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Chan J, Ng DWL, Liao Q, Fielding R, Soong I, Chan KKL, Lee C, Ng AWY, Sze WK, Chan WL, Lee VHF, Lam WWT. Trajectories of sleep disturbance in cancer survivors during the first 2 years post-treatment. Sleep 2023; 46:zsad052. [PMID: 36861253 DOI: 10.1093/sleep/zsad052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVES To examine the trajectories of sleep disturbance in cancer survivors during the first 2 years post-treatment and to investigate whether psychological, cognitive, and physical factors differentiate trajectories. METHODS A total of 623 Chinese cancer survivors of diverse cancer types participated in a 2-year-long prospective study after the completion of cancer treatment. Sleep disturbance was measured using Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index at 3 (T2), 6 (T3), 12 (T4), 18 (T5), and 24 (T6) months after baseline (within 6-months post-treatment; T1). Latent growth mixture modeling identified distinctive sleep disturbance trajectories and tested if these longitudinal patterns were predicted by baseline psychological distress, attentional control, attentional bias and physical symptom distress and T2 cancer-related distress. Fully adjusted multinomial logistic regression then identified whether these factors differentiated trajectories. RESULTS Two distinct sleep disturbance trajectories were identified, namely stable good sleepers (69.7%) and persistent high sleep disturbance (30.3%). Compared to those in the stable good sleep group, patients in the persistent high sleep disturbance group were less likely to report avoidant (OR=0.49, 95% CI = 0.26-0.90), while more likely to report intrusive thoughts (OR = 1.76, 95% CI = 1.06-2.92) and cancer-related hyperarousal (OR = 3.37, 95% CI = 1.78-6.38). Higher depression scores also predicted persistent high sleep disturbance group membership (OR = 1.13, 95% CI = 1.03-1.25). Attentional bias, attentional control, anxiety, and physical symptom distress did not predict sleep trajectory membership. CONCLUSIONS One in three cancer survivors experienced persistent high sleep disturbance. Screening and managing depressive symptoms and cancer-related distress in early cancer rehabilitation may reduce risk of persistent sleep disturbance among cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Chan
- School of Public Health, Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research and Training, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, Jockey Club Institute of Cancer Care, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Danielle Wing Lam Ng
- School of Public Health, Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research and Training, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, Jockey Club Institute of Cancer Care, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Qiuyan Liao
- School of Public Health, Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research and Training, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Richard Fielding
- School of Public Health, Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research and Training, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, Jockey Club Institute of Cancer Care, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Inda Soong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Karen Kar Loen Chan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Conrad Lee
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Alice Wan Ying Ng
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wing Kin Sze
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wing Lok Chan
- Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Oncology, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Victor Ho Fun Lee
- Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Oncology, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wendy Wing Tak Lam
- School of Public Health, Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research and Training, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, Jockey Club Institute of Cancer Care, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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So SCY, Ng DWL, Liao Q, Fielding R, Soong I, Chan KKL, Lee C, Ng AWY, Sze WK, Chan WL, Lee VHF, Lam WWT. Return to Work and Work Productivity During the First Year After Cancer Treatment. Front Psychol 2022; 13:866346. [PMID: 35496253 PMCID: PMC9039203 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.866346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Working-age cancer patients face barriers to resuming work after treatment completion. Those resuming work contend with reduced productivity arising from persisting residual symptoms. Existing studies of return to work (RTW) after cancer diagnosis were done predominantly in Western countries. Given that employment and RTW in cancer survivors likely vary regionally due to healthcare provision and social security differences, we documented rates and correlates of RTW, work productivity, and activity impairment among Chinese cancer survivors in Hong Kong at one-year post-treatment. Methods Of 1,106 cancer patients assessed at six-months post-cancer treatment (baseline), 593 previously worked; detailed work status, psychological distress (HADS), physical symptom distress (MSAS-SF), supportive care needs (SCNS-SF34-C), health-related quality of life (SF12), and illness perception (B-IPQ) were assessed. Six months later (follow-up), work productivity and activity impairment were assessed (WPAI; n = 402). Descriptive analyses examined RTW rate. Fully adjusted regressions determined RTW, work productivity, and activity impairment predictors. Results At baseline, 39% (232/593) were working, 26% (153/593) on sick leave, and 35% (208/593) were unemployed. Compared to patients returning to work, unemployed participants were older, likely manual/service-oriented workers, and had lower family income, chemotherapy, fewer unmet health system and information needs, poorer physical functioning, and negative illness perceptions. Sick leave participants were likely service-oriented workers, who had head and neck cancer, chemotherapy, and poor physical functioning. At FU, baseline depressive symptoms, physical symptom distress, and negative illness perceptions predicted presenteeism and work productivity loss; gynecological cancer, fewer unmet health system and information needs, and greater unmet sexuality needs predicted absenteeism; physical symptom distress, negative illness perception, and poor physical functioning predicted activity impairment. Conclusion Cancer survivors who had more physically demanding jobs and poorer physical functioning delayed RTW. Unmanaged physical symptom and psychological distress hindered work productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serana Chun Yee So
- LKS Faculty of Medicine, Jockey Club Institute of Cancer Care, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,School of Public Health, Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research and Training, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Danielle Wing Lam Ng
- LKS Faculty of Medicine, Jockey Club Institute of Cancer Care, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,School of Public Health, Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research and Training, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Qiuyan Liao
- School of Public Health, Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research and Training, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Richard Fielding
- LKS Faculty of Medicine, Jockey Club Institute of Cancer Care, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,School of Public Health, Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research and Training, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Inda Soong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Karen Kar Loen Chan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Conrad Lee
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Alice Wan Ying Ng
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wing Kin Sze
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wing Lok Chan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Victor Ho Fun Lee
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wendy Wing Tak Lam
- LKS Faculty of Medicine, Jockey Club Institute of Cancer Care, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,School of Public Health, Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research and Training, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Choudhury Y, Phyo WM, Lim JS, Gupta C, Ho Y, Tay C, Sim Y, Ng WS, Pek M, Tan MH, Chin TM, Tan YO, Wong SW, Hsue V, Foo W, Sze WK, AU SK, Lam TC. Clinical utility of a liquid biopsy diagnostic approach in lung cancer using amplicon-based next-generation sequencing in parallel with allele-specific PCR. J Clin Oncol 2020. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2020.38.15_suppl.e21516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
e21516 Background: The utility of a liquid biopsy test for diagnosis and treatment is determined by its accuracy, molecular target coverage and timeliness to a clinically informative result. We describe our clinical experience of providing comprehensive next-generation sequencing (NGS) plasma testing for advanced lung cancer cases, including parallel testing with allele-specific PCR (AS-PCR) for rapid EGFR mutation detection. Methods: Plasma cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from advanced lung cancer patients (n = 374) underwent real-world testing with an amplicon-based NGS assay, in a CAP and ISO15189 accredited central laboratory. The assay covers 51 genes, including 8 guideline recommended biomarkers- EGFR, BRAF, MET, ALK, RET, ROS1, ERBB2 and KRAS. 168 cases (44.9%) were treatment-naïve (baseline) and 206 cases (55.1%) had received one or more lines of treatment. Parallel testing with AS-PCR for 10 specific EGFR mutations was done for 151 cases (90 baseline, 61 non-baseline). Concordance of EGFR mutation detection by the two methods, and the frequency of detection of clinically actionable (driver) mutations by NGS were assessed. Turnaround time (TAT) was calculated from sample receipt. Results: An overall concordance of 97.4% was observed for EGFR mutations between AS-PCR and NGS. When restricted to baseline cases, concordance was 100%. Among baseline cases which were concordant with AS-PCR for EGFR negativity (n = 63), driver mutations were identified in EGFR (n = 7 rarer mutations), KRAS, ERBB2, MET, NRAS, BRAF and ALK (n = 16 total) by NGS, providing an additional 37% diagnostic yield (23/63 cases). Among all baseline cases tested by NGS, a driver gene mutation was found in 64.28% of cases, including EGFR (36.9%) and KRAS mutations (11.9 %). Among non-baseline cases which were EGFR-negative by NGS and by AS-PCR, added diagnostic yield provided by NGS was 33.3% (10 of 30 cases), and included 16.7% rarer EGFR mutations. Overall, detection rate of ALK, RET, ROS1 fusions was 2.4% (n = 5, 3 and 1, respectively). Median TAT for EGFR results by AS-PCR was 1 day (range 1-2 days), while median TAT for NGS results was 10 days (range 4-13 days). Conclusions: We report excellent real-world performance of blood-based liquid biopsy testing for detecting recommended biomarkers in lung cancers, including an approach combining two orthogonal platforms for quick decision making. Clinically meaningful diagnostic yields can be obtained using a timely comprehensive NGS assay, either individually or in parallel with rapid AS-PCR testing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yiliang Ho
