bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-world evidence of cancer immunotherapy (CIT) combination treatment in first-line (1L) extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC).
Authors: Nadler Eric S. , Vasudevan Anupama , Davies Kalatu , Wang Yunfei , Johnson Ann , Ogale Sarika
Published: June 2021

8561

Background: Atezolizumab plus chemotherapy was the first CIT combination regimen approved for 1L treatment of ES-SCLC in 2019. This study investigated patient characteristics and treatment patterns for patients with ES-SCLC receiving this regimen in the real-world community oncology setting. Methods: This was a retrospective study including adult patients diagnosed with ES-SCLC between 01-Oct-2018 (after IMpower 133 publication in NEJM Sep-2018) and 31-Dec-2019, with follow-up through 31-March-2020 using The US Oncology Network electronic health records data. Descriptive analyses of patient characteristics and treatment patterns were conducted, with Kaplan-Meier (K-M) methods used to assess time to treatment discontinuation (TTD) and time to next treatment/death (TTNT). Results: Of the 408 patients included in this study, 267 (71.4%) received atezo+carboplatin+etoposide (Atezo+Chemo), 80 (21.4%) received carboplatin+etoposide (Chemo only) and the rest received other regimens. The Atezo+Chemo patients in the real-world cohort compared with the IMpower 133 trial (n = 201) were older (median age 68 vs. 64 years) and included fewer males (45% vs. 64%), fewer white race (73% vs. 81%), more patients with brain metastases at baseline (23% vs. 9%), and more patients with worse ECOG (2/3) performance-status score (24% vs. 0%). The median follow-up, TTD, and TTNT in months (mo) for the real-world cohort are presented in the table alongside the best comparable measures reported for the trial. Conclusions: Most patients in this real-world ES-SCLC cohort received the Atezo+Chemo regimen in the 1L setting. While the follow-up was much shorter and patients had worse baseline characteristics (age, brain metastases, ECOG) in the real-world setting compared to the IMpower 133 trial, the real-world median TTD in this descriptive analysis was found to be in line with the median duration of treatment in the trial. Further research with longer follow-up comparing the real-world effectiveness of the CIT and chemo regimens is needed.[Table: see text]
Cisplatin versus carboplatin for the treatment of limited-stage small cell lung cancer (LS-SCLC).
Authors: Azar Ibrahim , Austin Adam , Kim Seongho , Jang Hyejeong , Surapaneni Malini , Kurtz Daniel , Yazdanpanah Omid , Chopra Amit , Mehdi Syed , Mamdani Hirva
Published: June 2021

8565

Background: Standard of care therapy for LS- SCLC is concurrent chemo-radiation (CRT) with a platinum-etoposide backbone. Cisplatin is traditionally the preferred platinum agent in the curative intent setting. Data comparing the efficacy of the less toxic carboplatin to cisplatin in LS-SCLC are lacking. Methods: Data from the National VA Cancer Cube were collected. Pathologically confirmed cases of LS-SCLC that received concurrent CRT with platinum-based multiagent chemotherapy were included. Interval-censored Weibull and Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to estimate median overall survival (OS) and hazard ratio (HR), respectively. Survival curves were compared by a Wald test. Results: 801 LS-SCLC patients who received carboplatin-based therapy (Carbo-SCLC) and 1018 who cisplatin-based therapy (Cis-SCLC) were included in the analysis. Median OS with Carbo-SCLC and Cis-SCLC were 2.13 years (95% CI 1.97-2.31) and 2.24 years (95% CI 2.09-2.4), respectively (HR=1.04;95% CI, 0.94-1.16; p=0.46). Subset analysis showed similar median OS for Carbo-SCLC and Cis-SCLC in patients with ECOG-PS of 0, 1 and 2, as well as patients in their 50s, 60s and >70. Multivariable regression analysis accounting for age and ECOG-PS shows a HR of 0.99 (95% CI 0.86-1.14; p=0.91). Conclusions: Concurrent CRT with carboplatin-etoposide was associated with similar OS compared to cisplatin-etoposide in LS-SCLC, irrespective of PS and age. Carboplatin’s advantageous toxicity profile and comparable OS indicate that it is an acceptable choice of platinum for LS- SCLC.[Table: see text]
First-line nivolumab (NIVO) plus ipilimumab (IPI) plus two cycles of chemotherapy (chemo) versus chemo alone (4 cycles) in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): Two-year update from CheckMate 9LA.
Authors: Reck Martin , Ciuleanu Tudor-Eliade , Cobo Manuel , Schenker Michael , Zurawski Bogdan , Janoski de Menezes Juliana , Richardet Eduardo , Bennouna Jaafar , Felip Enriqueta , Juan-Vidal Oscar , Alexandru Aurella , Sakai Hiroshi , Scherpereel Arnaud , Lu Shun , Paz-Ares Luis G. , Carbone David Paul , Memaj Arteid , Marimuthu Sathiya , Tran Phuong , John Tom
Published: June 2021

