Abstract P1-07-14: Real-life analysis evaluating >1000 N0/N1mi estrogen receptor (ER)+ breast cancer patients for whom treatment decisions incorporated the 21-gene recurrence score (RS) result: Clinical outcomes with median follow up of > 9 years

Background: The 21-gene Recurrence Score (RS) Assay (Oncotype DX®) is a validated prognosticator and predictive of chemotherapy (CT) benefit in patients with hormone receptor (HR)+ human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative breast cancer. In Israel, the RS assay has been reimbursed by Clalit Health Services (CHS, the largest HMO in Israel) since 2006, and the assay is widely used in eligible estrogen receptor (ER)+ patients. Notably, ER+ breast cancer patients have a protracted risk of recurrence with approximately half of all distant recurrences occurring after 5 years from diagnosis. The goal of the current ongoing analysis was to investigate early (≤5 years) and late (>5 years) distant recurrence in N0/N1mi ER+ HER2-negative breast cancer patients who were RS-tested through CHS.

Methods: This analysis of the CHS registry included breast cancer patients with ER+ HER2-negative N0/N1mi disease who underwent RS testing from 1/2006 (CHS approval of the assay) through 1/2009. Data sources included CHS claims arms (for patient/tumor characteristics), Teva Pharmaceuticals (for tumor characteristics, RS result), and medical records (for treatment/recurrence/survival). The study was approved by the institutional review boards of the CHS Community Division and was granted a waiver for obtaining patient consent.

Results: The analysis included 1026 patients with median (interquartile range) follow up of 9.3 (8.8-10.2) years. Most patients were females (99%). Median (range) age was 59 (25-84) years; 92% had N0 and 8% had N1mi disease; 14%, 52%, and 16% had grade 1, 2, and 3 tumors, respectively (grade information was not available for 18% of patients); median (range) tumor size was 1.5 (0.3-6.5) cm. The majority of patients (78%) had invasive ductal carcinoma and 12% had invasive lobular carcinoma. Overall, 489 patients (48%) had RS<18, 434 (42%) had RS 18-30, and 103 (10%) had RS≥31. The use of adjuvant CT was consistent with the RS result: 3%, 27%, and 90% of RS<18, RS 18-30, and RS≥31 patients, respectively. Overall, 25 distant recurrences were reported within 5 years of RS testing: 5 (1.0%) in RS<18 patients, 9 (2.1%) in RS 18-30 patients, and 11 (10.6%) in RS≥31 patients. In the first 5 years, breast cancer-specific death was reported in 8 patients including 3 (0.7%) with RS 18-30 and 5 (4.9%) with RS≥31 results. Among N0 patients with RS 11-25 who did not receive adjuvant CT (n = 540), 5 (0.9%) distant recurrences and one (0.2%) breast cancer death were reported within 5 years of RS testing. Analysis of 'late' recurrences and breast cancer-specific death (from 5 to 9.3 years of follow-up) is ongoing.

Conclusions: These will be the first late recurrence data from over 1000 patients for whom the RS result was used in real-life clinical decision making. Consistent with previous analyses of the CHS registry, CT use was appropriately based on the RS result, and the recurrence/survival outcomes (for the first 5 years) demonstrated the prognostic performance of the RS. Distant recurrence and breast cancer death data beyond 5 years will be presented at the meeting.

Citation Format: Stemmer SM, Rizel S, Steiner M, Geffen DB, Soussan-Gutman L, Bareket-Samish A, McCullough D, Svedman C, Nisenbaum B, Ryvo L, Peretz T, Fried G, Rosengarten O, Liebermann N, Ben Baruch N. Real-life analysis evaluating >1000 N0/N1mi estrogen receptor (ER)+ breast cancer patients for whom treatment decisions incorporated the 21-gene recurrence score (RS) result: Clinical outcomes with median follow up of > 9 years [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P1-07-14.

Abstract P2-07-11: The association between angiotensin receptor blockers usage and breast cancer characteristics

Background: Data regarding the impact of angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) on breast cancer are inconsistent. We evaluate the association between ARB usage and breast cancer characteristics and outcomes.

Methods: All patients who were treated in our institute for estrogen receptor positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative early breast cancer between 4/2005 and 3/2012 and whose tumors were sent for Oncotype-DX analysis were included. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for clinical-pathological parameters, related comorbidities, treatment and outcomes. Data regarding ARB usage was retrieved. Usage of several pre-specified medications for hypertension including angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI), mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRA), and β-blockers (BB) was also evaluated. Each medication group was compared to the rest of the study population.

