Attitudes of Non-Oncology Physicians Dealing with Cancer Patients. A Survey Based on Clinical Scenarios in Ancona Province, Central Italy

Aims and Background

With this study we attempted to determine to what extent recent acquisitions in clinical oncology had reached categories of physicians involved in the management of patients with cancer, namely general surgeons, internists and family doctors.

Methods

A questionnaire was prepared with scenarios based on the following clinical situations: Scenario A, Adjuvant therapy in colon cancer; Scenario B, Treatment of small-cell lung cancer; Scenario C, Adjuvant therapy in high-risk, node-negative breast cancer; Scenario D, Treatment of early stage breast cancer; Scenario E, Asymptomatic transient myelosuppression during chemotherapy. Questionnaires were mailed to 365 family doctors, 54 general surgeons and 61 internists of the Province of Ancona in central Italy.

Results

A total of 198 completed questionnaires were returned (41%). Respondents were 36.7% of family doctors, 54.1% of internists and 57.4% of surgeons. Less than half of respondents selected an adequate approach such as adjuvant chemotherapy for colon cancer and high-risk, node-negative breast cancer or chemotherapy as first-line treatment for small-cell lung cancer. Conservative surgery plus radiotherapy (QUART) for early stage breast cancer was indicated by 69% of respondents. Over three quarters of physicians would give treatment for asymptomatic transient chemotherapy-induced leukopenia. In most of the scenarios, significant differences were detected in the distribution of preferences according to category of physicians. Family doctors and young physicians (<40 years) generally performed worse than hospital-based physicians (general surgeons and internists) and older physicians.

Conclusions

Non-oncology physicians showed insufficient awareness of currently available knowledge in cancer treatment. Basic concepts in cancer management should be part of the professional knowledge of all medical doctors, and key advances in clinical oncology should spread outside the oncologic environment more promptly, with a wide circulation among all physicians who care for cancer patients.

Etoposide and Mitomycin-C in Pretreated Metastatic Breast Cancer

Twenty-five patients with metastatic breast cancer in progression after prior chemotheray ± hormonotherapy were treated with etoposide 50 mg/m2 i.v. days 1 to 5 every 21 days and mitomycin-C 10 mg/m2 i.v. day 1 every 42 days. A partial response (PR) occurred in 10 patients with an overall response rate of 40 % (47 % when only the 21 patients evaluable after 3 courses or more were considered). The median duration of PR was 10.5 months (range 3-31). The soft tissue metastatic sites were the most responsive. Toxicity was mild.

Moderate Chemo-Radiotherapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Results in 21 Patients with Advanced Disease and Low Performance Status

Twenty-one patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer and low performance status (Karnofsky: 40–60) were treated with moderate doses of chemo-radiotherapy. Seven patients (33 %) had partial response and a median survival time of 10 months; 5 patients (24 %) had stable disease and a median survival time of 5 months; 9 patients (43 %) had progression of disease and a median survival time of 6 months. Median survival time for the whole group was 7 months. Toxicity related to treatment was minimal and posttreatment performance status was: stable in 10 patients and improved in 5 responsive patients. We conclude that this therapeutic strategy has some efficacy in this category of patients although it failed to show substantial benefit in terms of survival.

Analgesia with Epidural Calcitonin in Cancer Patients

We evaluated the analgesic effect of salmon calcitonin (sCT) on 14 patients with intractable cancer pain. The drug was administered by epidural infusion (4–8 bolus administrations in 48 h); the dosage was 100 IU/48 h in 5 patients and 400 IU/48 h in 9 patients. Significant, although limited, pain relief and nocturnal pain relief were obtained; the requirement for conventional analgesic drugs was substantially reduced. The treatment was well tolerated and no side effect was recorded. However, only in 3/14 patients did pain relief result in improvement of mobility, with two patients becoming able to ambulate; no patient experienced absence of pain. In general, the treatment produced only limited benefit and subsequent morphine treatment was required in all instances. Widespread use of epidural sCT in intractable cancer pain is not justified as a routine procedure and more substantial evidence is required to support the clinical utility of such an approach.

Phase II Trial with Alternating Two Drug Schedules, CAP/MEC', For Advanced (Stage III Mo/Ml) Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer

Sixty-eight evaluable patients with advanced squamous cell carcinoma (48), large cell carcinoma (2) and adenocarcinoma (18) of the lung were treated with a six-drug regimen delivering two monthly alternated combinations. The combinations were cisplatin, adriamycin and cyclophosphamide (CAP) and methotrexate, etoposide and CCNU (MEC). Following a minimum of two courses, the overall response rate was 22 % (confidence limits, 12% to 32%) (15/68, 2 complete responses and 13 partial responses); 47 % (32/68) had stable disease and 31 % (21/68) had progressive disease. The responses lasted a median of 3 months (range, 1-15 months). The actuarial median survival was 11 months in responsive patients, 10 months in stable disease patients, and 5 months in progressive patients. The overall median survival obtained was 9 months (range, 2-28+ months). Toxicity was minimal, and subjective tolerance of the treatment appeared good. However, this alternating program did not improve response rate or survival.

Assessment of Liver and Spleen Involvement in Hodgkin's Disease

Prognosis and proper treatment in Hodgkin's disease (HD) are strictly related to staging accuracy: liver and spleen involvement is of particular importance in this regard. We have evaluated, in 113 consecutive patients, the accuracy of clinical parameters to detect histologically documented HD involvement by comparing hepatosplenomegaly, liver function tests, liver and spleen scan, inspection of liver and spleen surface at laparoscopy with histologic findings. Our data suggest that of all the parameters studied, laparoscopy has the highest sensitivity and specificity values (about 100 %). Laparoscopy may precede laparotomy as a staging procedure in HD and may give, in patients not submitted to laparotomy whatever the reasons, very reliable information.

A Feasibility Study using Polychemotherapy (Cisplatin + Vindesine + Dacarbazine) plus Interferon-Alpha or Monochemotherapy with Dacarbazine plus Interferon-Alpha in Metastatic Melanoma

Aims and Background

This trial evaluated the feasibility and tol-erability of an immunochemotherapeutic approach that uses cisplatin, vindesine, and dacarbazine (DTIC), or only DTIC, in combination with interferon alpha-2a (IFN-a), in patients with metastatic melanoma, considering the significant toxicity of several different regimens used up to now.