- Lucence Diagnostics, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Carina Tay
- Lucence Diagnostics, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yuki Sim
- Lucence Diagnostics, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | | | | | | | - Yew-Oo Tan
- Icon Cancer Centre Farrer Park, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Seng Weng Wong
- The Cancer Centre (Singapore Medical Group), Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - William Foo
- Hong Kong Baptist Hospital, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | | | - Siu Kei AU
- Hong Kong Adventist Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong
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Choi EPH, Liao Q, Soong I, Chan KKL, Lee CCY, Ng A, Sze WK, Tsang JWH, Lee VHF, Lam WWT. Measurement invariance across gender and age groups, validity and reliability of the Chinese version of the short-form supportive care needs survey questionnaire (SCNS-SF34). Health Qual Life Outcomes 2020; 18:29. [PMID: 32066444 PMCID: PMC7027020 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-020-01289-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the wide use of the Short-Form Supportive Care Needs Survey Questionnaire (SCNS-SF34), the measurement invariance of the SCNS-SF34 across the main groups—gender and age—which might be of interest in the application of the instrument has never been confirmed. To provide an accurate assessment tool to evaluate the unmet needs of Chinese cancer patients, the present study aimed to assess the measurement invariance of the SCNS-SF34 across gender and age groups and to assess the validity and reliability of the Chinese version of the SCNS-SF34. Methods The SCNS-SF34 was administrated to 1106 Chinese cancer patients. Other instruments included the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale-Short Form (MSAS-SF), the Short-Form-12 Health Survey version 2 (SF-12 v2) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Factor structure, internal construct validity, convergent validity, known-group validity and internal consistency were assessed. Results Our data fit the original five-factor model. Multi-group confirmatory factor analysis indicated measurement invariance across age and gender groups. The domains of the SCNS-SF34 had moderate correlations with the corresponding domains of the MSAS-SF, the SF-12 v2 and the HADS, which supported convergent validity. Of the 34 items, 33 had an item-total correlation that was corrected for an overlap of > 0.4 to support the internal construct validity. The SCNS-SF34 aptly differentiated patients by age and gender. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient ranged from 0.64 to 0.87. Conclusions We confirm the measurement invariance of the Chinese version of the SCNS-SF34 across gender and age group. It is a valid and reliable tool for evaluating the needs of Chinese patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edmond Pui Hang Choi
- School of Nursing, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Qiuyan Liao
- School of Public Health, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Inda Soong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Chai Wan, Hong Kong, China
| | - Karen Kar Loen Chan
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Conrad C Y Lee
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Alice Ng
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wing Kin Sze
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - Victor Ho Fun Lee
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wendy Wing Tak Lam
- Jockey Club Institute of Cancer Care, Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research & Training, Hong Kong, China.,School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Zhang N, Fielding R, Soong I, Chan KK, Lee C, Ng A, Sze WK, Tsang J, Lee V, Lam WWT. Illness perceptions as predictors of psychological distress among head and neck cancer survivors: a longitudinal study. Head Neck 2018; 40:2362-2371. [PMID: 30307664 DOI: 10.1002/hed.25343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Revised: 01/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leventhal's commonsense model implies illness perceptions influence illness outcomes. This study examined illness perceptions among head and neck cancer survivors, and whether these predicted subsequent psychological distress. METHODS A total of 124 survivors of head and neck cancer (87% nasopharyngeal carcinoma; NPC) completed measures of psychological distress (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale; HADS), illness perceptions (Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire; B-IPQ), dispositional optimism (revised Chinese version of the Life Orientation Test; C-LOT-R), and clinical and demographic data approximately12.9 months after diagnosis (T1). Six months later (T2) psychological distress (HADS) was again measured. Adjusted multivariate analyses tested whether illness perceptions predicted T2 HADS scores. RESULTS Illness perception dimensions were significantly intercorrelated (0.01-0.68), explaining 8.0% of anxiety and 4.8% of depression symptom variability at T2. After adjustment for T1 distress, illness identity (β = 0.270, P < .01) and sex identification as a woman (β = 0.275, P < .01) predicted T2 anxiety symptoms while illness identity (β = 0.195, P < .05), unemployment (β = 0.195, P < .05), and pessimism (β = -0.227, P < .01) predicted T2 depression symptoms. CONCLUSION Perceived illness identity predicted psychological distress, accounting for modest levels of distress variance. Unresolved symptoms may exacerbate distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Zhang
- Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research & Training, School of Public Health, University of Hong Kong, Patrick Manson Building, 7, Sassoon Rd., Pokfulam, HongKong
| | - Richard Fielding
- Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research & Training, School of Public Health, University of Hong Kong, Patrick Manson Building, 7, Sassoon Rd., Pokfulam, HongKong
| | - Inda Soong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Chai Wan, Hong Kong
| | - Karen Kk Chan
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Conrad Lee
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Alice Ng
- Department of Clinical Oncology, TuenMun Hospital, Tuen Mun, HongKong
| | - Wing Kin Sze
- Department of Clinical Oncology, TuenMun Hospital, Tuen Mun, HongKong
| | - Janice Tsang
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Victor Lee
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Wendy Wing Tak Lam
- Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research & Training, School of Public Health, University of Hong Kong, Patrick Manson Building, 7, Sassoon Rd., Pokfulam, HongKong
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Lam WWT, Kwong A, Suen D, Tsang J, Soong I, Yau TK, Yeo W, Suen J, Ho WM, Wong KY, Sze WK, Ng AWY, Fielding R. Factors predicting patient satisfaction in women with advanced breast cancer: a prospective study. BMC Cancer 2018; 18:162. [PMID: 29415669 PMCID: PMC5803988 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-018-4085-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2016] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The present study (1) examined patient satisfaction with care over the first year following the diagnosis of advanced breast cancer and (2) tested if unmet health system and information needs, physical symptom distress, and psychological distress predicted patient satisfaction. Methods Prospective study of 213 Chinese women with advanced breast cancer assessed while awaiting or receiving initial chemotherapy (baseline), then again at 1.5-, 3-, 6-, and 12-months post-baseline. Health system and information unmet (HSI) needs, psychological distress, physical symptom distress, and patient satisfaction were assessed at baseline; patient satisfaction was reassessed at each follow-up assessment. Latent growth curve analysis assessed changes in patient satisfaction over the 12 months follow-up; hierarchical multiple regression analysis tested if baseline health system information needs, physical symptom distress, anxiety and depression predicted patient satisfaction at one-year post-baseline. Results The level of patient satisfaction was high and did not change significantly over time. Only HSI needs (β = − 0.27, p < 0.005) significantly associated with baseline patient satisfaction. Patient satisfaction at one-year post-baseline was predicted by HSI needs (β = − 0.26, p < 0.005), Anxiety (β = 0.23, p < 0.05) and Depression (β = − 0.28, p < 0.005), adjusting for the effect of baseline patient satisfaction (β = 0.22, p < 0.005). Conclusions Unmet health information needs and greater depressive symptoms at initial treatment phased predicted subsequent poorer patient satisfaction. This highlights a need to reinforce the importance of patient-centered care model in managing advanced breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy W T Lam
- Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research & Training, Division of Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong(HKU), 5/F, WMW Mong Block, Faculty of Medicine Building, 21 Sassoon Road, Pokulam, Hong Kong.
