Correlation between antibiotic use and resistance of gram-negative bacteria at a university hospital in Japan from 2013 to 2021: a study using the Japan Surveillance for Infection Prevention and Healthcare Epidemiology system

OBJECTIVES

The Japan Surveillance for Infection Prevention and Healthcare Epidemiology (J-SIPHE) system aggregates information related to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) measures. We aimed to investigate the correlation between antibiotic use and AMR at a university hospital from 2013 to 2021 in a time series analysis using the J-SIPHE system. We also studied this correlation in each ward (inter-ward analysis).

METHODS

Data on antibiotic use and resistance rates were collected from the J-SIPHE system, except for the resistance rate in each ward, which was calculated from the source data prepared for this system.

RESULTS

Piperacillin/tazobactam use was positively correlated with piperacillin/tazobactam resistance in Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae in the inter-ward analysis, and in Pseudomonas aeruginosa in both analyses. Carbapenem use was positively correlated with meropenem resistance in Enterobacter cloacae in the time series analysis and in P. aeruginosa in both analyses, and imipenem/cilastatin resistance in P. aeruginosa in inter-ward analysis. Quinolone use was positively correlated with levofloxacin resistance in E. coli in both analyses, and in K. pneumoniae in inter-ward analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to investigate the correlation between antibiotic use and AMR at a single hospital in time series and inter-ward analyses using the J-SIPHE system and data prepared for this system, suggesting that this system may be useful for promoting AMR measures.

Monitoring Salivary Concentrations of Tedizolid and Linezolid Using Rats

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is an effective tool for the management of patients who are administered linezolid. The use of saliva for TDM has potential advantages over the use of plasma; however, only a few reports have compared drug concentrations in the saliva and plasma. Moreover, there are no reports on the salivary concentration of tedizolid, an oxazolidinone antibiotic similar to linezolid. In the present study, the concentrations of tedizolid and linezolid in rat submandibular saliva were compared with those measured in the plasma.

METHODS

Tedizolid (10 mg/kg, n = 6) and linezolid (12 mg/kg, n = 5) were administered via the rat tail vein. Submandibular saliva and plasma samples were collected for up to 8 h after the initiation of drug administration, and assayed for the concentrations of tedizolid and linezolid.

RESULTS

A strong correlation was found between the saliva and plasma concentrations of tedizolid (r = 0.964, p < 0.001) and linezolid (r = 0.936, p < 0.001). The value of tedizolid maximum concentration of drug (C_max) was 0.99 ± 0.08 µg/mL in the saliva and 14.46 ± 1.71 µg/mL in the plasma. Meanwhile, the C_max of linezolid was 8.01 ± 1.42 µg/mL in the saliva and 13.00 ± 1.90 µg/mL in the plasma. According to these results, the saliva/plasma concentration ratios of tedizolid and linezolid in rats were 0.0513 ± 0.0080 and 0.6341 ± 0.0339, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering the correlation between saliva and plasma concentrations of tedizolid and linezolid, as well as the characteristics of saliva, the results of this study suggest that saliva is a useful matrix for TDM.

Impact of systemic dexamethasone dosage on docetaxel-induced oral mucositis in patients with breast cancer

Oral mucositis (OM) is a common adverse effect of docetaxel-containing treatment. This study aimed to assess whether dexamethasone (DEX) dose-dependently attenuates docetaxel-induced OM and dysgeusia. We retrospectively analyzed medical records of patients with breast cancer receiving docetaxel-containing regimens at Hokkaido University Hospital between June 2015 and June 2022. The patients were divided into low-dose and high-dose groups (DEX 4 or 8 mg/day on days 2-4, respectively), and incidence of OM and dysgeusia, and risk factor(s) for OM incidence were evaluated. The incidence of all-grade OM in the first cycle was 57.8% in the low-dose group and 19.2% in the high-dose group (P = 0.0002), which met our primary endpoint. The incidence of OM in all treatment cycles was also significantly lowered by DEX-dose increase (P = 0.01). In contrast, the incidence of dysgeusia was similar between the two groups in the first and all cycles (P = 0.50 and P = 0.28, respectively). These results were also confirmed in a propensity score-matched population. Multivariate logistic regression analysis also suggested that lower DEX dosage was a singular risk factor for all-grade OM incidence. In conclusion, our study suggests that DEX dose-dependently reduces the incidence of OM in docetaxel-containing regimens for breast cancer treatment.

