Germline mutations in high penetrance genes are associated with worse clinical outcomes in patients with non-small cell lung cancer

Objective

To determine the frequency of pathogenic mutations in high-penetrance genes (HPGs) in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and identify whether such mutations are associated with clinicopathologic outcomes.

Methods

Patients with NSCLC who had consented to participate in a linked clinical database and biorepository underwent germline DNA sequencing using a next-generation sequencing panel that included cancer-associated HPGs and cancer risk-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). These data were linked to the clinical database to assess for associations between germline variants and clinical phenotype using Fisher's exact test and multivariable logistic and Cox regression.

Results

We analyzed 151 patients, among whom 33% carried any pathogenic HPG mutation and 23% had a genetic risk score (GRS) >1.5. Among the patients without any pathogenic mutation, 31% were at cancer stage II or higher, compared with 55% of those with 2 types of HPG mutations (P = .0293); 40% of patients with both types of HPG mutations had cancer recurrence, compared with 21% of patients without both types (P = .0644). In multivariable analysis, the presence of 2 types of HPG mutations was associated with higher cancer stage (odds ratio [OR], 3.32; P = .0228), increased recurrence of primary tumor (OR, 2.93; P = .0527), shorter time to recurrence (hazard ratio [HR], 3.03; P = .0119), and decreased cancer-specific (HR, 3.53; P = .0039) and overall survival (HR, 2.44; P = .0114).

Conclusions

The presence of mutations in HPGs is associated with higher cancer stage, increased risk of recurrence, and worse cancer-specific and overall survival in patients with NSCLC. Further large studies are needed to better delineate the role of HPGs in cancer recurrence and the potential benefit of adjuvant treatment in patients harboring such mutations.

Standardization of cardiac monitoring practices in patients receiving cardiotoxic cancer therapy at an ambulatory oncology center

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Background: A significant number of cancer-directed therapies are associated with cardiotoxicity. This adverse effect is well-established in anthracyclines and anti-HER2 agents. At our ambulatory oncology practice, the recent availability of echocardiograms with strain imaging has prompted an evaluation of current practices for cardiotoxicity monitoring. A review of the electronic health record (EHR) in 2019 found that although our institution maintains high rates of baseline monitoring, follow-up monitoring is not standardized and not consistent between different practices. Methods: A multidisciplinary team was formed to conduct a quality improvement project with the aim of increasing the rate of follow-up monitoring in patients who receive anthracyclines or infusional anti-HER2 agents. A survey of providers identified the potential reasons that follow-up cardiac monitoring was not completed. A Pareto chart showed that lack of familiarity with clinical necessity and appropriate timing were the most common barriers to follow-up monitoring. Our first plan-do-study-act focused on addressing these barriers, and a pilot in breast cancer treatment plans was started. Cardiac monitoring orders were added to curative intent protocols containing doxorubicin, trastuzumab, or pertuzumab. Education was provided to physician and nursing teams regarding utility and timing of cardiotoxicity monitoring. Collaboration with the cardiology group ensured timely access and result turnaround time. Results: An initial review of the EHR was conducted to identify current trends in cardiac monitoring. The review showed that there was an increase in the use of echocardiograms with strain imaging for baseline and follow-up monitoring in our patients. From January to April 2020, there was a total of 102 echocardiogram orders which was a 23% increase compared to the same timeframe in the previous year. The majority (61%) of those echocardiogram orders included strain imaging compared to 8% in the previous year. Review of treatment plan utilization and appropriate timing of cardiac monitoring in breast cancer patients is ongoing. Conclusions: This quality improvement project suggests that efforts to standardize cardiac monitoring practices can be achieved through provider education and workflow modifications. Further long-term review of the EHR will be needed to determine whether the timing of follow-up monitoring is appropriate and to identify what changes to the intervention should be made.

Immune checkpoint inhibitor toxicity in the clinical practice setting

e14128

Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are changing the landscape of treatment in oncology. The use of ICIs is growing rapidly as the indications for these medications broaden and new ICIs become approved. Given the rapid growth and relative infancy of the use of ICIs, much information stands to be gained on their use in the clinical practice setting, especially regarding toxicity. Methods: The primary objective of this project was to examine the incidence and severity of immune-related adverse events (irAEs), after treatment with single-agent or combination ICIs at a multi-site community cancer center. A retrospective chart review was conducted on all patients who had received ipilimumab, nivolumab, pembrolizumab, atezolizumab, or ipilimumab plus nivolumab from May 1, 2011 to June 30, 2017. Data collected included patient demographics, disease state, treatment information, preexisting autoimmune disease, previous immunotherapy, and adverse event details. The results were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Data was collected on 383 patients. Dermatologic irAEs were common across single agent ICIs (overall incidence 23%). Diarrhea and/or colitis incidence was highest with CTLA-4 inhibitor ipilimumab (26% at 3 mg/kg and 22% at 10 mg/kg) versus the other monotherapy PD-1/PDL-1 inhibitors. Endocrinopathies were most common with ipilimumab 10 mg/kg (55%) and pneumonitis incidence was highest with nivolumab (6%). ICI toxicity occurred in 63% of patients with preexisting autoimmune disease versus 54% of those without a baseline autoimmune disease. Incidence of hospitalization and treatment holds due to irAEs was higher with combination therapy (57% and 66%, respectively) than with monotherapy (10% and 24%, respectively). Conclusions: Overall, there was increased incidence in ICI toxicity in patients at this oncology institution versus what has been reported in clinical trials. Patients with preexisting autoimmune diseases appeared to have mainly low-grade toxicities with slightly increased incidence of irAE compared with those without pre-existing autoimmune disease. Treatment holds and hospitalizations were higher in patients treated with combination therapy ICIs compared to monotherapy ICIs.

Response rate to chemotherapy after disease progression with anti-PD-1/PD-L1 in metastatic cancer

e14088

Background: The checkpoint inhibitor (CPI) immunotherapy class of drugs is redefining how we treat cancer. The US FDA has approved CPI drugs as 1st, 2nd or salvage line after progression on conventional chemotherapy (CTX) for multiple cancers including melanoma, lung, bladder and other cancers. However, many questions remain regarding optimal treatment post-progression. Indeed, it has been noted that the patterns of response and relapse to CPI agents are quite different from those of standard cytotoxic agents and that response to CTX AFTER CPI may be different than in the de novo setting. The purpose of this retrospective analysis is to evaluate the activity (response rate (RR), response duration (DOR) and progression free survival (PFS)) of subsequent CTX after disease progression following treatment with CPI. Methods: In this analysis, patients (pts) were enrolled under an IRB approved waiver of consent. We identified pts treated with CPI agents between Jan, 2011 and Dec, 2018 at a multi-site community cancer program who received subsequent CTX as a result of disease progression (PD). We assessed the RECIST RR to subsequent therapy, DOR from onset of response, and PFS from the onset of post CPI CTX, identifying index lesions from the most recent pre-treatment anatomic scan. Results: A total of 47 cases satisfying the above criteria were found; 31 NSCLC, 8 melanoma, 1 SCLC, 1 GEJ, 1 gastric, 2 head/neck, 1 large cell neuroendocrine tumor, 2 bladder cancer. 25 pts had PD as best response to post-CPI CTX. 9 pts (19%) achieved a partial response (PR) with a median DOR of 99 days. 22 pts achieved a PR or stable disease (SD) for a clinical benefit (CB) rate of 47%. The median duration of CB was 92 days. Of the 9 patients who achieved PR, 5/6 had achieved response to CTX prior to CPI . The median PFS for the entire cohort was 97 days. Conclusions: While an expected RR could not be calculated in this heterogenous group of pts, the number and degree of responses suggests CPI possible “priming” that may enhance response to CTX. Post-CPI CTX may be of value and in this retrospective study of a heterogenous group of pts, responses may be more frequent than expected. A larger further study is warranted.