Results:671 patients were included in the study cohort. Forty six (7%) were treated with ARB, 93 (14.2%) with ACEI, 14 (2.1%) with MRA, and 115 (17.5%) with BB. ARB usage was associated with different histological subtype distribution (P=0.009), higher incidence of macroscopic nodal involvement (P<0.001) and more advanced stage at diagnosis (p<0.001). These findings remained significant on multivariate analysis. Patients treated with ARB had worse 5-year breast cancer specific survival (94.7% vs. 98.8%, P=0.024) and worse 5-year overall survival (94.6% vs. 98.8%, p=0.015), but these differences were not demonstrated on multivariate analysis (p=0.251 and p=0.441. respectively).

Conclusions: Patients treated with ARB presented with more advanced breast cancer disease and some distinct histological features. Further research is required to elucidate the effect of ARB treatment on breast cancer.

Tumor burdenPopulation (no.)Tumor size, cm (SD)Macroscopic node posotive1Stage Mean, cm (SD)P, univariate analysis%P, univariate analysisI, %II, %P, univariate analysisAll (671)1.68 (0.8)-9-71.228.3-ARB (46)1.89 (0.81)0.05423.9<0.0013763<0.001ACEI (93)1.93 (0.93)0.0048.50.86363.835.10.355MRA (14)1.88 (0.67)0.32914.30.36357.142.90.907BB (115)1.77 (0.95)0.21613.20.08766.731.60.0911Macroscopic nodes: lymph node metastases> 2 millimeter

Histological characteristicsPopulation (no.)Ki67 (%)Estrogen recepator stain intensityHistology subtype Mean, (SD)P, univariate analysisMean, (SD)P, univariate analysisIDC (%)ILC (%)P, univariate analysisAll (671)15.91 (13.58)-2.47 (0.57)-80.912.2-ARB (46)12.27 (7.19)0.0052.57 (0.59)0.24665.226.10.009ACEI (93)17.1 (14.24)0.4032.44 (0.55)0.51575.5160.358MRA (14)21.4 (11.2)0.1972.63 (0.42)0.30385.87.10.841BB (115)15.93 (12.93)0.992.51 (0.58)0.49675.713.90.186IDC- invasive ductal carcinoma, ILC- invasive lobular carcinoma

Citation Format: Goldvaser H, Rizel S, Hendler D, Neiman V, Shepshelovich D, Shochat T, Sulkes A, Brenner B, Yerushalmi R. The association between angiotensin receptor blockers usage and breast cancer characteristics [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2016 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2016 Dec 6-10; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P2-07-11.

Abstract P5-08-25: The association between smoking and breast cancer characteristics and outcome

Background: Smoking is associated with an increased incidence of hormone receptor positive breast cancer. Data regarding worse breast cancer outcome in smokers are accumulating. Current literature regarding the impact of smoking on breast cancer characteristics is limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of smoking on the characteristics and outcome of estrogen receptor positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) negative early breast cancer.

Methods: This was a retrospective single center study. All patients diagnosed from 4/2005 through 3/2012 and treated in our institute for early, estrogen receptor positive, HER2 negative breast cancer, whose tumors were sent for Oncotype DX analysis were included. Medical records were reviewed for demographics, clinico-pathological parameters, treatment and outcome. Patients were grouped and compared according to smoking history (present or past smokers vs. never smokers) and status (current vs. former and never smokers). Heavy smokers (pack years ≥30) were analyzed separately.

Results: A total of 671 patients were included. 28.7% had a history of smoking, 17% were current smokers and 11.5% were heavy smokers. Smoking had no impact on tumor size, nodal involvement and Oncotype DX recurrence score. Angiolymphatic and perineural invasion rates were higher in current smokers than in the rest of the cohort (11% vs. 5.1%, p=0.023, 9% vs. 3.45%, p=0.013, respectively). Smoking had no other impact regarding histological characteristics. Five-year disease free survival and overall survival rates were 95.7% and 98.5%, respectively. Smoking had no impact on outcome.

Conclusions: In patients with estrogen receptor positive, HER2 negative, early breast cancer, smoking had no clinically significant influence on tumor characteristics and outcome. As the study was limited to a specific subgroup of the breast cancer population in this heterogeneous disease and since smoking is a modifiable risk factor for the disease, further research is required to clarify the possible impact of smoking on breast cancer.