9000

Background: In the randomized phase 3 CheckMate 9LA trial (NCT03215706), first-line NIVO + IPI combined with 2 cycles of chemo significantly improved overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and objective response rate (ORR) vs chemo alone (4 cycles). Clinical benefit was observed regardless of programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression level and histology. Here we report data with 2 years’ minimum follow-up from this study. Methods: Adult patients (pts) with stage IV / recurrent NSCLC, ECOG performance status ≤ 1, and no known sensitizing EGFR/ALK alterations were stratified by PD-L1 (< 1% vs ≥ 1%), sex, and histology (squamous vs non-squamous) and were randomized 1:1 to NIVO 360 mg Q3W + IPI 1 mg/kg Q6W + chemo (2 cycles; n = 361) or chemo alone (4 cycles; n = 358). Pts with non-squamous NSCLC in the chemo-alone arm could receive pemetrexed maintenance. The primary endpoint was OS. Secondary endpoints included PFS and ORR by blinded independent central review, and efficacy by different PD-L1 levels. Safety was exploratory. Results: At a minimum follow-up of 24.4 months for OS (database lock: Feb 18, 2021), pts treated with NIVO + IPI + chemo continued to derive OS benefit vs chemo, with a median OS of 15.8 months vs 11.0 months, respectively (HR, 0.72 [95% CI, 0.61–0.86]); 2-year OS rates were 38% vs 26%. Median PFS with NIVO + IPI + chemo vs chemo was 6.7 months vs 5.3 months (HR, 0.67 [95% CI, 0.56–0.79]); 8% and 37% of pts who had disease progression received subsequent immunotherapy, respectively. ORR was 38% with NIVO + IPI + chemo vs 25% with chemo. Similar clinical benefit with NIVO + IPI + chemo vs chemo was observed in all randomized pts and across the majority of subgroups, including by PD-L1 expression level (Table) or histology. Any grade and grade 3–4 treatment-related adverse events were reported in 92% and 48% of pts in the NIVO + IPI + chemo arm vs 88% and 38% in the chemo arm, respectively. Conclusion: With 2 years’ minimum follow-up, first-line NIVO + IPI + chemo demonstrated durable survival and benefit versus chemo in pts with advanced NSCLC; no new safety signals were identified. Clinical trial information: NCT03215706. [Table: see text]
Brigatinib in Japanese patients with anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): First results from the J-ALTA tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI)-naive expansion cohort.
Authors: Kondo Masashi , Sugawara Shunichi , Yokoyama Toshihide , Kumagai Toru , Nishio Makoto , Goto Koichi , Ohe Yuichiro , Seto Takashi , Yamamoto Nobuyuki , Kudou Kentarou , Asato Takayuki , Zhang Pingkuan , Nakagawa Kazuhiko
Published: June 2021

9042

Background: Brigatinib is a next-generation ALK inhibitor with demonstrated activity against ALK mutations. We report primary analysis results with brigatinib in Japanese patients with ALK-positive NSCLC who have not previously been treated with an ALK TKI in the phase 2 J-ALTA study (NCT03410108). Methods: J-ALTA, a multi-cohort study, included a TKI-naive expansion cohort. Patients in the TKI-naive cohort received brigatinib 180 mg qd with 7-day lead-in at 90 mg. Primary endpoint was 12-month progression-free survival (PFS) as assessed by an independent-review committee (IRC). Secondary endpoints included confirmed objective response rate (ORR; IRC- and investigator-assessed); IRC-assessed PFS and duration of response (DoR); overall survival (OS); intracranial PFS (iPFS by IRC); and safety. Results: A total of 104 patients were enrolled in the whole study; of these, 32 patients had TKI-naive NSCLC (median age, 60.5 y; 94% had adenocarcinoma; 22% had baseline brain metastases; 25% received prior chemotherapy). As of September 29, 2020, median follow-up was 14.2 months and 27 patients remained on treatment. IRC-assessed 12-month PFS was 93% (90% CI, 79–98). Confirmed ORR was 97% (90% CI, 84–100) by IRC, with 2 complete responses and 29 partial responses. Median DoR as assessed by the IRC was not mature; median PFS, iPFS, and OS were not reached. In the TKI-naive cohort, treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were reported in all 32 patients (most common: increased creatine phosphokinase, 81%; hypertension, 59%; diarrhea, 47%). Grade ≥3 TEAEs were reported in 91% of patients in this cohort (most common: increased creatinine phosphokinase, 44%; hypertension, 34%; increased lipase, 19%) and 75% of all patients. Three cases (9.4%) of interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis were reported in the TKI-naive cohort; all were grade 1 and occurred after day 15 of brigatinib treatment. Dose discontinuations/interruptions/reductions due to AEs in the TKI-naive cohort were 0%/94%/66%, respectively, and in the total study population were 5%/72%/41%. AE frequency and profile were similar in the TKI-naive and overall cohorts. Conclusions: In the J-ALTA TKI-naive cohort, brigatinib demonstrated substantial efficacy and manageable safety in the Japanese patient population. Brigatinib remains one of the treatment options in Japanese patients. Clinical trial information: NCT03410108.
The role of chemotherapy plus immune checkpoint inhibitors in oncogenic driven non-small cell lung cancer: A University of California Lung Cancer Consortium retrospective study.
Authors: Kelly Karen , Chen Shuai , Eldredge Joanna B , Benjamin David Joseph , Mulroy Matthew C , Tabbara Nadeem , Sharp John , Goldman Jonathan Wade , Gubens Matthew A. , Harris Jeremy P. , Daly Megan Eileen , Patel Sandip Pravin , Chan Jason , Cummings Amy Lauren , Zhu Viola Weijia
Published: June 2021