Randomized multicenter phase II trial evaluating the sequencing of PD-1 inhibition with pembrolizumab (P) and standard platinum-based chemotherapy (C) in patients (pts) with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (AFT-09)

9088

Background: KEYNOTE-024 established single-agent P as a 1st-line option for pts with metastatic NSCLC without targetable alterations and PD-L1 tumor proportion score (TPS) ≥ 50%. KEYNOTE-189 and 407 established concurrent C + P as a treatment option irrespective of PD-L1 expression. In this randomized phase II selection trial, we explored sequencing of C and P in this pt. population. Methods: Eligible pts were randomized 1:1 to (arm A) C (carboplatin (AUC 6) + pemetrexed 500 mg/m2 (non-squamous) or paclitaxel 200 mg/m2 (squamous)) x 4 cycles followed by P 200 mg x 4 cycles, or the reverse sequence (arm B) of P x 4 cycles followed by C x 4 cycles. After 8 cycles, pts on both arms were eligible to receive maintenance P for up to 24 months. Primary endpoint was objective response rate (ORR) per RECIST 1.1 by independent review. Secondary endpoints included progression free survival (PFS) per RECIST 1.1 and overall survival (OS). Efficacy endpoints were also evaluated by PD-L1 expression. Results: 89 pts (47 arm B & 42 arm A) were enrolled and are included in the analysis (PD-L1 TPS 0/1-49%/≥50% = 24 pts (34%)/25 pts (36%)/21 pts (30%)). There was no significant difference in ORR (36% vs 38%, p = 0.829), median PFS (2.7 vs 5.5 months (mo), HR 1.25, 95% CI 0.77-2.02, p = 0.363) or OS (13.1 vs 19.8 mo, HR 1.25, 95% CI 0.69-2.25, p = 0.4573), arm B (Px4→C) vs arm A (Cx4→P). Multivariable Cox regression analysis demonstrated significant interaction between treatment and PD-L1 TPS ( < 50% vs ≥ 50%) for PFS (HR 6.76, 95% CI 2.14-21.35, p = 0.0011) and a trend for OS (HR 5.02, 95% CI 0.92-27.55, p = 0.0632), arm B vs arm A. Incidence of grade ≥3 adverse events was 71% for arm A and 65% for arm B. No new safety signals were observed. Conclusions: In pts with stage IV NSCLC and PD-L1 TPS ≥ 50% there was an observed improvement in PFS and OS in favor of C followed by P vs P x 4 followed by C. Given small # of pts and trial design, this observation should be considered hypothesis-generating, but supports further exploration of sequential C + P in this setting. Support:Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp.; https://acknowledgments.alliancefound.org Clinical trial information: NCT02591615.

Overcoming suvivorship care planning implementation challenges through decentralization

38

Background: To meet Commission on Cancer accreditation requirements, cancer programs must implement processes to monitor the dissemination of survivorship care plans (SCP) for patients with Stages I-III cancers who were treated with curative intent and completed active therapy. Challenges of SCP delivery across disease sites include lack of designated/trained staff, time burden, knowledge of current evidence-based guidelines, and sustainability. We describe the challenges NorthShore University HealthSystem Kellogg Cancer Center (NKCC) and their Living in the Future (LIFE) Cancer Survivorship Program faced in meeting this standard and how evolving the SCP delivery process has resulted in a sustainable model. Methods: LIFE implemented a technology-based SCP tool using a centralized consultative model led by a nurse practitioner (NP) with specialized survivorship training. Physicians referred eligible patients to the survivorship clinic for an education visit where they received a SCP from the NP. Since the centralized model was dependent on one person for delivery, a more sustainable model was needed. NKCC transitioned to a decentralized process, moving SCP creation and delivery responsibility to all oncology care providers (OCPs). Although not all OCPs had specialized survivorship training, care quality was supported by automated SCP creation based on evidence-based care recommendations embedded in the technology. Results: To date, 143 evidence-based SCPs have been delivered since tool implementation in April 2017. During the centralized model (April 25– June 30) 67 SCPs were created by the lead LIFE NP; 76 were created during the decentralized process while the lead NP was on leave (July 3 – Oct 1). By using a technology-based SCP, OCPs incorporated SCP delivery into their workflow and no longer had to refer patients to a separate clinic. Conclusions: This project demonstrates the feasibility of a sustainable, decentralized process using a technology-based SCP as an option for augmenting centralized SCP delivery. A comparable number of patients received a SCP during both processes with an equivalent number of SCPs being delivered via the decentralized model by OCPs supported by evidence-based technology.

Addressing risk of financial toxicity in an ambulatory oncology practice: Our institutional experience with the ASCO Quality Training Program

114

Background: Due to escalating cost of cancer care, patients (PTs) with cancer are at increased risk for financial toxicity (FTOX) that can exacerbate disparities in care and lead to clinically relevant adverse PT outcomes; including quality of life; symptom burden; adherence; and survival. A review of our informed consent (IC) process demonstrated that PTs were not routinely informed of financial risks of high-cost (HC) cancer therapies at the time of IC. Methods: A multidisciplinary team was formed to conduct a rapid-cycle quality improvement project with the aim of reducing FTOX through improvement in patient education at the time of IC. Because of HC and increased utilization, the initial pilot focused on treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). A cause and effect diagram identified the potential causes that FTOX was not addressed during the IC process. Diagnostic data were obtained through staff surveys and querying our EMR from June to August, 2016. A Pareto chart identified lack of educational (ED) tools at the time of IC and a poorly understood prior authorization (PA) process as the most common causes for not addressing risk of FTOX during IC. Plan-do-study-act (PDSA) #1 began with development of a PT ED tool to be used during IC. The tool was approved by the Patient Advisory Board. Staff from clinical teams utilizing ICI for approved indication completed training on its use and a pilot study was initiated. PDSA#2 focused on optimizing the PA process and PDSA#3 focused on PT distress and FTOX monitoring through the NCCN distress and a validated patient-reported-outcome tools (COST), respectively. Results: The utilization of the PT ED tool reached the project aim (administer to > 65% of pts during IC) during initial phase of PDSA#1, although accrual is ongoing. A revised PA process (PDSA#2) was developed, staff were educated and the updated PA process was initiated. Work on PDSA#3 is ongoing. Conclusions: This QI project suggests that it is feasible to address FTOX through PT ED during IC for HC cancer therapies. However, the impact of this intervention on PT distress, overall FTOX and treatment disparities will need to be monitored closely.

Adjuvant chemotherapy and overall survival in patients with node positive esophageal adenocarcinoma treated with neoadjuvant therapy and esophagectomy: A retrospective analysis using the National Cancer Database

97

Background: Node positive disease (N+) is frequent (~40%) following neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) and esophagectomy, yet limited data exist regarding the efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) in this setting. There are no randomized studies addressing this question and single-institution, retrospective studies have reported mixed findings. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted using the National Cancer Database. 2,258 N+ patients were identified who had received NAT (83.3% chemoradiation and 17.7% chemotherapy alone) followed by esophagectomy. Patients with either incomplete staging or treatment data were excluded, as were those who died within 90 days following esophagectomy. Multivariate logistic regression was used to test for differences in patient characteristics between those who did (AC+) or did not (AC-) receive AC. Overall survival (OS) after surgery, by AC status, was analyzed using Cox regression in a sample propensity matched on relevant demographic and clinical factors. Results: 433/2258 patients received AC (19.2%). Patients who received AC tended to be younger (OR 0.98 per 1-year increase, P = .03) and had a higher socioeconomic status (SES) (OR 1.47 for high vs. low SES, P = .01). Although there were no significant differences in comorbidity (P = .32), AC+ patients had significantly shorter hospital stays after surgery (OR 0.98 per 1-day increase, P = .03). Pathologic T classification was unrelated to the likelihood of receiving AC (P = .39), however patients with a higher pathologic N stage were more likely receive AC (OR 2.12 for pN3 vs. pN1, P < .001). Those receiving AC had demonstrably longer OS from the time of surgery than those who did not (HR 0.78, P = .004). Median OS for the entire cohort was 22.6 months, whereas the administration of AC was associated with an improvement in median OS of 6.2 months (26.3 vs. 20.1 months). Conclusions: This retrospective analysis indicates that AC is associated with a significant improvement in OS (median 6.2 months) in N+ patients following NAT and esophagectomy. Further studies are needed to clarify the optimal role of AC in this setting.

Targeting pathways mediating resistance to anti-EGFR therapy in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck

INTRODUCTION

As epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is overexpressed in approximately 90% of squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck (SCCHN), several therapeutic agents that target EGFR have been evaluated for the treatment of SCCHN. Although patients with SCCHN derive clinical benefit from anti-EGFR agents, most notably the EGFR monoclonal antibody cetuximab, these patients eventually become resistant to EGFR-based therapies; preclinical studies have shown activation of secondary signaling pathways that lead to resistance to EGFR inhibition and, as such, serve as potential therapeutic targets to overcome resistance to EGFR inhibitors.

AREAS COVERED

This review summarizes the results of recently completed trials of anti-EGFR agents in SCCHN, highlights the various mechanisms that drive resistance to EGFR inhibitors in SCCHN, and focuses on several novel targeted agents that could potentially help overcome resistance to EGFR-based therapies in SCCHN. Expert commentary: Due to the development of resistance to EGFR-targeted therapies, novel treatment approaches to overcome resistance are a key unmet need for SCCHN.