Breast cancer characteristics according to history of smoking, smoking status and pack yearsPopulation (no.)Mean tumor size, cm (SD)Macroscopic N + (%)Oncotype Dx RS, mean (SD)Histology, IDC (%)Angiolymphatic invasion (%)Perniural invasion (%)Ki67 (%), mean (SD)Hx smoking (178)1.66 (0.9)10.718.9 (9.4)817.75.915.8 (13.5)No Hx of smoking (443)1.7 (0.8)8.419.33 (10.8)805.43.816 (14.1)Active smokers (104)1.76 (1)9.619.7 (9)8211916.5 (14.6)Never/former smokers (513)1.68 (0.8)919.1 (10.5)805.13.515.8 (13.7)PY 0-29 (523)1.69 (0.8)9.419.2 (10.7)806416.2 (14.2)PY≥30 (67)1.67 (1)918.3 (8.8)859913.8 (12.1)

Citation Format: Goldvaser H, Gal O, Rizel S, Hendler D, Neiman V, Shochat T, Sulkes A, Brenner B, Yerushalmi R. The association between smoking and breast cancer characteristics and outcome [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2016 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2016 Dec 6-10; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P5-08-25.

Abstract P3-05-15: Spatial and temporal genomic heterogeneity of estrogen receptor and clinical impact in a patient with advanced breast cancer

Endocrine therapy targeting Estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) is a key therapeutic strategy for hormone-driven breast cancer. Resistance to endocrine therapy may be intrinsic, arising from different clones or acquired by evolution influenced by selective pressure conditioned by therapy. Emerging evidence points to the role of acquired ERα mutations in driving resistance, when detected in the metastases but were absent from primary tumor.

Here we studied tumor genomic evolution in a patient who developed two distinct recurrent consequences. The first recurrence was located at the lung and developed 14 years from diagnosis. In the adjuvant setting, the patient was treated with chemotherapy and had no endocrine therapy incorporated. On initial recurrence, the patient was treated with aromatase-inhibitor which resulted in complete response and the site is free of tumor now for 5.7 years. However, 2 years into endocrine therapy with aromatase-inhibitor the patient developed a single hepatic metastasis and treatment was changed to fulvestrant for 8 months with slow ongoing progression. The patient had partial hepatectomy, cholecystectomy and metastatectomy 3 months after fulvestrant was stopped. Histology and immunohistochemical stains confirmed breast origin, ER +2, 100%, PR +3, 100%.

The endocrine therapy resistant hepatic lesion was sequenced by hybrid capture Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) and ERα (D538G) mutation was detected along with PIK3CA and GATA3 typical for hormone+ breast cancer. We have studied the primary tumor by same NGS method and detected only the PIK3CA and GATA3 mutations. In the lung lesions, responsive for endocrine therapy when sequenced by NGS the ERα (D538G) resistant mutation was absent.

Clinical data for treatment of ERα (D538G) mutation driving endocrine resistance is lacking. The patient could not tolerate tamoxifen and failed treatments with aromatase-inhibitor and chemotherapy, losing 14 kg in weight. Treatment with megestrol acetate 160 mg was initiated and patient achieved partial response confirmed by hepatic MRI and an improved performance status which is now ongoing for 8 months.

This case represents the first evidence of heterogeneous response to endocrine therapy explained by presence/absence of ERα (D538G) resistant mutation along with evidence for an active treatment in not an uncommon scenario.

Citation Format: Rizel S, Dvir A, Soussan-Gutman L. Spatial and temporal genomic heterogeneity of estrogen receptor and clinical impact in a patient with advanced breast cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-05-15.

Decline in pulmonary function in patients with breast cancer receiving dose-dense chemotherapy: a prospective study

BACKGROUND

Prompted by complaints of dyspnea in breast cancer patients receiving adjuvant dose-dense chemotherapy (DDC), we sought to evaluate the possible association of DDC with pulmonary dysfunction.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 34 consecutive patients receiving adjuvant DDC were enrolled. The chemotherapy regimen consisted of i.v. doxorubicin 60 mg/m(2) and cyclophosphamide 600 mg/m(2) (AC) every 14 days x4 with growth factor support followed by weekly i.v. paclitaxel 80 mg/m(2) x12. The following parameters were prospectively measured before and after the AC protocol (P1, P2) and at completion of paclitaxel treatment (P3): presence of dyspnea, blood pressure, pulse rate, hemoglobin, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein level, cardiac ejection fraction, and pulmonary function. Repeated measures analysis was used to evaluate differences among the time points, and paired t-test was used to evaluate differences between consecutive time points.

RESULTS

Although only five patients (15%) complained of dyspnea, there was a significant decrease in mean carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCO), in all patients from P1 (22.09 ml/min/mmHg) to P3 (15 ml/min/mmHg) and in 29 of 32 patients (90.6%) from P1 to P2 (15.96 ml/min/mmHg) (P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

DDC is associated with a statistical significant reduction in DLCO. Awareness of this potential toxicity may be important in women with preexisting lung disease.

