bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geographic variations in corporate sponsorship for cancer center charity events.
Authors: Shilling Mark W. , Hashemi-Sadraei Neda , Shah Satyan K.
Published: June 2024

e23116

Background: Most cancer centers rely on fundraising to support their clinical mission. However, the type and mission of companies sponsoring such events is not well known. Our goal was to determine if the source of philanthropy varies in different regions of the USA. Methods: Institutional websites and search engines were used to identify one signature fundraising event per NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. An event website and occurrence between January 2021 and January 2025 was required for inclusion. Principal corporate donors were inferred based on level of sponsorship (i.e., presenting, gold, etc.) or order of prominence. These were collapsed into 5 categories based on the Global Industry Classification Standard: 1) Consumer 2) Financial-Real Estate 3) Healthcare 4) IT-Communications, and 5) Materials-Industrial-Energy-Utilities. Chi-square analysis was used to compare sponsorship across 4 regions of the USA and Fischer’s exact test was used to make post-hoc exploratory analyses. All non-major corporate sponsors were excluded. Results: A total 493 corporate sponsorships were identified for 38 events that met inclusion criteria. Specifically, these were run/cycle/walks in 16 (42%), dinner galas in 15 (40%), concerts in 2 (5%) and other in 3 (8%). Most commonly, sponsors came from the Consumer (27%) and Healthcare (23%) industries. The relative number of companies in each category varied significantly among different regions (p < 0.001). Post-hoc testing revealed the health industry favored the northeast region compared to other regions for sponsorship (p = 0.0025). Conclusions: Charity events are philanthropically supported by different corporate sectors in different regions of the United States. This information can help cancer centers become more efficient at fundraising. [Table: see text]
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on timely treatment among patients with breast, lung, and colorectal cancer.
Authors: Patel Tej A. , Orav E. John , Phelan Jessica , Tsai Thomas C. , Lam Miranda B.
Published: June 2024

e23147

Background: COVID-19 has significantly disrupted cancer care delivery, with potential implications on patient outcomes and disease management. While prior studies have observed declines in cancer screenings and cancer-related encounters following COVID-19, less is known about broader treatment outcomes for patients with cancer. Moreover, examining nationwide trends in care delivery allows health systems and providers to identify barriers to high-value care and improve existing practices. Consequently, we use nationally representative data to assess the impact of COVID-19 on the timeliness of care for breast, lung, and colorectal cancer – three leading causes of cancer death in the United States. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of adults in the National Cancer Database who were diagnosed with primary breast, lung, and colorectal cancer between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2021. The primary goal was to determine differences in time to treatment initiation (TTI), defined as the number of days between initial diagnosis and the date of first surgery, radiation, or systemic treatment. Patients who did not yet receive treatment or died during the analytic period were censored. Cox proportional hazards regression models, adjusting for sociodemographic and clinical variables, generated hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% CIs to assess the impact of a pre-COVID (2017-2019) or COVID (2020-2021) cancer diagnosis on TTI. Results: Of 1,635,644 patients with cancer that met inclusion criteria, 999,498 (61.1%) were diagnosed in the pre-COVID period and 636,084 (38.9%) were diagnosed in the COVID period. There was a decrease of 38,380 new cancer cases between 2019 and 2020. The median TTI for the pre-COVID cohort was 35 (IQR: 22-52) days while the median TTI for the COVID cohort was 36 (IQR: 24-55) days. Upon adjusting for covariates, however, TTI for the COVID cohort was shorter than that of the pre-COVID cohort (HR: 1.01, 95% CI [1.01-1.02], p < 0.001). Subgroup analyses by cancer type showed similar, shorter TTI for patients with breast cancer (HR: 1.02, 95% CI [1.01-1.02], p < 0.001). Based on significant interaction terms, we found shorter TTI during COVID for patients of Black (HR: 1.02, 95% CI [1.01-1.03], p < 0.01) and Asian (HR: 1.06, 95% CI [1.03-1.09], p < 0.001) race, as well as Hispanic ethnicity (HR: 1.03, 95% CI [1.01-1.05], p < 0.001). White patients did not have significant changes in TTI during COVID (HR: 1.00, 95% CI [0.99-1.01], p > 0.05).These results persisted in sensitivity analyses by treatment type. Conclusions: There was a decrease in the number of new diagnoses of breast, lung, and colorectal cancer during COVID compared to pre-COVID. Among those with new diagnoses, the COVID-19 pandemic was not associated with delays to necessary care or stark disparities among patients diagnosed with three common cancers, showcasing the resilience of oncology care during the public health emergency.
Claims and cost responsibility trends for high-deductible insurance plan participants with breast and prostate cancer in the New Hampshire Limited Use Commercial Health Care Claims data.
Authors: Dookeran Keith A. , Brunk-Grady Mark E.
Published: June 2024