| | - Ava Kwong
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Dacita Suen
- Department of Surgery, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Janice Tsang
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Inda Soong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Chai Wan, Hong Kong
| | - Tze Kok Yau
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Chai Wan, Hong Kong
| | - Winnie Yeo
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong
| | - Joyce Suen
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong
| | - Wing Ming Ho
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong
| | - Ka Yan Wong
- Department of Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital, Kwai Chung, Hong Kong
| | - Wing Kin Sze
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong
| | - Alice W Y Ng
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong
| | - Richard Fielding
- Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research & Training, Division of Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong(HKU), 5/F, WMW Mong Block, Faculty of Medicine Building, 21 Sassoon Road, Pokulam, Hong Kong
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Chiang CL, Lee FAS, Wong YW, Poon CM, Choi CKK, Wong FCS, Sze WK, Tung SY. Short-course Preoperative Radiotherapy with Delayed Surgery for Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer. Hong Kong J Radiol 2017. [DOI: 10.12809/hkjr1716844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Zhang N, Fielding R, Soong I, Chan KKK, Lee C, Ng A, Sze WK, Tsang J, Lee V, Lam WWT. Psychometric assessment of the Chinese version of the brief illness perception questionnaire in breast cancer survivors. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0174093. [PMID: 28319160 PMCID: PMC5358881 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0174093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 03/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The eight-item Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (B-IPQ) supposedly evaluates cognitive and emotional representations of illness. This study examined the validity and reliability of a traditional Chinese version of the B-IPQ in Hong Kong Chinese breast cancer survivors. METHODS 358 Chinese breast cancer survivors who had recently ended their primary treatment completed this B-IPQ Chinese version. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) tested the factor structure. The internal consistency, construct, predictive and convergent validities of the scale were assessed. RESULTS CFA revealed that the original three-factor (cognitive-emotional representations and illness comprehensibility) structure of the B-IPQ poorly fitted our sample. After deleting one item measuring illness coherence, seven-item gave an optimal two-factor (cognitive-emotional representations) structure for the B-IPQ (B-IPQ-7). Cronbach's alpha for the two subscales were 0.653 and 0.821, and for the overall seven-item scale of B-IPQ was 0.783. Correlations of illness perception and physical symptom distress, anxiety, depression and known-group comparison between different treatment status suggested acceptable construct validity. The association between baseline illness perception and psychological distress at 3-month follow up supported predictive validity. CONCLUSIONS B-IPQ-7 appears to be a moderately valid measure of illness perception in cancer population, potentially useful for assessing illness representations in Chinese women with breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Zhang
- Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research & Training, Division of Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, People’s Republic of China
| | - Richard Fielding
- Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research & Training, Division of Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, People’s Republic of China
| | - Inda Soong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, People’s Republic of China
| | - Karen K. K. Chan
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, People’s Republic of China
| | - Conrad Lee
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, People’s Republic of China
| | - Alice Ng
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wing Kin Sze
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, People’s Republic of China
| | - Janice Tsang
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, People’s Republic of China
| | - Victor Lee
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wendy Wing Tak Lam
- Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research & Training, Division of Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, People’s Republic of China
- * E-mail:
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9
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Lam WWT, Yoon SW, Sze WK, Ng AWY, Soong I, Kwong A, Suen D, Tsang J, Yeo W, Wong KY, Fielding R. Comparing the meanings of living with advanced breast cancer between women resilient to distress and women with persistent distress: a qualitative study. Psychooncology 2016; 26:255-261. [PMID: 27061966 DOI: 10.1002/pon.4116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2015] [Revised: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most women with advanced breast cancer (ABC) show little distress, but about one in ten show persistent distress over time. It remains unclear if meanings ascribed by patients to ABC differentiate these distress trajectories. STUDY AIMS This qualitative study (a) compared illness meanings of ABC between women with persistent psychological distress and those with low/transient distress, and (b) examined how illness meanings might influence coping strategies. METHODS The sample was drawn from a prior quantitative study exploring psychological distress trajectories following ABC diagnosis. Overall, 42 Cantonese- or Mandarin-speaking Chinese women diagnosed with locally advanced or metastatic ABC were recruited based on their distress trajectory status (low-stable, transient, or persistent distress). Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed following grounded theory approach using simultaneous analysis. RESULTS Women with persistent distress viewed their diagnosis as another blow in life, the illness was global, permeating every aspect of their life. Maladaptive rumination and thought suppression were common responses to illness demands. These women had poor social support. A sense of demoralization stood out in their narratives. In contrast, women with transient/low-stable distress encapsulated the illness, with minimum impacts of their life. They did not evidence dysfunctional repetitive thoughts. Living in a supportive environment, they were able to accept and/or live in the present-moment. CONCLUSIONS Rumination, thought suppression, social constraints, and pre-existing exposure to life stress may be potential risks for chronic distress in response to advanced breast cancer. Persistent and transient distress responses to cancer may have different underpinnings. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- W W T Lam
- Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research and Training, School of Public Health, HKU, Hong Kong
| | - S W Yoon
- Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research and Training, School of Public Health, HKU, Hong Kong
| | - W K Sze
- Department of Clinical Oncology, TMH, Hong Kong
| | - A W Y Ng
- Department of Clinical Oncology, TMH, Hong Kong