Methods

Between May 1995 and September 1997, 51 melanoma patients (50 of whom were assessable) entered a multicentric trial and were randomized to receive cisplatin (30 mg/m2 daily for 3 days) + vindesine (2.5 mg/m2 only day 1) + DTIC (250 mg/m2 daily for 3 consecutive days) + IFN-α (3 MIU im 3x/wk continuously) (CVD arm) versus DTIC (800 mg/m2 day 1) + IFN-α (3 MIU im 3x/wk continuously) (DTIC arm). The chemotherapy was recycled every 21 days. Patient reevaluation was performed every two cycles, and the treatment was continued in case of objective response or stabilization of disease.

Results

We observed 3 complete responses, 2 partial responses and 5 stable diseases in the CVD arm, and 2 partial responses and 4 stabilizations of disease in the DTIC arm.

Conclusions

We conclude that these chemotherapeutic regimens are well tolerated regimens with modest toxicity. Future trials will be conducted associating the CVD regimen with biological response modifiers (IFN, IL-2) in order to improve the results.

Compliance with Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Programs in Women: Results from a Population-Based Study

Aims and background

Women's adherence to mammography and PAP test screening guidelines is a fundamental topic regarding women's health. The aim of the study was to evaluate the knowledge and compliance to breast and cervical cancer screening programs in women living in three Italian towns, where a public screening program, consisting of free mammography every two years and free PAP test every three years, is ongoing.

Methods

An anonymous survey was mailed to a random sample of women. Eight 120-min focus discussions with groups of women exploring perceptions, knowledge and practices were carried out after analysis of the returned surveys.

Results

Replies were received from 1345 women (response rate, 27%). Almost every woman knew of the screening program, but women's practice of mammography was age-dependent: up to 72% of the women performed it before the age of 50. Conversely, the age of the first PAP test was rather late: up to 70% of the women performed it at over 30 years of age. Women with a lower educational level reported being screened less than those with a higher level. During the group discussions, women's perceptions, knowledge and beliefs regarding cancer and screening, together with aspects of the health care system, appeared to strongly influence the preventive practices. Many women deplored being infrequently instructed by health professionals.

Conclusions

Despite the limitations of the study due to the low response rate, we believe that health professionals should invest on encouraging factors and reduce the deterring factors to optimize screening practices.

Compliance with breast and cervical cancer screening programs in women: results from a population-based study

AIMS AND BACKGROUND

Women's adherence to mammography and PAP test screening guidelines is a fundamental topic regarding women's health. The aim of the study was to evaluate the knowledge and compliance to breast and cervical cancer screening programs in women living in three Italian towns, where a public screening program, consisting of free mammography every two years and free PAP test every three years, is ongoing.

METHODS

An anonymous survey was mailed to a random sample of women. Eight 120-min focus discussions with groups of women exploring perceptions, knowledge and practices were carried out after analysis of the returned surveys.

RESULTS

Replies were received from 1345 women (response rate, 27%). Almost every woman knew of the screening program, but women's practice of mammography was age-dependent: up to 72% of the women performed it before the age of 50. Conversely, the age of the first PAP test was rather late: up to 70% of the women performed it at over 30 years of age. Women with a lower educational level reported being screened less than those with a higher level. During the group discussions, women's perceptions, knowledge and beliefs regarding cancer and screening, together with aspects of the health care system, appeared to strongly influence the preventive practices. Many women deplored being infrequently instructed by health professionals.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the limitations of the study due to the low response rate, we believe that health professionals should invest on encouraging factors and reduce the deterring factors to optimize screening practices.

Sub-cellular localization analysis of MSH6 missense mutations does not reveal an overt MSH6 nuclear transport impairment

Nearly one-third of the identified MSH6 germline mutations deal with single amino acid substitutions. For an effective genetic counselling it is necessary to clearly elucidate by functional tools the specific sub-processes underlying the mismatch repair (MMR) misfunctioning in MSH6 non-truncating mutants. Since the MMR repair pathway occurs in the nucleus, we suppose the impairment of MutSα nuclear trafficking to be a possible Lynch syndrome susceptibility causative mechanism. In the present study the MMR status of the tumour, the main clinical features of mutation carriers and population data associated to the MSH6 missense variants, were complemented with computational data about tolerability predictions and amino acid substitution conservation. The selected panel of ten potentially pathogenic MSH6 mutations was analyzed in a homologous expression system for possible deleterious effects on nucleo-cytoplasmic shuttling through the assessment of the sub-cellular localization of the corresponding mutated proteins. Localization analysis results do not reveal an apparent role of MSH6 missense mutations in nuclear import impairment and provide the first hint to exclude the MSH6 nuclear translocation sub-process as a possible causative mechanisms of MMR misfunctioning.

BRCA1 expression in triple negative sporadic breast cancers

OBJECTIVE

To study how to identify patients with "triple negative" sporadic breast cancers (BCs) having BRCA1 silenced or down-regulated due to epigenetic BRCA1 inactivation.

STUDY DESIGN

We selected, from our database, patients diagnosed with BC between 1995 and 2001 with tumors exhibiting the "triple negative" phenotype. "Triple positive" tumors were used as controls. BRCA1 protein expression was determined by immunohistochemistry. Methylation specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and bisulfite sequencing on genomic DNA were used to assess BRCA1 promoter methylation. BRCA1 m-RNA expression analysis was conducted by real-time PCR.

RESULTS

Forty-four triple negative and 68 controls (triple positive) were eligible for our analysis. BRCA1 promoter methylation was present in 31.8% of triple negative and in 20.6% of triple positive cases. BRCA1 was inactivated (absent BRCA1 m-RNA expression and lack of BRCA1 protein) in 21.4% of tumors with BRCA1 promoter methylation, as compared with 6% of non-methylated ones (p = 0.0453).

CONCLUSION

BRCA1 inactivation due to promoter methylation could play an important role in some sporadic BC cases. Patients with this signature could represent the basis for prospective studies aiming to compare clinical response to different drugs.