Developing and implementing EMR functionality to improve oral chemotherapy outcomes

159

Background: Approval of new oral anticancer agents (OAA) continues to rise, accounting for 75% of new oncology drugs approved so far in 2015. OAA prescriptions generated at our institution demonstrate similar growth, as the prescription volume for OAA is approximately 200% greater than it was 8 years ago. Challenges of OAA, including safe prescribing, monitoring toxicities, and assessing adherence, continue to be an obstacle to providing quality care. In recognition of these challenges, our institution employed the electronic medical record (EMR) to develop tools to enhance safe prescribing, monitoring, and follow up for patients receiving OAA. Methods: Comprehensive, regimen-specific, OAA protocols were built in the EMR using the American Society of Clinical Oncology’s Quality Oncology Practice Initiative criteria as a guide. Protocols included OAA prescriptions, laboratory tests, monitoring communications, supportive care medications, plan for follow up, and a monitoring order. The monitoring order, dated 7 to 10 days after the start of each cycle, was utilized to identify patients for follow up, and as a documentation tool. During follow up calls, pharmacists provided education, addressed adherence and toxicities, and communicated findings to team members. The initial analysis focused on six of the most commonly prescribed OAA agents at our institution. Results: Cycle 1 follow up calls were placed for 115 new start OAA patients. Over half of the patients (56.5%) required an intervention (ex: symptom management, alerting the medical team, counseling). Eleven patients had barriers to adherence (ex: confusion, incorrect technique, cost, obtaining insurance coverage, and toxicity). Overall, 98% of patients verbalized appropriate adherence. There were 191 subsequent follow up efforts, after the cycle 1 follow up call, which resulted in 39 interventions (20%). Conclusions: OAA requires the same intensive monitoring and follow up as IV chemotherapy, but is more difficult to provide given the nature of administration of these medications. Utilizing the EMR to develop prescribing and monitoring tools can help address these challenges by providing a means for enhanced documentation and follow up.

Lung cancer-a fractal viewpoint

Fractals are mathematical constructs that show self-similarity over a range of scales and non-integer (fractal) dimensions. Owing to these properties, fractal geometry can be used to efficiently estimate the geometrical complexity, and the irregularity of shapes and patterns observed in lung tumour growth (over space or time), whereas the use of traditional Euclidean geometry in such calculations is more challenging. The application of fractal analysis in biomedical imaging and time series has shown considerable promise for measuring processes as varied as heart and respiratory rates, neuronal cell characterization, and vascular development. Despite the advantages of fractal mathematics and numerous studies demonstrating its applicability to lung cancer research, many researchers and clinicians remain unaware of its potential. Therefore, this Review aims to introduce the fundamental basis of fractals and to illustrate how analysis of fractal dimension (FD) and associated measurements, such as lacunarity (texture) can be performed. We describe the fractal nature of the lung and explain why this organ is particularly suited to fractal analysis. Studies that have used fractal analyses to quantify changes in nuclear and chromatin FD in primary and metastatic tumour cells, and clinical imaging studies that correlated changes in the FD of tumours on CT and/or PET images with tumour growth and treatment responses are reviewed. Moreover, the potential use of these techniques in the diagnosis and therapeutic management of lung cancer are discussed.

Evaluation of a risk-adapted visit for post-treatment cancer survivors

113

Background: The Living in the Future (LIFE) Cancer Survivorship Program at NorthShore University HealthSystem provides a risk adapted visit (RAV) directed by a physician and facilitated by an oncology nurse during which an electronic medical record documented LIFE survivorship care plan (SCP) is provided and discussed. We evaluated the degree to which a RAV promotes individualized healthcare and self-management as survivors transition from active treatment to follow-up care. Methods: Patients anonymously complete a post-RAV evaluation on the day of their RAV and then another at least one year after their RAV. Results: 1,713 RAVS, the majority for breast cancer, occurred from 1/2007 to 3/2014.There are 1,615 complete “day of” post- RAV evaluative data with a median time from completion of last therapy of < 6 months. Respondents scaled statements as strongly agree/ agree/disagree/ strongly disagree. Combined strongly agree/agree ratings are: 94% felt more confident in their ability to communicate information about their cancer treatments to other members of their healthcare team; 90% felt more comfortable recognizing signs and symptoms to report to their healthcare provider; 98% had a better appreciation for potentially helpful community programs and services. Of the 488 respondents (RAV between 1/2007 and 12/2012 n=1,366) to a questionnaire at least one year after the RAV, nearly 100%/97%/93%/91%/85% found the SCP useful in at least 1/2/3/4/5 ways: to summarize medical information, to reinforce follow up care, to recognize symptoms to report, to identify lifestyle practices that promote health, and for assistance in identifying local resources for support. 72% discussed their SCP with their PCP or another healthcare provider, 97% stated they made at least one positive lifestyle change, 89% attended at least one LIFE health promotion seminar, and 80% continue to work on wellness goals. Conclusions: Participation in a LIFE RAV following oncology treatment helps survivors construct a useful understanding of their cancer experience to guide self-care behavior. Data demonstrate that benefits persist one year after the visit and support the feasibility of a nurse-led RAV to establish a SCP in post-treatment cancer survivors.

EMR optimized oral chemotherapy monitoring program: Adherence and ADR outcomes

77

Background: Utilization of oral anticancer agents (OAA) has drastically increased over the past decade, accounting for more than 70% of new oncology agents approved in 2013. There are many challenges associated with OAA, including monitoring of adverse drug reactions (ADR) and adherence. While few studies estimate adherence of OAA, it is known that a multidisciplinary approach with intensive pharmacist counseling may improve outcomes. Currently, the electronic medical record (EMR) at our institution has many limitations on tracking OAA. In 2007, 1,872 OAA prescriptions were written. The 2014 annualized OAA prescriptions will surpass 5,510, demonstrating a growth of 194%. The purpose of this project is to establish an OAA monitoring program to allow consistent documentation, closer monitoring, and timely management of ADR. Methods: American Society of Clinical Oncology’s Quality Oncology Practice Initiative criteria were utilized to develop a unique monitoring tool, specific for OAA, which was employed via EMR. The monitoring tool assesses the current regimen, ADR, labs, adherence, and drug interactions. The initial analysis focused on testing the tools on two of the most commonly prescribed OAA agents within our institution. New start patients were identified through utilization of an OAA pharmacist verification queue. The pharmacist provided education, intensive follow up, and communicated treatment complications to other healthcare team members. Results: Follow-up calls were placed for 24 capecitabine patients and four erlotinib patients. Over half of the patients required an intervention. For capecitabine, there were seven patients with barriers to adherence. There were two patients who were non-adherent and one patient who was lost to follow-up; therefore, overall adherence rate was 91%. For erlotinib, adherence rate was 100% with no barriers to adherence. Symptom management and education were provided to 16 patients with grade 1 toxicities, and four drug interactions were identified. Conclusions: Oral chemotherapy should be treated with the same intensive monitoring as IV chemotherapy. A multidisciplinary pharmacist driven OAA monitoring program may improve adherence and allow more timely management of ADR.

Buccal microRNA dysregulation in lung field carcinogenesis: gender-specific implications

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to be reliable early biomarkers in a variety of cancers including that of lung. We ascertained whether the biomarker potential of miRNAs could be validated in microscopically normal and easily accessible buccal epithelial brushings from cigarette smokers as a consequence of lung cancer linked ‘field carcinogenesis’. We found that compared to neoplasia-free subjects, a panel of 68 miRNAs were upregulated and 3 downregulated in the normal appearing buccal mucosal cells collected from patients harboring lung cancer (n=76). The performance characteristics of selected miRNAs (with ≥1-fold change) were excellent with an average under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUROC) of >0.80. Several miRNAs also displayed gender specificity between the groups. These results provide the first proof-of-concept scenario in which minimally intrusive cheek brushings could provide an initial screening tool in a large at-risk population.

Evaluation of oral chemotherapy prescribing at an outpatient oncology clinic

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Background: Oral chemotherapy’s exponentially increasing role in the treatment of malignancies continues to pose unique challenges to oncology. The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) drafted measures in the Chemotherapy Administration Safety Standards that help address some of these issues concerning oral chemotherapy. There is a lack of data describing the prescribing process for oral chemotherapy. In a retrospective chart review, prescriptions at a hospital-based outpatient oncology center were evaluated for completeness of prescribing and follow up measures. Methods: A retrospective chart review of ten oral chemotherapy medications from May 2012 to July 2012 was conducted. The primary outcome measure was compliance with ASCO and ONS Chemotherapy Administration Safety Standards. A secondary outcome was frequency of pharmacist interventions on oral chemotherapy prescriptions. Results: 412 prescriptions were evaluated. Prescriptions were graded on a scale from 1 to 8. One point was given for inclusion of each of the following: prescribing physician, patient name, drug name, dose, dosing methodology, quantity, refills, and accurate directions. Of all the prescriptions, 23% contained all aspects of a complete prescription. The most common reasons for point deductions were contradictory or unclear directions and allowing refills for oral chemotherapy which should not be refillable. Four percent of prescriptions had a documented pharmacist intervention. Conclusions: This study revealed areas for improvement in the prescribing process of oral chemotherapy. Targeting directions and refill fields within prescription templates will improve compliance with ASCO and ONS standards. This can be accomplished by implementing customized oral chemotherapy prescription templates within treatment plans in the electronic medical record system. Unlike chemotherapy administered in the clinic setting, oral chemotherapy prescriptions are not generally reviewed by oncology trained pharmacists. With the collaboration of medical and nursing staff, a new work flow was implemented which includes pharmacist review of electronic oral chemotherapy prescriptions.