| | - I Soong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, PYNEH, Hong Kong
| | - A Kwong
- Department of Surgery, HKU, Hong Kong
| | - D Suen
- Department of Surgery, HKU, Hong Kong
| | - J Tsang
- Department of Medicine, HKU, Hong Kong
| | - W Yeo
- Department of Clinical Oncology, CUHK, Hong Kong
| | - K Y Wong
- Department of Oncology, PMH, Hong Kong
| | - R Fielding
- Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research and Training, School of Public Health, HKU, Hong Kong
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10
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Lam WWT, Yeo W, Suen J, Ho WM, Tsang J, Soong I, Yau TK, Wong KY, Sze WK, Ng AWY, Kwong A, Suen D, Fong D, Ho S, Fielding R. Goal adjustment influence on psychological well-being following advanced breast cancer diagnosis. Psychooncology 2015; 25:58-65. [DOI: 10.1002/pon.3871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2015] [Revised: 04/28/2015] [Accepted: 05/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wendy W. T. Lam
- Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research and Training, School of Public Health; The University of Hong Kong (HKU); Pokfulam Hong Kong
| | - Winnie Yeo
- Department of Clinical Oncology; The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Shatin Hong Kong
| | - Joyce Suen
- Department of Clinical Oncology; The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Shatin Hong Kong
| | - Wing Ming Ho
- Department of Clinical Oncology; The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Shatin Hong Kong
| | - Janice Tsang
- Department of Clinical Oncology; HKU; Pokfulam Hong Kong
| | - Inda Soong
- Department of Clinical Oncology; Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital; Chai Wan Hong Kong
| | - Tze Kok Yau
- Department of Clinical Oncology; Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital; Chai Wan Hong Kong
| | - Ka Yan Wong
- Department of Oncology; Princess Margaret Hospital; Toronto Canada
| | - Wing Kin Sze
- Department of Clinical Oncology; Tuen Mun Hospital; Tuen Mun Hong Kong
| | - Alice W. Y. Ng
- Department of Clinical Oncology; Tuen Mun Hospital; Tuen Mun Hong Kong
| | - Ava Kwong
- Department of Surgery; HKU; Pokfulam Hong Kong
| | - Dacita Suen
- Department of Surgery; HKU; Pokfulam Hong Kong
| | | | - Samuel Ho
- Department of Applied Social Studies; City University of Hong Kong; Kowloon Tong Hong Kong
| | - Richard Fielding
- Centre for Psycho-Oncology Research and Training, School of Public Health; The University of Hong Kong (HKU); Pokfulam Hong Kong
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11
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Mui WH, Lee KC, Chiu SC, Pang CY, Chu SK, Man CW, Wong CS, Sze WK, Tung Y. Primary yolk sac tumour of the urinary bladder: A case report and review of the literature. Oncol Lett 2013; 7:199-202. [PMID: 24348848 PMCID: PMC3861607 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2013.1670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2013] [Accepted: 10/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
We present a case of rare primary yolk sac tumour of the urinary bladder in adulthood. A 31-year-old female patient presented with a history of chronic ketamine abuse, which has not previously been shown to be associated with malignancy development. The final diagnosis was established only after radical cystectomy. A computed tomography (CT) scan showed paraaortic lymph node metastasis. The patient was treated with systemic chemotherapy. A review of the literature revealed that surgical excision and cisplatin-based chemotherapy remain to be the standard of care for extragonadal yolk sac tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wing Ho Mui
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China
| | - Ka Chai Lee
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China
| | - Sin Chuen Chiu
- Department of Pathology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China
| | - Chun Yin Pang
- Department of Pathology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China
| | - Sau Kwan Chu
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China
| | - Chi Wai Man
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China
| | - Chi Sing Wong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China
| | - Wing Kin Sze
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China
| | - Yuk Tung
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China
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12
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Choi CKK, Lee FAS, Lam TC, Wong FCS, Wong VY, Lui C, Sze WK, Tung SY. Impact of Fractionated Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy on Liver Function in Patients with Hepatitis B Virus–related Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Clinical and Dosimetric Analysis. Hong Kong J Radiol 2013. [DOI: 10.12809/hkjr1312147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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13
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Wong SY, Lo SH, Chan CH, Chui HS, Sze WK, Tung Y. Is it feasible to discuss an advance directive with a Chinese patient with advanced malignancy? A prospective cohort study. Hong Kong Med J 2012; 18:178-185. [PMID: 22665680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Advance directives have been implemented for years in western countries, but the concept is new to Asian cultures. According to traditional Chinese culture, family members usually play a decisive role in a patient's treatment plan. Thus it may be hard to implement an advance directive despite its importance to the treatment of patients. The objectives of this study were to assess the feasibility of advance directive engagement and to explore significant contributing factors to achieving such a goal. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING Palliative Care Unit of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong. PATIENTS The subjects of the investigation were adult patients diagnosed to have advanced malignancy and newly referred to the hospice service from 24 April 2009 to 30 July 2009. Data were collected from nursing assessment forms, locally designed advance directive forms, a checklist completed by oncologists, and details available in the electronic hospital record. RESULTS Of the 191 eligible patients, 120 (63%) had the advance directive, whereas 71 (37%) did not. In the Cox regression model, the patient having insight of a poor prognosis was the most significant factor facilitating advance directive engagement (P=0.001). Any family objection in the discussion of advance directives was also an important factor, though it did not reach statistical significance (P=0.082). Other factors like age, gender, education, religion, financial status, living environment, understanding the diagnosis, bereavement experience, type of cancer, nature of illness, courses of chemotherapy or radiotherapy received, main caregiver, in-house supporter, nurse-led clinic attendance, clinical psychologist consultation, and in-patient hospice nurse coordinator interview were all statistically insignificant. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrated that it was feasible to discuss an advance directive with Chinese patients with advanced malignancy. When patients have insight about their poor prognosis and family members have no objection, it may be appropriate to discuss an advance directive.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Y Wong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong.
