1 and 2, 7 in group 3). Median duration of ART treatment was 5.9 and 4.4 mths in groups 2 and 3, retrospectively. Median OS from first DOC cycle were 30.1, 37.1 and 40.1 mths in groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Factors influencing OS are summarized in the table below. Conclusions: Results of this retrospective cohort suggest that patients receiving DOC → CAB → ART show the greatest OS. High baseline PSA, short response to first-ADT and clinical progression of pts are major prognostic factors of OS at DOC initiation. The window of opportunity for chemotherapy should not be missed. [Table: see text]

Functional PTGS2 polymorphism-based models as novel predictive markers in metastatic renal cell carcinoma patients receiving first-line sunitinib

Sunitinib is the currently standard treatment for metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). Multiple candidate predictive biomarkers for sunitinib response have been evaluated but none of them has been implemented in the clinic yet. The aim of this study was to analyze single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes linked to mode of action of sunitinib and immune response as biomarkers for mRCC. This is a multicenter, prospective and observational study involving 20 hospitals. Seventy-five mRCC patients treated with sunitinib as first line were used to assess the impact of 63 SNPs in 31 candidate genes on clinical outcome. rs2243250 (IL4) and rs5275 (PTGS2) were found to be significantly associated with shorter cancer-specific survival (CSS). Moreover, allele C (rs5275) was associated with higher PTGS2 expression level confirming its functional role. Combination of rs5275 and rs7651265 or rs2243250 for progression free survival (PFS) or CSS, respectively, was a more valuable predictive biomarker remaining significant after correction for multiple testing. It is the first time that association of rs5275 with survival in mRCC patients is described. Two-SNP models containing this functional variant may serve as more predictive biomarkers for sunitinib and could suppose a clinically relevant tool to improve the mRCC patient management.

SEOM Clinical Guideline for treatment of muscle-invasive and metastatic urothelial bladder cancer (2016)

The goal of this article is to provide recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of muscle-invasive and metastatic bladder cancer. The diagnosis of muscle-invasive bladder cancer is made by pathologic evaluation after transurethral resection. Recently, a molecular classification has been proposed. Staging of muscle-invasive bladder cancer must be done by computed tomography scans of the chest, abdomen and pelvis and classified on the basis of UICC system. Radical cystectomy and lymph node dissection are the treatment of choice. In muscle-invasive bladder cancer, neoadjuvant chemotherapy should be recommended in patients with good performance status and no renal function impairment. Although there is insufficient evidence for use of adjuvant chemotherapy, its use must be considered when neoadjuvant therapy had not been administered in high-risk patients. Multimodality bladder-preserving treatment in localized disease is an alternative in selected and compliant patients for whom cystectomy is not considered for clinical or personal reasons. In metastatic disease, the first-line treatment for patients must be based on cisplatin-containing combination. Vinflunine is the only drug approved for use in second line in Europe. Recently, immunotherapy treatment has demonstrated activity in this setting.

Epicure: a European epidemiological study of patients with an advanced or metastatic Urothelial Carcinoma (UC) having progressed to a platinum-based chemotherapy

Background

Platinum-based systemic chemotherapy is considered the backbone for management of advanced urothelial carcinomas. However there is a lack of real world data on the use of such chemotherapy regimens, on patient profiles and on management after treatment failure.

Methods

Fifty-one randomly selected physicians from 4 European countries registered 218 consecutive patients in progression or relapse following a first platinum-based chemotherapy. Patient characteristics, tumor history and treatment regimens, as well as the considerations of physicians on the management of urothelial carcinoma were recorded.

Results

A systemic platinum-based regimen had been administered as the initial chemotherapy in 216 patients: 15 in the neoadjuvant setting, 61 in adjuvant therapy conditions, 137 in first-line advanced setting and 3 in other conditions. Of these patients, 76 (35 %) were initially considered as cisplatin-unfit, mainly because of renal impairment (52 patients). After platinum failure, renal impairment was observed in 44 % of patients, ECOG Performance Status ≥ 2 in 17 %, hemoglobinemia < 10 g/dL in 16 %, hepatic metastases in 13 %. 80 % of these patients received further anticancer therapy. Immediately after failure of adjuvant/neoadjuvant chemotherapy, most subsequent anticancer treatments were chemotherapy doublets (35/58), whereas after therapy failure in the advanced setting most patients receiving further anticancer drugs were treated with a single agent (80/114). After first progression to chemotherapy, treatment decisions were mainly driven by Performance Status and prior response to chemotherapy (>30 % patients). The most frequent all-settings second anticancer therapy regimen was vinflunine (70 % of single-agent and 42 % of all subsequent treatments), the main reasons evoked by physicians (>1 out of 4) being survival benefit, safety and phase III evidence.

Conclusion

In this daily practice experience, a majority of patients with urothelial carcinoma previously treated with a platinum-based therapy received a second chemotherapy regimen, most often a single agent after an initial chemotherapy in the advanced setting and preferably a cytotoxic combination after a neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy. Performance Status and prior response to chemotherapy were the main drivers of further treatment decisions.