e23148

Background: High-deductible health plans (HDHPs) are popular in the US due to their potential to curb rising healthcare costs and involve higher out-of-pocket costs for consumers which are associated with lower utilization of health services. Data on longitudinal trends for claims and cost responsibility for adult HDHP participants with cancer is scarce, which was the motivation for our study. Methods: We used multivariable Poisson regression models with the Huber/White/Sandwich linearized estimator of variance and predictive margins [reported as counts with 95% confidence intervals (CI)] to examine the effect of HDHP status on select stratified estimates of (a) the average number of claims per enrollee (claims), and (b) the average total participant responsibility per enrollee visit (cost in $; i.e., the sum of in-network and out-of-network values), for adult (age > / = 18 years) participants in the New Hampshire Limited Use Commercial Health Care Claims data, with breast and prostate cancer (BC/PC) diagnoses for the 10-year period 2010-19. Final models were fully adjusted for other plan types, year, age, and quintile of ecologic income, and our final dataset consisted of 945,281 claim records. Results: Overall, BC and PC HDHP participants had significantly fewer claims over the 10-year period [average counts: (BC: -242.2; -244.6, -239.8); (PC: -445.3; -450.3, -440.4)]. In addition, BC and PC HDHP participants had significantly lower participant responsibility over the 10-year period [average $: (BC: -85.4; -87.5, -83.2); (PC: -104.9; -115.5, -94.2)]. Overall trends for claims across the entire time period for HDHP vs. non-HDHP BC/PC participants were consistently lower, and flat trends were observed for BC from 2014-19 and for PC from 2012-19; however, there was steady increase in claims for both BC/PC non-HDHP participants across the same late periods. The trend for participant responsibility for BC HDHP participants was also lower compared with non-HDHP for all years except 2014; and after 2014 increases were seen for both BC HDHP and non-HDHP participants with the latter showing the steepest increases. The trend for participant responsibility for PC HDHP participants was lower compared with non-HDHP between 2010-17; but this relationship inverted for 2018-19 with HDHP participants showing the highest participant responsibility levels. Conclusions: Our findings show discordance in claims trends for HDHP vs. non-HDHP participants with BC/PC; durable trends of reduced claims are observed for HDHP participants, but for non-HDHP participants claim trends show steady increases in later periods.
Financial toxicity (FT), quality of life (QoL), and medication adherence patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in CLL on first-line (1L) oral oncolytics.
Authors: Carroll Keegan , Gurfinkel Dennis , Tietbohl Caroline , Dorsey Holliman Brooke , Krongold Joseph , Hlubocky Fay J. , Daugherty Christopher K , Major Ajay
Published: June 2024

e23157

Background: While oral oncolytics have transformed CLL treatment, high costs may cause significant FT adversely impacting patients beyond direct out-of-pocket (OOP) costs. The association of FT with QoL and medication adherence has not been characterized with oral oncolytics in CLL. Methods: Electronic PRO surveys were longitudinally administered to patients initiating any 1L oral oncolytic therapy for CLL within the last 6 months at two academic centers. PROs included FACIT-COST (significant FT: score < 26), FACT-LEU QoL, MARS-5 (suboptimal adherence: score < 25) and PROMIS PMAS to assess medication adherence. PROs were administered at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months after enrollment. Pearson’s correlation ( r) was calculated between PRO domains. Semi-structured, qualitative interviews were conducted after 3-month timepoints and analyzed. Results: 34 patients were enrolled: median age 65 yrs (range 33-80), 59% male, 6% Black, 9% Hispanic. Majority received BTK inhibitors (56%, acalabrutinib/zanubrutinib) followed by venetoclax (44%); 50% received concurrent obinutuzumab. Most had private insurance (50%) followed by Medicare (44%). Median time from 1L initiation to study enrollment: 1.5 months. PRO completion rates: 100% (baseline), 85% (3 mo) and 74% (6 mo). Summarized PRO and interview outcomes are displayed below. Conclusions: Patients with CLL on 1L oral oncolytics experienced worsening FT associated with poor medication adherence and worse QoL over time. PROs were discordant with qualitative interviews and suggested that FT may be driven by factors other than OOP costs. Although funding and patient assistance programs were beneficial, uncertainty over losing funding may be a long-term driver of FT and merits further study. [Table: see text]
Effects of nursing intervention based on gratitude extension-construction theory on gratitude level, recurrence fear and post-traumatic growth of patients with breast cancer after surgery.
Authors: Xie Xiuyuan , Xu Haiping , Fei Yujie , Liu Fenghe
Published: June 2024

