Health related quality of life assessment after radical prostatectomy in men with prostate specific antigen only recurrence

PURPOSE

The health related quality of life assessment is becoming increasingly important among patients with prostate cancer. Meanwhile, treatment of patients with increasing prostate specific antigen (PSA) after radical retropubic prostatectomy remains controversial. We attempt to define the impact of PSA recurrence on the health related quality of life of patients after radical retropubic prostatectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Of 604 consecutive patients who underwent radical retropubic prostatectomy between March 1991 and September 1998, 510 (84%) were available for followup. Each patient was mailed the RAND 36-Item Health Survey and University of California, Los Angeles, Prostate Cancer Index questionnaire. A total of 348 (70%) questionnaires were returned. Health related quality of life scores were then compared between patients with and without PSA recurrence. A multivariate analysis was also performed to elucidate further the cause of differences between the groups.

RESULTS

Overall, 88 (25%) patients had PSA recurrence. In regard to health related quality of life there were small (less than 10%) but statistically significant differences in 2 of 4 physical health domains (RAND 36-Item Health Survey). There was a significant decrease in only 1 category of the mental health domain for patients with PSA recurrence. Only sexual function was statistically lower on the University of California, Los Angeles, Prostate Cancer Index. This result reflects the lower incidence of nerve sparing in these patients, as confirmed by the multivariate analysis. Overall patient satisfaction was similar between those with and without PSA recurrence (76% and 79%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates small health related quality of life differences in patients with biochemical PSA recurrence versus those without. These findings provide a baseline assessment of general and disease specific health related quality of life domains among these patients. Future studies should focus on differences in the measure of cancer anxiety before and after administration of adjuvant therapy in these asymptomatic patients.

Phase I trial of outpatient weekly docetaxel, carboplatin and concurrent thoracic radiation therapy for stage III unresectable non-small-cell lung cancer: a Vanderbilt cancer center affiliate network (VCCAN) trial

PURPOSE

Docetaxel, an active agent for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), has demonstrated activity as a radiosensitizer in numerous pre-clinical studies. We conducted a phase I trial to determine the maximum-tolerated dose (MTD) and dose-limiting toxicities (DLT) of weekly Docetaxel, Carboplatin with concurrent thoracic radiation therapy (TRT) in patients with unresectable stage III NSCLC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this phase I clinical trial, Docetaxel was administered weekly as a 1-h intravenous infusion for 6 weeks with a starting dose of 20 mg/m(2). Docetaxel doses were escalated by 10 mg/m(2) increments in successive cohorts of three patients. DLT was defined as grade >or=3 nonhematologic and hematologic toxicity according to RTOG toxicity criteria. Once the DLT of Docetaxel alone was reached, weekly Carboplatin (AUC 2) was added at a DLT-2 dose of Docetaxel (two dose levels below that of dose limiting toxicity). Docetaxel doses were again escalated at 10 mg/m(2) increments in successive cohorts of three new patients to define further DLT and MTD of Docetaxel/Carboplatin with TRT. TRT was administered to the primary tumor and regional lymph nodes (40 Gy) followed by a boost to the tumor (20 Gy).

RESULTS

Fifteen patients were entered onto this study with Docetaxel alone through three dose escalations (from 20 to 40 mg/m(2) weekly). The DLT of weekly Docetaxel/TRT was esophagitis and the MTD was 30 mg/m(2) per week for 6 weeks. Nine more patients were added with the Docetaxel/Carboplatin/TRT regimen. The DLT of weekly Docetaxel/Carboplatin with TRT was esophagitis and the MTD of Docetaxel was 20 mg/m(2) per week with weekly Carboplatin (AUC 2). There were 2 complete responses and 13 partial responses in 25 evaluable patients (RR 60%).

CONCLUSIONS

This combination regimen has activity with manageable toxicity in patients with stage III NSCLC. A phase II study is planned to define activity.

Recombinant human growth hormone in patients with acute renal failure

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to determine the impact of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) on metabolic and nutritional parameters in malnourished patients with acute renal failure.

DESIGN

The design is an open-labeled pilot trial examining the effects of rhGH administration in a small group of highly catabolic, malnourished patients with acute renal failure. Each patient served as his or her own control.

SETTING

An intensive care unit in a tertiary care medical institution.