High dose of dexamethasone attenuates docetaxel-induced fluid retention in breast cancer treatment

Docetaxel-induced fluid retention (DIFR) cumulatively occurs and is one of the most troublesome adverse effects. This study aimed to determine whether high dose dexamethasone (DEX) could prevent DIFR during breast cancer treatment. Breast cancer patients receiving docetaxel (75 mg/m²)-containing regimens were divided into 4 and 8 mg/day DEX groups, with each DEX dose administered on days 2-4 and retrospectively assessed. Incidence of greater than or equal to grade 2 DIFR was significantly lower in the 8 mg group (13.0%) compared to the 4 mg group (39.6%, P = 0.001). All-grade DIFR was also less in the 8 mg group (P = 0.01). Furthermore, the maximum variation of body weight was significantly lower in the 8 mg group (P = 0.0003). These results were also confirmed in the propensity score-matched population. Additionally, time-related DIFR incidence was also significantly delayed in the 8 mg group (P = 0.0005). Our study revealed that high dose DEX prevents DIFR. Therefore, further studies on its management are required for less onerous chemotherapy provision with better DIFR control.

Dexamethasone dose-dependently prevents taxane-associated acute pain syndrome in breast cancer treatment

PURPOSE

Taxane-associated acute pain syndrome (T-APS) is one of the most bothersome adverse effects caused by taxanes. We have previously reported the attenuating effect of dexamethasone (DEX) on T-APS and its risk factors under DEX prophylaxis. However, the appropriate DEX dosage administration remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate whether DEX dose-dependently prevents T-APS in breast cancer patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated patients with breast cancer who received docetaxel (75 mg/m²)-containing chemotherapy without pegfilgrastim and regular non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The patients were divided into 4 mg/day and 8 mg/day DEX groups, with each DEX dosage on days 2-4 (n = 68 for each group). Primary endpoint was the comparison of all-grade T-APS incidence between the groups. Propensity score-matching was performed to adjust the baseline factors between the groups, and outcomes in the matched-population were also assessed.

RESULTS

The incidence of all-grade T-APS was 72.1% in 4 mg/day group and 48.5% in 8 mg/day group, which was significantly lowered by higher DEX dosage (P = 0.008). The severity of T-APS was also significantly reduced in 8 mg/day group (P = 0.02). These results were confirmed in the propensity score matching. Multivariate logistic analysis showed that higher DEX dosage was an independent T-APS preventive factor, whereas age < 55 years was a risk factor. Moreover, DEX-dosage-associated adverse effects similarly appeared in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggested that DEX dose-dependently prevents T-APS in breast cancer treatment. As understanding of the nature of T-APS and its appropriate management can significantly contribute to less onerous chemotherapy provision, further studies are required.

Association between skin immune-related adverse events (irAEs) and multisystem irAEs during PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor monotherapy

PURPOSE

Patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) often develop immune-related adverse events (irAEs) in various organs of the body. However, the patient factors associated with the development of multisystem irAEs are not well known. Skin irAEs most frequently occur and appear early after ICI treatment initiation. They may be a predictive marker for the development of multisystem irAEs, and their occurrence should be evaluated.

METHODS

Data of patients receiving ICI monotherapy for lung cancer, melanoma, and head and neck cancer treatment were retrospectively evaluated (n = 207); the single irAE development group (n = 69) was compared with the multisystem irAE development group (n = 37). The primary endpoint was the comparison of the incidence of skin irAEs between the two groups.

RESULTS

Skin, thyroid, and hepatic irAEs were associated with the development of multisystem irAEs (odds ratio: 3.30, 95% confidence interval: 1.27-8.52, p = 0.01 for skin; 5.07, 2.09-12.3, p = 0.0003 for thyroid; 10.63, 1.19-94.7, p = 0.03 for hepatic). Skin irAEs were the most common type (65.0% of total participants) and appeared earlier than other irAEs, except for gastrointestinal and ocular irAEs (median time to onset of skin irAEs: 7.5 weeks). Skin irAEs occurred more frequently in the multisystem irAE group (81.0%) than in the single irAE group (56.5%, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Skin irAEs can be a useful predictive marker for multisystem irAE development due to ICI treatment. Consequently, patients with skin irAEs should be treated and monitored for other types of irAEs.