e23162

Background: To explore the effects of nursing intervention based on gratitude extension-construction theory on gratitude level, recurrence fear and post-traumatic growth of patients after breast cancer surgery. Methods: 104 patients with breast cancer treated in a large general hospital from August 2023 to January 2024 were selected as the study objects, and randomly divided into control group and intervention group with 52 cases in each group. The control group received routine nursing intervention, and the intervention group was treated with nursing intervention based on gratitude extension and construction theory on the basis of routine nursing intervention. The intervention plan included organizing patients to give motivational lectures before discharge, watching gratitude videos, and teaching patients to carry out positive memory, gratitude meditation and gratitude expression every day through bedside talk. After discharge, patients were instructed to conduct interest cultivation, gratitude expression, gratitude visit, gratitude diary and gratitude sharing through phone or wechat follow-up. After 12 weeks, the results were evaluated by general information questionnaire, gratitude level questionnaire, Cancer Recurrence Fear Scale, and post-traumatic Growth Rating Scale. Results: After intervention, the gratitude level of the intervention group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P < 0.001), the total score and all dimension scores of fear of cancer recurrence were significantly lower than those of control group (P < 0.05), post-traumatic growth score and all dimensions were higher than those of control group (P < 0.001). Conclusions: This study established a set of scientific, practical and effective intervention program suitable for patients with breast cancer after surgery to improve the level of gratitude, alleviate the fear of cancer recurrence, and promote post-traumatic growth, and verified that the intervention program can effectively improve the level of gratitude of patients, especially in the aspect of gratitude around people and matters. It can also alleviate the fear of cancer recurrence, overall worry, health worry, female worry, role worry, death worry, etc. Post-traumatic growth has been significantly improved, especially in terms of personal strength and interpersonal relationship improvement. Under the general trend that breast cancer has become the largest cancer in the world, it is one of the effective ways to improve the psychological state of breast cancer patients, and it is worth promoting in breast cancer patients.
Radiation dose esclation with contact X-ray brachytherapy (Papillon) and quality of life in patients with rectal cancer: Results from the phase 3 randomised trial OPERA.
Authors: Sun Myint Arthur , Than Nguwah , Pacé-Loscos Tanguy , Schiappa Renaud , Ai-Haq Muneeb , Sripadam Rajaram , Rao Christopher , Stead Sarah , Pritchard D. Mark , Gerard Jean Pierre ,   ICONE
Published: June 2024

e23180

Background: Organ preservation has been increasingly offered to patients with rectal cancer as most patients wish to avoid extirpative surgery and a stoma if they have a choice. The standard of care is to offer external beam chemo radiotherapy (EBCRT) to those who are fit. OPERA (Organ Preservation in Early Rectal Adenocarcinoma) has shown improved organ preservation rate with addition of contact X-ray brachytherapy(CXB-Arm B) compared to EBCRT with EBRT boost. We evaluate whether addition od CXB boost compromise the patients Quality of Life (QOL) compared to EBRT boost and if so by how much. We report our results at 38.2 months follow up. Methods: From June 2015 to June 2020, there were 148 patients randomised of which 141 were evaluable. We used EORCT QLQ -C30, QLQ -CR29 and modified LARS score at FU visits every 3 months during FU visit 1(8 weeks)-9 (32 weeks). Results: At screening (baseline) we enrolled 126 patients (Arm A: 59, Arm B: 66). At FU -1 we received questionnaire back from 78 patients (Arm A: 35, Arm B: 43). At FU-5 there were 55 patients (Arm A:18, Arm B: 37). Finally, at FU 8 there were 43 patients (Arm A: Arm B xx). Using EORTC QOL-C30 and QOL CR-29, global QOL score for Arm A was 77.6 vs Arm B 72.22 (p = 0.14). Mean functional scale (1-5) for Arm A was 95.2 vs Arm B 92.1 (p = 0.09). Role functioning scale (6-7) for Arm A was 91.2 vs Arm B 93.18 (p = 0.57). Emotional functioning (21-24) for Arm A was 77.5 vs Arm B 73.99 (p = 0.33). Cognitive functioning (20-25) for Arm A 87.85 vs Arm B 91.92(p = 0.17). Social functioning (26-27) for Arm A 95.2 vs Arm B 92.93 (p = 0.31). Conclusions: In our analysis so far, we do not detect significant difference in QOL between Arm A and Arm B. Consider Contact x-ray brachytherapy first in patients with rectal cancer < 3cm (Arm B1) which has shown higher organ preservation rate without effecting their QOL compare to EBCRT (Arm A1). Clinical trial information: NCT02505750 .
Treatment outcomes and prognostic factors of bowel function recovery after hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy and cytoreductive surgery for metastatic cancers of the abdomen and pelvis.
Authors: Naz Sidra , Dai Jianliang , Jeong-Ah Lee Irene , Sayed Ahmed F. , Helmink Beth A. , Shafi Mehnaz
Published: June 2024

e23225

Background: Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is combined with cytoreductive surgery (CRS) to treat metastatic tumors of the abdomen and pelvis. The risk factors of GI dysmotility after HIPEC and CRS are not well known. Methods: We performed a single-center, retrospective chart review including all patients who had undergone HIPEC and CRS for metastatic cancer of the abdomen and pelvis from 2016-2023 to assess the prognostic factors of bowel function after HIPEC and CRS treatment. Patients were classified into high or low peritoneal cancer burden by a peritoneal cancer index (PCI) score. Statistics: Categorical variables were summarized by count and percentage and continuous variables. Comparisons of categorical and continuous covariables were conducted using Fisher’s exact test and the Wilcoxon rank sum test. Results: 195 patients met the study criteria. Duration of bowel recovery time in the High PCI was significantly higher than in the Low PCI group (median 11.5 days vs 9 days, p = 0.027). Persistent bowel dysfunction at day 30 was (7.47 x) associated with malnutrition (p = 0.001) and (6.95 x) a venting G Tube (p = 0.032) and history of radiation (p = 0.019) and Pre-OP Opioid Use (p = 0.01). Metoclopramide, Erythromycin and Mu Antagonists were used in 32%, 4.7% and 1.2% respectively of patients with bowel dysfunction. Conclusions: Patients with a high PCI score had a statistically significant longer duration of bowel dysfunction. Malnutrition and a history of radiation were statistically higher in patients with prolonged bowel dysfunction. Use of prokinetics and mu receptor antagonists was uncommon. [Table: see text]
Cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between PG-SGA criteria with survival of cancer patients.
Authors: Min Yu , Dai Tingting , Li Xuemei , Cai Lei , Zhou Jitao , Peng Xingchen
Published: June 2024