Association between standard clinical and pathological breast cancer characteristics and the 21-gene recurrence score: A population-based study

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Background: The 21-gene recurrence score (RS) aims to quantify chemotherapy benefit in lymph node-negative, estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer (BC) patients. We aimed to elucidate the association between the RS and clinical-pathological features in a population-based Israeli cohort. Methods: Study population included all Israeli BC female patients referred to the RS assay from October 2004 until October 2006. Clinical and pathology data were collected upon referral, RS risk was categorized as previously defined (low < 18, intermediate 18–30, high = 31) and chemotherapy benefit was also assessed for each patient using NCCN guidelines, St. Gallen recommendations and Adjuvant! Online. Results: 300 patients were referred to the assay by 70 physicians from 16 institutions. Low, intermediate and high RS were noted in 109 (36 %), 134 (45 %) and 57 (19%) of the patients respectively, compared to 54%, 21% and 25% respectively, in the validation study (JCO;24:3726). Median age was 54 and median tumor size was 1.6 cm. Similar age distribution, tumor size and ER staining intensity were noted in all risk categories. Interestingly, no association has been identified between the RS and the presence of lymph nodes micrometastases. High tumor grade was noted in 15%, 20% and 56%; progesterone expression in 88% 72% 43%; non-infiltrative ductal carcinoma (IDC) 24%, 12% and 6%; and Her2 expression in 2%, 3% and 19% of the low, intermediate and high risk categories respectively (p<0.0001 for all variables). Risk assessment according to clinical guidelines or Adjuvant! Online correlated poorly with the RS. Conclusions: Risk stratification of referred Israeli patients differs from that of the validation study population. Moreover, the RS did not correlate with age, tumor size and ER intensity. The RS correlated with histology, grade, PR and Her2 expression and may be predicted, in specific subsets of patients, using these features. However, RS categorization cannot be predicted by commonly-used clinical predicting tools.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Vulvar cancer metastatic to the breast

BACKGROUND

Vulvar cancer rarely sends metastases to distant sites.

CASE

A 49-year-old female presented with a vulvar mass. The histologic examination revealed an infiltrating lesion with free surgical margins and no evidence of lymph node involvement. Four months following surgery, due to a bloody breast discharge and a palpable breast lump an excisional biopsy was performed. The histological evaluation revealed morphological features suggestive of metastatic squamous cell carcinoma. The morphological, immunohistochemical and in situ hybridization findings were consistent with a breast metastatic nodule of squamous cell carcinoma arising from the primary vulvar cancer.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that the specimens are from the same origin therefore making the breast lesion a metastasis from the vulva.

Radiation treatment for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): is a boost to the tumor bed necessary?

The aim of the presented study was to evaluate the long-term outcome of breast-conserving surgery and radiation for the treatment of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and the role of the radiation boost to the tumor bed. The files of 75 women with DCIS treated by breast-conserving surgery followed by definitive radiation from 1988 to 1997 were reviewed for demographic data, prognostic variables, radiation dose, radiation boost, recurrence, and outcome. Total radiation dose was 5000 cGy delivered in 25 fractions. Twenty patients (26.7%) received an additional boost to the tumor bed of 1000 cGy in 5 fractions. Median follow-up time was 81.5 months (range, 22-145). Pearson correlation coefficient and its significance was calculated between the variables. Log rank test was used to analyze differences in local recurrence rates between patients who did or did not receive a boost, and a Cox regression model was fitted to the data to predict recurrence. Ten patients (13%) had local recurrence; one patient showed lymphatic spread. Histopathologic examination revealed DCIS in 6 cases (60%) and invasive duct carcinoma in 4 (40%)(one minimally invasive). The recurrence group included 3 of the 20 patients who received a radiation boost (15%) and 7 of the 55 who did not (12.7%) (p=0.7). Correlation analysis of patient characteristics, prognostic factors, and treatment was significant only between mastitis as the presenting symptom (n=4) and longer time to recurrence (p=0.02). The recurrence rate in the present study was similar to other series of conservative treatment for DCIS of the breast. No additional value was found for the radiation boost. Larger controlled randomized studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Population attributes affecting the prevalence of BRCA mutation carriers in epithelial ovarian cancer cases in israel

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to evaluate the prevalence of BRCA1/2 mutations in selected categories of ovarian cancer patients in Israel.

METHODS

Blood samples and specimens of ovarian tumors were obtained in the course of a national case control study of women with ovarian cancer in Israel. Eight hundred ninety-six patients with epithelial ovarian cancer, 40 cases with nonepithelial ovarian cancer, and 68 with primary peritoneal cancer were tested for the BRCA mutations. Analysis of the three common BRCA mutations in Israel (185delAG, 5382insC in BRCA1, and 6174delT in BRCA2) was done using a multiplex polymerase chain reaction assay. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to assess the association of mutation carrier status and other factors (age, origin, family history, and clinical variables).