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14
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Lee AWM, Tung SY, Chua DTT, Ngan RKC, Chappell R, Tung R, Siu L, Ng WT, Sze WK, Au GKH, Law SCK, O'Sullivan B, Yau TK, Leung TW, Au JSK, Sze WM, Choi CW, Fung KK, Lau JT, Lau WH. Randomized trial of radiotherapy plus concurrent-adjuvant chemotherapy vs radiotherapy alone for regionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma. J Natl Cancer Inst 2010; 102:1188-98. [PMID: 20634482 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djq258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 248] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current practice of adding concurrent-adjuvant chemotherapy to radiotherapy (CRT) for treating advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma is based on the Intergroup-0099 Study published in 1998. However, the outcome for the radiotherapy-alone (RT) group in that trial was substantially poorer than those in other trials, and there were no data on late toxicities. Verification of the long-term therapeutic index of this regimen is needed. METHODS Patients with nonkeratinizing nasopharyngeal carcinoma staged T1-4N2-3M0 were randomly assigned to RT (176 patients) or to CRT (172 patients) using cisplatin (100 mg/m(2)) every 3 weeks for three cycles in concurrence with radiotherapy, followed by cisplatin (80 mg/m(2)) plus fluorouracil (1000 mg per m(2) per day for 4 days) every 4 weeks for three cycles. Primary endpoints included overall failure-free rate (FFR) (the time to first failure at any site) and progression-free survival. Secondary endpoints included overall survival, locoregional FFR, distant FFR, and acute and late toxicity rates. All statistical tests were two-sided. RESULTS The two treatment groups were well balanced in all patient characteristics, tumor factors, and radiotherapy parameters. Adding chemotherapy statistically significantly improved the 5-year FFR (CRT vs RT: 67% vs 55%; P = .014) and 5-year progression-free survival (CRT vs RT: 62% vs 53%; P = .035). Cumulative incidence of acute toxicity increased with chemotherapy by 30% (CRT vs RT: 83% vs 53%; P < .001), but the 5-year late toxicity rate did not increase statistically significantly (CRT vs RT: 30% vs 24%; P = .30). Deaths because of disease progression were reduced statistically significantly by 14% (CRT vs RT: 38% vs 24%; P = .008), but 5-year overall survival was similar (CRT vs RT: 68% vs 64%; P = .22; hazard ratio of CRT = 0.81, 95% confidence interval = 0.58 to 1.13) because deaths due to toxicity or incidental causes increased by 7% (CRT vs RT: 1.7% vs 0, and 8.1% vs 3.4%, respectively; P = .015). CONCLUSIONS Adding concurrent-adjuvant chemotherapy statistically significantly reduced failure and cancer-specific deaths when compared with radiotherapy alone. Although there was no statistically significant increase in major late toxicity, increase in noncancer deaths narrowed the resultant gain in overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne W M Lee
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Chai Wan, Hong Kong, China.
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15
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Wong FCS, Lee TW, Yuen KK, Lo SH, Sze WK, Tung SY. Intercostal nerve blockade for cancer pain: effectiveness and selection of patients. Hong Kong Med J 2007; 13:266-70. [PMID: 17664531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To review treatment results of intercostal nerve blockade at our centre and those reported in the literature, and to determine which patients benefit most from this procedure. DESIGN Retrospective study. SETTING Regional palliative care centre in a regional hospital in Hong Kong. PATIENTS Oncology patients who had intercostal nerve blockade at Tuen Mun Hospital from 1995 to 2005 were divided into three groups: (1) those who appeared not to tolerate opioids; (2) those deemed to have inadequate pain control, despite high doses of analgesics; and (3) those referred to avoid early use of high-dose opioids and tolerance. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The effectiveness and complications of intercostal nerve blockade, and the extent of benefit derived from intercostal nerve blockade in different patient groups. RESULTS This study found that 80% of the 25 patients noted optimal local pain control and 56% experienced reduction in analgesic use after intercostal nerve blockade. About 32% did not notice recurrence of the targeted pain till the end of their lives. None of the patients developed pneumothorax. Most benefit from intercostal nerve blocks were derived by group 2 patients, 90% of whom obtained optimal local pain control (P=0.23) and enjoyed a significant reduction in analgesics use (P=0.019), and in 40% their target pain was controlled till the end of life. Only about one third of group 3 patients had subsequent reduction in use of analgesics, mainly because they had co-existing pain other than at the target selected for treatment. Half (50%) of group 1 patients achieved optimal pain control. CONCLUSION Our treatment results from intercostal nerve blockade are comparable to those reported in the literature. The procedure is safe if closely monitored. Good selection of cases is important for optimising the therapeutic gain. The largest benefit is obtained in patients who have inadequate pain control after high-dose morphine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank C S Wong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong.
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16
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Wong VYW, Wong FCS, Tung SY, Leung TW, Lui CMM, Sze WK, O KS. A pre-optimised dosimetry system using a rigid applicator for intracavitary treatment of cervical carcinoma. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2006; 18:612-20. [PMID: 17051952 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2006.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Tumour control and complication risk have been major concerns in the treatment of cervical carcinoma. A review of dose distribution for intracavitary treatment of cervical carcinoma revealed that modification of the Manchester dosimetry system is necessary for cases of narrow-sized vagina. A revised dosimetry system was introduced in the present study, with the objective of optimising the dose coverage for the parametrium while minimising the bladder and rectum dosage by restricting the rectal dose so as not to exceed 75% of the brachytherapy prescription dose. MATERIALS AND METHODS A suitable-sized applicator was selected according to the patient's anatomy. The revised system is optimised based on the fixed geometry of the applicator. The system was therefore predefined and the distribution of the treatment dose already determined before application. The revised system was applied to 135 cases, involving 540 applications. The clinical outcome in terms of local tumour control and complication rates is reported. The differences between the revised system and the Manchester system in terms of dose coverage for the parametrium and the rectum dose were compared. RESULTS The results showed that higher rectal and parametrial dosages were obtained with the Manchester system as compared with the revised system. Our study showed that over 50% of our patients would have received a rectal dose close to 100% of the point A dose if the Manchester system was applied, whereas it was restricted to below 75% using the revised system. Using the revised system, the significance of the parametrial dosage coverage in relation to local control was assessed: the mean dose to the rectum and the bladder as a percentage of point A was 65.7 +/- 5% (range 50-85%) and 66.4 +/- 14% (range 29-116%), respectively. The 5-year actuarial local failure-free survival rates were 90, 92.9, 86.8, 100, 69.7 and 0% for stages IB, IIA, IIB, IIIA, IIIB and IV (P < 0.0001), respectively. The 3-year actuarial complication rates (grade 3/4) for proctitis and cystitis were 1.4 and 0.5%, respectively. The dosage coverage for the parametrium was found to be significant (P = 0.029) in relation to local control for early-stage disease. CONCLUSIONS The favourable local tumour control and low complication rates shown by our results indicate that the revised system presents an optimal dose distribution, particularly for the application of small ovoids, whereas morbidity was reduced to a lower level without compromising local control.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Y W Wong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong, China.