e23277

Background: Malnutrition is prevalent in cancer patients and is associated with treatment efficacy and clinical outcomes. Whether the available malnutrition assessment tools contain optimal survival prediction value for cancer patients, especially from developing countries, remains unclear. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, cancer patients were selected from our center between Nov 2019 and Sep 2023. According to the PG-SGA criteria, PG-SGA scores < 4 referred to well-nourished, ≥ 4 PG-SGA scores < 9 referred to malnutrition, and ≥ 9 referred to severe malnutrition. Kaplan-Meier (KM) curves were used to estimate the survival patterns of cancer patients with varied levels of PG-SGA scores. The Cox proportional hazard model was used to evaluate the association between baseline and longitudinal changes of PG-SGA scores with the all-cause mortality of cancer patients. Subgroup analysis with interaction tests was used to determine the high-risk subgroups. A series of sensitive analyses were performed to validate the findings we determined. Results: There were 1,415 cancer patients included in our study, with a mean age of 46 years old. The mean PG-SGA score was 2.42 in non-malnourished patients, 10.10 in malnourished patients, and 12.65 in severely malnourished patients, respectively. The KM curves showed that cancer patients with severe malnourished status (PG-SGA ≥9) presented the lowest short- and long-term survival probability, compared with the other two subgroups. A linear trend was observed between the PG-SGA scores and cancer mortality (p for overall test < 0.001). The Cox regression analysis showed that baseline malnourished status was significantly associated with the survival of cancer patients [≥4 PG-SGA < 9: hazard ratio (HR): 1.46, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.09 – 1.96, p = 0.012; PG-SGA ≥9: HR = 1.78, 95%CI: 1.34 – 2.37, p < 0.001]. Cancer patients with longitudinal increased PG-SGA scores ( > 2 points) were observed to have a high risk for mortality (HR = 1.69, 95%CI: 1.04 – 2.74, p = 0.033). Compared with longitudinal changes in PG-SGA scores, the baseline PG-SGA scores showed significantly higher predictive power in identifying the risk subgroup (concordance index: 0.646 vs. 0.586, p < 0.001). PG-SGA scores showed more pronounced predicting value among subgroups with features of younger age, normal and underweight body mass index, late cancer stage, without history of diabetes, smoking, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. A series of sensitive analyses determined consistent correlations. . Conclusions: Our study validates the clinical value of baseline, as well as longitudinal changes of PG-SGA, scored status for predicting the survival of cancer patients. Our findings provide new insights into the identification and prevention strategies for malnourished conditions in cancer patients, resulting in improved cancer-related nursing in resource-limited regions.
Tolerability, dose intensity, and prescribing patterns of capecitabine by race.
Authors: Dower Joshua , Salei Yana , Koethe Benjamin , Julian Alex , Schwartz Jake , Dumas Brett , Elkon Jacob Matt , Buchsbaum Rachel J. , Schlam Ilana
Published: June 2024

e23278

Background: Capecitabine (cap) is approved for the treatment of breast and colorectal cancer and is used off-label to treat other solid malignancies. Approved dosing varies by indication and concurrent therapies, and the initial dose of cap may be modified empirically based on different patient characteristics. Race/ethnicity have been used by some providers as factors in prescribing patterns. However, the tolerability of cap among patients of different racial/ethnic backgrounds is unknown. Here, we present an updated analysis outlining the tolerability of cap among patients of different racial/ethnic groups. Methods: We performed a retrospective, multicenter study that included patients treated with cap monotherapy, concurrent with other chemotherapy, or concurrent with radiation at three sites in Massachusetts between 2017-2021. Patients were excluded if race/ethnicity data were not available. Data on cap dose, required dose reductions/treatment discontinuation, and adverse events (AE) were collected. Dose Intensity (DI) was calculated (Total administered cap dose during the treatment period (mg)/Recommended cap dose (mg/m2)*BSA (m2)). DI was compared across groups using non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis tests. The frequency of AE leading to dose reduction/discontinuation was compared across groups using chi-square tests. Results: 239 patients were included as outlined in Table 1. Median DI (IQR) for White patients was 0.95 (0.77,1.00), for Asian patients 1.00 (0.86,1.00), for Black/African American patients 0.88 (0.67,1.00), and for patients of other race 1.00 (0.79,1.00). There was no statistically significant difference across racial groups (p = 0.233). Median DI (IQR) for Hispanic/Latino patients was 0.84 (0.73,1.00) and for non-Hispanic/Latino patients 0.96 (0.77,1.00). There was no statistically significant difference between ethnicity groups (p = 0.562). The most commonly experienced AE included Hand Foot Syndrome, Fatigue, Diarrhea, and Nausea/Vomiting (Table 1). There was no statistically significant difference in AE frequency between groups. Conclusions: Our study shows no significant difference in the tolerability of cap between patients of different racial/ethnic groups, nor did we find any difference in the predominant AE. While this study is limited by the fact that it is retrospective and small, the results reinforce the importance of considering the entire clinical context when selecting a treatment dose and avoiding empiric dose reductions based on factors such as race/ethnicity. [Table: see text]
Gender disparities in incidence of psychological disorder among patients with breast cancer: A national cohort study.
Authors: Yoon Chang Ik , Kim Dooreh , Oh Jooyoung , Jeon Soyoung , Lee Hye Sun , Lee Jinah , Park Woo-Chan
Published: June 2024