9059

Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have demonstrated limited efficacy in patients (pts) with actionable oncogenic drivers. As a result, pts with the prototypic oncogenic drivers (EGFR and ALK) have purposefully been excluded from many NSCLC ICI trials although ICI is commonly used in combination with chemotherapy for these pts. Data from one randomized trial that included pts with known EGFR and ALK alterations did not show a survival benefit with an ICI plus a platinum doublet. We sought to gain further insight into the role of chemotherapy plus ICI in pts with oncogenic driven tumors. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of pts with oncogenic drivers (EGFR, ALK, ROS1, BRAF, MET, RET, HER2 and KRAS) who were treated with chemotherapy (C) or chemotherapy plus ICI (C+ICI) between 2018 and 2019 at the five University of California (UC) NCI Designated Cancer Centers (UC Irvine, UC Davis, UC Los Angeles, UC San Diego and UC San Francisco). Descriptive statistics were used. Kaplan-Meier plots and confidence intervals summarize PFS and OS in the overall cohort and oncogenic subgroups. Results: 125 pts were identified. Median age 64.1 years; M/F (45%/55%); White/Asian (59%/33%); Current/Former/Never Smokers (4%/39%/57%); PS 0/1/2(22%/68%/10%); prior number of tyrosine kinase inhibitors 0/1/2/ > 3 (46%/23%/19%/11%); Oncogenic driver: EGFR mutations (60%), KRAS mutations (23%), ALK fusions (8%), MET mutations (2.4%), RET fusions (1.6%), ROS1 fusions (1.6%), HER2 mutations (1.6%), and BRAF mutations (0.8%). The table below displays the efficacy outcomes. Conclusions: There was no survival benefit for pts with oncogenic drivers treated with chemotherapy plus an immune checkpoint inhibitor in the overall cohort or any of the subsets. Pts with KRAS mutations treated with C+ICI had a numerically longer median PFS than their counterparts treated with C. Updated data and additional analyses including PD-L1, TMB, co-mutations and toxicity will be presented.[Table: see text]
Genomic landscape differences in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer by sex and age.
Authors: Kimbrough ErinMarie , Dada Hiba I. , Drusbosky Leylah , Zhao Yujie , Manochakian Rami , Lou Yanyan
Published: June 2021

9108

Background: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S. The median age at diagnosis is 70 years, and NSCLC is uncommon among younger individuals ( < 50 years).Overall, outcomes in NSCLC have improved significantly with targeted therapy. A prior study demonstrated patients < 50 are more likely to have targetable alterations including EGFR, ALK, ERBB2, and ROS1. Another study reported an increased prevalence of EGFR mutations in females and KRAS mutations in males with NSCLC. The comprehensive genomic landscape of NSCLC patients in different age groups and genders remains largely unknown. In our study, we aim to investigate the genomic alterations in patients with advanced NSCLC according to age and sex. Efforts that are focused on identifying targetable alterations in NSCLC will likely help personalize treatment and improve outcomes. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of de-identified data from the Guardant Health database from March 2018 through October 2020. We reviewed 34,237 profiles from patients with NSCLC who underwent molecular profiling using the plasma-based circulating-tumor DNA (ctDNA) Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) assay Guardant360. Single nucleotide variants (SNV), fusions, indels and copy number variations (CNV) of up to 83 genes were analyzed. We assessed for genomic differences among patients with advanced NSCLC by both sex and age (≥70 and < 70). We conducted two-tailed tests of equality of proportions comparing males to females and ≥70 to < 70. Results: Of the 34,237 profiles reviewed, somatic alterations were seen in 81.7% (n = 27,972) of the patients. The median age was 70 (range 16-102) and 55% were female. Our study demonstrated that the most common genomic alterations in both age groups and genders were TP53, EGFR, KRAS, ATM, and MET. Patients ≥70 were more likely to have ATM (21% versus 14%, p < 0.0001) and MET (12% versus 10 %, p < 0.0001) mutations than those < 70. Patients < 70 were more likely to have EGFR (30% versus 27%, p < 0.0001), STK11 (14% versus 11%, p = 0.0056), and KRAS (26% versus 24%, p < 0.0001) alterations. EGFR was seen more frequently in females (33% versus 26%, p < 0.0001). ATM (11% versus 6%, p < 0.0001) and MET (8% versus 5%, p = 0.0050) were seen more frequently in males. Conclusions: Significant differences in the distribution of targetable genomic alterations were identified among different age groups and genders in patients with advanced NSCLC. These findings highlight the importance of taking personalized approaches to diagnostic testing and treatment of advanced NSCLC.
Nitroglycerin (NTG) plus whole intracranial radiotherapy for brain metastases (BM) in non-small cell cancer patient (NSCLC): A randomized open label, phase II clinical trial.
Authors: Arrieta Rodriguez Oscar Gerardo , Hernández-Pedro Norma , Maldonado Federico , Ramos Maritza , Yamamoto-Ramos Masao , López Diego , Lozano Francisco , Zatarain-Barron Zyanya Lucía , Cruz-Rico Graciela , Barrios-Bernal Pedro , Orozco-Morales Mario , Cacho Bernardo , Flores-Estrada Diana , Cardona Zorrilla Andres Felipe , Rolfo Christian Diego
Published: June 2021

9114

Background: Hypoxia has been associated with chemo-radioresistance secondary to Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor induced by Hypoxia Induced Factor (HIF). Nitroglycerin (NTG) can reduce HIF-1 in cell lines, and this may have anti-angiogenic, pro-apoptotic, and anti-efflux effects. Particularly, EGFR mutated (EGFRm) tumor cell lines have been shown to overexpress both VEGF and HIF. In this phase II study, we evaluated the effect of transdermal NTG on intracranial objective response rate (iORR), intracranial progression-free survival (ICPFS), and overall survival (OS) of NSCLC patients with BM. Methods: We performed an open-label, phase II clinical trial among ninety-six histologically confirmed NSCLC patients with BM. Patients were randomized 1:1 to receive NTG plus WBRT (30 Gy in 10 fractions) or WBRT alone. iORR and ICPFS were evaluated by MRI by two independent, blinded radiologists. Nitroglycerin was administered using a transdermal 36 mg patch, which released 10 mg in 24 hours with a rest interval of 12 hours from Monday-Friday throughout WBRT administration (10 days). Results: Fifty patients were allocated to the control group, while 46 were allocated to the experimental group (NTG); among these 26 (55.3%) had EGFRm in the control group and 21 (44.7%) had EGFRm in the NTG arm. In terms of the iORR, patients in the NTG group had a significantly higher response when compared to controls (56.6% vs. 43.5%; p = 0.024). Additionally, patients who received NTG in addition to WBRT had an independently prolonged ICPFS compared with those who received WBRT alone (27.7 vs. 9.6; HR: 0.470 [95%CI: 0.24-0.89]; p = 0.021). PFS was also positively impacted (HR: 0.519 [95%CI: 0.27-0.98]; p = 0.043). The benefit in terms of iORR and ICPFS (HR: 0.38 [95%CI: 0.16-0.91]; p = 0.030) was particularly important in the EGFRm patient subgroup. No differences were observed in OS. A significantly higher rate of vomiting presented in the NTG arm of the study ( p= 0.016). Conclusions: The concurrent administration of NTG and chemo-radiotherapy improves iORR and ICPFS among NSCLC patients with BM. The benefit is particularly significant in the EGFRm patient subgroup. Clinical trial information: NCT04338867.
Use of brain radiotherapy as part of first course of treatment for NSCLC with de novo brain metastasis.
Authors: Arteta-Bulos Rafael , Bilani Nadeem , Elson Leah , Elimimian Elizabeth Blessing , Saravia Diana , Naik Mihir , Nahleh Zeina A. , Alley Evan W.
Published: June 2021