Outpatient documentation of advance care planning (ACP)

169

Background: To increase and systematize outpatient ACP, our quality improvement team developed enhancements in 2 oncologists’ cohorts of newly diagnosed, incurable cancer patients (pts). At 1st consultation, an ACP form is given to pts; a nurse assesses knowledge about medical POAs and goals of care. Pts return for chemotherapy teaching and ACP education session conducted by a nurse utilizing an ACP workbook describing end-of-life (EOL) scenarios. After reviewing the workbook, the nurse or social worker fills out an Advance Directive Note (ADN). At next visit, the oncologist reviews the plan, cosigns the ADN and inputs code status orders (CSOs). Alternatively, oncologists may choose to create the ADN. Methods: An EOL quality database of 9 metrics was created via the Electronic Health Record to measure quality of EOL care for cancer patients. Before pilot implementation, baseline assessment of ACP documentation in deceased cancer pts was obtained utilizing the EOL database for a 3 month time frame (12/12-2/13) for 2 oncologists (GI and thoracic oncology). These rates are compared to ACP documentation for newly diagnosed incurable cancer patients in the outpatient clinic during the 3 month pilot occurring from 3/13-5/13. Results: During the pilot, 5/13 (38%) new thoracic oncology patients and 13/17 (76%) GI patients had outpatient ADNs. The average days to ADN placement from 1st visit, was 14 and 10 in thoracic and GI, respectively. GI oncology placed 6/13 ADNs on the 1st visit; 12/13 GI pts had ADNs placed less than 10 days from 1st visit. GI oncology also placed 10/17 outpatient CSOs of which 8/10 were less than 10 days from 1st visit. In the same thoracic oncologist’s deceased patients during the baseline period, 2/20 (10%) had outpatient ADNs compared to 7/20 who had inpatient ADNs; 2/20 thoracic patients had outpatient CSOs compared to 15/20 with inpatient CSOs. In two comparable practices which did not participate in the pilot from 3/13-5/13, 0/26 and 1/26 new patients had outpatient ADNs and CSOs, respectively. Conclusions: Outpatient ACP is feasible early in the care of cancer patients through systematic improvement in work flow and motivated providers. Future research will focus on whether ACP soon after a cancer diagnosis affects downstream metrics of quality and cost of care during EOL.

Gefitinib versus placebo in completely resected non-small-cell lung cancer: results of the NCIC CTG BR19 study

PURPOSE

Survival of patients with completely resected non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is unsatisfactory, and in 2002, the benefit of adjuvant chemotherapy was not established. This phase III study assessed the impact of postoperative adjuvant gefitinib on overall survival (OS).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with completely resected (stage IB, II, or IIIA) NSCLC stratified by stage, histology, sex, postoperative radiotherapy, and chemotherapy were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive gefitinib 250 mg per day or placebo for 2 years. Study end points were OS, disease-free survival (DFS), and toxicity.

RESULTS

As a result of early closure, 503 of 1,242 planned patients were randomly assigned (251 to gefitinib and 252 to placebo). Baseline factors were balanced between the arms. With a median of 4.7 years of follow-up (range, 0.1 to 6.3 years), there was no difference in OS (hazard ratio [HR], 1.24; 95% CI, 0.94 to 1.64; P = .14) or DFS (HR, 1.22; 95% CI, 0.93 to 1.61; P = .15) between the arms. Exploratory analyses demonstrated no DFS (HR, 1.28; 95% CI, 0.92 to 1.76; P = .14) or OS benefit (HR, 1.24; 95% CI, 0.90 to 1.71; P = .18) from gefitinib for 344 patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) wild-type tumors. Similarly, there was no DFS (HR, 1.84; 95% CI, 0.44 to 7.73; P = .395) or OS benefit (HR, 3.16; 95% CI, 0.61 to 16.45; P = .15) from gefitinib for the 15 patients with EGFR mutation-positive tumors. Adverse events were those expected with an EGFR inhibitor. Serious adverse events occurred in ≤ 5% of patients, except infection, fatigue, and pain. One patient in each arm had fatal pneumonitis.

CONCLUSION

Although the trial closed prematurely and definitive statements regarding the efficacy of adjuvant gefitinib cannot be made, these results indicate that it is unlikely to be of benefit.

Molecular biomarkers for future screening of lung cancer

The Landmark National Lung Screening Trial established the potential for low dose CT screening (LDCT) to reduce lung cancer-specific mortality in high-risk patients as defined by smoking history and age. However, the prevalence of lung cancer in asymptomatic smokers selected based on the NLST criteria is low. Recent advances have facilitated biomarker discovery for early diagnosis of lung cancer through the analysis of surrogate tissues, including airway epithelium, sputum, exhaled breath, and blood. Although a number of candidate diagnostic biomarkers have been described, none have been validated for use in the clinical setting. The NLST ACRIN biomarker repository is a valuable resource of annotated biological specimens that were collected during the NLST trial, which has the potential to facilitate validation of candidate biomarkers for early diagnosis identified in discovery trials. It will be important to perform retrospective and prospective analysis of biomarkers to screen for lung cancer. The review below summarizes some of our understanding of biomarkers in screening.

Randomized phase II study of IV topotecan versus CRLX101 in the second-line treatment of recurrent extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC)

TPS7610

Background: SCLC remains an area of high unmet medical need with an aggressive clinical course and < 10% 5-year overall survival. In the U.S., topotecan (Hycamtin, GlaxoSmithKline) is the reference standard for treatment of chemotherapy (C)-sensitive (S) relapsed disease but its use remains compromised by toxicity. There currently exists no standard therapy for patients (pts) with C-resistant (R) disease (relapse occurring < 60 days from last C). CRLX101 is a novel cyclodextrin-containing polymer conjugate of camptothecin (CPT) that self-assembles into nanoparticles and delivers sustained levels of active CPT into cancer cells while substantially reducing systemic exposure. In vitro and in vivo data suggest superior activity of CRLX101 compared to approved agents in multiple animal tumor models including SCLC. A monotherapy recommended phase 2 dose of 15 mg/m2 IV every 2 weeks has now been administered to over 150 cancer pts across five ongoing phase 2 clinical trials. Methods: This ongoing, randomized phase 2 clinical trial compares the effect on progression free survival (PFS) of 2nd-line treatment with IV CRLX101 (15 mg/m2 on days 1 and 15 every 28 days) to IV topotecan (1.5 mg/m2 on days 1-5 every 21 days) in pts with CS relapsed ES-SCLC. In parallel, the effect of 2nd-line CRLX101 on 3-mo. PFS rate of pts with CR relapsed ES-SCLC will be evaluated. Secondary objectives in both cohorts include evaluation of objective response rates (by RECIST v1.1), overall survival, and safety. In the randomized cohort, 112 pts (56/arm) will be enrolled in order to achieve 90% power to detect an improvement in median PFS from 3 to 5 mos. (HR=0.60). An interim analysis will be performed after 1/2 of expected PFS events have occurred. Pts with CR disease will all receive CRLX101 and the trial will employ a 2-stage design: 14 pts will be enrolled in stage 1 and the study will be terminated if ≤ 3 pts remain progression free at 3 mos. Otherwise, an additional 30 pts will be enrolled and if ³ 15/44 (34%) pts remain progression free at 3 mos., the drug will be considered worthy of further investigation. The first patient on this clinical trial was enrolled on January 30, 2013. Clinical trial information: NCT# is pending.

Epithelial to mesenchymal markers and clinical outcomes on erlotinib in stage IV non-small cell lung cancer patients

e19117

Background: An epithelial phenotype in NSCLC is associated with improved sensitivity to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI). The best method to identify this subset is unknown (Richardson Anticancer Research 2012, Byers Clin Cancer Res 2012). This retrospective study correlates E-cadherin (Ecad) and vimentin (vim) immunohistochemistry (IHC) expression with outcomes in advanced NSCLC patients (pts) treated with erlotinib (E). Methods: Advanced NSCLC pts that received E were included if sufficient tumor was available from diagnosis. IHC scores for E-cad and vim were generated by multiplying frequency (0-4) by intensity (0-4). Log Rank was used to correlate IHC expression with progression free and overall survival (PFS, OS). Results were compared to a subset of pts with tissue from primary surgical NSCLC resection who later received E for recurrent disease. Results: 159 advanced NSCLC pts treated with E had tissue from diagnosis and IHC analysis. There was no correlation with PFS or OS on E and high/low vim or Ecad expression. Subtracting the IHC scores (vim minus ecad) created a difference score. A low difference score (n = 62) correlated with prolonged PFS (2.6 vs 1.9 months, p = .014 HR 1.52) compared with a high score, n = 97. Low difference score trended toward prolonged OS (p=.46) 33 of the patients had tissue available from primary surgical resection. The invasive front was examined for membranous E-cad and cytoplasmic vim (Allred score 0-8). Patients with low vim (< 4) and Ecad (>5), n= 19, trended toward prolonged PFS and OS on E compared with patients with high vim (>5) and low Ecad (<6), n=10 (4.2 vs 1.6 months and 15.5 vs 6.5 months, respectively, p=NS). Conclusions: In this retrospective analysis, using unselected, frequently small tissue specimens, the expression of ecad or vim alone by IHC did not correlate with outcomes for E treated patients. A complicated difference score (vimentin score minus ecadherin score) did correlate with PFS on E. Examining EMT markers at the invasive edge of resected NSCLC tumors might more accurately assess EMT activity and its relationship to outcomes when these pts are recommended EGFR-TKIs.