Efficacy of antacids for cisplatin-induced gastrointestinal symptoms in the treatment of lung cancer

OBJECTIVE

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) and chemotherapy-associated dyspepsia syndrome (CADS) are frequently appearing adverse effects of cisplatin (CDDP)-containing chemotherapy. Antiemetic guidelines suggest that the administration of antacids such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or histamine type-2 receptor antagonists be considered for CADS, although their efficacy for treating these symptoms remains unknown. This study aimed to reveal whether antacids attenuate gastrointestinal symptoms in CDDP-containing chemotherapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In total, 138 patients with lung cancer who received ≥ 75 mg/m² CDDP-containing regimens were enrolled in this retrospective study. Patients were divided into an antacid group including patients administered PPIs or vonoprazan during all chemotherapy periods and controls without antacid administration. The primary endpoint was the comparison of anorexia incidence during the first cycle of chemotherapy. Secondary endpoints were CINV evaluation and risk factor analysis for the incidence of anorexia using logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

The incidence of anorexia during the first cycle was 54.4% in the control group and 60.3% in the antacid group, without significant differences (p = 0.60). The incidence of nausea was also similar between the groups (p = 1.00). Multivariate analysis suggested that antacid administration was not associated with anorexia.

CONCLUSION

Baseline antacid administration does not affect gastrointestinal symptoms associated with CDDP-containing treatment in lung cancer.

Onset timing and duration of augmented renal clearance in a mixed intensive care unit

BACKGROUND

Augmented renal clearance (ARC) is associated with lower blood plasma concentrations of renally excreted drugs; however, its time course is unknown. The current study aimed to determine the onset timing/duration of ARC, its risk factors, and its association with clinical outcomes by continuous monitoring of urinary creatinine clearance (CrCl) in critically ill patients.

METHODS

Data were retrospectively obtained from the medical records of 2592 critically ill patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) from January 2019 to June 2022 at a tertiary emergency hospital. Among these, patients with continuously measured urinary CrCl were selected and observed over time. We evaluated the onset timing and duration of ARC by plotting Kaplan-Meier curves. Furthermore, by multivariate analyses, factors associated with the onset and persistence of ARC were analyzed, and the association between the ARC time course and clinical outcomes was evaluated.

RESULTS

The prevalence of ARC was 33.4% (245/734). ARC onset was within 3 days of admission in approximately half of the cases, and within 1 week in most of the other cases. In contrast, the persistence duration of ARC varied widely (median, 5 days), and lasted for more than a month in some cases. Multivariate analysis identified younger age, male sex, lower serum creatinine at admission, admission with central nervous system disease, no medical history, use of mechanically assisted ventilation, and vasopressor use as onset factors for ARC. Furthermore, factors associated with ARC persistence such as younger age and higher urinary CrCl on ARC day 1 were detected. The onset of ARC was significantly associated with reduced mortality, but persistent of ARC was significantly associated with fewer ICU-free days.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the early onset of ARC, its duration varied widely and ARC persisted longer in younger patients with higher urinary CrCl. Since the duration of ARC was associated with fewer ICU-free days, it may be necessary to consider a long-term increased-dose regimen of renally excreted drugs beginning early in patients who are predicted to have a persistent ARC.

Use of Japanese big data from electronic medical records to investigate risk factors and identify their high-risk combinations for linezolid-induced thrombocytopenia

PURPOSE

Thrombocytopenia is a major event associated with linezolid (LZD) therapy. Factors affecting LZD-induced thrombocytopenia (LIT) have been reported in previous studies. However, several issues pertaining to LIT have not yet been clarified. In the present study, we used Japanese big data to investigate associated factors and their high-risk combinations that influence LIT.

METHODS

Patients administered LZD between May 2006 and October 2020 were included in this study. LIT was defined as either a 30% or more reduction from the baseline platelets or platelet values of < 100,000/µL. We evaluated factors affecting LIT and combinations of factors that alter LIT risk according to a decision tree (DT) analysis, a typical machine learning method.