CAT25 is a mononucleotide marker to identify HNPCC patients

Mismatch repair mutations are the cause of generalized genomic instability and are particularly evident at microsatellite loci, which is known as microsatellite instability (MSI). MSI is present in 85% to 90% of colorectal cancers and occurs in hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC). The National Cancer Institute recommends the "Bethesda panel" for MSI screening. Recently, a novel T(25) mononucleotide marker was described, termed CAT25. This microsatellite marker displays a quasi-monomorphic pattern in normal tissues. The aim of our study was to evaluate the performance of CAT25 in HNPCC patients and to compare its reliability with the results of the Bethesda panel. We tested 55 tumor tissues from HNPCC patients using both the Bethesda panel and the CAT25 mononucleotide marker. One hundred healthy blood donors were used as controls. The CAT25 microsatellite was found to be altered in all 13 colorectal cancers classified as MSI-H using the standard Bethesda panel. Colorectal tumors that showed a stable Bethesda pattern did not show altered CAT25 repeats. Additionally, CAT25 showed a monomorphic allele pattern in all tissue samples. In our series, the concordance between the Bethesda panel and CAT25 in identifying colorectal cancers with high MSI reached 100%. Our results suggest that the CAT25 microsatellite represents a sensitive and specific marker for MSI and could be, at least, included in the panel of markers for the identification of HNPCC patients.

MSH2 missense mutations and HNPCC syndrome: pathogenicity assessment in a human expression system

Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC) is associated with germline mutations in one of several MisMatch Repair (MMR) genes. An increasing proportion (20-25%) of the reported MSH2 variants consists of single amino-acid substitution with uncertain disease-causing significance. The present study was undertaken to functionally characterize 3 MSH2 nontruncating variants: p.Gly162Arg (c.484G>C), p.Asp167His (c.499G>C) and p.Arg359Ser (c.1077A>T). Missense alterations, were assessed in a human system for expression/stability and for the ability to heterodimerize with MSH6 and correctly localize into the nucleus. Functional assays results were correlated with clinical and genetic features indicative of HNPCC as MicroSatellite-Instability (MSI), abnormalities of MMR gene expression in tumour tissue (IHC) and familial history. p.Gly162Arg and p.Arg359Ser variants showed a clearly decreased expression level of the MutSá complex and were associated with an abnormal subcellular localization pattern, which can be suggestive of an incorrect MSH2/MSH6 heterodimerization. Functional analysis results were supported by MSI and IHC data and by familial cancer history. The subcellular localization assay, performed in a human expression system, classifies as pathogenetic two MSH2 nontruncating alterations providing a useful tool in genetic testing programs.

Molecular targets in Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GIST) therapy

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchimal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. Such tumors usually have activating mutations in either KIT (75-80%) or Platelet Derived Growth Factor Receptor alpha (PDGFRa) (5-10%) which lead to ligand-independent signal transduction. Targeting these activated proteins with Imatinib mesylate, a small-molecule kinase inhibitor, has proven useful in the treatment of recurrent or metastatic GISTs. However, more than half of patients develop resistance to Imatinib after about 2 years. Therefore, other targets have been studying in order to implement the therapeutical armamentarium for this disease. Sunitinib malate is an oral multikinase inhibitor that targets several receptor tyrosine kinases and has proved to prolong survival in Imatinib-resistant patients. Other molecules, such as Nilotinib, Sorafenib and Dasatinib were shown to be useful in Imatinib resistant mutant cell lines and the results of their activity in humans are being awaited. Recent evidence suggests that GIST cells acquire the capability to escape from the control of KIT and PDGFRa through the activation of alternative pathways. Therefore, further effort should be invested in the discovery of new signaling pathways, such as AXL, MET, IGF-R, which might be involved in the evolution of the disease. After a description of KIT and PDGFRa as known targets of anti-GIST treatments, we review other mechanisms and mediators that might be potential targets of new therapies, providing a comprehensive revision of the new molecular strategies under investigation.

Insulin-like growth factor (IGF) 1 and 2 help to predict disease outcome in GIST patients

BACKGROUND

The expression of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system has never been studied in gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We studied the immunohistochemical expression of IGF1 receptor (IGFR-I), IGF1 and IGF2 in 94 samples of GISTs. IGF1 and IGF2 expression was scored in three classes: negative (N), moderate (M) and strong (S), according to staining intensity and extent.

RESULTS

IGFR-I was overexpressed in all cases. IGF1 and IGF2 expression was absent in 25 and 48 cases, moderate in 29 and 16 cases and strong in 40 and 30 cases, respectively. Strong IGF1 expression significantly correlated with higher mitotic index (P = 0.0001), larger (P = 0.01), higher risk (P = 0.0002), metastatic (P = 0.0001) and relapsed (P = 0.04) GISTs. Strong IGF2 expression correlated with higher mitotic index (P = 0.05) and higher risk GISTs (P = 0.001). The Kaplan-Meier analysis (N versus M versus S) showed a significant worsening of the disease-free survival (DFS) with the increase of IGF1 (P = 0.02) and IGF2 (P = 0.02) expression. In the subgroup of patients with operated high-risk GISTs, there was a better trend in DFS for patients affected by GISTs with negative IGF1 and IGF2.

CONCLUSIONS

The expression of IGF1 and IGF2 seems to predict relapse in GIST patients.

KIT and PDGFRalpha mutations in 104 patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs): a population-based study

BACKGROUND

The prognostic significance of KIT or platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRalpha) mutations in gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) is still controversial.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 104 patients were diagnosed with GISTs by KIT immunoreactivity; tumor DNA was sequenced for the presence of mutations in KIT exons 9, 11, 13 and 17 and in PDGFRalpha exons 12 and 18. Disease-free survival (DFS) was analyzed in 85 radically resected patients.

RESULTS

KIT mutations occurred in exon 11 (69), in exon 9 (11) and in exon 17 (1). PDGFRalpha mutations were detected in exon 18 (10) and in exon 12 (3). Ten GISTs were wild type. Exon 11 mutations were as follows: deletions in 42 cases and point mutations in 20 cases and insertions and duplications, respectively, in 2 and 5 cases. A better trend in DFS was evident for duplicated and point-mutated exon 11 KIT GISTs. There was a significant association between PDGFRalpha mutations, gastric location and lower mitotic index. Moreover, PDGFRalpha-mutated GISTs seemed to have a better outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Point mutations and duplications in KIT exon 11 are associated with a better clinical trend in DFS. PDGFRalpha-mutated GISTs are preferentially localized in the stomach and seem to have a favorable clinical behavior.

A missense germline mutation in exon 7 of the MSH2 gene in a HNPCC family from center-Italy

INTRODUCTION

Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC) is an autosomal dominant inherited disease predisposing to the development of colorectal cancers and several other malignancies (endometrium, ovaries, stomach, small bowel, hepatobiliary and urinary tract). HNPCC is caused by germline mutations in any of the MisMatch Repair (MMR) genes. Mutations in MLH1 and MSH2 account for almost 90% of all identified ones. About 15% of mutations identified in MSH2 are missense ones.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We studied one family, fulfilling Amsterdam II criteria, referred to our Center for genetic counselling. The proband, and some of her relatives, have been investigated for microsatellite instability (MSI), immunohistochemical MMR protein staining and by direct sequencing and Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification (MLPA).