PATIENTS

Five patients with established acute renal failure in a critical care unit. Entry criteria included clinical evidence of malnutrition: a serum albumin level of <3.2 g/dL, a prealbumin level of < or = 20 mg/dL, and an insulin-like growth factor IGF 1 level <200 ng/mL. The study consisted of 3 periods: phase I, 3 day baseline; phase II, 6 day treatment; and phase III, 3 day washout. During the entire study, blood and urine samples were obtained daily to calculate normalized protein catabolic rate, total nitrogen appearance rate (TNA), and nitrogen balance. Additional data were collected to measure metabolic and inflammatory parameters.

INTERVENTION

The intervention consisted of administering 100 microg/kg/d of rhGH for 6 days.

RESULTS

There were significant changes in TNA, normalized protein catabolic rate, and nitrogen balance during the 3 study phases. TNA decreased from 43.3 +/- 24.4 g/d in phase I, to 25.2 +/- 16.5 g/d during phase II (P <.001). There was a further decrease in TNA to 16.2 +/- 8.3 g/d during phase III (P <.001 v phase I). Nitrogen balance improved from - 31.8 +/- 21.4 g/d during phase I, to - 12.9 +/- 10.3 g/d during phase II (P <.001), and further improved to - 4.1 +/- 4.0 g/d in phase III (P <.001 v phase I). Significant changes were also noted in levels of blood urea nitrogen, phosphorous, serum growth hormone, IGF-1, and serum leptin levels after growth hormone administration. A statistically significant increase in serum albumin was noted in phase III (3.1 g/dL) versus phase I (2.7 +/- 0.7 g/dL).

CONCLUSIONS

Administration of rhGH to critically ill patients with acute renal failure resulted in improvements in negative nitrogen balance and a significant decrease in total nitrogen appearance rate. These changes corresponded to increases in serum growth hormone, IGF-1, IGF-1 binding protein 3, and leptin levels after growth hormone administration.

Comparison of 2 clinical techniques for treatment of gingival recession

BACKGROUND

In early case studies, use of a collagen barrier as a guided tissue regeneration (GTR) material has shown particular promise in procedures aimed at root coverage. The similarities between collagen membrane and subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) have made collagen membrane an attractive and a possible alternative material for root coverage. The purpose of this randomized clinical trial was to compare these 2 techniques, SCTG versus a GTR-based procedure (GTRC), for root coverage/recession treatment.

METHODS

Sixteen patients with bilateral Miller's Class I or II (gingival recession > or = 3.0 mm) recession defects were treated either with SCTG or GTRC using a newly designed collagen membrane. Clinical parameters monitored included recession depth (RD), clinical attachment level (CAL), probing depth (PD), width of keratinized gingiva (KG), attached gingiva (AG), and recession width (RW), each measured at the mid-buccal area to the nearest 0.5 mm. Measurements were taken at baseline and 6 months. A standard mucogingival surgical procedure was performed. Data were reported as means +/- SD and were analyzed using the paired t test for univariate analysis and restricted/residual maximal likelihood (REML)-based mixed effect model for multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

No statistically significant differences were observed in RD, CAL, KG, and AG between test and control groups at either time period. However, SCTG showed significantly more residual PD and more RW gain when compared to GTRC at 6 months. Both treatments resulted in a statistically significant (P < 0.05) reduction of recession defects (2.5 mm and 2.8 mm), gain of CAL (2.8 mm and 2.3 mm), reduction of RW (1.9 mm and 2.7 mm), and increase of KG (0.7 mm and 1.1 mm) and AG (0.7 mm and 0.5 mm) for GTRC and SCTG, respectively, when comparing 6-month data to baseline. Mean root coverage of 73% (collagen membrane) and 84% (subepithelial connective tissue graft) was achieved.

CONCLUSIONS

The 2 techniques are clinically comparable. Use of a modified collagen membrane to attain root coverage may alleviate the need for donor site procurement of connective tissue.

Enhancement of tumor oxygenation and radiation response by the allosteric effector of hemoglobin, RSR13