e23285

Background: Male breast cancer (MBC) is rare. The features of MBC shares similar characteristics with female breast cancer, often resembling postmenopausal breast cancer. However, there are notable differences between male and female breast cancer, especially regarding gender and age, which can have distinct psychological impacts on male patients. In this study, we investigated whether the psychological distress experienced upon a diagnosis of breast cancer differs according to gender. Methods: Data were obtained from the National Health Insurance claims database of the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service in South Korea. This study focused on the three most common psychological disorders: sleep disorders, anxiety disorders, and depression. Diagnosis confirmation relied on diagnostic codes based on the International Code of Disease, 10th revision, alongside breast cancer diagnoses. Propensity score matching was used in a 1:5 ratio, and adjustment variables included age, endocrine therapy, chemotherapy, HER2-targeted treatment, and Charlson Comorbidity Index score. Results: After excluding patients with previous psychological disorder, there were a total of 75,936 patients, and 281 (0.4%) male patients. Male patients were diagnosed at an older age, had a higher prevalence of hormone receptor-positive status, higher comorbidities, and lower rates of anxiety disorders, while sleep disorders and depressive disorders showed similar incidences. The Cox proportional hazard regression model exhibited that being female was a risk factor for anxiety disorder (after matching, multivariable, HR 1.498, 95% CI 1.057-2.123, p = 0.023). However, gender did not significantly influence the development of sleep or depressive disorders, despite these conditions typically having a higher incidence in females. During the acute phase shortly after diagnosis, women tend to have more distress, as seen on the cumulative incidence curves. Conclusions: MBC patients experienced similar levels of psychological distress related to sleep and depression disorders as female patients. These results suggested that both genders require an equal support system and psychological care to maintain mental well-being after a breast cancer diagnosis.
Analyzing megestrol prescribing patterns in the Medicare cancer population in a community oncology network.
Authors: Sharma Gunjan , Feinberg Erica , Garey Jody S. , Indurlal Puneeth
Published: June 2024

e23288

Background: Megestrol Acetate (Megestrol) used for appetite stimulation in cachexic cancer patients is listed as a potentially inappropriate medication to be avoided in patients 65 years and older per the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) Beers Criteria. It is also classified as a high-risk medication for elderly people by the Pharmacy Quality Alliance. However, due to the complexity of medication prescribing in geriatric cancer patients, some medications on the Beers Criteria may be used more often. We aim to review the use, and weight gain benefits of Megestrol in elderly patients with cancer. Methods: We obtained prescription data for Megestrol for episodes with patients 65 years and older for 15 practices in The US Oncology Network (The Network) participating in the Oncology Care Model (July 2016- June 2022). We evaluated the trends and patterns of Megestrol prescribing in The Network. We compared the documented weights before the initial prescription date (Pre-weight) within an episode to the weights immediately after a 12-week period (12-week weight) as documented in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system. Results: Of 249,944 episodes, 4,957 (2%) episodes had Megestrol prescribed. Of the episodes with Megestrol, 3,464 (70%) had weight documented within the duration of a 6-month episode of care, with a mean weight of 67.3 kgs. The mean difference (0.8 kgs) between Pre-weights (mean = 67.6 kgs, std dev = 16.3 kgs, n = 2,112) and 12-week weights (mean = 66.8 kgs, std dev = 16.0 kgs, n = 2,112) was found to be significant (paired, one tail T-Test, p-value < 0.0001, significance level = 0.01). Patients who received Megestrol showed weight loss instead of weight gain in the 12-week follow-up period. Summary statistics for the two cohorts are provided in Table 1. Table 1: Summary statistics for the two patient cohorts. Conclusions: Oncology providers generally follow Beer’s criteria with limiting Megestrol use in older age patients. Megestrol use did not appear to contribute to weight gain in older age cancer patients. We aim to look at Megestrol use and thromboembolic adverse events in cancer populations in future studies. CMMI Disclaimer: The statements contained in this document are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of CMS. The authors assume responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of the information contained in this document.[Table: see text]
A single institution review of immunotherapy use, adverse events, and outcomes in early-onset cancer.
Authors: Daunov Michael , Domb Chaim , Mirsky Matthew M. , Murphy Jennifer Elizabeth , Perez Jamie Abraham , Cullen Jennifer , Daunov Kate , Lumish Melissa Amy
Published: June 2024