RESULTS

All patients carried the same novel MSH2 germline missense mutation (R359S) in exon 7, which determines the substitution of an Arginine, which is a basic amino acid, with a polar Serine residue (R359S). The mutation was associated with lack of expression of MSH2 protein and high microsatellite instability in tumour tissues. The same mutation has been detected in one healthy relative.

CONCLUSIONS

The mutation here reported shows a high correlation with phenotype. The mutation is located in an evolutionary conserved domain. Taken together, our findings suggest evidence that the amino acid substitution can be interpreted as pathogenetic.

Different types of mutations in GISTs: Different clinical implications?

20505

Background: Mutations of KIT or PDGFRa are associated with the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). The prognostic significance of these mutations is still controversial. Methods: We examined 125 patients diagnosed with GISTs. Genomic DNA was extracted from paraffin-embedded tumor tissues and analysed for the presence of KIT exon 9 and 11 mutations and PDGFRa exon 12 and 18 mutations. DFS (Disease Free Survival) was analysed in 92 radically resected patients. The relation between mutations and clinico-pathological factors was analysed using Fisher's exact test and Kaplan-Meyer analysis. Results: KIT mutations occurred in exon 9 in 15 cases and in exon 11 in 78 cases. PDGFRa mutations have been detected mainly in exon 18 (10 cases) and less frequently in exon 12 (3 cases). Exon 11 mutations were as follows: deletions in 58%, point mutations in 30%, insertions and duplications respectively in 4 and 5 cases. Although type of mutations within exon 11 KIT didn't correlate with DFS, a better trend was evident for duplicated and point mutated GISTs. Exon 9 KIT mutated GISTs were associated with intestinal location and higher grade. There was significant association between PDGFRa mutations, gastric location and lower mitotic index. Moreover, PDGFRa mutated and wild type GISTs seemed to have a better outcome. Conclusions: Point mutations and duplications in exon 11 KIT were associated with a better clinical trend in DFS. Exon 9 KIT mutations significantly correlated with intestinal location and higher mitotic count. PDGFRa mutated GISTs were localized in the stomach and seemed to have a favorable clinical behavior.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Genotype and phenotype in hereditary and sporadic breast cancers

10538

Background: BRCA1 protein is involved in distinct DNA-repair processes. Germline mutations in BRCA1 gene confer cancer susceptibility. A frequent mechanism for epigenetic inactivation is hypermethylation of the CpG island in promoters of tumours suppressor genes. BRCA1 promoter hypermethylation has been found in a variable percentage of breast cancers (15–30%). BRCA1-associated breast cancers are usually high-grade, poorly differentiated and stain negative for HER2/neu, oestrogen and progesterone receptors (ER, PgR). Many studies have shown that hereditary BRCA1 and basal-like sporadic breast tumours have a similar phenotype and gene expression signature. Methods: By clinical criteria, 223 patients were selected and, for each patient, the probability to carry a BRCA1 mutation was calculated using the software BRCAPRO and Manchester Score System. All patients were studied by direct sequencing and MLPA of BRCA1 Open Reading Frames (ORFs). Thirty sporadic breast carcinomas, from women undergone surgery for primary invasive breast carcinoma between 1995 and 2001, were selected on the basis of negative staining for ER, PgR and HER2/neu (“BRCA-like”). In these patients, Methylation Specific-PCR and Bisulfite Sequencing on genomic DNA (obtained from sections of paraffin-embedded tissues and modified with sodium bisulfite) were used to assess the methylation pattern of BRCA1 promoter. BRCA1 immunohystochemical analysis (IHC) was performed in all patients. Results: We identified 17 patients with deleterious germline mutations in BRCA1. In “BRCA-like” patients, 13 methylated and 17 unmethylated cases were found by methylation analysis of BRCA1 promoter. The BRCA1 IHC was performed in all available samples ( table 1 ). Conclusions: Hypermethylation of BRCA1 promoter was found in 43% of “BRCA- like” patients. Expression of BRCA1 seems to correlate with hypermethylation of its promoter. Further studies are in progress to better understand the possible role of BRCA1 promoter hypermethylation in sporadic breast cancers.

[Table: see text]

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Effectiveness of the CRCAPRO program in identifying patients suspected for HNPCC

Subjects affected by hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer exhibit a high susceptibility to colon and extracolonic tumours, due to MMR gene defects. Revised Bethesda criteria are used to select patients as candidates for genetic tests. Recently, the CRCAPRO model has been developed, based on family history of colorectal and endometrial cancers. Our study aims to evaluate the reliability of CRCAPRO in identifying mutation carriers. We used the CRCAPRO program to evaluate carrier probability risk in 99 patients fulfilling Amsterdam or Bethesda guidelines. MLH1 and MSH2 were studied by direct sequencing in all the 99 patients, and the study of microsatellite instability and of MMR proteins expression was performed. Nine MLH1 and nine MSH2 germline mutations were identified. Five out of the nine patients with MLH1 mutation showed a CRCAPRO risk evaluation of less than 20%. The same happened for four out of nine patients with MSH2 mutation. Of the 17 patients with an estimated risk of more than 80%, only four harboured a mutation, all in the MSH2 gene. The highest risk calculated by the CRCAPRO system in the nine carriers of a MLH1 mutation has been 31.7%. In our experience, the CRCAPRO program sensitivity and specificity appears to be low but needs to be further evaluated in larger samples.