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Teo PML, Leung SF, Tung SY, Zee B, Sham JST, Lee AWM, Lau WH, Kwan WH, Leung TW, Chua D, Sze WM, Au JSK, Yu KH, O SK, Kwong D, Yau TK, Law SCK, Sze WK, Au G, Chan ATC. Dose–response relationship of nasopharyngeal carcinoma above conventional tumoricidal level: A study by the Hong Kong nasopharyngeal carcinoma study group (HKNPCSG). Radiother Oncol 2006; 79:27-33. [PMID: 16626829 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2006.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2005] [Revised: 03/18/2006] [Accepted: 03/22/2006] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE To define the dose-response relationship of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) above the conventional tumoricidal dose level of 66 Gy when the basic radiotherapy (RT) course was given by the 2D Ho's technique. PATIENTS AND METHODS Data from all five regional cancer centers in Hong Kong were pooled for this retrospective study. All patients (n = 2426) were treated with curative-intent RT with or without chemotherapy between 1996 and 2000 with the basic RT course using the Ho's technique. The primary endpoint was local control. The prognostic significance of dose-escalation ('boost') after 66 Gy, T-stage, N-stage, use of chemotherapy, sex and age (< or =40 years vs >40 years) was studied. Both univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. RESULTS On multivariate analysis, T-stage (P < 0.01; hazard ratio [HR], 1.58) and optimal boost (P = 0.01; HR, 0.34) were the only significant factors affecting local failure for the whole study population, and for the population of patients treated by radiotherapy alone, but not for patients who also received chemotherapy. The following were independent determinants of local failure for patient groups with different T-stages treated by radiotherapy alone: use of a boost in T1/T2a disease (P = 0.01; HR, 0.33); use of a boost (P < 0.01; HR, 0.60) and age (P = 0.01; HR, 1.02) in T3/T4 tumors. Among patients with T2b tumors treated by radiotherapy alone and given a boost, the use of a 20 Gy-boost gave a lower local failure rate than a 10 Gy-boost. There was no apparent excess mortality attributed to RT complications. CONCLUSIONS Within the context of a multi-center retrospective study, dose-escalation above 66 Gy significantly improved local control for T1/T2a and T3/4 tumors when the primary RT course was based on the 2D Ho's technique without additional chemotherapy. 'Boosting' in NPC warrants further investigation. Caution should be taken when boosting is considered because of possible increase in radiation toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter M L Teo
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, China
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18
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Yu KH, Leung SF, Tung SY, Zee B, Chua DTT, Sze WM, Law SCK, Kam MKM, Leung TW, Sham JST, Lee AWM, Au JSK, Hui EP, Sze WK, Cheng ACK, Yau TK, Ngan RKC, Wong FCS, Au GKH, Chan ATC. Survival outcome of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma with first local failure: a study by the Hong Kong Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Study Group. Head Neck 2005; 27:397-405. [PMID: 15726589 DOI: 10.1002/hed.20161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this article is to report the overall survival (OS) outcome of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) with local failure who received salvage treatment and to identify prognostic factors for OS. METHODS Between January 1996 and December 2000, 2915 patients received primary radiotherapy (RT) with or without chemotherapy for nonmetastatic NPC. At a median follow-up of 3.1 years, 319 patients had developed local failure as the first failure, with or without synchronous regional/distant failure. OS was calculated from the start of primary RT. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify prognostic factors for OS in patients with isolated local failure. RESULTS The T classification distribution of the local failure (rT classification) was as follows: 68 (21%) rT1 to T2a, 92 (29%) rT2b, 82 (26%) rT3, and 77 (24%) rT4. The rT classification was the same as the initial T classification in 82% of patients. Two hundred seventy-five patients (86%) had isolated local failure, and 232 (84%) of them did not have any distant metastasis or regional failure develop during follow-up. Salvage treatment was given to 200 patients (73%) with isolated local failure. One hundred fifty-nine patients (80%) received reirradiation (108 external beam RT [EBRT], 44 brachytherapy, and seven EBRT plus brachytherapy), 22 patients (11%) underwent nasopharyngectomy with or without postoperative RT, and 19 patients (9%) were treated with chemotherapy alone. Four patients died of RT complications, and one died of chemotherapy toxicity in the absence of active NPC. The 3-year actuarial OS for patients with isolated local failure was 74%. On multivariate analysis, advanced initial T classification (hazard ratio [HR], 1.44; p = .0006) and the use of salvage treatment (HR, 0.54; p = .0038) were independent prognostic factors. For the subgroups of patients who had the same recurrent and initial T classification, salvage treatment was associated with improved OS only in the subgroup with T1 to T2 local failure (n = 127; p = 0.0446), but not in the subgroups with T3 (n = 48) or T4 (n = 54) disease. CONCLUSIONS Most patients with first local failure have localized disease. Salvage treatment is feasible in most of the patients with clinically isolated local failure. Patients who had early initial T classification have a more favorable prognosis. Subgroup analysis suggests that salvage treatment only prolongs survival in patients with T1 to T2 recurrent disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwok Hung Yu
- Department of Clinical Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong
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Wong FCS, Pang CP, Tang SK, Tung SY, Leung TW, Sze WK, Cheung KB. Treatment results of endometrial carcinoma with positive peritoneal washing, adnexal involvement and serosal involvement. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2004; 16:350-5. [PMID: 15341439 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2004.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To review the treatment results of patients with endometrial carcinoma having positive peritoneal washing (PPW), adnexal involvement, uterine serosal involvement, or all three. MATERIALS AND METHODS The treatment records of patients who had undergone primary surgery for endometrial cancer without distant metastasis during 1990--2001 at the Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong, were reviewed. Thirty-five patients were found to have involvement of positive PPW, adnexal involvement, uterine serosal involvement, or all three. Seven (20%) of them had gross or microscopic lymph-node metastasis. Thirty-three (94.3%) patients received adjuvant radiotherapy (28 whole-pelvic irradiation [WPI]; five abdominal radiotherapy [WART]). Two patients with solitary ovarian metastasis received chemotherapy, and one with isolated PPW also received adjuvant hormonal therapy. The median follow-up was 50.4 months (range 2.4-151.2 months). Multivariate analysis was carried out using the Cox regression proportional hazards model. RESULTS Among the 28 patients with clinical or pathological node-negative disease (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics [FIGO] stage IIIA), only two patients with solitary ovarian metastases developed recurrence. The 5-year actuarial disease-free survival (DFS) rates for the whole group and patients without lymph-node involvement were 77.9% and 91.7%, respectively. Five out of the seven patients with lymph-node involvement developed recurrences. Univariate analysis showed that lymph-node involvement (P < 0.0001) and high-grade disease (P = 0.011) were the significant poor prognostic factors. Multivariate analysis showed that lymph-node involvement was the only significant poor prognostic factor to predict poor 5-year DFS (P = 0.0001). Only one patient (3.7%) who had received WART developed grade 4 toxicity. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that good treatment results could be obtained from patients with stage IIIA endometrial carcinoma without clinical or pathological lymph-node involvement after adjuvant radiotherapy, with acceptable late side-effects. The relative prognostic importance of individual IIIA involvement and the optimal adjuvant treatment remain to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- F C S Wong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong (Special Administrative Region), People's Republic of China.