RESULTS

We successfully enrolled 1399 patients and LIT occurred in 44.7% of the patients (n = 626). We classified the laboratory data on renal function, LZD duration, age, and body weight (BW) into smaller categories. The results of multivariate analysis showed that prolonged LZD therapy, BW < 45 kg, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 30 mL/min/1.73 m², and dialysis were risk factors for LIT. The DT analysis revealed that the highest risk was a combination of LZD duration ≥ 14 days and eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m².

CONCLUSIONS

The present study extracted four risk factors and identified high-risk combinations for LIT. Patients with these risk factors should be closely monitored.

Usefulness of the Albumin-Bilirubin Score in Determining the Initial Dose of Voriconazole for Patients with Liver Cirrhosis

The Child-Pugh score is widely used to assess liver function and estimate drug clearance in patients with liver cirrhosis. Recently, the albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) score, which objectively assesses liver function based only on albumin and total bilirubin levels, was developed as a new method. The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship between the liver function assessment method and the plasma concentration of voriconazole (VRCZ), an antifungal drug for patients with liver cirrhosis. This single-center retrospective study enrolled 159 patients who received VRCZ between 2012 and 2020. In patients administered VRCZ orally, the median concentration to dose (C : D) ratio increased with the progression of Child-Pugh and ALBI grades. Positive correlations between the ALBI score and VRCZ C : D ratio were observed in patients with cirrhosis (r = 0.52 (95% confidence interval, 0.069-0.79); p < 0.05). In addition, a highly negative correlation was observed between the ALBI score and VRCZ daily maintenance dose (r=-0.79 (95% confidence interval, -0.92 to -0.50); p < 0.0001). In contrast, for patients administered VRCZ intravenously, no increase in C : D ratio was observed for both Child-Pugh and ALBI scores compared to the non-liver cirrhosis group. This may be because the injection is often used in severely ill patients, and factors other than impaired liver function may affect the plasma concentrations of VRCZ. In conclusion, the ALBI score was shown to be useful in predicting VRCZ clearance as well as the Child-Pugh score, and the initial dose of VRCZ might be determined according to the ALBI score.

Correlation between antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance: A multicenter study using the Japan Surveillance for Infection Prevention and Healthcare Epidemiology (J-SIPHE) system in Hokkaido, Japan

BACKGROUND

The Japan Surveillance for Infection Prevention and Healthcare Epidemiology (J-SIPHE) system aggregates information related to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) measures in participating medical institutions nationwide and is intended to be used for promotion of AMR measures in participating facilities and their communities. This multicenter study aimed to determine the usefulness of the J-SIPHE system for evaluating the correlation between antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance in Hokkaido, Japan.

METHODS

Data on antibiotic use and detection rate of major resistant Gram-negative bacteria at 19 hospitals in 2020 were collected from the J-SIPHE system, and data correlations were analyzed using JMP Pro.

RESULTS

The detection rate of carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa was significantly positively correlated with carbapenem use (Spearman's ρ = 0.551; P = .015). There were significant positive correlations between the detection rate of fluoroquinolone-resistant Escherichia coli and the use of piperacillin/tazobactam, carbapenems, and quinolones [ρ = 0.518 (P = .023), ρ = 0.76 (P < .001), and ρ = 0.502 (P = .029), respectively].

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first multicenter study to investigate the correlation between antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance using the J-SIPHE system. The results suggest that using this system may be beneficial for promoting AMR measures.

Gefitinib-induced Myositis: A Novel Case Report

Chemotherapy-induced myositis is a severe adverse event caused by chemotherapeutic agents such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) or cytotoxic agents. We experienced a patient with gefitinib-induced myositis with symptoms of muscle cramps and stiffness in the limbs, and reported the treatment process. A 70-year-old woman received four courses of carboplatin (CBDCA)+pemetrexed (PEM)+gefitinib (intravenous CBDCA area under the curve (AUC) 5 and PEM 500 mg/m2, every 3 weeks, and oral gefitinib 250 mg daily), for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation-positive stage IV lung cancer treatment; followed by seven courses of PEM+gefitinib, and continued gefitinib monotherapy thereafter. Myositis occurred 5 months after the initiation of gefitinib monotherapy. She developed strong limb cramps despite regular oral administration of 400 mg acetaminophen three times a day and complained of pain on a numeric rating scale of 10/10. Her creatine kinase (CK) was elevated from the second course of CBDCA+PEM+gefitinib but was stable at grade 1-2 thereafter. However, the muscle symptoms disappeared with CK normalization within a few days of gefitinib discontinuation due to disease progression. The Naranjo Adverse Drug Reaction Scale score was 6, suggesting a probable association. Osimertinib (an EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor)-induced myositis has been reported, but similar events were first observed with gefitinib in this case. Consequently, when treating with gefitinib, myositis, including the CK variation, should be monitored and appropriately managed with multidirectional treatment.