Thyroid transcription factor 1 (TTF-1) and overall survival in wild type EGFR patients treated with erlotinib

e19113

Background: TTF-1 is a transcription factor involved in regulating epithelial to mesenchymal transition. TTF-1 has a favorable prognosis in early stage lung adenocarcinoma, although it’s prognostic value in erlotinib treated patients remains unknown (Somaiah ASCO 2011). The goal of this study was to validate the relationship between TTF-1 expression and clinical outcomes in wild-type (WT) stage IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients (pts) treated with erlotinib. Methods: Pts that received erlotinib were retrospectively analyzed by IHC for TTF-1 expression (positive = greater than 5% of tumor cells with moderate (2+) or strong (3+) nuclear staining). Pts’ tumors were considered WT if no mutations were detected in Exon 19 or L858R (Exon 21) using single-strand conformation polymorphism and sequence-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Log Rank was used to correlate TTF-1 positivity with outcomes. Results: 216 pts were analyzed. EGFR activating gene mutations were found in 11.6% of cases. TTF-1 positivity was strongly correlated with the presence of an activating EGFR mutation (p=.0006, negative predictive value=97.7%). Of WT pts: median age was 65, 61% female, 15% never smokers. TTF-1 was positive in 8% of squamous cell and 71% of adenocarcinoma pts. In EGFR WT pts, the median progression free survival (PFS) in TTF-1 positive and negative pts was 2.1 vs. 1.6 months respectively, p=.255. TTF-1 strongly correlated with prolonged overall survival (OS) on erlotinib therapy in WT pts (6.2 vs. 3.2 months, log rank p=.004). After excluding for squamous cell histology, in TTF-1 positive EGFR WT pts there was still a highly significant correlation with prolonged OS on erlotinib (6.2 vs. 2.8 months, p=.001) and a trend toward prolonged PFS (2.2 vs. 1.4 months, p=.05). Conclusions: TTF-1 is related to the presence of exon 19 and 21 EGFR mutations in this group of NSCLC pts, and, similar to early stage lung cancer, TTF-1 appears to be at least a prognostic indicator for OS in stage IV WT EGFR NSCLC pts treated with erlotinib. Exploration of the potential predictive value of this readily available marker should be considered in pts with EGFR WT tumors treated with erlotinib.

Treatment of stage IV non-small cell lung cancer: Diagnosis and management of lung cancer, 3rd ed: American College of Chest Physicians evidence-based clinical practice guidelines

BACKGROUND

Stage IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a treatable, but not curable, clinical entity in patients given the diagnosis at a time when their performance status (PS) remains good.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was performed to update the previous edition of the American College of Chest Physicians Lung Cancer Guidelines.

RESULTS

The use of pemetrexed should be restricted to patients with nonsquamous histology. Similarly, bevacizumab in combination with chemotherapy (and as continuation maintenance) should be restricted to patients with nonsquamous histology and an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) PS of 0 to 1; however, the data now suggest it is safe to use in those patients with treated and controlled brain metastases. Data at this time are insufficient regarding the safety of bevacizumab in patients receiving therapeutic anticoagulation who have an ECOG PS of 2. The role of cetuximab added to chemotherapy remains uncertain and its routine use cannot be recommended. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors as first-line therapy are the recommended treatment of those patients identified as having an EGFR mutation. The use of maintenance therapy with either pemetrexed or erlotinib should be considered after four cycles of first-line therapy in those patients without evidence of disease progression. The use of second- and third-line therapy in stage IV NSCLC is recommended in those patients retaining a good PS; however, the benefit of therapy beyond the third-line setting has not been demonstrated. In the elderly and in patients with a poor PS, the use of two-drug, platinum-based regimens is preferred. Palliative care should be initiated early in the course of therapy for stage IV NSCLC.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant advances continue to be made, and the treatment of stage IV NSCLC has become nuanced and specific for particular histologic subtypes and clinical patient characteristics and according to the presence of specific genetic mutations.

Implementation and evaluation of a tobacco cessation program in an outpatient oncology center

117

Background: Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of premature death in the United States and has a causal link to various cancer types. Continued tobacco use after a cancer diagnosis may decrease survival, reduce treatment efficacy, prolong/increase treatment toxicity, and increase the risk for recurrence. The combination of support from trained professionals and appropriate medications increases the chances of quitting successfully. In the literature, the advice of a physician improves quit rates to about 10% and the combination of tobacco cessation medication and behavioral support can increase the rate to 20-35%. There is a lack of data on the impact of a tobacco cessation program integrated into a cancer center. The objective of this project is to implement and prospectively evaluate a tobacco cessation program in a hospital-based outpatient cancer center across three treatment sites. Methods: A multidisciplinary group at the cancer center was established to oversee the development and implementation of the program including: pharmacist training to become a certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist, electronic medical record documentation tool establishment, and development of patient education tools. The pharmacist provided one-on-one counseling for each referred patient. Assessment of the 3, 6, and 12 month quit rates was performed. Results: The tobacco cessation program at the cancer center has been available for approximately one year to all patients and their family members. Of the 67 patients referred to the tobacco cessation program, 27 (40%) patients followed through with the referral and met with the tobacco treatment specialist. The 3, 6, and 12 month quit rates are 68%, 50%, and 50%, respectively. Conclusions: The tobacco cessation program at the cancer center is evolving into a successful program. The quit rates of the program have exceeded those reported in the literature. The accessibility of the tobacco cessation program has enhanced the comprehensive care provided to the patients at the cancer center.

EGFR gene mutation and epithelial to mensenchymal transition (EMT) markers in advanced NSCLC patients treated with erlotinib

e18117

Background: TTF-1 is a transcription factor involved in regulating epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). Previous work in a clinically enriched non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) population suggested low probability of an EGFR activating gene mutation in the absence of TTF-1 positivity (Somaiah ASCO 2011). This study's goal was to validate the relationship of TTF-1 and other immunohistochemical (IHC) markers of EMT to the presence of an EGFR activating gene mutation in a diverse group of NSCLC patients treated with erlotinib. Methods: Patients receiving erlotinib at two midwest institutions were retrospectively analyzed by IHC for TTF-1 (Greater than 5% of tumor cells with moderate (2+) or strong (3+) nuclear staining considered positive) and for PTEN, Ecadherin,vimentin, beta catinin, and snail (frequency(0-4) times intensity(0-4)). Exon 19 and L858R mutations were detectedusing single-strand conformation polymorphism and sequence-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR)).Fisher’s exact testand logistic regression wereused to correlate TTF-1(positive or negative) and the remaining EMT markers with the presence of EGFR mutation. Results: 216 patients were analyzed for EGFR activating gene mutations: 15% squamous, 80% smokers. EGFR mutation was found in 11.6% of cases. TTF-1 was present in 8% of squamous cell patients and 71% of adenocarcinoma patients. TTF-1 correlated with prolonged progression free survival (log rank p=.004). TTF-1 positivity was strongly correlated with the presence of mutation (p=.0006, negative predictive value=97.7%). Increasing Ecadherin and increasing PTEN expression by IHC correlated with the presence of EGFR gene mutation when measured on continuum (p=.006 and p=.04, respectively). Conclusions: Though retrospective, our work confirms the negative predictive value of TTF-1 for an EGFR activating gene mutation in a NSCLC cohort representative of a North American population.Though high PTEN and Ecadherin expression also correlated with EGFR mutation, TTF-1 positivity may be a more straight-forward marker that can select patients who should be screened for the mutation prior to initiation of first line therapy.

Proteomic characterization of non-small cell lung cancer in a comprehensive translational thoracic oncology database

BACKGROUND

In recent years, there has been tremendous growth and interest in translational research, particularly in cancer biology. This area of study clearly establishes the connection between laboratory experimentation and practical human application. Though it is common for laboratory and clinical data regarding patient specimens to be maintained separately, the storage of such heterogeneous data in one database offers many benefits as it may facilitate more rapid accession of data and provide researchers access to greater numbers of tissue samples.