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20
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Wong CS, Luk SH, Leung TW, Yuen KK, Sze WK, Tung SY. Sphenoid sinus mucocoele and cranial nerve palsies in a patient with a history of nasopharyngeal carcinoma: may mimic local recurrence. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2002; 13:353-5. [PMID: 11716228 DOI: 10.1053/clon.2001.9288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
We report the case history of a patient with a sphenoid sinus mucocoele detected by computed tomography and medical resonance imaging. The patient had a history of nasopharyngeal carcinoma, which was treated by radiotherapy more than 10 years previously. He presented with bilateral twelfth and sixth cranial nerve palsies. Local tumour recurrence was suspected. Further investigations showed that the cranial nerve palsies were caused by radiation damage and the sphenoid sinus mucocoele was an incidental finding. Sphenoid sinus mucocoele is a possible rare late complication of radiotherapy in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- C S Wong
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong
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Abstract
PURPOSE To study the treatment outcome in patients with locally recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and to explore whether a combination of high-dose-rate (HDR) intracavitary brachytherapy and external beam radiation therapy (ERT) could improve the therapeutic ratio. METHODS AND MATERIALS Ninety-one patients with nonmetastatic locally recurrent NPC who were treated with curative intent during the years 1990-1999 were retrospectively analyzed. Eighty-two patients had histologically proven carcinoma. The remaining 9 had clinical and imaging features suggestive of local recurrence. The Ho's T-stage distribution at recurrence (rT) was as follows: rT1-37, rT2-14, rT3-40. Total equivalent dose (TED) was calculated by the linear-quadratic formula without a time factor correction. For those treated by combined-modality treatment (CMT), the TED was taken as the summation of the equivalent dose by ERT and the absolute dose delivered to floor of the sphenoid by brachytherapy. Eight patients were treated solely with brachytherapy, all receiving 24-45 Gy in 3-10 sessions. Forty-one patients were treated with ERT alone receiving a median TED of 57.3 Gy (range, 49.8-62.5 Gy). Forty-two patients were treated by CMT with a median equivalent dose of 50 Gy (range, 40-60 Gy) given by ERT and 14.8 Gy by brachytherapy (range, 3-29.6 Gy). Multivariate analyses were performed using the Cox regression proportional hazards model. RESULTS The 5-year actuarial overall survival rate, disease specific survival rate and local failure-free survival (LFFS) rate for the whole group were 30%, 33. 3% and 37.8%, respectively. The 3-year LFFS rates of rT1, rT2, and rT3 diseases were 64%, 61.5%, and 18.4%, respectively (p = 0.001). Of the 8 patients treated with brachytherapy alone, 4 failed locally. Further analyses were concentrated on the ERT (41 patients) and CMT (42 patients) groups. The 3-year LFFS rates of rT1, rT2, and rT3 diseases were 66.7%, 66.7%, and 18.4%, respectively (p = 0.0008). Better local control for patients who received a TED of 60 Gy or greater was shown. The corresponding 3-year LFFS rates were 29% and 60% (p = 0.0004). Subgroup analysis on the ERT and CMT groups showed a 3-year LFFS rate of 33.5% and 57% (p = 0.003). ERT group had an excess of patients with rT3 disease. Further analysis was performed on the rT1-2 patients showing a trend toward improvement in local control in favor of the CMT group (3-year LFFS rates: CMT, 71.7%; ERT, 54%; p = 0.13). Multivariate analyses showed that rT stage (p = 0.002) and TED (p = 0.01; HR, 0.93; 95% confidence interval, 0.88-0. 98) remained significant. The 5-year major and central nervous system (CNS) complication-free rates were 26.7% and 47.8%. The following factors were found to be significant on univariate analyses for both complications in the ERT and CMT groups: (1) Modality of treatment: more complications with ERT group; and (2) rT stage. Multivariate analyses showed that the rT stage was significant for predicting the occurrence of major (p = 0.004) and CNS complications (p = 0.04). CONCLUSION For rT1-2 local recurrences, CMT with at least 60 Gy TED is recommended. The high incidence of major late complications is of serious concern. Ways of improving the local control of Ho's rT3 disease and reducing the risk of late complications should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- T W Leung
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
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Abstract
PURPOSE Locally persistent nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) carries an increased risk of local failure if additional treatment is not given. This study was conducted to evaluate the outcomes of patients with locally persistent NPC as treated by high-dose-rate (HDR) intracavitary brachytherapy, and to explore whether routine brachytherapy boost could improve the local control. METHODS AND MATERIALS Eighty-seven patients with locally persistent NPC treated during 1990-1998 with HDR intracavitary brachytherapy were retrospectively analyzed. Fibreoptic nasopharyngoscopy was performed 3-6 weeks after completion of the primary external radiation therapy (ERT). Biopsies were only taken from suspicious areas. Those with complete regression of local disease were put on observation. Eighty-seven patients were shown to have persistent viable disease at a median time of 6 weeks post-RT. The distribution according to Ho's staging system at initial diagnosis was as follows: Stage I-8, II-33, III-41, IV-5; T1-19, T2-48, T3-20; N0-32, N1-22, N2-28, N3-5. CT scan for restaging was not performed after the documentation of persistent disease. Our policy was to treat all patients with persistent disease with brachytherapy irrespective of the extent of disease just prior to brachytherapy. They were treated with HDR intracavitary brachytherapy, with either cobalt sources or an iridium source, giving 22.5-24 Gy in 3 weekly sessions in all but 4 patients. This dose was prescribed at a distance of 1.5 cm from the center of the surface as defined by the sources in the first six patients and subsequently reduced to 1 cm for the others. Twelve patients were treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy. To compare the efficacy of brachytherapy, another 383 consecutive nonmetastatic patients, treated with curative intent by ERT, during the years 1990-1993, were evaluated. Multivariate analysis was performed using the Cox regression proportional hazards model. RESULTS The 5-year actuarial local failure-free survival (LFFS) rates and disease-specific survival rates for the brachytherapy group and ERT group were 85% and 76.6% (p = 0.15), and 72% and 67.8% (p = 0.2), respectively. The corresponding 5-year actuarial LFFS rates for T1, T2, and T3 disease were 94.7%, 88.2%, 67.4%, and 84.1%, 79.8%, 62.6%. In assessing the local control, only the T staging was significant on multivariate analysis (p = 0.0004). Other parameters such as age, sex, and persistence of disease (giving brachytherapy) were all nonsignificant. Complications were comparable between the two groups. In the persistent group, the local failure rates of the patients treated with and without neoadjuvant chemotherapy were 17% (2/12) and 13% (10/75) respectively. When analyzed according to different brachytherapy sources, the 5-year LFFS rates of the T1, T2, and T3 patients treated with iridium and cobalt sources were 100% vs. 85.7 (p = 0.19), 93.6% vs. 70% (p = 0.04), and 67.7% vs. 60% (p = 0.72). The difference was statistically significant for the T2 groups. When early T-stage (T1 and T2) patients were grouped together for analysis, the iridium group again showed a statistically significant improvement in 5-year LFFS rate when it was compared with the cobalt group (95.3% vs. 76.5%, p = 0.03) and the ERT alone group (95.3% vs. 81.5%, p = 0.03). The improvement of local control is attributed to a higher nasopharyngeal mucosal dose that is achieved by using small-size flexible applicators with an iridium source. It is interesting to note that the 5-year LFFS rates for the ERT alone group (T1: 84.1%, T2: 79.8%, T3: 62.6%) are comparable to the corresponding rates of the cobalt group. This information supports our speculation that an adequate booster treatment could compensate for inadequate primary treatment. The prognosis of patients with locally recurrent NPC is grave. Maximizing the local control is therefore crucial for the survival of the patients. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED)
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Affiliation(s)
- T W Leung
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
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Abstract
We report the results of treatment in a 26-year old patient with stage IB2 small cell carcinoma of the cervix complicated by pregnancy. A pathological complete remission was achieved following sandwich chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The patient remains in clinical remission 14 months after presentation.