Effects of Body Composition on Renal Function Estimates in Older Patients

The modified Cockcroft-Gault (CG) equation, previously developed for an aged-oriented cohort, was validated in a newly obtained dataset. Estimates of creatinine clearance (CCr) using this equation were found to be more accurate than those determined using the conventional CG equation, particularly for patients exceeding 65 years of age. We identified a subset of patients in this cohort whose estimates were inadequate. Using statistical analysis, we found that the deviation from estimates was attributed to a decreased albumin level. In addition, we determined a reduced albumin cutoff value for the modified CG equation to obtain a good estimate. Univariate linear regression analysis was applied to measure the CCr in this cohort and identify parameters related to body composition, and we found that extracellular water (ECW)/total body water (TBW) and body fat (%) were relevant. Using measured values of ECW/TBW and body fat (%), a multivariate linear regression (MLR) estimating equation was developed based on the modified CG equation. This equation was applied to a cohort over 65 years of age, and it was found that a good estimate was obtained for older patients with low albumin levels. Thus, we propose a flow diagram that illustrates conditions for selecting an appropriate estimating equation from among the CG, modified CG, and MLR equations.

Risk Factor Analysis of Vancomycin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Paediatric Patients Aged 0-1 Year Using Japanese Medical Database

Vancomycin (VCM)-induced nephrotoxicity (VIN) is a major side effect in paediatric patients. However, most studies are limited to patients aged 0-18 years. We evaluated the risk factors of VIN in patients aged 0-1 year using Japanese electronic medical record database. We used RWD database which was contained electronic medical records and claims data of approximately 20 million people from 160 medical institutions. We targeted hospitalized patients who were administered VCM between June 2000 and December 2020. VIN was defined by two criteria: Criterion 1 was an increase in serum creatinine (Scr) ≥ 0.5 mg/dL or 50% during VCM treatment period compared to the Scr baseline; and criterion 2 was an increase in Scr ≥50% within seven days or Scr ≥0.3 mg/dL within two days during VCM treatment. The risk factors of VIN were evaluated using multivariate logistic regression analysis. We analysed 446 patients; patients with VIN in Criteria 1 and 2 were 33 and 58, respectively. In Criterion 1, multivariate logistic regression analysis identified four independent factors with p-value <0.05 (VCM concentration ≥20 mg/L, amphotericin B (AMPH-B), piperacillin-tazobactam (TAZ/PIPC), and vasopressor drugs). In Criterion 2, multivariate logistic regression analysis identified concomitant use of vasopressor drugs with p-value <0.05. Therefore, concomitant use of vasopressor drugs was suggested to affect the risk of VIN in patients aged 0-1 year. The findings may help in developing estimation models to assess the risk of VIN in paediatric patients.

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Oral Voriconazole in an Infant Less than Six Months of Age and Pharmacokinetics Changes Induced by Development of CYP2C19 in the Growth Process: A Novel Case Report

Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is recommended for voriconazole (VRCZ) to avoid adverse events and maximize antifungal efficacy. Currently, the appropriate dose for patients under the age of 2 years is unknown. Here, we report the case of a 1.5-month-old infant with inborn errors of immunity who was orally administered VRCZ. This patient's plasma concentration decreased significantly from 3.8 µg/mL (day 6) to 0.09 µg/mL (day 21), leading to repeated dose escalations to achieve the target concentration (1.38 µg/mL, day 58). The signal intensity ratio of VRCZ to its main metabolite, N-oxide VRCZ, in LC/MS/MS also decreased from 5.30 (day 6) to 0.57 (day 64). Consequently, we suspected that VRCZ metabolism may be enhanced during infant growth. To our knowledge, this is the first report of remarkable changes in VRCZ pharmacokinetics with metabolic activity enhanced by the growth process. In conclusion, we propose that frequent TDM helped to maintain adequate VRCZ plasma concentration in a infants less than 6 months of age.