RESULTS

Of the 779 invasive epithelial ovarian cancer cases, 29.4% were mutation carriers. The prevalence of the mutations was higher among women below age 60 and in more advanced cases. The prevalence was low in mucinous tumors. There was almost a twofold excess of mutations among women with positive family history (45.7%), but still 26.5% of the family history negative cases were carriers. As expected, we found a higher rate of mutation carriers among the Ashkenazi group (34.2%) and 55% among Ashkenazi women with positive family history. No subjects born in North Africa were mutation positive.

CONCLUSION

BRCA mutations are strongly associated with ovarian cancer and they are present in variable rates in distinct age, ethnic, and histopathologic categories.

Adjuvant treatment of high-risk stage II breast cancer with doxorubicin followed by high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem-cell transplantation: a single-institution experience with 132 consecutive patients

Several studies have shown conflicting results with the use of intensive consolidation chemotherapy for breast cancer. The aim of the present study was to investigate the efficacy, feasibility and toxicity of high-dose chemotherapy with stem cell support in patients with high-risk stage II breast cancer. From February 1994 to November 1998, 132 consecutive patients with multinode positive breast cancer were entered to the study. In total, 86 patients had >or=10 positive axillary lymph nodes, and 46 had 4-9 positive axillary lymph nodes with at least two additional predetermined risk factors at diagnosis. All patients were offered adjuvant chemotherapy (doxorubicin, 75 mg/m(2) x 4) followed by high-dose chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide 6000 mg/m(2), carboplatin 800 mg/m(2) and thio-tepa 500 mg/m(2)) and autologous stem cell support with growth factor. In all, 131 patients also received local radiation therapy and tamoxifen based on receptor status. After a median follow-up of 51 months (range 27-87), the disease-free and overall survival rates were 72 and 81%, respectively. There was no difference in the outcome for high-risk patients with > or < than 10 positive axillary lymph nodes. On Cox regression analysis only progesterone receptor status was predictive of disease-free, but not overall survival. There were no treatment-related deaths; grades III-IV toxicity was relatively low. This combined approach of doxorubicin followed by high-dose chemotherapy and stem-cell support, followed by locoregional radiotherapy, was safe and seems to be effective in patients with multinode positive stage II breast cancer. In previous trials of adjuvant high-dose therapy in this patient population, treatment-related morbidity and mortality markedly influenced the outcome. For this high-risk patient population, further testing of intensive chemotherapy regimens with a lower toxicity profile is warranted.

CMF (cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, 5-fluorouracil) versus cnf (cyclophosphamide, mitoxantrone, 5-fluorouracil) as adjuvant chemotherapy for stage II lymph-node positive breast cancer: a phase III randomized multicenter study

A multicenter phase III randomized study compared the efficacies of two adjuvant polychemotherapeutic regimens in 145 patients with stage II node-positive breast cancer. The standard chemotherapy combination, CMF (cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, 5-fluorouracil), was administered to 77 women. The experimental protocol, CNF (cyclophosphamide, mitoxantrone, 5-FU), in which mitoxantrone (Novantrone) replaced methotrexate, was given to 68 patients. Follow-up of the 145 patients by six participating hospitals showed no statistically significant difference (p = 0.6) between the two treatment regimens during a median follow-up of 4.5 years in terms of overall survival. There was, however, a significant advantage (p = 0.04) in the disease-free survival for those receiving mitoxantrone (mean survival 4.4 years for CNF versus 2.7 years for CMF). Toxic side effects associated with CNF (particularly alopecia and myelotoxicity) were relatively more frequent but acceptable and did not lead to dose reduction. In light of its association with improved disease-free survival in this study, larger studies should be undertaken on the role of mitoxantrone as adjuvant treatment in stage II breast cancer.

The Tyr978X BRCA1 Mutation in Non-Ashkenazi Jews: Occurrence in High-Risk Families, General Population and Unselected Ovarian Cancer Patients

Background: In Jewish individuals of Ashkenazi (East European) decent, three predominant mutations, 185 delAG and 5382insC (BRCA1) and 6174delT (BRCA2), seem to account for a substantial portion of germline mutations in high-risk breast/ovarian cancer families. Among non-Ashkenazi Jews, the 185delAG and the Tyr978X mutations, as well as several 'private' mutations have been reported within the BRCA1 gene. Objective: Assessing the occurrence rate of the Tyr978X BRCA1 germline mutation in Jewish non-Ashkenazi individuals: high-risk familial cases, unselected ovarian cancer patients and the general average risk Jewish Iraqi population. In addition, finding proof that this is a founder mutation. Methods: PCR amplification of the relevant fragment of the BRCA1 gene from constitutional DNA followed by restriction enzyme digest that differentiates the wild type from the mutant allele. In addition, BRCA1-linked markers were used for haplotype analysis. Results: The Tyr978X BRCA1 mutation was detected in 3/289 (1%) of the average-risk Jewish Iraqi population, in 7/408 (1.7%) high-risk Jewish non-Ashkenazi individuals (representing 332 unrelated families) and in 1/81 (1.2%) of unselected Jewish non-Ashkenazi ovarian cancer patients. Allelotyping using BRCA1-linked markers revealed an identical allelic pattern in all mutation carriers with the intragenic markers. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that this mutation is prevalent in Iraqi Jews, represents a founder mutation, and should be incorporated into the panel of mutations analyzed in high-risk families of the appropriate ethnic background. Copyright 2001 S. Karger AG, Basel