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Leung TW, Wong VY, Wong CM, Tung SY, Tsang A, Lowes M, Au MY, Chan CS, Sze WK, Leung LC, O SK. Technical hints for high dose rate interstitial tongue brachytherapy. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 1998; 10:231-6. [PMID: 9764374 DOI: 10.1016/s0936-6555(98)80006-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
High dose rate (HDR) interstitial tongue brachytherapy is a new treatment modality. This study describes important technical details required for its successful use. Thirteen patients with carcinoma of the oral tongue were treated solely with interstitial brachytherapy using HDR remote afterloading techniques during the years 1994-1997. The afterloading catheters were positioned by the submandibular approach with the assistance of a template set. Custom-made mandibular lead shields were inserted prior to treatment. Special reusable Tuen Mun Hospital (TMH) lead buttons were made for improved radiation protection. The median dose given was 55 Gy in ten fractions over 6 days. The interfraction interval was 7 hours for the first seven patients treated and was extended to 8 hours for the other six. Shrinking field techniques were employed and the treatment length of the last fraction was reduced by 5 mm. Commencing with the second patient treated with double planar implants, the medial plane was treated with eight fractions while the lateral plane received ten fractions. To reduce further the potential risk of tract seeding, additional coverage to the implantation tracts was given for the last four patients, with the resultant isodose curves resembling a 'comb rake/brush'. The mean and median measured doses on the inner face of the mandibular shields were 113% and 93% of the reference dose respectively (range 77-247). The dose to the corresponding sites on the gingival surface can be reduced by 75% if the 3 mm thick lead shield is placed successfully. With the use of the TMH button, the transmitted dose to the tissue in direct contact can be reduced by one-third. With the 'comb rake/brush' dose distribution, the high dose volume of the single planar implants could be reduced by 44%, compared with the low dose rate technique, if loading to just 5 mm short of the submandibular skin was required. The mean doses for the combination of eight double planar plus two single planar implants, and ten double planar implants, are on average 29% and 37% greater than the reference dose respectively. An 8% reduction in absolute dose in the region between the planes of the catheters would lead to an even greater magnitude of reduction in morbidity to late responding tissue. The prerequisite for the success of HDR interstitial implants is to develop a good technique in positioning the afterloading catheters and protection of the normal tissue. Its importance merits special attention if HDR remote afterloading interstitial tongue brachytherapy is to realize its full potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- T W Leung
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tsing, Hong Kong
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Abstract
We report the results of treating a patient with stage IIBE primary large B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the prostate. Complete remission was achieved following aggressive chemotherapy and consolidation radiotherapy. The patient remains in clinical remission 2 years after presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- T W Leung
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Tuen Mun Hospital, New Territories, Hong Kong
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Leung TW, Wong VY, Tung SY, Lui CM, Tsang WW, Sze WK, O SK. The importance of three-dimensional brachytherapy treatment planning for nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 1997; 9:35-40. [PMID: 9039812 DOI: 10.1016/s0936-6555(97)80058-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
High dose rate (HDR) intracavitary brachytherapy is now more frequently incorporated into treatment programmes for patients with persistent and recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). However, many centres still employ two-dimensional (2-D) image reconstruction for applicators with a three-dimensional (3-D) orientation. In this study, we introduced the use of a mobile modified Nucletron reconstruction box inside the brachytherapy suite for image reconstruction and quality assurance. Three-dimensional reconstruction of the applicators' configurations proved possible and the dose distributions generated by the 2-D and 3-D image reconstructions could be compared. Thirty-one applications were included in this part of the analysis. The results showed that, based on the 2-D planning method, the reference doses were under-prescribed by 1%-10% in all except one patient, whose dose was over-prescribed by 3%. The evaluated doses to the floor of the sphenoid, which was shown to be significant for subsequent local control, was shown to be underestimated by up to 19% or overestimated by 18%, with an average of 5.9% dose underestimation. With this system, the reliability of the anchoring techniques was verified by posttherapy radiographs. Any catheter displacement of more than 1 mm was counted as a failure. Nine of the 43 verified applications were classified as failures, although six of nine catheter displacements measured < or = 2.5 mm. We recommend the routine use of a modified reconstruction box for 3-D image reconstruction for dose calculation and prescription in the treatment of NPC with HDR intracavitary brachytherapy. Quality assurance programmes should be included as an integral part of any HDR treatment; their importance cannot be overemphasized.
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Leung TW, Tung SY, Wong VY, Lui CM, Sze WK, Cheung KL, Lau WH, O SK. High dose rate intracavitary brachytherapy in the treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Acta Oncol 1996; 35:43-7. [PMID: 8619939 DOI: 10.3109/02841869609098478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
A retrospective study on 61 patients, with local persistent or recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), treated during 1990-1992 with high dose rate intracavitary brachytherapy alone or combined with external irradiation, is presented. All 39 patients with persistent disease were treated solely with brachytherapy. The actuarial 3-year local failure-free survival (LFFS) rates of the persistent and recurrent groups were 82% and 45% respectively. The corresponding disease specific survival rates were 82% and 62%. Fifteen patients with recurrence received the combined modality treatment and their 3-year LFFS rate was 65%. Three out of 7 patients treated by brachytherapy could be controlled locally. The total dose given to the floor of sphenoid was an important predictor of local control. Of the 23 patients with persistent disease treated with < 17.5 Gy to this area, 6 failed locally as opposed to none of the 16 patients receiving a higher dose (p = 0.031). For those with recurrence treated by the combined modality, none of the 7 patients given >/= 57.5 Gy recurred while 5 local failures were observed among those receiving a smaller dose (p = 0.041). The general implications of these results for the treatment of NPC recurrence are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- T W Leung
- Insititute of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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Ng K, Sze WK. Quark-hadron phase transition of the early Universe in the nontopological soliton model. Phys Rev D Part Fields 1991; 43:3813-3820. [PMID: 10013347 DOI: 10.1103/physrevd.43.3813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
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Ergun DL, Mistretta CA, Brown DE, Bystrianyk RT, Sze WK, Kelcz F, Naidich DP. Single-exposure dual-energy computed radiography: improved detection and processing. Radiology 1990; 174:243-9. [PMID: 2294555 DOI: 10.1148/radiology.174.1.2294555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Recent reports have emphasized the potential for dual-energy computed radiographic applications. An improved method for single-exposure material-selective imaging with a photostimulable phosphor computed radiography system was investigated. The essential elements of the technique are (a) prefiltration with gadolinium, which divides the incident broad-beam x-ray spectrum into low-energy and high-energy peaks; (b) a cassette consisting of four photostimulable phosphor plates that record images of increasing mean energies, with a computed energy separation of 23 keV from the front to the rear plate; (c) spatially dependent scatter and beam-hardening corrections; and (d) a noise-reduction algorithm based on noise correlations between bone-selective and soft-tissue-selective dual-energy images. These elements result in improved material cancellation and signal-to-noise ratio throughout the image.
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Affiliation(s)
- D L Ergun
- Philips Medical Systems North America, Shelton, CT 06484
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Kim CW, Kim J, Sze WK. Geometrical representation of neutrino oscillations in vacuum and matter. Phys Rev D Part Fields 1988; 37:1072-1075. [PMID: 9958778 DOI: 10.1103/physrevd.37.1072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
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Bottino A, Kim CW, Nishiura H, Sze WK. Phenomenological analysis of an SO(10) model for lepton-mixing angles and Majorana neutrino masses. Phys Rev D Part Fields 1986; 34:862-867. [PMID: 9957218 DOI: 10.1103/physrevd.34.862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
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