Prior studies using pO(2) microelectrodes have shown that RSR13, an allosteric modifier of hemoglobin, increases tissue oxygenation in vivo. Recently, measurements of tissue oxygenation have been performed by many investigators using blood oxygen level-dependent magnetic resonance imaging (BOLD MRI). In this study, we tested the hypothesis that the BOLD MRI signal ratio in tumors will change after administration of RSR13. NCI-H460 human lung carcinoma cells were used as a xenograft in athymic nude mice. Mice with 1-cm(3) tumors in the flank were anesthetized and mounted on the MRI apparatus, and various doses of RSR13 were administered intraperitoneally (i.p.). MR images were then acquired at 10-min intervals for up to 60 min after injection. The effect of RSR13 on tumor response was studied using the same mouse xenograft model with tumor growth delay measurements. RSR13 increased the MRI signal ratio [Intensity(t)/Intensity(t = 0)] in a dose-dependent manner, with maximum increases occurring 30 min after RSR13 was administered. An RSR13 dose of 200 mg/kg proved to be optimum. Since the MRI signal ratio has been shown previously to be linearly related to tissue oxygenation, the changes in the MRI signal ratio can be attributed to changes in tumor oxygen levels. Using a 200-mg/kg dose of RSR13, with a 10-Gy dose of radiation administered to tumors 30 min later, enhancement of radiation-induced tumor growth delay by RSR13 was observed (enhancement factor = 2.8). Thus our MRI results support and verify the previously reported RSR13-induced increase in tumor oxygenation obtained using pO(2) microelectrodes. Based upon these results and other previous studies, the mechanism of enhancement of the effect of radiation by RSR13 probably involves an increase in tumor oxygenation.

Vascular access blood flow monitoring reduces access morbidity and costs

BACKGROUND

Vascular access morbidity results in suboptimal patient outcomes and costs more than $8000 per patient-year at risk, representing approximately 15% of total Medicare expenditures for ESRD patients annually. In recent years, the rate of access thrombosis has improved following the advent of vascular access blood flow monitoring (VABFM) programs to identify and treat stenosis prior to thrombosis. To define further both the clinical and financial impact of such programs, we used the ultrasound dilution method to study the effects of VABFM on thrombosis-related morbid events and associated costs, compared with both dynamic venous pressure monitoring (DVPM) and no monitoring (NM) in arteriovenous fistulas (AVF) and grafts.

METHODS

A total of 132 chronic hemodialysis patients were followed prospectively for three consecutive study phases (I, 11 months of NM; II, 12 months of DVPM; III, 10 months of VABFM). All vascular access-related information (thrombosis rate, hospitalization, angiogram, angioplasty, access surgery, thrombectomy, catheter placement, missed treatments) was collected during the three study periods.

RESULTS

During the three study phases, graft thrombosis rate was reduced from 0.71 (phase I), to 0.67 (phase II), to 0.16 (phase III) events per patient-year at risk (P < 0.001 phase III vs. phases I and II). Similarly, hospital days, missed treatments, and catheter use related to thrombotic events were significantly reduced during phase III compared to phases I and II. Hospital days related to vascular access morbidity and adjusted for patient-year at risk were 1.8, 1.6, and 0.4 and missed dialysis treatments were 0.98, 0.86, and 0.26 treatments per patient-year at risk for phases I, II, and III, respectively (P < 0.001 for phase III vs. phases I and II). Catheter use was also significantly reduced during phases II and III, from 0.29 (phase I) to 0.17 and further to 0.07 catheters per patient-year at risk, respectively (P < 0.05 for phase III vs. phase I). Percutaneous angioplasty procedures increased during phases II and III from 0.09 to 0.32 to 0.54 procedures per patient-year at risk for phases I, II, and III, respectively (P < 0.01 for phase III vs. phase I). When the total cost of treatment for thrombosis-related events for grafts was estimated, it was found that during phase III, the adjusted yearly billed amount was reduced by 49% versus phase I and 54% versus phase II to $158,550. Similar trends in reduced thrombosis-related morbid events and cost were observed for AVFs.

CONCLUSIONS

VABFM for early detection of vascular access malfunction coupled with preventive intervention reduces thrombosis rates in both polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grafts and native AVFs. While there was a significant increase in the number of angioplasties done during the flow monitoring phase, the comprehensive cost is markedly reduced due to the decreased number of hospitalizations, catheters placed, missed treatments, and surgical interventions. Vascular access blood flow monitoring along with preventive interventions should be the standard of care in chronic hemodialysis patients.

A phase I study of vitamin E, 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin for advanced malignancies

Six patients with incurable malignancies were originally treated with vitamin E, 3200 IU/day for fourteen days, followed by the same dose of vitamin E daily plus LCV (20 mg/m2 i.v. bolus daily x 5) with 5FU (425 mg/m2 i.v. bolus immediately following LCV). The same schedule of LCV and 5FU was repeated 4 weeks later, then every 5 weeks indefinitely. When 3 of the first 6 had grade 3/4 toxicity, six more patients were treated on the identical drugs and schedule. Seven of twelve total patients had one or more grade 3/4 toxicities. Neutropenia, abdominal pain, and diarrhea were most common. No patient had a documented response, though seven patients did have stable disease. Though the combination of vitamin E and chemotherapy was toxic, this trial demonstrated maximal therapeutic doses of vitamin E can be combined with standard 5FU and LCV, without significantly increasing the side effects of the chemotherapy itself.