Information to cancer patients: A questionnaire survey in three different geographical areas in Italy

18593

Background: The way information to cancer patients is delivered widely varies among different countries. In Italy, as in other Mediterranean countries, the traditional approach has been of partial disclosure of the truth. Methods: We asked 200 cancer patients in 3 different Centres form Northern, Central and Southern Italy (Udine, Ancona, Catanzaro) to answer a 26-item questionnaire on communication aspects, in order to verify if information received was correct and adequate, and dependent on geographical variations. Statistics included univariate and multiple correspondence analysis, which studies relations between all variables, and provides a graphical representation in which associated variables tend to aggregate spatially. Results: Questionnaires were completed by 587 patients, of median age 60 yrs, 57% females, mainly with gastrointestinal (32%) or breast cancer (30%); 63% had active disease at time of interview. 77% of patients interviewed had a correct knowledge of their diagnosis, with no difference between different Centres. More informed were patients of female gender (p = 0.004), young age, better education, and with breast cancer (all p < 0.001). Patients appropriately informed on prognosis were 41%. More informed were those with good prognosis, breast cancer, and not receiving treatment; less informed patients from Southern Italy and those with advanced disease. Degree of information was not directly related to desire for information, which was more pronounced for patients from Central and Southern Italy. Satisfaction for information received was higher for patients from Northern Italy, not on treatment, with limited disease. Multiple correspondence analysis identified clusters of patients such as those of old age, lower education, male sex, advanced disease, preferred paternalistic approach, characterized by poor level of information; and young age, female sex, high scholarity, breast cancer, patient-centered relationship with their doctor, characterized by high level of information. Conclusions: The cultural attitude towards communication aspects in oncology is changing in Italy. There are still significant differences at different latitudes, but there is a general trend to improving awareness about cancer.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Assessing the pathogenicity of MLH1 missense mutations in patients with suspected hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer: correlation with clinical, genetic and functional features

Assessing the pathogenicity of missense mutations of MLH1 and MSH2 is critical to counsel patients with suspected hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC). Approximately 32% of all MLH1 mutations and 18% of MSH2 mutations are missense variants which often have an uncertain genetic significance. To assess the pathogenicity of four MLH1 missense mutations which were found in five patients with suspected HNPCC, P648S (CCC --> TCC), L559R (CTG --> CGG), K618A (AAG --> GCG), Y646C (TAT --> TGT), we studied their ability to disrupt MLH1 protein function and their relationship with all those clinical, genetic and pathological features which are typical of this syndrome. Our results indicated that the P648S and L559R mutations were probably pathogenic because they disrupted MLH1 protein interaction with its partner PMS2 in vitro and abolished MLH1 expression in HCT116 cells. In addition these variants were associated with features often found in HNPCC patients: in particular high microsatellite instability, occurrence of high grade tumours and, in one case, strong family history. The pathogenicity of the K618A and Y646C mutations was questionable as their correlation with features typical of HNPCC was low and the outcome of the functional analysis was ambiguous. These observations suggested that a clinically usable assessment of the pathogenicity of MLH missense variants can be achieved through the analysis of multiple mutation characteristics among which loss of protein function, occurrence of microsatellite instability and family history seemed to have a predominant role.

MSH2 splice site mutation and endometrial cancer

Hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) is an inherited syndrome of cancer susceptibility caused by germ line mutations of genes participating in mismatch repair (MMR). Carriers of MMR gene mutations have an increased risk of colorectal cancers and cancer of other organs. Tumors of the endometrium represent the most frequent extracolonic malignancies in HNPCC. It has been suggested that women harboring MMR gene mutations have a higher risk of endometrial cancer than of colon cancer. Here, we describe an HNPCC patient with early-onset endometrial cancer and a strong familial history of endometrial tumors who harbored a germ line MSH2 splice site mutation (IVS9_2A>G). This mutation was responsible for abnormal messenger RNA processing, leading to the introduction of a premature stop signal and to the expression of a truncated MSH2 protein. In addition, the same mutation was associated with loss of MSH2 protein expression, high microsatellite instability, and PTEN inactivation. Although a direct relationship between the endometrial cancer susceptibility and the MSH2 mutation we found cannot be established, our observations, consistent with the work of other authors, suggest the involvement of germ line MSH2 abnormalities in endometrial tumor development and support the case for endometrial cancer screening in women from HNPCC families.

MSH2 splice site mutation and endometrial cancer

Hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) is an inherited syndrome of cancer susceptibility caused by germ line mutations of genes participating in mismatch repair (MMR). Carriers of MMR gene mutations have an increased risk of colorectal cancers and cancer of other organs. Tumors of the endometrium represent the most frequent extracolonic malignancies in HNPCC. It has been suggested that women harboring MMR gene mutations have a higher risk of endometrial cancer than of colon cancer. Here, we describe an HNPCC patient with early-onset endometrial cancer and a strong familial history of endometrial tumors who harbored a germ line MSH2 splice site mutation (IVS9_2A>G). This mutation was responsible for abnormal messenger RNA processing, leading to the introduction of a premature stop signal and to the expression of a truncated MSH2 protein. In addition, the same mutation was associated with loss of MSH2 protein expression, high microsatellite instability, and PTEN inactivation. Although a direct relationship between the endometrial cancer susceptibility and the MSH2 mutation we found cannot be established, our observations, consistent with the work of other authors, suggest the involvement of germ line MSH2 abnormalities in endometrial tumor development and support the case for endometrial cancer screening in women from HNPCC families.

Identification of Clinical Prognostic Factors in Patients with Unknown Primary Tumors Treated with a Platinum-Based Combination

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate patient and tumor characteristics in 102 patients with unknown primary tumors (UPT) prospectively treated with a combination of carboplatin, doxorubicin, and etoposide, to identify clinical variables predictive of response and survival.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The association between clinical characteristics and outcome was evaluated by univariate and multivariate analysis: chi(2) test and logistic regression analysis were used to study variables predictive of response, and survival analysis, comparison of survival curves and Cox multiple regression analysis to study variables predictive of survival.

RESULTS

We obtained 26.5% objective responses (95% confidence interval: 18.2-36.1%) and a median survival of 9 months (95% confidence interval: 7-11 months). Several variables were associated with response to treatment and survival at univariate analysis. At multivariate analysis the number of tumor sites, bone/visceral involvement and epithelial tumor markers were significantly predictive of response; presence of pain, serum alkaline phosphatase, carboplatin AUC and response to treatment were significantly associated with survival.

CONCLUSIONS

The identification of variables that can predict prognosis and response to treatment in patients with UPT may be useful to offer aggressive treatment to sensitive subsets of patients and provide therapeutic alternatives to those with a low probability of benefiting from standard treatment. In our patients the use of carboplatin AUC higher than 6 and response to treatment were the most important factors associated with prognosis, together with presence of pain and serum alkaline phosphatase. However, larger series and identification of new disease markers are necessary to better define predictive and prognostic variables in UPT patients.