9118

Background: Loco-regional management of brain metastases from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are surgery and/or brain radiotherapy, either whole brain (WBRT) or stereotactic (SRS). We used a national registry to evaluate trends in the use of brain radiotherapy as part of the first course of management in patients diagnosed with de novo brain metastasis. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the National Cancer Database (NCDB) to identify patients with NSCLC and de novo brain metastasis diagnosed from 2004-2016. We described the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of this population, then used chi-squared testing to evaluate for an association between these variables and the use of brain radiotherapy (either SRS or WBRT). Significant variables (p < 0.05) were included in a multiple logistic regression model. Results: Of n = 41,454 patients with NSCLC and de novo brain metastasis, n = 27,949 (67.4%) received either SRS or WBRT as part of their first course of treatment, while n = 13,505 (32.6%) did not receive primary brain radiation. Of those that did not receive radiation: n = 9,927 (73.5%) were < 70 years old while n = 3,578 (26.5%) were ≥70. N = 11,081 (82.7%) were White, n = 1,550 (11.6%) were Black and n = 768 (5.7%) were Asian. Variables significantly associated with the use of primary brain radiotherapy at the multivariate level were: treatment facility type (p = 0.004), tumor histology (p < 0.001), clinical T-staging (p < 0.001), and clinical N-staging (p < 0.001). Age, sex, race, comorbidity, grade, insurance status, and setting (metro vs. rural vs. urban) were not significantly associated with the use of radiotherapy. Compared to patients treated at community cancer programs (CPs), those treated at comprehensive community CPs (OR 1.152, 95% CI 1.027-1.291, p = 0.015) and academic CPs (OR 1.242, 95% CI 1.104-1.398, p < 0.001) were more likely to receive primary brain radiotherapy. Patients with squamous NSCLC were less likely (OR 0.680, 95% CI 0.619-0.747, p < 0.001) to receive brain radiotherapy compared to those with adenocarcinoma. Finally, patients with advanced T-staging (p < 0.001) and N-staging (p < 0.001) were less likely (OR < 1) to receive brain radiotherapy as part of the first course of treatment. Conclusions: While insurance status and setting were not significantly associated with the use of brain radiotherapy, facility type was. Further research is needed to evaluate whether this is a true disparity in medical practice, or the differences can be explained by characteristics of the patient population undocumented by the NCDB (e.g. severity of brain metastasis). Additionally, patients with larger primary tumors were less likely to receive brain radiation as part of the first course of treatment, which may reflect the need for local therapy prior to treating metastatic sites.
Lung cancer in HIV versus non-HIV population: Nationwide analysis of mortality, morbidity, demographics, and healthcare utilization.
Authors: Tariq Muhammad Junaid , Gupta Shweta
Published: June 2021

9125

Background: Lung cancer (LC) is the most common non-AIDS defining cancer with a high cancer-related mortality in patients with HIV. With improving survival in HIV patients, the incidence of LC is increasing. We attempted to evaluate the characteristics and outcomes, including healthcare utilization in patients with HIV-LC compared to non-HIV-LC using a national sample. Methods: Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project National Inpatient Sample (HCUP-NIS) was queried to identify HIV and non-HIV-LC admissions between 2016-2018. We studied socio-demographic differences, medical comorbidities (including hypertension (HTN), diabetes (DM), Coronary artery disease (CAD), Chronic kidney disease (CKD), Heart failure (HF), dialysis (HD), COPD), all-cause mortality, mean length of stay (LOS), mean total hospital charges (THC). Secondary outcomes included sepsis, septic shock, acute kidney injury (AKI), influenza, pneumonia, respiratory failure, lung collapse, ICU care, hemoptysis, anemia, pain, and protein energy malnutrition (PEM). Statistics were performed using the t-test, univariate and multinomial logistic regression. Results: A total 4,105 HIV-LC and 1,204,365 non-HIV-LC admissions were identified. HIV-LC were younger (mean age 48.7 vs 53.4 p<0.05), male (67% vs 51%, p<0.01), African American (52% vs 12% p<0.01), on Medicaid (35% vs 10% p<0.01), from lowest quartile income zip codes (51% vs 30% p<0.01). HIV-LC had significantly high rates of CKD and HD (p<0.05) while non-HIV-LC had significantly higher rates of HTN, DM, Dyslipidemia, CAD, COPD, obesity, HF and smoking (all p<0.05). Odds of adjusted all-cause mortality were significantly lower in HIV-LC (aOR 0.47 CI 0.36-0.63 p<0.001). HIV-LC had higher LOS (8.1 vs 6 days p<0.001) and higher THC ($83,328 vs $65,642 p<0.001), amounting to over $72 million over 3 years. Significantly different secondary outcomes between the two groups are shown in Table, the rest were similar between the groups. Conclusions: HIV-LC patients were younger, minority with a significantly lower all-cause mortality despite higher rates of complications and significantly higher LOS and THC compared to non-HIV-LC cohort. A higher comorbidity burden may be responsible for higher mortality in the non-HIV group while higher rates of secondary complications, CKD, HD may be driving up healthcare utilization in HIV-LC. More studies are needed to clarify these findings.[Table: see text]
CheckMate 067: 6.5-year outcomes in patients (pts) with advanced melanoma.
Authors: Wolchok Jedd D. , Chiarion-Sileni Vanna , Gonzalez Rene , Grob Jean-Jacques , Rutkowski Piotr , Lao Christopher D. , Cowey Charles Lance , Schadendorf Dirk , Wagstaff John , Dummer Reinhard , Ferrucci Pier Francesco , Smylie Michael , Butler Marcus O. , Hill Andrew Graham , Marquez-Rodas Ivan , Haanen John B. A. G. , Bas Tuba , van Dijck Wim , Larkin James , Hodi F. Stephen
Published: June 2021