e23320

Background: A significant portion of cancer patients are treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) and many experience immune related adverse events (irAE) which impact treatment and outcomes. A paucity of data exists related to use of ICIs in Early Onset Cancers (EOC), their irAE, and its correlation to outcomes. Methods: A single institution database of immunotherapy use from an NCI-designated cancer center (NCI-CC) was reviewed with patients treated from 2010-2019. Two cohorts were examined: EOC (age ≤50 at diagnosis), and age > 50. Clinically significant irAEs were defined as those requiring hospitalization (≥grade 3). Pearson's Chi-squared test and Fisher's exact test were used for analysis. Significance was defined as p < 0.05. Results: A total of 1067 patients were identified, 173 were EOC. Race and ethnicity were similar between groups, the EOC group had significantly higher proportion of females, private insurance, working, single, treated at main campus, and ECOG 0. Main cancer types in EOCs were skin cancers (38.2%), lung (16.2%), and heme malignancies (11.6%); those > 50 were lung (46.6%), skin cancer (21.6%), and GU malignancies (11.2%). Stages of cancer were not statistically different nor was type or doses of ICI. EOCs were more likely to get a greater number of ICIs. IrAE requiring hospitalization were similar between groups; 20 (11.6%) in EOC vs 95 (10.6%) in > 50. There was no difference in the incidence of specific irAEs. Further stratification of EOC cohort by age group 13-30, 31-40, and 41-50 demonstrated no difference in experience of an irAE. Ipilimumab had the highest incidence of irAE in EOC; 12 (75.0%) vs 52 (33.1%), as did receiving 2+ ICIs: 11 (68.8%). The number of doses of a specific ICI was not correlated to irAE in EOC. EOC patients without an irAE were more likely to have a disease response; either stable disease, partial response, or a complete response: 21 (70.0%) vs 1 (12.5%); there was no difference in mortality. Conclusions: In a single NCI-CC review of ICI use, EOC had no difference in ≥grade 3 irAEs or in specific irAEs relative to older adults. Within EOCs, those who experienced a significant irAE were more likely to have received Ipilimumab or 2+ ICIs and were less likely to obtain a response to treatment, although mortality was not different. [Table: see text]
Mixed liposarcoma: A study of socioeconomic and demographic factors.
Authors: Loken Delaney , Tade Yanick , Moroz Mark , Tandon Nikhita , Silberstein Peter T. , Heise Craig , Hsia Beau
Published: June 2024

e23527

Background: Mixed Liposarcoma (LS) is an extremely rare subtype of LS, with characteristics often spanning 2 or more of the other LS subtypes such as myxoid, round cell, or well-differentiated LS. To date, the cytologic features of this uncommon tumor has yet to be described. Analyzing trends in diagnoses may produce valuable information about its epidemiology. The National Cancer Database (NCDB) was analyzed to uncover the demographic factors in patients diagnosed with mixed LS. Methods: A retrospective cohort study from 2004 to 2020 was conducted using the NCDB. 199 patients were found with a histologically confirmed diagnosis of mixed LS (ICD-8855-3). Race, gender, Hispanic origin, type of treatment facility, insurance coverage, and distance from patient residence to treatment facility were analyzed via descriptive statistics, and trends in incidence were interpreted using regression analysis. Results: The majority of patients were white (89%) and non-Hispanic (83%) with a relatively equal split of males (56%) and females (44%). The most common primary site of mixed LS was the retroperitoneum (72%), and the frequency of diagnosis decreased from 2004 to 2020 (R2 = 0.4568). Patients were treated at academic/research programs (45%), comprehensive community cancer programs (25%) and integrated network cancer programs (18%) that were generally located in the Middle Atlantic (19%), South Atlantic (18%), and East North Central (16%). The two primary payers at diagnosis include private insurance/managed care (45%) and Medicare (43%). Most patients were from counties in metro areas with a population of at least 1 million (57%) followed by metro counties with a population of 250,000 to 1 million (18%). The largest median household income quartile was $74,063 or more (38%), followed by $46,227 - $57,856 (22%). Most patients had a Charlson-Deyo Score of 0 (83%) with a NCDB analytic stage of either I (28%), III (26%), or not applicable (21%). Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge this NCDB analysis on mixed LS is the first of its kind and therefore addresses a significant knowledge gap. Most patients tend to be white and non-Hispanic. Mixed LS most commonly is found in the retroperitoneum, which is similar to case reports. We found that mixed LS patients have a relatively high household income, most often live in high populated metro areas, and are most frequently treated at academic/research programs. These findings are significant because these socioeconomic factors have not been noted before in literature. Further examination of these demographic and socioeconomic factors is required to understand how they impact treatment, diagnosis of, and survival of patients with mixed LS.
Correlation of ctDNA and LDH levels in patients with soft tissue sarcoma: A single-center experience.
Authors: Braat Jonathan , Zamora DIana , Ikram Waleed , Behara Murali Ranjani , Dinh Han , Azevedo Chelsea , Patel Shyamal , Wiseman Jason T. , Gonzalez Velez Miguel
Published: June 2024