Molecular biology of sporadic gastric cancer: prognostic indicators and novel therapeutic approaches

Both the availability of multiple treatment modalities and novel therapeutic targets make the correct prognostic stratification and the identification of truly predictive factors an issue of major debate in gastric cancer. Along with "classic" prognostic factors such as those related to the diffusion of the tumour at diagnosis (i.e., depth of gastric wall infiltration, locoregional lymph nodes or distant metastases) or those concerning the pathologic characteristics of the tumour, other, innovative, factors should be considered if a better definition of the characteristics of the tumour is to be given. These biological factors are often derived from the genetic process, which is thought to represent a crucial step to gastric cancer (DNA copy number changes, microsatellite instability, thymidilate synthase, E-cadherin, beta-catenin, mucin antigen, p53, c-erb B-2, COX-2, matrix metalloproteinases, VEGFR and EGFR). Some of those putative prognostic indicators can also be considered predictive of response to therapy as they are a molecular target either to chemotherapeutics (i.e., thymidilate synthase that is targeted by 5FU) or to a new class of antineoplastic molecules (i.e., c-erb B-2 targeted by trastuzumab, COX-2 by NSAIDs, matrix metalloproteinases, EGFR and VEGFR by specific inhibitors).

Carboplatin, doxorubicin and etoposide in the treatment of tumours of unknown primary site

The aim of this study was to assess the activity and toxicity of a platinum-based treatment on a group of patients with unknown primary tumours (UPTs). Patients with a diagnosis of UPT underwent a standard diagnostic procedure. Treatment was started within 2 weeks from diagnosis and consisted of carboplatin 400 mg m(-2) day 1, doxorubicin 50 mg m(-2) day 1, etoposide 100 mg m(-2) days 1-3, every 21 days. Response was evaluated after three courses and treatment continued in case of objective response (OR) or symptom control. A total of 102 patients were eligible. The median age was 59 years, sex male/female 54/48, histology was mainly adenocarcinoma or poorly differentiated carcinoma. Nodes, bone, liver and lung were the most frequently involved sites. In all, 79 patients received at least three courses of treatment; 26 patients received six courses or more. Six complete responses and 21 partial responses were observed, for a total of 27 of 102 ORs or 26.5% (95% confidence interval 18.2-36.1%). The median survival was 9 months and median progression-free survival was 4 months. Toxicity was moderate to severe, with 57.8% of patients experiencing grade III-IV haematological toxicity, mainly leucopenia. The regimen employed has shown activity in tumours of unknown primary site, but was associated with significant toxicity. Such toxicity may be considered unjustified, given the large proportion of patients with tumours not likely to respond. Efforts should therefore be addressed to identify predictors of response to chemotherapy, thus limiting aggressive treatment to those patients who could benefit from it.

Elderly Patients with Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

OBJECTIVES

The incidence of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is increasing among the elderly. We studied the toxicity and efficacy of a weekly schedule of gemcitabine and cisplatin in elderly patients with advanced NSCLC.

METHODS

Patients aged 70 years or above with advanced NSCLC were treated in a phase II prospective trial with gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m(2) and cisplatin 35 mg/m(2) on days 1, 8 and 15 every 28 days.

RESULTS

Forty-eight patients with a median age of 74 years (range 70-78) participated in the study. We observed 14 cases with partial response, 14 with stable disease and 16 with progressive disease, whilst 4 patients were not evaluable. By intention-to-treat analysis, partial response rate was 31.8% whilst progressive disease was 33.3%. Median survival was 9 months; 1-year survival probability was 34.4% and median time to progression was 4 months. Grade III-IV leukopenia was observed in 5/48 patients (10.4%), 20/48 patients (41.7%) had grade III-IV thrombocytopenia and 7/48 patients (14.6%) had grade III-IV anemia. One patient experienced grade III emesis and 2 patients had grade III-IV fatigue.

CONCLUSIONS

At this dose and schedule the combination of gemcitabine and cisplatin appears to be an active and well-tolerated regimen for elderly patients with advanced NSCLC.

Pain and its treatment in hospitalized patients with metastatic cancer

GOALS

The aim of this prospective study was to assess the quality of pain management hospitalized cancer patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In a quantitative and qualitative evaluation from six oncology centers in Italy, all consecutive cancer patients complaining of pain and hospitalized during the same 2 weeks were requested to fill in a McGill pain questionnaire (MPQ), a present pain intensity scale (PPI), and a hospital anxiety and depression acale (HADS), and to answer a questionnaire focused (QF) on the quality of medical and nursing care. The healthcare provider's antalgic prescriptions were assessed by an index of pain management (IPM).

MAIN RESULTS

Of 120 patients with pain admitted to oncology divisions (65 men and 52 women; mean age 57 years, range 21-79 years), 117 completed the questionnaires. The quantitative evaluation (PPI) showed a significant pain reduction between admission and discharge pain levels-from 2.65 to 1.50 ( p<0.001). While a significant reduction of anxiety (HADS) was also found-from 10.24 to 9.11 ( p<0.001)-depression did not improve (9.83 and 9.72). The most relevant information from qualitative evaluation (QF) was: in 37.6% of patients, pain level was higher overnight; 47% waited for spontaneous decrease of pain intensity before asking for nurse or physician intervention; 69% asked for nurse help when pain level was really high. The health care response to patients' pain was not completely satisfactory, since analgesic prescription was adequate in 56.52% but inadequate in 43.47%.

CONCLUSIONS

Pain control in hospitalized cancer patients is not completely satisfactory. The physician's attitude is to underestimate and undertreat pain, while nurses are not adequately trained for timely intervention despite published guidelines for pain management. The findings of this study support the concern of inadequate knowledge and inappropriate attitudes regarding pain management, even in cancer patients hospitalized in medical oncology divisions.

The Role of Levamisole in the Adjuvant Treatment of Stage III Colon Cancer Patients: A Randomized Trial of 5-Fluorouracil and Levamisole Versus 5-Fluorouracil Alone

Adjuvant 5-fluorouracil (5FU) and levamisole (Lev) have been considered standard treatment for stage III colon cancer patients. However, the uncertain contribution of Lev to the efficacy of treatment has led many oncologists to prefer the 5FU/leucovorin combination. To establish the role of Lev, we conducted a randomized trial comparing the 5FU/Lev combination with 5FU alone in patients with Dukes' C colon cancer. Patients with stage III colon cancer were randomized to receive 5FU alone (450 mg/m2 i.v. bolus daily for 5 days and then, beginning at day 28, weekly for 48 weeks) or the same plus Lev (50 mg orally three times/day for 3 days, repeated every 2 weeks for 1 year). From December 1994 to March 1998, 92 patients were assigned to receive 5FU/Lev, and 93 were assigned to receive 5FU alone. Leukopenia and hepatic toxicity were more frequent in patients receiving 5FU/Lev as compared with those receiving 5FU (respectively, p = 0.003 and p = 0.039), whereas other toxicities were equivalent and mild in both arms. After a median follow-up time of 48 months, 80 patients have had recurrences (40 in each arm) and no advantages in terms of disease-free survival and overall survival could be demonstrated for the combination arm. The addition of Lev to 5FU does not seem to be relevant for the clinical activity of this adjuvant regimen, whereas toxicity related to Lev should be considered when an adjuvant treatment for stage III colon cancer patients is proposed.