9506

Background: In the phase 3 CheckMate 067 trial, a durable and sustained clinical benefit was achieved with nivolumab (NIVO) + ipilimumab (IPI) and NIVO alone vs IPI at 5-y of follow-up (overall survival [OS] and progression-free survival [PFS] rates: 52%, 44%, 26% and 36%, 29%, 8%, respectively). Here we report 6.5-y efficacy and safety outcomes. Methods: Eligible pts with previously untreated unresectable stage III or IV melanoma were randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio and stratified by PD-L1 status, BRAF mutation status, and metastasis stage. Pts received NIVO 1 mg/kg + IPI 3 mg/kg for 4 doses Q3W followed by NIVO 3 mg/kg Q2W (n = 314), NIVO 3 mg/kg Q2W + placebo (n = 316), or IPI 3 mg/kg Q3W for 4 doses + placebo (n = 315) until progression or unacceptable toxicity. Co-primary endpoints were PFS and OS with NIVO + IPI or NIVO vs IPI. Secondary endpoints included objective response rate (ORR), descriptive efficacy assessments of NIVO + IPI vs NIVO alone, and safety. Results: With a minimum follow-up of 6.5 y, median OS was 72.1 mo with NIVO + IPI, 36.9 mo with NIVO, and 19.9 mo with IPI (table). Median time from randomization to subsequent systemic therapy was not reached (NR; 95% CI, 59.6–NR) with NIVO + IPI, 25.2 mo (95% CI, 16.0–43.2) with NIVO, and 8.0 mo (95% CI, 6.5–8.7) with IPI; 36%, 49%, and 66% of pts, respectively, received any subsequent systemic therapy. Median treatment-free interval (which excluded pts who discontinued follow-up prior to initiation of subsequent systemic therapy) was 27.6 mo (range, 0–83.0), 2.3 mo (range, 0.2–81.6), and 1.9 mo (range, 0.1–81.9) with NIVO + IPI, NIVO, and IPI, respectively. Of the pts alive and in follow-up, 112/138 (81%; NIVO + IPI), 84/114 (74%; NIVO), and 27/63 (43%; IPI) were off treatment and never received subsequent systemic therapy; 7, 8, and 0 pts, respectively, were still on treatment. Grade 3/4 treatment-related adverse events were reported in 59% of NIVO + IPI-treated pts, 24% of NIVO-treated pts, and 28% of IPI-treated pts. Since the 5-y analysis, no new safety signals were observed and no additional treatment-related deaths occurred. Conclusions: This 6.5-y analysis represents the longest follow-up from a phase 3 melanoma trial in the modern checkpoint inhibitor combination therapy and targeted therapy era. The results show durable improved outcomes with NIVO + IPI and NIVO vs IPI in pts with advanced melanoma. We observed improvement in OS, PFS, and ORR with NIVO + IPI over NIVO alone. Clinical trial information: NCT01844505. [Table: see text]
Pembrolizumab and all-trans retinoic acid combination treatment of advanced melanoma.
Authors: McCarter Martin , Tobin Richard P. , Cogswell Dasha T. , Vorwald Victoria M. , Davis Dana , Van Gulick Robert J. , Couts Kasey L. , Jordan Kimberly R. , Nuanes Victoria , Gao Dexiang , Medina Theresa Michelle , Lewis Karl D. , Gonzalez Rene , McFarland Ross W. , Robinson William A.
Published: June 2021