Feasibility and low toxicity of early radiotherapy after high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation for patients with high-risk stage II-III and locally advanced breast carcinoma

BACKGROUND

This prospective trial examined the feasibility, toxicity, and effectiveness of early locoregional radiotherapy after high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation in patients with high-risk American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) Stage II-III and locally advanced breast carcinoma.

METHODS

One hundred forty-seven consecutive patients with high-risk and locally advanced breast carcinoma were included in the current study. All patients received induction chemotherapy with a doxorubicin-based therapy, which was consolidated with high-dose cyclophosphamide, carboplatin, and thiotepa followed by autologous stem cell support. Within 50 days of the transplant, the patients were treated with locoregional radiotherapy that included the chest wall or breast, the axilla and supraclavicular area, and the internal mammary chain. The volume of lung included in the treatment volume was kept to a minimum. The central lung distance of the tangential fields ranged from 0.6-2.0 cm (mean, 1.1 cm). Tamoxifen was given based on receptor status.

RESULTS

One hundred forty-six of 147 patients received the planned treatment. Only six patients had a delay in the initiation of radiotherapy, and another 16 patients had delays during radiotherapy. Leukocyte and platelet toxicities during radiotherapy were not life-threatening and blood counts thereafter returned to normal. Grade 2 (according to National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria) skin toxicity occurred in 22% of patients and Grade 3 skin toxicity occurred in 6% of patients. Radiation pneumonitis was reported to occur in 5 patients (< 4%). After a median follow-up of 36 months from diagnosis (range, 6-64 months), there were no long-term organ toxicity and no secondary malignancy reported. No treatment-related deaths were reported. Three patients (< 3%) developed locoregional recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Locoregional radiotherapy after high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation appears to be feasible and can be delivered safely within 10 weeks of transplantation. The short-term and long-term toxicity are reported to be low, with good local control.

Mutational analyses of BRCA1 and BRCA2 in Ashkenazi and non-Ashkenazi Jewish women with familial breast and ovarian cancer

In Ashkenazi (East European) Jews, three predominant mutations in BRCA1 (185delAG and 5382insC) and BRCA2 (6174delT) account for the majority of germline mutations in high-risk breast and/or ovarian cancer families. Among non-Ashkenazi Jews, the 185delAG, Tyr978Ter, and a handful of "private" mutations have been reported anecdotally within both genes. In this study we attempted to determine the spectrum of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations in high-risk Jewish individuals, non-carriers of any of the predominant Jewish mutations. We employed multiplex PCR and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) analysis for BRCA2, and combined denaturing high performance liquid chromatography (DHPLC) and protein truncation test (PTT) for BRCA1, complemented by DNA sequencing. We screened 47 high-risk Jewish individuals, 26 Ashkenazis, and 21 non-Ashkenazis. Overall, 13 sequence alterations in BRCA1 and eight in BRCA2 were detected: nine neutral polymorphisms and 12 missense mutations, including five novel ones. The novel missense mutations did not co-segregate with disease in BRCA1 and were detected at rates of 6.25% to 52.5% in the general population for BRCA2. Our findings suggest that except for the predominant mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 in Jewish individuals, there are only a handful of pathogenic mutations within these genes. It may imply novel genes may underlie inherited susceptibility to breast/ovarian cancer in Jewish individuals.

The psychosocial experience of women treated for breast cancer by high-dose chemotherapy supported by autologous stem cell transplant: a qualitative analysis of support groups

Autologous bone marrow transplantation (AuBMT) is probably among the most aggressive of physical treatments endured by cancer patients. High-risk breast cancer patients who choose this therapy face prolonged, agonizing and life-threatening interventions that are no less arduous than confronting the malignant disease itself. The study, which aimed to broadening our understanding of the psychosocial impact and the implications of AuBMT, presents a protocol analysis of group support intervention in 45 recipients (eight to ten women in five groups). The sessions were held at the Transplant Department at the Chaim Sheba Medical Center. The contribution of group support to the healing process was examined. The findings show that recovery was affected by a wide range of psychosocial factors, specifically highlighting the impact of transplantation and survival on five domains, viz. physical, psychological/emotional, vocational, social and family/spousal intimacy. Illness and treatment management is also discussed. The support generated by the group, both individually and collectively, was found to contribute significantly to the spectrum of resources available to the participants.