Mucocele-like tumour of the breast

Mucocele-like (ML) lesions of the breast are rare tumours and were reported as benign lesions that histologically resembled colloid carcinoma of the breast when first described about sixteen years ago. Only subsequent reports identified ML lesions associated with ductal hyperplasia or carcinoma. The Authors report an additional case of ML tumour of the breast and review the available medical literature. A young asymptomatic woman, without family history of breast cancer, presented with a palpable breast mass. As the radiological aspect was not typical of a simple cyst, the patient underwent a fine needle aspiration biopsy which showed a doubtful pathological pattern compatible with fibroadenoma. The patient underwent surgery and the gross examination of the surgically removed mass revealed multiple aggregated cysts containing mucinous material. Microscopic examination showed a ML tumour of the breast, with aspects of cribriform ductal hyperplasia.

Loss of hMLH1 expression correlates with improved survival in stage III-IV ovarian cancer patients

Pre-clinical data suggest a relationship between DNA MisMatch Repair (MMR) system failure, particularly the inactivation of genes hMLH1 and hMSH2, and resistance to drugs like cisplatin and carboplatin. We studied the correlation between loss of hMLH1 expression in tumour cells and clinical outcome in 38 patients with ovarian cancer, who underwent cisplatin-based chemotherapy. 19 patients (56%) showed loss of hMLH1 expression (Group A) while 15 patients (44%) showed normal hMLH1 expression (Group B). 4 patients were not evaluable for hMLH1 expression. The 2 groups of patients were similar for clinical characteristics, response to chemotherapy and time to progression. Group A patients showed a median survival of 55 months whereas Group B patients had a median survival of 12 months (P=0.014). Loss of hMLH1 expression was the only independent predictor of survival in the multivariate analysis. Our observations suggest a relationship between loss of hMLH1 and improved survival in advanced ovarian cancer.

Desmoplastic small round cell tumour: a description of two cases and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Desmoplastic small round cell tumour (DSRCT) is a recently described neoplasm, typically occurring in adolescent and young males. It usually shows an aggressive behaviour, presents in the abdomen, often with diffuse peritoneal implants. It has been demonstrated to be a chemosensitive tumour, generally with short-lasting response and poor survival gain from systemic chemotherapy. The authors report two additional cases of DSRCT and review the available medical literature.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Two young males with intra-abdominal DSRCT were treated with a first-line chemotherapy including carboplatin, doxorubicin and etoposide.

RESULTS

Both of the patients obtained a partial response after first-line chemotherapy. The first patient started, subsequently, CD34+ stem cell mobilisation with high-dose cyclophosphamide (7 g/m(2)) in order to perform high-dose chemotherapy, but CD34+ cell count was insufficient to practice leukapheresis; he died 34 months after the diagnosis because of progression of the disease. The second patient underwent cytoreductive surgery, but progressed 2 months later despite second-line treatment; he died 16 months after the diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

This experience confirms that DSRCT may be considered a chemosensitive tumour, highly aggressive, with short-lasting response to chemotherapy. Anyway, the recent literature suggests that multidisciplinary treatment including chemotherapy, surgery and radiation might be the proper approach to this rare malignancy.

Mutations of hMLH1 and hMSH2 in patients with suspected hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer: correlation with microsatellite instability and abnormalities of mismatch repair protein expression

PURPOSE

The relationship between germ-line mutations of hMSH2 and hMLH1, microsatellite instability (MSI), and loss of DNA mismatch repair (MMR) gene expression were studied to formulate an effective selection protocol for patients with suspected hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer who should be offered genetic testing.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients eligible for germ-line analysis of hMLH1 and hMSH2 were selected. Tumor specimens were obtained to assess MSI and loss of MMR gene expression.

RESULTS

Among 37 patients who participated in the study, two hMSH2 and two hMLH1 missense mutations (11%) were detected, none of which was found in a panel of 60 healthy volunteers. High MSI was found in five tumors (19%) and low MSI in 10 tumors (39%); 12 tumors (46%) were microsatellite stable. Four tumors demonstrated loss of hMLH1, and three tumors demonstrated loss of hMSH2 protein expression.

CONCLUSION

No relationship was found between MMR gene mutations and MSI; low or no MSI was found in the four patients with germ-line mutations, and none of the five patients with high MSI demonstrated abnormalities of MMR genes. On the contrary, loss of hMLH1 or hMSH2 expression was found in the tumors from three of the four patients demonstrating germ-line mutations. These data suggest that germ-line mutations of the MMR gene can occur in people with MSI-negative tumors. Sensitive clinical criteria and the study of MMR gene expression may be useful to identify this subset of patients.

Predictors of short-term survival and progression to chemotherapy in patients with advanced colorectal cancer treated with 5-fluorouracil-based regimens

The aim of this study was to assess in patients with advanced colorectal cancer which factors were associated with short-term survival (6 months or less) and progression to first-line 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) chemotherapy. Three hundred twenty-one consecutive nonselected patients with advanced colorectal cancer were treated with conventional 5-FU-based regimens as first-line treatment from 1988 to 1999. Factors related to patient, tumor, or treatment were analyzed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis by comparing short survivors (SS, those who survived <or=6 months) with those who survived longer than 6 months. The same statistical methods were used to analyze 200 patients, all treated with bolus 5-FU regimens, by comparing who progressed to treatment with those who did not. Sixty-two patients (19.3%) were SS, the remaining 259 patients survived more than 6 months. First-line chemotherapy included 5-FU in all patients; 112 (35%) and 27 (8.4%) patients were offered, after disease progression, second and third-line chemotherapy, respectively. The overall response rate to first-line chemotherapy was 12.9%. No SS patient achieved an objective response. To investigate factors associated with progression to first-line chemotherapy, we considered only those patients treated with bolus 5-FU regimens, to eliminate the variable of regimen used. Ninety-six of them progressed to treatment and 104 did not. At multivariate analysis, SS patients were characterized by the following: right and transverse colon primary (p = 0.006), younger age (p = 0.043), poor performance status (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group >or= 2) (p = 0.015), elevated (>or=5 microg/l) serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) (p = 0.015), and more than one site of metastatic disease (p < 0.001). Progression to first-line chemotherapy (p < 0.001) was also a strong factor associated with short survival in multivariate analysis; factors predictive of progression were elevated CEA (p = 0.027) and diffuse metastatic disease (p = 0.029). Our data indicate the relevance of some clinical prognostic factors (younger age, poor performance status, elevated CEA, site of primary, number of metastatic sites, resistance to chemotherapy) as independent factors associated with poor survival and progression to first-line chemotherapy in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer treated with conventional 5-FU regimens. Patients identified by these factors as having a poor prognosis and low probability of response to treatment should be considered either for more aggressive regimens or supportive care only: conventional 5-FU treatments do not impact on response or survival.