e23535

Background: Our study aims to examine the relationship between the presence of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in patients diagnosed with soft tissue sarcoma (STS). There is emerging yet limited data on the applicability of ctDNA in STS. LDH is a cheaper readily available test that has been associated with unfavorable overall survival in different malignancies. This research aims to understand the correlation between ctDNA and LDH as a tool to assess its utility as indirect markers of response to treatment in STS. Methods: This was a single-center retrospective chart review on patients diagnosed with STS. Eligibility criteria included a confirmed diagnosis and available measurements of both ctDNA and LDH levels. Correlation was compared between Non-hispanic whites (NHW) and Hispanics (H). Data was sourced from our electronic medical record and Signatera™ assay to obtain the primary endpoints. Specimens were standardized in accordance to Natera’s™ specifications. Study endpoints included the correlation coefficients between ctDNA and LDH levels. A two-stage study design was applied for a robust analysis. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (denoted as r) was employed for statistical analysis, assessing the strength and direction of the monotonic relationship between ctDNA and LDH levels. Marker values were treated as continuous variables in these analyses. All analyses were executed in GraphPad Prism software. Results: The cohort comprised 33 patients with STS (14 NHW, 19 H). The median LDH in H was 189 (interquartile range (IQR) = 184) vs 184 (IQR = 105) in NHW. Comparatively, the median ctDNA in H was 0 (IQR = 39.3) and also 0 (IQR = 11.1) in NHW. The overall correlation between ctDNA and LDH levels was moderate positive (r = 0.5, p = 0.002), indicating a consistent, though not necessarily linear, relationship. Subgroup analysis showed r = 0.19 (p = 0.52) in NHW and r = 0.43 (p = 0.1) in H groups, suggesting ethnic variability in the ctDNA-LDH correlation. These findings were statistically significant within the predefined confidence limits and probability values. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated a significant correlation between ctDNA levels and LDH in STS patients, implying that higher ctDNA may be associated with higher LDH levels. This association can lead clinicians in monitoring LDH more frequently as an indirect marker of response to treatment in STS. This correlation suggests an increased tumor burden with a higher inflammatory response, with variations across different racial groups. The wider availability of LDH testing compared to ctDNA in many centers highlights LDH's potential as an indirect marker for STS. Further research with larger prospective cohorts is essential to confirm LDH's role paired with ctDNA in guiding treatment decisions in STS, enhancing its utility in clinical practice.
The effectiveness of adjuvant therapy in adult patients with spindle cell/sclerosing rhabdomyosarcoma: A single-center retrospective study.
Authors: Liu Zijing , Liu Jie , Deng Yaotiao , Jiang Yu
Published: June 2024

e23550

Background: In recent years, the WHO classification of soft tissue tumours has classified spindle cell/sclerosing rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) as a novel subtype of RMS. However, the prognosis and standard treatment modalities for operable spindle cell/sclerosing RMS patients remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness and influencing factors of postoperative adjuvant therapy in adult patients with spindle cell/sclerosing RMS. Materials and Methods: This single-center retrospective study enrolled adult patients with spindle cell/sclerosing RMS who underwent surgery and subsequent adjuvant therapy at West China Hospital, Sichuan University, from August 2014 to March 2023. The included patients initially underwent surgical excision, followed by one of the adjuvant treatments: radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Disease-Free Survival (DFS) and Overall Survival (OS) were calculated for the included patients in this study. Univariate analysis and multivariate COX regression were conducted to determine prognostic factors. Results: This study included a total of 17 patients diagnosed with spindle cell/sclerosing RMS. Among them, 10 (58.8%) patients received postoperative adjuvant chemoradiotherapy, while 7 (41.2%) patients underwent postoperative chemotherapy alone. 12 (70.6%) patients received chemotherapy following the VAC regimen, and 5 (29.4%) patients received non-VAC chemotherapy. The prognosis analysis indicates that the median DFS was not reached, with a 1-year DFS rate of approximately 87.8% and a 2-year DFS rate of approximately 52.4%. The median OS was not reached, with a 1-year OS rate of 100% and a 2-year OS rate of approximately 92.9%. Univariate analysis shows that compared to undergoing non-R0 resection, undergoing R0 surgical resection significantly improves patient DFS (P = 0.02). Compared to no postoperative radiotherapy, receiving postoperative prophylactic radiotherapy significantly improved both DFS (P = 0.01) and OS (P = 0.02). In contrast, using VAC as adjuvant chemotherapy did not significantly increase DFS and OS compared to non-VAC regimens (P = 0.83 and 0.57, respectively). Multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that the receipt of postoperative prophylactic radiotherapy independently predicted DFS (P = 0.03). Conclusions: In adult patients with spindle cell/sclerosing RMS, R0 resection, when compared with non-R0 resection, delays disease recurrence but does not enhance overall survival. Long-term outcomes may be improved in patients who receive postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy. However, choosing a VAC regimen as adjuvant chemotherapy may not contribute to an improved long-term prognosis when compared with a non-VAC regimen. Keywords: adjuvant therapy, spindle cell, sclerosing, rhabdomyosarcoma, effectiveness
Impact of molecular therapy on radioactive iodine uptake in patients with oncogene-driven metastatic differentiated thyroid cancer.
Authors: Yang Adeline T , Segers Blair , Caradonio Olivia , Behl Supriya , Li Yimei , Zhuang Hongming , States Lisa , Mahajan Priya , Ketterl Tyler Garrett , Waguespack Steven G. , Isaza Amber , Sisko Lindsay , Franco Aime , Bauer Andrew J. , Laetsch Theodore Willis
Published: June 2024