Phosphorylated-insulin growth factor I receptor (p-IGF1R) and metalloproteinase-3 (MMP3) expression in advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). A GEIS 19 study

Background

Most GISTs have mutations in KIT or PDGFRA. Patients with advanced GIST with KIT exon 9, PDGFRA mutation or WT for KIT and PDGFRA have a worse progression-free survival (PFS) compared to patients with KIT exon 11 mutated tumors. We evaluated the immunohistochemical (IHC) expression of p-IGF1R (Y1316) and MMP3 as predictors of PFS or overall survival (OS).

Methods

Ninety-two advanced GIST patients included in GEIS-16 study with KIT and PDGFRA mutational information were examined for p-IGF1R (Y1316) and MMP3 expression in a tissue micro-array. To study activation of the IGF1R system, we have used an antibody (anti-pY1316) that specifically recognizes the active phosphorylated form of the IGF1R. DNA was extracted from paraffin-embedded tissues and intronic PCR primers were used to amplify exons 9, 11, 13 and 17 of KIT, 12 and 18 of PDGFRA. Bidirectional sequencing with specific primers was performed on a ABI3100 sequencer using the Big Dye Terminator v3.1 kit. Multivariate model was built using a stepwise automated variable selection approach with criterion to enter the variable in the model of p < 0.10 and criterion to keep the variable in the model of p < 0.05. PFS was computed as the date of imatinib initiation to progression or death. Overall survival was defined as the time from imatinib initiation to death.

Results

Phospho-IGF1R was expressed only in 9 % (2/22) of cases without KIT mutation. MMP3 expression was detected in 2/5 patients (40 %) with PDGFRA mutation, 1/16 patients (6 %) with WT genotype and 7/71 patients (10 %) of KIT mutant patients. At univariate analysis KIT exon 11/13 mutation had better PFS than patients with exon 9 mutation, PDGFRA mutation or WT genotype (p = 0.021; HR: 0.46; 95 %CI (0.28–0.76). Less than 24 months disease free-interval (HR 24.2, 95 % CI 10.5–55.8), poor performance status (PS) (HR 6.3, 95 % CI 2.5–15.9), extension of disease; >1 organ (HR 1.89; 95 % CI 1.03–3.4) and genotype analysis (HR 0.57, 95 % CI 0.37–0.97) but not immunophenotype analysis (HR 1.53; 95 % CI 0.76–3.06) were the strongest prognostic factors for PFS in the multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

Our results do not support p-IGF-1R and MMP3 evaluation in non-selected GIST patients but evaluation of this immunophenotype in WT and mutant PDGFR mutation in larger group of GIST patients, deserve merits.

SNPs associated with activity and toxicity of cabazitaxel in patients with advanced urothelial cell carcinoma

AIM

We aimed to identify SNPs associated with cabazitaxel toxicity and response within a Phase II clinical trial using this compound in advanced transitional cell carcinoma after progression to a platinum-based regimen.

PATIENTS & METHODS

Eleven SNPs in CYP3A4, CYP3A5, CYP2C8, ABCB1 and TUBB1 were genotyped in 45 patients.

RESULTS

CYP3A5 rs776746 A allele was associated with protection against gastrointestinal toxicity (odds ratio: 0.06, 95% CI: 0.007-0.63, p = 0.018) and with reduced progression-free survival (hazard ratio: 5.1, 95% CI: 1.7-15.1, p = 0.0038, multivariable analysis). ABCB1 SNPs were associated with total number of grade 3-4 toxicity events (p-values of 0.009, 0.041 and 0.043, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Polymorphisms in CYP3A5 and ABCB1 may define a subset of patients with different cabazitaxel toxicity and efficacy and therefore could be used as markers for treatment optimization.

Impact on clinical practice of the implementation of guidelines for the toxicity management of targeted therapies in kidney cancer. The protect-2 study

Background

The impact of such recommendations after their implementation of guidelines has not usually been evaluated. Herein, we assessed the impact and compliance with the Spanish Oncology Genitourinary Group (SOGUG) Guidelines for toxicity management of targeted therapies in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) in daily clinical practice.

Methods

Data on 407 mRCC patients who initiated first-line targeted therapy during the year before and the year after publication and implementation of the SOGUG guideline program were available from 34 Spanish Hospitals. Adherence to SOGUG Guidelines was assessed in every cycle.

Results

Adverse event (AE) management was consistent with the Guidelines as a whole for 28.7 % out of 966 post-implementation cycles compared with 23.1 % out of 892 pre-implementation cycles (p = 0.006). Analysis of adherence by AE in non-compliant cycles showed significant changes in appropriate management of hypertension (33 % pre-implementation vs. 44.5 % post-implementation cycles; p < 0.0001), diarrhea (74.0 % vs. 80.5 %; p = 0.011) and dyslipemia (25.0 % vs. 44.6 %; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Slight but significant improvements in AE management were detected following the implementation of SOGUG recommendations. However, room for improvement in the management of AEs due to targeted agents still remains and could be the focus for further programs in this direction.