9536

Background: Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are potent suppressors of antitumor immunity and are commonly associated with poor outcomes in melanoma patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors. Inducing the differentiation of MDSCs using all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) reduces MDSC frequency. This analysis seeks to assess the safety and efficacy of combining ATRA and pembrolizumab in advanced melanoma patients. Methods: This single arm, single institution, phase I/II study (NCT03200847) enrolled 24 patients diagnosed with stage IV melanoma. Eligible patients were over the age of 18 and had not been previously treated anti-PD-1 therapy. Treatment consisted of 200mg Q3W pembrolizumab plus the supplemental treatment of 150 mg/m2 ATRA orally for 3 days surrounding each of the first four infusions of pembrolizumab, with patients continuing pembrolizumab for up to two years until confirmed disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. The primary endpoints were safety and reduction in circulating MDSCs. Secondary endpoints were overall response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), progression free survival (PFS) according to RECIST v1.1. Results: At data cut off (Feb, 2021) 22 patients were evaluable for tumor response. Median follow-up was 1.0 years (0.3-2 years). In general, the combination of pembrolizumab and ATRA was well tolerated. The most common treatment-related adverse events (AEs) were grade 1 or 2, including headache (22 pts, 92%), fatigue (18 pts, 75%), rash (16 pts, 66%), and nausea (8 pts, 33%), most of which corresponded with the 3-day course of ATRA treatment. Ten patients had grade 3 or higher AEs with most being common ICI-related AEs. The ORR was 60% and DCR was 83%. Six-month PFS rate was 62%. Excluding patients diagnosed with uveal melanoma (n = 2) the ORR was 72%, DCR was 86%, and the six-month PFS rate was 68%. Paired analysis showed sustained decreases in absolute numbers ( p = 0.002) and percentage ( p = 0.007) of circulating MDSCs (CD3-CD19-CD56-CD11b+CD33+HLA-DR-/low) 4-6 weeks after stopping ATRA. The study is ongoing and further data will be presented in the future. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that the combination of ATRA and pembrolizumab is well tolerated and suggests that reducing MDSCs with ATRA may enhance the efficacy of pembrolizumab. This strategy of targeting MDSCs in combination with pembrolizumab warrants further development. Research Funding: Merck. Clinical trial information: NCT03200847.
KEYNOTE-629: Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) with pembrolizumab (pembro) in patients (pts) with locally advanced (LA) or recurrent or metastatic (R/M) cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC).
Authors: Bratland Åse , Muñoz-Couselo Eva , Mortier Laurent , Roshdy Osama , Gonzalez Rene , Schachter Jacob , Arance Ana Maria , Grange Florent , Meyer Nicolas , Joshi Abhishek Jagdish , Billan Salem , Hughes Brett Gordon Maxwell , Grob Jean-Jacques , Ramakrishnan Karthik , Zhang Eric (Pingye) , Gumuscu Burak , Swaby Ramona F. , Gutzmer Ralf
Published: June 2021

9546

Background: KEYNOTE-629 is a single-arm phase 2 study of pembro for cSCC. At second interim analysis (IA), pembro had robust and durable antitumor activity and manageable safety in LA and R/M cohorts. At first IA, pembro maintained HRQoL in the R/M cohort; LA was not analyzed because of ongoing accrual. HRQoL of pts with LA or R/M cSCC at second IA (database cutoff July 29, 2020; additional 15-mo follow-up since IA1 for the R/M cohort) is shown. Methods: Pts with LA or R/M cSCC received pembro 200 mg IV Q3W for ≤35 cycles. HRQoL was a prespecified exploratory end point assessed using EORTC QLQ-30 and EuroQol EQ-5D-5L instruments administered at baseline, wk 3, and wk 6; then Q6W through y 1; then Q9W until treatment end/discontinuation; and at the 30-day safety follow-up. HRQoL was analyzed in pts who received ≥1 pembro dose and completed baseline and ≥1 postbaseline HRQoL assessments. Mean change from baseline in EORTC QLQ-C30 global health status (GHS)/quality of life (QoL), physical functioning (PF), and EQ-5D-5L visual analog scale (VAS) scores were evaluated at wk 12 to ensure adequate completion rate and through last pt visit at wk 75 for EORTC QLQ-C30 GHS/QoL and PF scores. HRQoL was categorized as improved or deteriorated based on ≥10-point change in EORTC QLQ-C30 scores (considered clinically meaningful). Results: The HRQoL analysis population for LA had 47 pts for EORTC QLQ-C30 and EQ-5D-5L; the R/M cohort had 99 pts for EORTC QLQ-C30 and 100 for EQ-5D-5L. At wk 12, compliance rates were >75% for LA and >80% for R/M cohorts for EORTC QLQ-C30 and EQ-5D-5L. Mean change from baseline to wk 12 was minimal for EORTC QLQ-C30 GHS/QoL, PF, and EQ-5D-5L VAS scores for both cohorts (Table). Mean change from baseline in EORTC QLQ-C30 GHS/QoL and PF scores remained stable over 48 wk in the LA cohort (75-wk data unavailable) and over 75 wk in the R/M cohort. Most pts had improved or stable EORTC QLQ-C30 GHS/QoL and PF scores relative to baseline during follow-up. Conclusions: HRQoL was generally maintained with pembro in LA and R/M cSCC cohorts and was not negatively impacted by tumor progression or AEs. Clinical trial information: NCT03284424. [Table: see text]
Impact of systemic therapy sequencing on overall survival for patients with advanced BRAF-mutated melanoma.
Authors: Kartolo B. Adi , Deluce Jasna , Hopman Wilma M. , Liu Linda , Baetz Tara D. , Ernst D. Scott , Lenehan John Gordon
Published: June 2021