Temporary Severe Neutropenia during Administration of Atezolizumab: A Novel Case Report

Here, we describe a case of temporary severe neutropenia after atezolizumab monotherapy and its treatment course. Atezolizumab monotherapy was introduced as a 6th-line treatment for a man in his late 60s, who was diagnosed with stage Ⅳ lung adenocarcinoma. The first treatment cycle was administered during hospitalization, and the patient presented with a fever of 37.8°C on the first day. The fever resolved after the administration of acetaminophen and naproxen, and the white blood cell count, neutrophil count, and other white blood cell fractions were normal. However, grade 3 leukopenia and grade 4 neutropenia appeared at the beginning of the third cycle, and treatment was discontinued. After treatment, monocyte count in the leukocyte fraction increased from approximately 10% to 25.6%. Lenograstim 100 μg subcutaneous injection and oral levofloxacin 500 mg once daily were started of onset of neutropenia, and he was hospitalized the next day. Laboratory findings upon admission showed a significant improvement to 5,300/µL for leukocytes and 3,376/µL for neutrophils. Lenograstim was discontinued, with no further decrease in the neutrophil count. Atezolizumab therapy was resumed, and there was no further reduction in leukocyte, neutrophil, or leukocyte fractions over about a 2-year period. Concomitant drugs were maintained during the atezolizumab treatment, suggesting that they did not induce neutropenia. In conclusion, we observed temporary severe neutropenia during atezolizumab monotherapy. Neutrophil recovery with cautious monitoring has enabled longer efficacy. We should consider temporary symptom occurrence in cases of haematological immune-related adverse events.

Diabetes mellitus degenerates cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in short hydration method: a propensity score-matching analysis

Cisplatin (CDDP)-induced nephrotoxicity (CIN) is dose-limiting. We revealed that co-administration of non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs and baseline comorbidity of diabetes mellitus (DM) are associated with CIN development in the short hydration method; however, the results were accessorily obtained without appropriate power calculation. This study aimed to demonstrate the influence of DM complications on CIN incidence in a real-world setting. Lung cancer patients receiving CDDP (≥ 75 mg/m²)-containing regimens with a short hydration method (n = 227) were retrospectively evaluated. The patients were divided into control and baseline DM complication groups. The primary endpoint was the evaluation of CIN incidence between the groups. Propensity score-matching was performed to confirm the robustness of the primary analysis results. CIN occurred in 6.8% of control and 27.0% of DM patients, respectively, with a significant difference in all-patient populations (P = 0.001). In addition, variation of serum creatinine and creatinine clearance significantly worsened in DM patients. Similar results were obtained in a propensity-matched population. Multivariate logistic regression analysis found that DM complication is a singular risk factor for CIN development (adjusted odds ratio; 4.31, 95% confidence interval; 1.62-11.50, P = 0.003). In conclusion, our study revealed that baseline DM complications significantly worsen CIN.

Risk factor analysis for regorafenib-induced severe hypertension in metastatic colorectal cancer treatment

Regorafenib, a multikinase inhibitor, is effective in treating metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Hypertension is a frequently occurring adverse effect caused by regorafenib regardless of previous treatment with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors in almost all patients. We identified the risk factors associated with regorafenib-induced severe hypertension. Patients with mCRC (n = 100) who received regorafenib were evaluated retrospectively. The primary endpoint was the evaluation of the risk factors for grade ≥ 3 hypertension. The association between pre-existing hypertension at baseline and grade ≥ 3 hypertension symptoms was also assessed. Patients with pre-existing hypertension at baseline accounted for 55% of the total patients. The starting doses of regorafenib were 160 mg (49.0% of patients), 120 mg (29.0%), and 80 mg (22.0%). The incidence of grade ≥ 3 hypertension was 30.0%. The median time to grade ≥ 3 symptom development was 7 days (range: 1-56 days). Additional antihypertensive treatment was administered to 83.6% of patients who developed hypertension. Logistic regression analyses revealed that baseline pre-existing hypertension complications and previous anti-VEGF treatment for ≥ 700 days were independent risk factors for grade ≥ 3 hypertension development. Further analyses revealed that pre-existing hypertension before anti-VEGF treatment (primary hypertension) was significantly related to the symptom development (adjusted odds ratio, 8.74; 95% confidence interval, 2.86-26.72; P = 0.0001). Our study suggests that pre-existing primary hypertension and previous anti-VEGF treatment for ≥ 700 days are independent risk factors for regorafenib-induced severe hypertension. Deeper understanding of the symptom nature and management can significantly contribute to safer interventions, necessitating further studies.