DESCRIPTION

The Thoracic Oncology Program Database Project was developed to serve as a repository for well-annotated cancer specimen, clinical, genomic, and proteomic data obtained from tumor tissue studies. The TOPDP is not merely a library-it is a dynamic tool that may be used for data mining and exploratory analysis. Using the example of non-small cell lung cancer cases within the database, this study will demonstrate how clinical data may be combined with proteomic analyses of patient tissue samples in determining the functional relevance of protein over and under expression in this disease. Clinical data for 1323 patients with non-small cell lung cancer has been captured to date. Proteomic studies have been performed on tissue samples from 105 of these patients. These tissues have been analyzed for the expression of 33 different protein biomarkers using tissue microarrays. The expression of 15 potential biomarkers was found to be significantly higher in tumor versus matched normal tissue. Proteins belonging to the receptor tyrosine kinase family were particularly likely to be over expressed in tumor tissues. There was no difference in protein expression across various histologies or stages of non-small cell lung cancer. Though not differentially expressed between tumor and non-tumor tissues, the over expression of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) was associated improved overall survival. However, this finding is preliminary and warrants further investigation.

CONCLUSION

Though the database project is still under development, the application of such a database has the potential to enhance our understanding of cancer biology and will help researchers to identify targets to modify the course of thoracic malignancies.

Optical detection of buccal epithelial nanoarchitectural alterations in patients harboring lung cancer: implications for screening

We have recently developed a novel optical technology, partial wave spectroscopic (PWS) microscopy, which is exquisitely sensitive to the nanoarchitectural manifestation of the genetic/epigenetic alterations of field carcinogenesis. Our approach was to screen for lung cancer by assessing the cheek cells based on emerging genetic/epigenetic data which suggests that the buccal epithelium is altered in lung field carcinogenesis. We performed PWS analysis from microscopically normal buccal epithelial brushings from smokers with and without lung cancer (n = 135). The PWS parameter, disorder strength of cell nanoarchitecture (L(d)), was markedly (>50%) elevated in patients harboring lung cancer compared with neoplasia-free smokers. The performance characteristic was excellent with an area under the receiver operator characteristic curve of >0.80 and was equivalent for both disease stage (early versus late) and histologies (small cell versus non-small cell lung cancers). An independent data set validated the findings with only a minimal degradation of performance characteristics. Our results offer proof of concept that buccal PWS may potentially herald a minimally intrusive prescreening test that could be integral to the success of lung cancer population screening programs.

Phase II study of pemetrexed and carboplatin plus bevacizumab with maintenance pemetrexed and bevacizumab as first-line therapy for nonsquamous non-small-cell lung cancer

PURPOSE

This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of pemetrexed, carboplatin, and bevacizumab followed by maintenance pemetrexed and bevacizumab in patients with chemotherapy-naive stage IIIB (effusion) or stage IV nonsquamous non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients received pemetrexed 500 mg/m(2), carboplatin area under the concentration-time curve of 6, and bevacizumab 15 mg/kg every 3 weeks for six cycles. For patients with response or stable disease, pemetrexed and bevacizumab were continued until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.

RESULTS

Fifty patients were enrolled and received treatment. The median follow-up was 13.0 months, and the median number of treatment cycles was seven (range, one to 51). Thirty patients (60%) completed > or = six treatment cycles, and nine (18%) completed > or = 18 treatment cycles. Among the 49 patients assessable for response, the objective response rate was 55% (95% CI, 41% to 69%). Median progression-free and overall survival rates were 7.8 months (95% CI, 5.2 to 11.5 months) and 14.1 months (95% CI, 10.8 to 19.6 months), respectively. Grade 3/4 hematologic toxicity was modest-anemia (6%; 0), neutropenia (4%; 0), and thrombocytopenia (0; 8%). Grade 3/4 nonhematologic toxicities were proteinuria (2%; 0), venous thrombosis (4%; 2%), arterial thrombosis (2%; 0), fatigue (8%; 0), infection (8%; 2%), nephrotoxicity (2%; 0), and diverticulitis (6%; 2%). There were no grade 3 or greater hemorrhagic events or hypertension cases.

CONCLUSION

This regimen, involving a maintenance component, was associated with acceptable toxicity and relatively long survival in patients with advanced nonsquamous NSCLC. These results justify a phase III comparison against the standard-of-care in this patient population.

Third-generation chemotherapy agents in the treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer: a meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To estimate the efficacy of third-generation (3G) chemotherapy agents (paclitaxel, docetaxel, gemcitabine, vinorelbine, and irinotecan) on response and survival in stage IIIB/IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

METHODS

A meta-analysis was performed using trials identified through MEDLINE. Results on tumor response and survival were collected from randomized trials comparing 3G monotherapy versus best supportive care (BSC), 3G monotherapy versus second-generation (2G) platinum-based regimens, and 3G platinum-based regimens versus 2G platinum-based regimens.

RESULTS

Of the 2480 citations screened, 20 randomized controlled trials fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and 19 trials were used in the analyses. The data from two, three-arm trials were used in two different comparisons. Five trials (n = 1029 patients) compared 3G monotherapy with BSC. The summary risk difference (RD) for 1-year survival favored 3G agents by 7% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2%, 12%). Four trials (n = 871 patients) compared treatment with 3G monotherapy versus 2G platinum-based regimens. The response RD was -6% (95% CI: -11%, 0%), and the 1-year survival rate RD was 3% (95% CI: -3%, 10%), suggesting that despite a slightly higher response rate for 2G platinum-based regimens relative to 3G monotherapy, there is equivalency in survival. Twelve trials (n = 3995) compared 3G versus 2G platinum-based regimens. The RD for response was 12% (95% CI: 10%, 15%). A RD for 1-year was not calculated, because of heterogeneity among the trials. A subset analysis of 3G versus 2G platinum-based doublets revealed a 1-year survival-rate RD of 6% (95% CI: 2%, 10%), favoring 3G platinum-based regimens without evidence of heterogeneity.

CONCLUSIONS

3G agents have been a significant advance in the treatment of NSCLC.

Phase I/II study of gemcitabine and exisulind as second-line therapy in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

The study was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of exisulind, a selective apoptotic antineoplastic drug, in combination with gemcitabine as second-line therapy in patients with progressing advanced non-small cell lung cancer.

METHODS

Patients whose disease progressed more than 3 months from completion of first-line chemotherapy were eligible for this phase I/II trial. Primary end points were maximally tolerated dose and time to progression. Patients in the phase I portion of the study were treated with gemcitabine (1250 mg/m) in combination with three escalated dose levels of exisulind. Treatment involved six cycles of gemcitabine and exisulind followed by exisulind maintenance. The study was subsequently expanded to phase II.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine patients (15 in phase I and 24 in phase II) were treated. The regimen was well tolerated with grade 3 fatigue and grade 3 constipation being dose-limiting toxicities. The maximally tolerated dose was not reached. Dose level 3 of exisulind (250 mg twice daily) in combination with gemcitabine was used for phase II. The overall response rates were 7% (phase I), 17% (phase II), and 13% (all). Median time to progression and median and 1-year survival, respectively, were 3.7 and 9.7 months and 33% (phase I); 4.3 and 9.4 months and 41% (phase II); and 4.1 and 9.4 months and 39% (all).

CONCLUSION

Although the study met its primary end point of improving time to progression (more than 4.1 months in phase II), we did not observe a clear survival advantage and thus do not plan to further investigate this schedule of gemcitabine and exisulind.

Phase II study of BBR 3464 as treatment in patients with sensitive or refractory small cell lung cancer

BBR 3464 is a novel triplatinum compound that has exhibited anti-tumor activity in both cisplatin-sensitive and cisplatin-resistant, as well as in p53 mutant tumor models. In phase I testing, the dose-limiting toxicities have included myelosuppression and diarrhea. Both an intermittent (day 1 every 21-28 days) and a continuous (dailyx5 days) schedule have been studied, and the intermittent schedule has been chosen for further development. The primary objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of BBR 3464 administered at a dose of 0.9 mg/m i.v. over 1 h every 21 days in patients with small cell lung cancer who have progressed after first-line therapy. Pharmacokinetic analysis was also performed and will be reported. Patients were stratified based on prior response into resistant and sensitive (response duration 3 months or longer) subgroups. Thirty-seven patients were enrolled onto this multicenter study. The median number of cycles delivered was 2 in the resistant subgroup (range 1-12) and 3 in the sensitive subgroup (range 1-8). Most common grade 3/4 hematological toxicities included neutropenia (62%), febrile neutropenia (16%), anemia (10%), fatigue (5%) and hypokalemia (5%). Although no objective responses were seen in 34 evaluable patients, 11 patients (32%) had disease stabilization (four resistant/seven sensitive) with 23 patients (68%) experiencing continued disease progression (12 resistant/11 sensitive). Median time to progression was 53 days in the resistant subgroup [95% confidence interval (CI) 37-63] and 66 days in the sensitive subgroup (95% CI 51-136). The median and 1-year survival rate based on subgroup was 78 (resistant) (95% CI 56-165) versus 209 days (sensitive) (95% CI 83-296) and 6 (resistant) (95% CI 0-17) versus 20% (95% CI 2-38%), respectively. We conclude that the toxicity profile of BBR 3464 in this phase II trial is consistent with the phase I experience. The lack of activity in either patient subgroup, however, does not support further evaluation of this drug as a single agent in this disease.