Primary peritoneal serous papillary carcinoma: a study of 25 cases and comparison with stage III-IV ovarian papillary serous carcinoma

The clinical characteristics and treatment outcome of patients with primary peritoneal serous papillary carcinoma (PPSC) (n = 22) was compared with stage III-IV papillary serous ovarian carcinoma (PSOC) patients (n = 63). There were no statistically significant differences between the PPSC and PSOC patients with regard to the mean age, menopausal status, parity, ascites fluid volume, proportion of stage IV disease, and the rate of optimal debulking achieved. The median disease-free interval was 15 and 18 months; the median survival was 21 and 26 months; and the 5-year survival was 18 and 24% for the PPSC and PSOC groups, respectively. The median survival time for patients with a residual tumor > or = 2 cm was 20.5 and 24 months, and for residual tumor > or = 2 cm was 46 and 41 months, in PPSC and PSOC patients, respectively. Survival was thus better, in both groups, when residual disease at the end of the operation was < 2 cm, though this was statistically significant only for PSOC (P < 0.02). We conclude that patients with PPSC should be treated as other stage II-IV PSOC patients. Combining optimal debulking with a platinum-based chemotherapy may offer the patient the most effective treatment.

Extraperitoneal metastases after intraperitoneal chemotherapy of ovarian cancer patients with a negative second-look laparotomy

The site of the first detectable recurrence was recorded in 17 consecutive stage II-IV ovarian carcinoma patients who, after a negative second-look laparotomy, received intraperitoneal chemotherapy with cisplatin and thiosulfate kidney protection. Although the progression-free interval and survival were favorable, 11 patients eventually had a recurrence and in six (54.5%) of these it was extraperitoneal. Brain metastases were detected in three patients. The appearance of extraperitoneal metastases is not always ominous.

Intraperitoneal chemotherapy versus no treatment in patients with ovarian carcinoma who are in complete clinical remission

BACKGROUND

The optimal management of patients with ovarian carcinoma who are in complete clinical remission after completion of postoperative cisplatin-based chemotherapy has not been established.

METHODS

In this study, the outcomes of two groups of such patients were compared. One group of 25 patients underwent a second-look laparotomy and subsequently received three courses of intraperitoneal chemotherapy (IP group). The other group of 12 patients was not reexplored and received no additional treatment (NT group).

RESULTS

A trend for better survival in the IP group was found compared with the NT group. There was no difference in the duration of the progression-free interval.

CONCLUSIONS

More effective treatment for the consolidation of complete clinical remission in patients with ovarian carcinoma is needed.

Intraperitoneal cisplatin chemotherapy in ovarian carcinoma patients who are clinically in complete remission

Three courses of intraperitoneal cisplatin chemotherapy with systemic thiosulfate protection were administered to 31 stage II-IV ovarian carcinoma patients who were clinically in complete remission after completion of postoperative cisplatin-based combination chemotherapy. The 5-year survival rate was 60.4% and the median progression-free interval 35 months. Among 25 patients who underwent second-look laparotomy, the survival and the duration of the progression-free interval were significantly better in those with a pathologically confirmed complete response. Short-term intraperitoneal cisplatin chemotherapy should be considered for consolidation of treatment in ovarian carcinoma patients who are clinically in complete remission.

Chemotherapeutic and surgical induction of pathological complete remission and whole abdominal irradiation for consolidation does not enhance the cure of stage III ovarian carcinoma

Thirty-eight patients with stage III ovarian carcinoma were treated with a protocol consisting of an initial phase of induction of remission with cyclophosphamide, hexamethylmelamine, doxorubicin, and cisplatin (CHAD) combination chemotherapy and a second laparotomy for resection of residual tumors, followed by a consolidation phase with curative doses of whole abdominal radiation. Six patients (16%) had stage IIIA disease, ten (26%) IIIB, and 22 (58%) had stage IIIC disease. All patients received three to 14 courses of CHAD chemotherapy with a clinical response rate (complete [CR] and partial [PR]) of 91%. Thirty-three patients underwent the second operation. In 14 patients no residual tumor was found, and in another 11 residual tumors found were totally resected. Thus, 25 of 33 (76%) were classified as in pathological complete remission (PCR) after this operation. Whole abdominal irradiation was well tolerated, although 12 of 29 (42%) of the irradiated patients required more than a 2-week interruption of the treatment course because of leukopenia and/or thrombocytopenia. The actuarial 5-year survival and disease-free survival rates for the whole group were 27% and 17%, respectively, and for the 29 patients who received the complete sequence of the prescribed protocol treatments, 35% and 20%, respectively. A univariate analysis of clinical parameters showed that inherent biological features, such as histology and grade, were the most dominant factors affecting prognosis, and that neither the aggressive surgical approach employed, nor the high-dose whole abdominal irradiation, significantly affected the outcome. The long-term results suggest that although our combined modality protocol was well tolerated, it failed to enhance the cure of stage III ovarian carcinoma. The possible biological and therapeutic vectors affecting this outcome are discussed.