[Case Report on a Woman with Epilepsy Who Took Lacosamide during Pregnancy and Gave Birth to a Healthy Infant]

Lacosamide is a novel antiepileptic drug. Although many antiepileptic drugs reportedly pose a risk to fetuses, patients with epilepsy are advised to continue their medications during pregnancy. There have been few reports on lacosamide use during pregnancy, and its effects on the fetus remain unclear. Here, we report a case of lacosamide use during pregnancy. The 33-year-old patient was treated with oral lacosamide (400 mg/d) for symptomatic partial epilepsy. She was concomitantly treated with folic acid (5 mg/d) beginning 4 days before her last menstrual cycle. She was also concomitantly treated with oral perampanel (2 mg/d) at 5-7 weeks' gestation for seizure control but discontinued perampanel after the pregnancy was discovered. She progressed through her pregnancy with only mild seizures. Fetal growth was normal and ultrasonography revealed no external malformations. The patient had an elective cesarean section at 37 weeks and 2 days owing to a previous post-cesarean pregnancy. Her baby boy weighed 3025 g; his Apgar score was 8 and 9, 1 and 5 min, respectively, and his umbilical artery blood pH was 7.348. He had no congenital anomalies and no neonatal drug withdrawal symptoms. This suggests that lacosamide may have a low risk of teratogenicity and fetal toxicity. Thus, this case is valuable for clinicians who are considering the administration of antiepileptic drugs during pregnancy. In the future, more reports on the use of lacosamide during pregnancy should be collected.

[Efficacy Survey of Naldemedine in the Poor-performance Status Group]

Naldemedine (Nal) is widely used as a therapeutic drug against opioid-induced constipation. However, patients in phase III trials are limited to those with good performance status (PS). Cancer patients may have inferior PS owing to progression of symptoms and adverse events from chemotherapy. Therefore, it is important to survey the efficacy of Nal in patients with poor PS. This study aimed to evaluate Nal efficacy in patients with poor PS. We retrospectively investigated patients from July 2017 to June 2019 and compared Nal efficacy between patients with good and poor PS. The efficacy of Nal was evaluated using changes in the number of spontaneous bowel movements 7 days before and after the introduction of Nal with reference to previous reports. Multivariate analysis was performed to reveal whether poor PS affects Nal efficacy. In total, 141 patients at the Hokkaido University Hospital were analyzed. The effective rate of Nal from day 1 to day 7 of administration was 71.7% and 71.4% in the patients with good and poor PS, respectively, that from day 1 to day 2 of administration was 61.1% and 57.1%, respectively, and that from day 3 to day 7 of administration was 60.2% and 71.4%, respectively, suggesting an absence of significant differences. Furthermore, results of multivariate analysis showed that "best supportive care" and "body weight (55 kg and above)" reduced Nal efficacy. In conclusion, Nal showed similar effectiveness in patients with poor PS as that in those with good PS.

Influence of Dose Reduction of Prophylactic Dexamethasone on Chemotherapy-induced Nausea and Anorexia in Patients Under 55 Years Old Treated With Anthracycline-containing Regimens

BACKGROUND/AIM

The incidence of acute nausea in patients treated with anthracycline-containing regimens for breast cancer, was significantly increased by dose reduction of prophylactic antiemetic dexamethasone on day 1, whilst reducing it on days 2-4 did not affect delayed nausea. We also found that patients <55 years old were at higher risk of developing nausea. In this retrospective study, we evaluated the influence of dexamethasone dosage on gastrointestinal symptoms in patients <55 years old.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients (20-54 years old) who had received anthracycline-containing regimens for breast cancer were divided into reduced dose (6.6 mg dexamethasone on day 1, and 4 mg on days 2-4) and control (9.9 mg and 8 mg, respectively) groups and retrospectively evaluated. The incidence and severity of nausea, vomiting and anorexia were compared. Risk factors associated with nausea were also assessed.