9552

Background: Both immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) and BRAF targeted therapy (TT) are effective treatments for patients with advanced BRAF-mutated melanoma. However, the choice of first-line (1L) therapy is at the discretion of treating oncologists without clear guidance from current available data or established guidelines. Utilizing prospectively collected data from the Canadian Melanoma Research Network (CMRN) database, we provide real-world evidence to highlight the impact of sequencing these therapies. Methods: Prospective data from 9 cancer centres in Canada was retrieved from the CMRN database for patients with unresectable/metastatic melanoma, with BRAF targetable subtypes, who received at least one-cycle of 1L palliative-intent ICI or TT, and at least 1-year of follow-up. We categorized patients into 2 groups: 1L BRAF±MEK inhibitors with/without subsequent PD-1±CTLA-4 inhibitors (1L-TT), or vice versa (1L-ICI). The primary study outcome was overall survival (OS). Survival outcomes were analyzed through Kaplan-Meier methods, and multivariable Cox analysis was utilized to account for potential confounders. Results: Our study (N=235) included 152 and 83 patients in 1L-TT and 1L-ICI groups, respectively. Combined BRAF-MEK inhibitors accounted for 59% of the 1L-TT group, whereas single-agent IO accounted for 66% of the 1L-ICI group. There were 93 patients who received second-line (2L) therapy, with a non-significant trend of 1L-TT group receiving more 2L therapy compared to 1L-ICI group (65% vs. 43%, P=0.404). Neither treatment group showed significant differences in median time on 1L therapy (P=0.645) or 2L therapy (P=0.686). The 1L-ICI group was associated with a favourable median overall survival (OS) compared to 1L-TT group (19.3 vs. 10.0 months, P=0.031). Specifically, the ICI only group had the highest median OS, followed by TT-ICI sequence, ICI-TT sequence, and TT only groups respectively (not reached vs. 38.3 vs. 16.9 vs. 6.1 months, P<0.001). However, this OS benefit (HR 0.89, 95% 0.51-1.53, P=0.644) was non-significant upon controlling for confounders such as baseline metastatic sites >2 (HR 2.07, 95%CI 1.24-3.46, P=0.006) and ECOG ≥2 (HR 3.47, 95%CI 2.02-5.97, P<0.001) in multivariable Cox analysis. Conclusions: There was no significant difference in OS between 1L-TT and 1L-IO groups. Rather, OS is driven mostly by the patient’s clinical status and tumour-associated features. Our study provides real-world evidence in an understudied area. Further studies are needed to validate our findings to inform guideline development.[Table: see text]
Pathology of durable stable disease in melanoma patients treated with ipilimumab, nivolumab, or ipilimumab, and nivolumab combination therapy.
Authors: Buchbinder Elizabeth Iannotti , Pfaff Kathleen L. , Manos Michael P. , Ouyang Olivia , Ott Patrick Alexander , Rodig Scott J. , Hodi F. Stephen
Published: June 2021

9567

Background: As immunotherapy with checkpoint blockade becomes the backbone of melanoma treatment there is a need to better understand the biology associated with long term benefit. One particularly interesting set of patients are those with prolonged stable disease or response with residual findings on imaging. It is unknown if immunotherapy has led to scarring at the site of prior disease or if there are residual tumor cells being controlled by an ongoing immune response. Evaluating tissue from patients with prolonged responses provides a unique opportunity to determine the composition of residual lesions. Correlation with PET/CT helps determine if this is an accurate modality to reflect presence of residual viable tumor tissue. Methods: Metastatic melanoma patients that have attained long term stable disease after treatment with ipilimumab, nivolumab, or ipilimumab plus nivolumab were identified. Patients must have received ipilimumab, nivolumab or combination therapy 2+ years prior to enrollment and must have had stable disease for ≥ 6 months. Patients were consented and underwent PET/CT scans and biopsies of residual areas of stable disease. Pre- and post-treatment tissue samples underwent pathologic assessment to look at tumor cell content, fibrotic content, and inflammation. Results: Ten patients were consented for evaluation but only 7 met the screening criteria and underwent PET/CT and tissue biopsy. Six patients had FDG avid lesions on PET/CT which ranged in intensity from SUV 2.4-22. One patient had no FDG avidity in the areas of residual disease observed on CT. Biopsies from the residual stable lesions demonstrated predominantly necrosis and fibrosis with prominent pigment containing macrophages. One patient with an axillary nodal lesion with an SUV of 22 had active melanoma on pathology which was resected, and the patient has subsequently remained without progression of disease. Conclusions: Patients with durable stable disease after treatment with ipilimumab, nivolumab or ipilimumab and nivolumab combination therapy represent a unique population of melanoma patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibition. An examination of the residual lesions observed in these patients demonstrated predominantly necrosis and fibrosis consistent with resolving lesions. The presence of melanophages in these samples may suggest some ongoing immune surveillance. One patient did demonstrate residual melanoma suggesting the need for ongoing monitoring of this patient population.
Analysis of patients (pts) with in-transit metastases treated with nivolumab (NIVO) or ipilimumab (IPI) in CheckMate 238.
Authors: Larkin James , Gogas Helen , Del Vecchio Michele , Maio Michele , Arenberger Petr , Arance Ana Maria , Grob Jean-Jacques , Chiarion-Sileni Vanna , Lewis Karl D. , Mortier Laurent , Ott Patrick Alexander , Long Georgina V. , Van Den Eertwegh Alfonsus , Cowey C. Lance , Schenker Michael , Butler Marcus O. , Lobo Maurice , Askelson Margarita , Ascierto Paolo Antonio , Weber Jeffrey S.
Published: June 2021

9569

Background: In the phase 3 CheckMate 238 study, NIVO has demonstrated improved recurrence-free survival (RFS) and distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) vs IPI in pts with resected stage IIIB–C or IV melanoma, which was sustained at the 4-y analysis. Having in-transit metastases/satellites (ITM) is a poor prognostic factor, and pts with ITM are generally omitted from clinical trials. This study was the first and only adjuvant checkpoint inhibitor trial to include pts with ITM. Here, we present post hoc outcomes in this subgroup. Methods: Pts aged ≥15 y with completely resected stage IIIB–C or IV melanoma stratified by stage and tumor PD-L1 status were randomized 1:1 to NIVO (3 mg/kg Q2W; n = 453) or IPI (10 mg/kg Q3W for 4 doses, Q12W thereafter; n = 453) for a maximum of 1 y or until disease recurrence/unacceptable toxicity. Pts with ITM, with or without synchronous nodal involvement, were included. The primary study endpoint was RFS; overall survival (OS) was a secondary endpoint; and DMFS was exploratory. Results: Each of the 2 treatment groups had 164 pts with ITM. Baseline characteristics were generally similar between treatment groups in pts with or without ITM; in pts with ITM vs without ITM, tumor ulceration was less frequent in NIVO-treated pts, and fewer IPI-treated pts had PD-L1 expression ≥5%. RFS and DMFS favored NIVO vs IPI in all ITM subgroups (table). OS was similar to the intention-to-treat (ITT) population with no differences noted between treatment groups or between ITM subgroups. Among pts with or without ITM, dominant metastatic sites were lung and lymph nodes, followed by brain, liver, and soft tissue (in varying order). Similar metastasis patterns were observed in pts with ITM regardless of nodal involvement. Treatment-related adverse events (any grade and grade 3/4) in pts with ITM were similar to those of the ITT population. Conclusions: Results of this post hoc 4-y analysis of CheckMate 238 showed that safety and efficacy were similar in pts with or without ITM, supporting the use of adjuvant NIVO in pts with ITM, regardless of nodal involvement. Clinical trial information: NCT02388906. [Table: see text]
Impact of a randomized weight loss trial on breast tissue markers in breast cancer survivors.
Authors: Dieli-Conwright Christina Marie , Harrigan Maura , Cartmel Brenda , Chagpar Anees B. , Bai Yalai , Rimm David L. , Pusztai Lajos , Lu Lingeng , Sanft Tara B. , Irwin Melinda L.
Published: June 2021