Advanced papillary adenocarcinoma of unknown origin as tumor previa during late pregnancy

A 41-year-old woman with advanced abdominal adenocarcinoma presented at term pregnancy. The tumor was presented as previa and obstructed the delivery. A cesarean section was performed and a healthy child was born. At surgery diffuse metastatic disease was detected throughout the pelvis and abdomen and was partially resected. Combined chemotherapy consisting of cis-platinum, adriamycin and cytoxan was administered for 5 months. At second-look laparotomy no residual disease was found. We present an unusual presentation of metastatic abdominal undifferentiated carcinoma treated as ovarian cancer.

Comparison of couples' adjustment to lumpectomy and mastectomy

The personality and family relations as well as the adjustment of 32 postlumpectomy women was compared to 32 postmastectomy women matched in terms of age and education, as well as time since the operation and postoperative treatment. Whenever possible the husbands were also included in the study. There were practically no differences on any of the adjustment measures between the two groups of women and the two groups of husbands. Some differences were found between the postlumpectomy and the postmastectomy groups in their perception of family relations. The expected differences in terms of personality were not found.

Combined modality treatment for stage III ovarian carcinoma

Thirty-eight Stage III ovarian carcinoma patients were treated with a combined modality protocol consisting of sequential initial surgery with a maximal tumor reduction, CHAD combination chemotherapy, second look reductive surgery and whole abdominal irradiation. Sixteen patients (42%) had minimal residual tumors (less than 2 cm) after initial surgery (Stage IIIA) and 22 (58%) had large residual tumors (greater than 2 cm) (Stage IIIB). The patients received 3-14 courses of CHAD combination chemotherapy, with a response rate (CR + PR) in the evaluable (Stage IIIB) patients of 91%. Twenty-eight patients had a second attempt of cytoreductive operation (10 Stage IIIA patients and 18 Stage IIIB patients). In 10 patients no residual tumor was found. In another 12 patients residual tumor (less than 2 cm) was found and completely resected, whereas in six patients a complete resection of large residual tumors (greater than 2 cm) was not possible. Twenty-one of the patients also completed a course of whole abdominal radiotherapy. Radiation was well-tolerated with the usual expected amounts of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and transient leukopenia and thrombocytopenia. 11/21 (52%) of the patients relapsed within the first 18 months after completion of radiotherapy. The actuarial relapse-free survival at 36 months from completions of radiotherapy was 44%. The actuarial survival for the whole group from diagnosis was 43% at 3 years (70% for Stage IIIA and 41% for Stage IIIB). The data indicated that this combined modality protocol is both feasible and well-tolerated but its curative potential for patients with advanced ovarian carcinoma is as yet unknown.

First, second and third line chemotherapy programs in metastatic breast carcinoma

The experience with three different chemotherapeutic regimes used as first, second and third line treatment in metastatic breast carcinoma is reported. Cyclophosphamide, Methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil (CMF) were given to 117 previously untreated patients. Objective remission was seen in 49%, including 8% with complete remission (CR) for a median duration of response lasting 16 mo. CMF plus vincristine and prednisone (CMFVP) was given to 88 patients who had failed on CMF therapy. Twenty-three percent achieved an objective remission, complete (CR) in 6% and partial (PR) in 17%, and another 28% improved I), giving a Cr+PR+I rate of 51% with remission lasting a median of six months. Finally, 23 patients who failed on CMFVP chemotherapy were given adriamycin, bleomycin, vinblastine and dimethyl-triazo-imidazole-carboxamide (ABVD) as tertiary chemotherapy; 17% achieved PR and 13% improved for a median period of nine and seven months, respectively, with a median survival of eight months for this subgroup--compared with only 4.5 months for 12 patients who progressed on this third line treatment. All three regimens were relatively well tolerated. Six patients, however, developed a fatal septic shock while leukopenic on CMFVP. Cardiac and pulmonary toxicity have not been observed. The sequential administration of chemotherapeutic regimens as reported here offers the opportunity for repeated remission in patients with active metastatic breast carcinoma and results in prolonged survival for responders.