TPS10078

Background: Targetable kinase fusions and mutations are common in pediatric and young adult patients with papillary thyroid cancer (TC) and are associated with metastatic disease and lack of response to radioactive iodine therapy (RAI). While survival outcomes are excellent, less than 20% of children with metastatic TC achieve a complete response to standard treatment with surgery and radioactive iodine (RAI). Thus, repeated RAI therapy is common, increasing the risk of pulmonary fibrosis and secondary malignancies. Targeted kinase inhibitors are highly effective at shrinking oncogene-driven TC. Preliminary data suggest that these targeted therapies can improve tumor differentiation and RAI sensitivity. However, optimal integration of targeted therapy with standard of care RAI for TC remains uncertain. The objective of this study is to evaluate if targeted inhibitors in patients with metastatic, oncogene-driven differentiated TC will improve or restore tumor RAI uptake and ultimately induce durable clinical responses in patients with metastatic differentiated TC. Methods: Patients with TC lung metastases, both RAI naïve and refractory, with an identified targetable molecular driver (Table) and intent to start oncogene-specific targeted therapy are eligible for this study. Patients who received a prior oncogene-specific targeted therapy are excluded. A RAI-whole body scan (WBS) is performed at baseline and after 4 weeks of targeted therapy. Patients will be followed for up to 5 years to monitor clinical response. Response parameters include structural (CT, WBS, and/or neck US) and biochemical (thyroglobulin, thyroglobulin antibodies) evaluation. The primary endpoint is the change in RAI avidity between baseline and 4 weeks of treatment. This will be calculated as the ratio of RAI uptake in the lungs/disease sites versus the whole body for each subject at each time point. Secondary endpoints include progression free survival and the proportion of patients who achieve a complete response to the combination of targeted therapy and RAI. Five of 32 patients have been enrolled. Clinical trial information: NCT05024929 . [Table: see text]
Emergent Management of Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Murthy Santosh B.
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVE

Nontraumatic intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a potentially devastating cerebrovascular disorder. Several randomized trials have assessed interventions to improve ICH outcomes. This article summarizes some of the recent developments in the emergent medical and surgical management of acute ICH.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

Recent data have underscored the protracted course of recovery after ICH, particularly in patients with severe disability, cautioning against early nihilism and withholding of life-sustaining treatments. The treatment of ICH has undergone rapid evolution with the implementation of intensive blood pressure control, novel reversal strategies for coagulopathy, innovations in systems of care such as mobile stroke units for hyperacute ICH care, and the emergence of newer minimally invasive surgical approaches such as the endoport and endoscope-assisted evacuation techniques.

ESSENTIAL POINTS

This review discusses the current state of evidence in ICH and its implications for practice, using case illustrations to highlight some of the nuances involved in the management of acute ICH.
Emergent Management of Spontaneous Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Park Soojin
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVE

Spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) carries high morbidity and mortality rates, and the emergent management of this disease can make a large impact on patient outcome. The purpose of this article is to provide a pragmatic overview of the emergent management of SAH.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

Recent trials have influenced practice around the use of antifibrinolytics, the timing of aneurysm securement, the recognition of cerebral edema and focus on avoiding a lower limit of perfusion, and the detection and prevention of delayed cerebral ischemia. Much of the acute management of SAH can be protocolized, as demonstrated by two updated guidelines published by the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association and the Neurocritical Care Society in 2023. However, the gaps in evidence lead to clinical equipoise in some aspects of critical care management.

ESSENTIAL POINTS

In acute management, there is an urgency to differentiate the etiology of SAH and take key emergent actions including blood pressure management and coagulopathy reversal. The critical care management of SAH is similar to that of other acute brain injuries, with the addition of detecting and treating delayed cerebral ischemia. Strategies for the detection and treatment of delayed cerebral ischemia are limited by disordered consciousness and may be augmented by monitoring and imaging technology.
Hyperactivation of MEK1 in cortical glutamatergic neurons results in projection axon deficits and aberrant motor learning
Authors: Bjorklund George R. , Rees Katherina P. , Balasubramanian Kavya , Hewitt Lauren T. , Nishimura Kenji , Newbern Jason M.
Published: June 2024

Abnormal extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2, encoded by Mapk3 and Mapk1, respectively) signaling is linked to multiple neurodevelopmental diseases, especially the RASopathies, which typically exhibit ERK1/2 hyperactivation in neurons and non-neuronal cells. To better understand how excitatory neuron-autonomous ERK1/2 activity regulates forebrain development, we conditionally expressed a hyperactive MEK1 (MAP2K1) mutant, MEK1S217/221E, in cortical excitatory neurons of mice. MEK1S217/221E expression led to persistent hyperactivation of ERK1/2 in cortical axons, but not in soma/nuclei. We noted reduced axonal arborization in multiple target domains in mutant mice and reduced the levels of the activity-dependent protein ARC. These changes did not lead to deficits in voluntary locomotion or accelerating rotarod performance. However, skilled motor learning in a single-pellet retrieval task was significantly diminished in these MEK1S217/221E mutants. Restriction of MEK1S217/221E expression to layer V cortical neurons recapitulated axonal outgrowth deficits but did not affect motor learning. These results suggest that cortical excitatory neuron-autonomous hyperactivation of MEK1 is sufficient to drive deficits in axon outgrowth, which coincide with reduced ARC expression, and deficits in skilled motor learning. Our data indicate that neuron-autonomous decreases in long-range axonal outgrowth may be a key aspect of neuropathogenesis in RASopathies.