A randomized phase II trial comparing every 3-weeks carboplatin/paclitaxel with every 3-weeks carboplatin and weekly paclitaxel in advanced non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

The optimal schedule of taxane administration has been an area of active interest in several recent clinical trials.

METHODS

To address a pure schedule question, we randomized 161 patients with advanced stage IIIB or IV non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to either paclitaxel 225 mg/m2 every 3 weeks x 4 cycles or 75 mg/m2/week x 12 (cumulative dose on each arm = 900 mg/m2). Both arms received concurrent carboplatin AUC 6 every 3 weeks x 4 cycles.

RESULTS

The two arms were well-balanced in terms of known prognostic factors. The overall response rate and survival outcomes were similar on the two arms. There was significantly more grade 3/4 thrombocytopenia and grade 2-4 anemia on the weekly arm but less severe myalgias/arthralgias and alopecia. No difference in the rates of peripheral neuropathy was observed; however, patients on the every 3 weeks arm reported significantly more taxane therapy-related side-effects on the functional assessment of cancer therapy taxane subscale.

CONCLUSIONS

This randomized trial exploring schedule-related issues with carboplatin/paclitaxel confirms the versatility of this regimen.

Factors associated with the likelihood of receiving second line therapy for advanced non-small cell lung cancer

Second-line (SL) treatment has been shown to improve survival and quality of life outcomes for patients with stage IIIB/IV non-small cell lung cancer. However, only a minority of patients will receive SL therapy and the characteristics of this population have not been well described in the literature. In an effort to define the factors that predict who is likely to receive second line treatment, we performed an analysis on 230 patients with stage IIIB or IV non-small cell lung cancer who received first line therapy with carboplatin and paclitaxel. The median age of these patients was 63, and 144 (63%) were male, 200 (87%) had stage IV disease, 106 (46%) had a KPS of 90-100% and 124 (54%) had a KPS of 70-80%. The median number of cycles of first line chemotherapy was 4. Of these patients, 101 (44%) received second line therapy (median age 57 (range 45-76), 50% male and 37% KPS 90-100%). In the univariate analysis, younger age (P = 0.015), high baseline performance status (P = 0.002), non-squamous histology (P = 0.027), female gender (P = 0.0003), two or more cycles of therapy (P = 0.0004), four or more cycles of therapy (P = 0.001), and grade 2 or greater neuropathy (P = 0.024) were significantly associated with an increased likelihood of receiving SL therapy. In the multivariate model, high baseline performance status (OR = 2.05, P = 0.015), female gender (OR = 2.69, P = 0.001), non-squamous histology (OR = 1.98, P = 0.066), and two or more cycles of therapy (OR = 5.89, P = 0.002) remained significant. In conclusion, less than 50% of patients with stage IIIB/IV non-small cell lung cancer received SL treatment. Factors increasing the likelihood of second-line therapy include high performance status, female gender and non-squamous histology, while early termination of first-line therapy decreased the likelihood of further therapy.

Clinical Evaluation and Staging of Patients Who Have Lung Cancer

This article updates the performance characteristics of the most commonly used diagnostic and staging modalities in the evaluation of a patient who has lung cancer. Recent data with newer modalities, like positron emission tomography, are reviewed, and their role in this evaluation is discussed.

A phase II trial of weekly paclitaxel and gemctiabine infused at a constant rate in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Gemcitabine and paclitaxel both have significant single agent activity in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Because both are cell cycle and phase specific in their mechanism of action, frequent exposure should optimize activity. Phase I data support that gemcitabine is maximally converted to the active metabolite when it is infused at a rate of 10 mg/(m2 min). Based on this, we designed a phase II trial to examine gemcitabine 800 mg/m2 infused over 80 min with paclitaxel 110 mg/m2 infused over 3 h both on days 1, 8 and 15 every 28 days as first line therapy in patients with advanced NSCLC. The primary objectives were to assess the response rate, toxicity and survival of the combination in advanced NSCLC. Secondary objectives were to determine the effect of paclitaxel on the pharmacokinetic (PK) distribution of gemcitabine, the ability to achieve a concentration of 10-20 microM when gemcitabine was infused at a rate of 10 mg/(m2 min), as well as to assess the quality of life (QOL) with the functional assessment of cancer therapy-lung (FACT-L) questionnaire.

METHODS

Patients with NSCLC, no prior treatment, ECOG performance status (PS) 0-1, adequate bone marrow, renal, and hepatic function were eligible for this trial. Paclitaxel 110 mg/m2 was infused over 3 h, followed by gemcitabine 800 mg/m2 infused over 80 min on days 1, 8, and 15 every 28 days for the first 2 patients, and then amended to days 1 and 8 every 21 days after the first 2 patients required day 15 dose omissions due to myelosupression.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine patients were treated. Nine PS = 0; 28 PS = 1; Stage IIIB = 3, Stage IV = 36; median age 62 (range: 39-77). A median of six cycles (range: 0-10) was delivered. Grade 3-4 toxicities observed in > or =10% of patients included leucopenia in 26%, neutropenia in 28%, dyspnea in 13%, febrile neutropenia in 3% (1 patient). Fourteen of 39 (35%, 95% CI: 21-53%) patients had a partial response (PR), 14 of 39 (35%, 95% CI: 21-53%) had stable disease (SD) and 5 patients (13%, 95% CI: 4-27%) had progressive (PD). Median survival was 10.4 months (95% CI: 5.3-13.6). One-and two-year survival rates were 35% (95% CI: 21-53%) and 5% (95% CI: 0.6-17%), respectively. QOL as measured by the FACT-L and the trial outcome index (TOI) did not change significantly from baseline over the course of therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Paclitaxel and gemcitabine is an active and well-tolerated combination in advanced NSCLC. Patients on this trial had no significant change in their QOL as assessed by the FACT-L questionnaire.

Systematic review evaluating the timing of thoracic radiation therapy in combined modality therapy for limited-stage small-cell lung cancer

PURPOSE

We employed meta-analytic techniques to evaluate early (E) versus late (L) timing of thoracic radiation therapy (RT) in limited-stage small-cell lung cancer (LS-SCLC). In addition, we assessed the impact of radiation fractionation and chemotherapeutic regimen on timing.

METHODS

Randomized trials published after 1985 addressing timing of RT relative to chemotherapy in LS-SCLC were included. Trials were analyzed by risk ratio (RR), risk difference, and number-needed-to-treat methods.

RESULTS

Overall survival (OS) RRs for all studies were 1.17 at 2 years (95% CI, 1.02 to 1.35; P = .03) and 1.13 at 3 years (95% CI, 0.92 to 1.39; P = .2), indicating a significantly increased 2-year survival for ERT versus LRT patients and suggestive of a similar trend at 3 years. Subset analysis of studies using hyperfractionated RT revealed OS RR for ERT versus LRT of 1.44 (95% CI, 1.17 to 1.77; P = .001) and 1.39 (95% CI, 1.02 to 1.90; P = .04) at 2 and 3 years, respectively, indicating a survival benefit of ERT versus LRT. Studies using once-daily fractionation showed no difference in 2- and 3-year OS RRs for ERT compared with LRT. Studies using platinum-based chemotherapy had OS RRs of 1.30 (95% CI, 1.10 to 1.53; P = .002) and 1.35 (95% CI, 1.07 to 1.70; P = .01) at 2 and 3 years, respectively, favoring ERT. Studies using nonplatinum-based chemotherapy regimens had nonsignificant differences in OS.

CONCLUSION

A small but significant improvement in 2-year OS for ERT versus LRT in LS-SCLC was observed, similar to the benefit of adding RT to chemotherapy or prophylactic cranial irradiation. A greater difference was evident for hyperfractionated RT and platinum-based chemotherapy.

Induction and concurrent chemotherapy with high-dose thoracic conformal radiation therapy in unresectable stage IIIA and IIIB non-small-cell lung cancer: a dose-escalation phase I trial

PURPOSE

Local control rates at conventional radiotherapy doses (60 to 66 Gy) are poor in stage III non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Dose escalation using three-dimensional thoracic conformal radiation therapy (TCRT) is one strategy to improve local control and perhaps survival.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Stage III NSCLC patients with a good performance status (PS) were treated with induction chemotherapy (carboplatin area under the curve [AUC] 5, irinotecan 100 mg/m(2), and paclitaxel 175 mg/m(2) days 1 and 22) followed by concurrent chemotherapy (carboplatin AUC 2 and paclitaxel 45 mg/m(2) weekly for 7 to 8 weeks) beginning on day 43. Pre- and postchemotherapy computed tomography scans defined the initial clinical target volume (CTV(I)) and boost clinical target volume (CTV(B)), respectively. The CTV(I) received 40 to 50 Gy; the CTV(B) received escalating doses of TCRT from 78 Gy to 82, 86, and 90 Gy. The primary objective was to escalate the TCRT dose from 78 to 90 Gy or to the maximum-tolerated dose.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine patients were enrolled (25 assessable patients; median age, 59 years; 62% male; 45% stage IIIA; 38% PS 0; and 38% > or = 5% weight loss). Induction CIP was well tolerated (with filgrastim support) and active (partial response rate, 46.2%; stable disease, 53.8%; and early progression, 0%). The TCRT dose was escalated from 78 to 90 Gy without dose-limiting toxicity. The primary acute toxicity was esophagitis (16%, all grade 3). Late toxicity consisted of grade 2 esophageal stricture (n = 3), bronchial stenosis (n = 2), and fatal hemoptysis (n = 2). The overall response rate was 60%, with a median survival time and 1-year survival probability of 24 months and 0.73 (95% CI, 0.55 to 0.89), respectively. CONCLUSION Escalation of the TCRT dose from 78 to 90 Gy in the context of induction and concurrent chemotherapy was accomplished safely in stage III NSCLC patients.