RESULTS

The incidence of acute nausea was significantly higher in the reduced dosage group than in the control group (75.0% and 45.2%, respectively; p=0.02). In contrast, the rate of delayed nausea was not different (p=0.41); the incidence of vomiting and anorexia, and the severity of nausea and anorexia were also not statistically different. Multivariate logistic analysis suggested that patients with no-to-low alcohol consumption and those administered 6.6 mg dexamethasone on day 1 were at a higher risk of acute nausea.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that dexamethasone dose reduction on day 1 in patients treated with anthracycline-containing regimens is not suitable for acute nausea management, and that the dosage can be reduced to at least 4 mg on days 2-4, even in patients under 55 years of age.

Risk Factor Analysis for the Occurrence of Severe Adverse Effects in Eribulin Treatment

BACKGROUND/AIM

Eribulin is an effective chemotherapeutic agent for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer and advanced or metastatic soft-tissue sarcomas. However, severe adverse effects (SAEs) occur in 30-40% of the patients, and significantly reduce the patients' quality of life and disturb the recommended treatment schedules. Neutropenia is the main cause of treatment suspension, delay, and/or dose reductions, also leading to relative dose intensity reduction. This study aimed to examine the risk factors for SAE occurrence after eribulin treatment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eighty patients with metastatic breast cancer or advanced or metastatic soft tissue sarcoma who received eribulin were retrospectively evaluated. Risk factors for SAE occurrence in the first cycle were primarily assessed. In addition, factors associated with SAE occurrence during all treatment cycles were evaluated.

RESULTS

SAEs in the first cycle occurred in 45% of patients. The primary SAE was neutropenia (91.7%). The incidence of SAEs during all treatment cycles was 61.3%. Multivariate analyses suggested that lower baseline neutrophil and hemoglobin levels were risk factors for SAE occurrence and severe neutropenia incidence in the first cycle. An independent factor associated with SAE occurrence during all cycles was age ≥65 years and a tendency was confirmed for baseline anemia.

CONCLUSION

Baseline neutropenia and anemia were risk factors for SAE occurrence during the first eribulin treatment cycle. Age ≥65 years was also associated with SAE occurrence during all treatment cycles. Patients with these risk factors should be carefully monitored for assessment and prophylaxis.

Combination of Mirogabalin and Duloxetine Attenuates Peripheral Neuropathy by Eribulin: A Novel Case Report

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is one of the most severe complications associated with chemotherapy for breast cancer. We encountered a case in which mirogabalin initially ameliorated, and additional duloxetine further attenuated eribulin-induced CIPN. Herein, we report its management. A 53-year-old woman received eribulin treatment as third-line chemotherapy for recurrent breast cancer. She experienced grade 2 CIPN with adjuvant docetaxel and cyclophosphamide treatment (worst numeric rating scale (NRS) 6/10 for numbness and 6/10 for pain) and had baseline grade 1 symptoms only in the hands (NRS 1/10 for each). CIPN in the hands and feet worsened to NRS 3/10 on day 1 of cycle 4. Mirogabalin (5 mg twice daily) was initiated, resulting in stable symptoms for approximately 6 weeks with grade 1 somnolence and heaviness of the head. The dosage was increased with careful attention to adverse effects to 22.5 mg per day, and the NRS was reduced from 5/10 to 3/10 for numbness and from 8/10 to 5/10 for pain. We administered duloxetine 20 mg with domperidone (10 mg three times a day) for further pain attenuation on day 1 of cycle 15, decreasing the NRS to 1/10 for numbness and 3/10 for pain. Duloxetine was increased due to CIPN degradation (NRS 3/10 and 5/10), resulting in a significant pain attenuation to 1/10. As the CIPN-attenuating mechanisms of mirogabalin and duloxetine are different, we consider that the additive and synergetic effects of this combination affected the results. Combination therapy with these drugs may be a promising strategy.