Mutations of hMLH1 and hMSH2 in patients with suspected hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer: correlation with microsatellite instability and abnormalities of mismatch repair protein expression

PURPOSE

The relationship between germ-line mutations of hMSH2 and hMLH1, microsatellite instability (MSI), and loss of DNA mismatch repair (MMR) gene expression were studied to formulate an effective selection protocol for patients with suspected hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer who should be offered genetic testing.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients eligible for germ-line analysis of hMLH1 and hMSH2 were selected. Tumor specimens were obtained to assess MSI and loss of MMR gene expression.

RESULTS

Among 37 patients who participated in the study, two hMSH2 and two hMLH1 missense mutations (11%) were detected, none of which was found in a panel of 60 healthy volunteers. High MSI was found in five tumors (19%) and low MSI in 10 tumors (39%); 12 tumors (46%) were microsatellite stable. Four tumors demonstrated loss of hMLH1, and three tumors demonstrated loss of hMSH2 protein expression.

CONCLUSION

No relationship was found between MMR gene mutations and MSI; low or no MSI was found in the four patients with germ-line mutations, and none of the five patients with high MSI demonstrated abnormalities of MMR genes. On the contrary, loss of hMLH1 or hMSH2 expression was found in the tumors from three of the four patients demonstrating germ-line mutations. These data suggest that germ-line mutations of the MMR gene can occur in people with MSI-negative tumors. Sensitive clinical criteria and the study of MMR gene expression may be useful to identify this subset of patients.

Clinical benefit of gemcitabine-cisplatin in advanced non-small cell lung cancer elderly patients

BACKGROUND

Cisplatin-based chemotherapy seems to improve the control of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)-related symptoms, but assessment of symptomatic gain in these patients is often difficult. This study was designed to test a method for the assessment of clinical benefit in elderly advanced NSCLC patients, after weekly cisplatin-gemcitabine chemotherapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Evaluation of clinical benefit was the primary end-point. Clinical benefit derived from the evaluation of eight parameters: PS, cough, dyspnea, pain and hemoptysis were considered primary parameters. Weight loss, asthenia and anorexia were secondary parameters.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine patients aged > 65 years, symptomatic at study entry, were enrolled. Responses were calculated according to the intent-to treat principle. Fifteen patients were considered as clinical benefit responders for an overall clinical benefit response rate of 52% (95% C.I. = 33.5% to 70%). The median duration of clinical benefit was 9 months (range 2-36). Tumour objective responses, according to WHO criteria, were 14, for an overall response rate of 48% (95% C.I. = 31% to 65%). Ten patients (34%) obtained both clinical benefit and tumour response. The median survival-time was 10 months (range 1-36). Chemotherapy was well-tolerated with low incidence of WHO grade III-IV toxicities.

CONCLUSION

Evaluation of clinical benefit in advanced, symptomatic, elderly NSCLC patients is feasible and could be used together with tumor response and quality of life questionnaires to assess the efficacy of chemotherapy. It could reasonably be extended to non-elderly NSCLC patients. Our results suggest that weekly cisplatin-gemcitabine seems to be able to improve the principal NSCLC-related symptoms in elderly patients.

Cisplatin, dacarbazine, and fotemustine plus interferon alpha in patients with advanced malignant melanoma. A multicenter phase II study of the Italian Cooperative Oncology Group

BACKGROUND

In a previous study, the authors tested the combination of fotemustine (FM) 100 mg/m(2) intravenously (i.v.) on Day 1, dacarbazine (DTIC) 250 mg/m(2) i.v. on Days 2-5, and interferon alpha (IFNalpha) 3 MIU intramuscularly three times per week in 43 patients with advanced melanoma. An overall response rate of 40% and a median survival of 40 weeks were obtained. To evaluate whether the addition of cisplatin (CDDP) to this regimen could improve these results, the authors conducted a preliminary Phase I study and concluded that CDDP 25 mg/m(2) i.v. for 2 days can be combined safely with DTIC, FM, and IFNalpha. Herein, the authors report the results of a Phase II trial with this regimen.

METHODS

From June 1996 to February 1999, 64 patients with metastatic melanoma who were not amenable to surgery were enrolled in this study. Sixty eligible patients (32 males and 28 females; median age, 53 years) were treated with a combination of FM 100 mg/m(2) i.v. on Day 1, DTIC 300 mg/m(2) i.v. on Days 2-4, and CDDP 25 mg/m(2) i.v. on Days 3 and 4 recycled every 3 weeks. IFN alpha2b was administered at a dose of 3 MIU intramuscularly 3 times per week until disease progression.

RESULTS

A total of 189 courses were administered, with a median number of 3 courses per patient (range, 1-8 courses per patient). Eleven complete responses and 12 partial responses were observed, for an overall response rate of 38.3% (95% exact confidence interval, 26.1-51.8%). The median survival was 36 weeks. Neutropenia and thrombocytopenia affected 85% of patients and 68% patients and was World Health Organization Grade 3-4 in 40% and 50%, respectively. The side effects attributable to IFN alpha2b were mild and manageable. The other side effects were moderate and well controlled by supportive therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

The schedule used in this study demonstrated significant activity in patients with advanced, untreated melanoma. The addition of CDDP in the management of the patients in this series seemed to increase significantly both the proportion of patients who achieved a complete response and the probability of long term survival compared with a previous series of patients who were treated by the authors. However, considering the currently available therapies, this regimen does not seem to offer a special advantage in the treatment of patients with this disease. New agents and new protocols are needed.