e12501

Background: Weight loss interventions are effective approaches to reduce body weight and alter serum biomarkers in breast cancer survivors, however the impact on breast tissue biomarkers is unknown. The Lifestyle, Exercise and Nutrition (LEAN) study was a randomized trial designed to test the effect of a weight loss intervention on body composition and breast tissue and serum biomarkers. Methods: Fifity-one women with a BMI ³ 25.0 kg/m2 diagnosed with breast cancer, who had completed chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy were randomized to weight loss intervention or usual care. Breast tissue biopsies from the unaffected breast, fasting serum samples, and body composition were measured at baseline and 6-months. Ki67, insulin receptor (IR), CD68 and CD163 were measured by Automated Quantitative Analysis (AQUA) method. Mean baseline to 6-month changes were compared using ANCOVA adjusting for baseline values. Results: Pre- and post-intervention biopsies were conducted in 49 and 42 women respectively, with both pre- and post- epithelial tissue available from 25 women; epithelial tissue was unavailable in the remaining 66 women. Women were 56.8 ± 8.9 years old, diagnosed 3.3 + 3.8 years prior, primarily Stage I breast cancer (54%), with a BMI of 32.8 ± 6.0 kg/m2. At baseline, breast tissue levels of IR were inversely associated with both percent body fat (r = -0.47, p = .03) and serum insulin levels (r = -0.45, p = .04); serum insulin levels were inversely associated with CD68 (r = -0.47, p = .03). Significant between-group biomarker changes are presented in Table 1. At month 6, loss in percent body fat was associated with increased IR (r = -0.42, p = .05). Increased CD68 breast tissue expression was associated with reductions in serum levels of CRP (r = -0.49, p=0.02). There was no significant effect of the intervention on IR expression or Ki67 (p>0.10). Conclusions: Breast tissue biopsies are feasible to collect in a clinical research setting among breast cancer survivors. A 6-month weight loss intervention led to decreased levels of CD163 in breast tissue and serum levels of leptin, and increased serum levels of adiponectin among breast cancer survivors. At baseline and month 6, changes in breast tissue biomarkers were favorably associated with serum biomarkers and body composition. Future confirmation is required to confirm the added benefit of tissue biomarkers beyond serum as an endpoint for lifestyle interventions among breast cancer survivors. Clinical trial information: NCT02110641. [Table: see text]
Impact of oncotype Dx score on treatment and long-term outcomes.
Authors: Warrior Surbhi , Thomas Joshua , Behrens Elizabeth , Rao Ruta D.
Published: June 2021

e12518

Background: Oncotype dx is a 21 gene breast cancer assay that helps predict benefit of chemotherapy in early-stage hormone receptor positive (HR+), HER2 negative, 0 to 3 node positive breast cancer as reported by TAILORx and RxPonder trials. Both trials found no benefit of adjuvant therapy in mid-range scores of 11-25 with the exception of some benefit in age under 50 or premenopausal status, no benefit if score was 0-10, and benefit of chemotherapy if >25. Methods: All breast cancer patients between 2019-2020 were chart checked to evaluate oncotype dx scores. Patient characteristics were analyzed between oncotype dx scores of 0-10, 11-25, and >25 using X square tests. 2000-2020 institutional cancer registry data was analyzed to understand recurrence and mortality in patients with oncotype dx testing. Results: 173 patients had oncotype dx testing between 2019-2020, and most were HR+, HER2-, and had 0-3 lymph nodes. There was no difference in race or ethnicity between the groups of oncotype dx scores (Table), and average age at diagnosis for all three groups was 58 years. More patients with lower oncotype dx score had hormone therapy, but this was not significant (0-10 at 93.6%, 11-25 at 90.8%, and >25 at 82.1%, p=0.26). Patients with a higher oncotype score were significantly more likely to have chemotherapy (0-10 at 0%, 11-25 at 17.3%, and >25 at 82.1%, p<0.01). When looking at long term outcomes, the mortality rate was highest in the 11-25 score group at 9.5%, but was not significantly higher than 0-10 at 4.7% and >25 at 2.1% (p=0.15). The recurrence was highest in the 0-10 group at 5.4%, but not significant compared to the 11-25 group at 4.1% and >25 group at 4.2% (p=0.09). Conclusions: Race, ethnicity, and age does not impact predisposition to high oncotype dx score, which is interesting since literature shows minority women have higher mortality rates. This could be because oncotype dx looks at early-stage breast cancers and many minority women have later stages at diagnosis. There was no difference in which group received hormone therapy and there was significantly higher rate of chemotherapy administration in patients with scores >25, which is consistent with prospective trial recommendations. When evaluating long term outcomes between oncotype dx groups over 20 years, there was no significant difference in recurrence of disease or mortality indicating that oncotype dx scoring accurately predicted overall benefit of chemotherapy.[Table: see text]