Indications for lymphatic mapping and sentinel lymphadenectomy in patients with thin melanoma (Breslow thickness < or =1.0 mm)

BACKGROUND

Patients with thin (Breslow thickness < or =1.0 mm) melanoma have a good prognosis (5-year survival >90%). Consequently, the added benefit of lymphatic mapping and sentinel lymphadenectomy (LM/SL) in these patients is controversial. We hypothesize that LM/SL with a focused examination of the sentinel node (SN) will detect a significant number of SN metastases in patients with thin melanoma and that certain clinical or histopathologic factors may serve as predictors of SN tumor involvement.

METHODS

Over 6 years, 349 patients with melanoma underwent LM/SL and were prospectively entered into an institutional review board (IRB)-approved database. LM/SL was performed with a combined radiotracer and blue dye technique. SNs were serially sectioned, and each section was examined by a dermatopathologist at multiple levels with hematoxylin and eosin as well as immunohistochemical stains.

RESULTS

One hundred forty-six patients (42%) had a melanoma with Breslow thickness < or =1.0 mm; six (4%) of these 146 patients had a tumor-involved SN. On multivariate analysis, none of the clinical or histopathologic factors examined were significantly associated with SN tumor involvement in patients with thin melanoma. Completion lymphadenectomy was performed on all patients with a tumor-involved SN. None of the patients had non-SN tumor involvement.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of SN tumor involvement in patients with thin melanoma is considerable. Although we were unable to identify predictors of SN tumor involvement in patients with thin melanoma, efforts to identify predictors of SN tumor involvement should continue. Until better predictors are identified, we continue to advocate offering LM/SL to patients with thin melanomas who demonstrate clinical or histopathologic characteristics that have historically been associated with an increased risk of recurrence and mortality.

The impact of age on toxicity, response rate, quality of life, and survival in patients with advanced, Stage IIIB or IV nonsmall cell lung carcinoma treated with carboplatin and paclitaxel

BACKGROUND

The optimal treatment strategy for elderly patients with advanced nonsmall cell lung carcinoma has not been defined to date. The authors performed a retrospective analysis of a Phase III trial that treated patients who had Stage IIIB or IV nonsmall cell lung carcinoma with carboplatin and paclitaxel and analyzed the impact of age on response rate, survival, toxicity, and quality of life.

METHODS

Patients with Stage IIIB or IV NSCLC were randomized to receive either 4 cycles of carboplatin at an area under the curve (AUC) of 6 and paclitaxel at a dose of 200 mg/m(2) every 21 days or treatment with carboplatin and paclitaxel (C/P) until they developed disease progression. At the time of disease progression, all patients on both arms were to receive second-line weekly paclitaxel at a dose of 80 mg/m(2) per week. In this analysis, patients age 70 years and older were compared with patients younger than age 70 years. In addition, a minimum log rank P value analysis was performed in an attempt to identify other potential age splits that may have been significant.

RESULTS

Two hundred thirty patients were randomized. Sixty-seven patients were age 70 years or older (29%). The median number of cycles delivered for both age groups was 4 cycles (range, 0-19 cycles). No statistically significant differences in any of the most common toxicities (Grade >or= 2) associated with C/P were identified (data from Cycles 1-4) for patients younger than age 70 years compared with patients age 70 years and older, respectively, including neutropenia (38% vs. 35%), neuropathy (13% vs. 16%), leukopenia (7% vs. 13%), myalgia/arthralgia (15% vs. 9%), malaise (8% vs. 15%), anemia (9% vs. 4%), thrombocytopenia (7% vs. 9%), anorexia (8% vs. 4%), and nausea/emesis (14% vs. 15%). In addition, no potential age splits that may have been significant were found using a minimum log rank P value analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The current analysis demonstrated that C/P exhibited similar toxicity profiles in patients age 70 years and older compared with patients younger than age 70 years. The survival rates were not different between the two age groups, and there was no difference in progression of quality-of-life outcomes. In fit, elderly patients, C/P represented a reasonable standard regimen.

Duration of therapy in advanced, metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer

Advanced, metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains a challenge to oncologists. There is little doubt that platinum-based combination chemotherapy improves survival and has a palliative effect by improved patients' symptoms and quality of life. Yet chemotherapy is not curative, is associated with toxicity, and can be costly. In most recent phase III trials, the median survival time is 8 to 10 months. Therefore, the optimal duration of therapy-one that balances survival and palliative effects against toxicity, cost, and intrusiveness on patients' lives-remains an important issue. Three recent randomized trials that addressed this in stage IIIB/IV NSCLC are reviewed. Two evaluated brief durations of first-line therapy (3 cycles in one, 4 in the other) versus longer-duration therapy (6 cycles and continuous therapy, respectively). No benefit in response rate, symptom relief, quality of life, or survival was noted for the longer-duration therapy. In addition, cumulative toxicities occurred more frequently in patients who received longer treatment durations. The third trial administered 4 cycles of first-line platinum-based therapy and then randomized responding patients to observation or 6 months of further therapy with vinorelbine. No survival benefit was noted for vinorelbine. There trials suggest that duration of first-line therapy in advanced, metastatic NSCLC should be brief (3 to 4 cycles). Prolonged therapy does not appear to improve survival and carries the risk of cumulative toxicity. Second-line therapy considered in those patients fit enough to receive it at the time of disease progression.

Brain metastases

Metastatic tumors to the brain are an increasing cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with systemic cancers. Many new therapies used to treat systemic cancers do not penetrate the central nervous system (CNS) and do not protect patients from the development of brain metastases. Surgery, radiosurgery, and radiation therapy are all used to treat brain metastases. It is in our opinion a mistake to use only one or two of these modalities to the exclusion of other(s). The role of systemic chemotherapy is still limited, due to both the issues of drug delivery caused by the blood brain barrier and to the relative resistance of many of these tumors to chemotherapy. Traditionally, brain metastases have been grouped together regardless of the origin of the tumor and have been treated with a single algorithm. As we encounter more patients for whom treatment of the brain metastases is an important determinant of survival, we must tailor our treatment strategies to individual tumor types. Also, we must recognize differences in each tumor's sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiotherapy and differences in their biology.

The role of induction therapy in the management of resectable non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Combined-modality therapy has become standard for many patients with non-small cell lung cancer. Although surgical resection offers the best chance for long-term survival, the limited number of resectable patients and the presence of occult micrometastatic disease has limited the effectiveness of this modality alone.

METHODS

The authors reviewed several trials involving the use of induction chemotherapy in managing resectable non-small cell lung cancer.

RESULTS

Extensive phase II experience in patients with stage III disease has confirmed the feasibility of this approach. Unfortunately, heterogeneous patient populations and treatment regimens limit the ability to draw firm conclusions from these trials alone. While the phase III experience has been limited, long-term follow-up is now available suggesting that induction therapy may have a beneficial impact on survival, especially for those patients who can be sufficiently downstaged. Recent phase II trials have included stage III patients who have traditionally been considered inoperable. Although encouraging, the role of surgery after chemoradiotherapy for this population of patients remains undefined.

CONCLUSIONS

Results from ongoing randomized trials studying the impact of induction therapy on well-defined patient populations will be necessary before the optimal regimen and patient population can be identified.

Combined-modality therapy in the nonsurgical management of unresectable stage III non-small cell lung cancer

Combined chemotherapy and radiation for patients with unresectable non-small cell lung cancer has recently been associated with a survival advantage compared with radiation alone; however, despite this apparent improvement in survival, the optimal strategy to combine these two modalities has not yet been defined. Both local tumor control and distant micrometastatic disease remain problems, limiting the curative ability of current combined-modality programs. Over the past year, accelerated radiation schedules have been shown to improve both local tumor control and survival in a selected patient population compared with standard radiotherapy. Some work has centered on the incorporation of novel chemotherapy agents into combined-modality regimens, with encouraging results from phases I and II. Finally, although the benefit for combined-modality therapy has generally been limited to good performance status of patients with minimal weight loss, some data have shown the feasibility of the combined approach in high-risk patient populations. Several ongoing cooperative group phase III trials will help to better define the optimal approach to manage this high-risk patient population.