A phase II trial of 6-hydroxymethylacylfulvene (MGI-114, irofulven) in patients with advanced non-small cell cancer previously treated with chemotherapy

PURPOSE

To test the efficacy and safety of the novel antitumor agent MGI-114 (NSC 683863) in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) previously treated with chemotherapy.

METHODS

A two-stage accrual design was used to ensure detection of a true response rate of at least 20% with a type I error of .04. Eligible patients received 11 mg/m2 daily for five consecutive days. Cycles were repeated every 28 days.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients received a total of 34 cycles of MGI-114. All patients had a performance status of 0 or 1. Eleven patients had previously received carboplatin and paclitaxel +/- radiation. Two patients had received cisplatin and CPT-11, one patient had received weekly paclitaxel, and one patient had received carboplatin and docetaxel. None of the first 15 patients enrolled experienced objective tumor response, and the study was closed. Forty percent of patients developed > or = grade 2 thrombocytopenia. Grade 3 nausea and > or = grade 2 vomiting were observed in 40% and 47% of patients respectively. Thirty-three percent of patients experienced > or = grade 2 fatigue.

CONCLUSIONS

MGI-114, at this dose and schedule, does not have significant activity as second line therapy for patients with advanced NSCLC.

Hepatocellular carcinoma results from chronic cyclin D1 overexpression in transgenic mice

Cyclin D1 is a known oncogene and a key regulator of cell cycle progression. Amplification of the cyclin D1 gene and its overexpression have been associated with aggressive forms of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, two independent lines of transgenic mice have been generated that express cyclin D1 under the control of the rat liver fatty acid binding protein promoter. This transgene specifically directs expression in the liver and the intestines. RNA and protein analysis demonstrated increased expression of the cyclin D1 gene product in the liver and bowel when compared with wild-type siblings. Both transgenic lines developed progressive liver disease. Examination of H&E stained sections of the liver and bowel revealed hyperplastic changes in the liver by 3 months of age. By 6 months of age, transgenic mice had obvious hepatomegaly and histological evidence of dysplasia in the liver. These early changes were significantly more dramatic in male animals when compared with female animals. By 9 months of age adenomas of the liver appeared, progressing to HCC over the ensuing 6-month period. By 15-17 months of age, 87% of male and 69% of female animals had either adenomatous nodules or HCCs. By 17 months of age, 31% of male and female animals had disease that had progressed to HCC. These animals represent a unique and significant new model for the study of human HCC. This study demonstrates that overexpression of cyclin D1 is sufficient to initiate hepatocellular carcinogenesis.

Topoisomerase I inhibitors in the treatment of head and neck cancer

Traditionally, the role of chemotherapy in the treatment of squamous carcinoma of the head and neck has been confined to patients with recurrent or metastatic disease who are deemed incurable with surgery or radiation therapy. Over the past decade, however, the role of chemotherapy has changed dramatically. The use of primary combined chemoradiation to preserve function or to enhance survival in patients with unresectable disease has become a standard approach. As the use of chemotherapy in squamous carcinoma of the head and neck has expanded, investigators have been interested in identifying new active agents. Topoisomerase I inhibitors, a new class of drugs, have been found to be active in a number of solid and hematologic malignancies. Three topoisomerase I inhibitors have been investigated in the treatment of metastatic or recurrent squamous carcinoma of the head and neck: 9-aminocamptothecin (9-AC), topotecan (Hycamtin), and irinotecan (CPT-11, Camptosar). Neither 9-AC nor topotecan has demonstrated clinically significant activity in the treatment of metastatic or recurrent squamous carcinoma of the head and neck. In contrast, irinotecan has demonstrated a modest overall response rate of 21.2% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 9%-38.9%), with a median survival of 214 days and a 1-year survival rate of 30.2%. The response and toxicity appear to be dose dependent. Further investigation of irinotecan in combination with other active agents and radiotherapy is warranted.

In vivo inhibition of human CYP1A2 activity by oltipraz

PURPOSE

Oltipraz is currently undergoing clinical evaluation as a cancer chemopreventive agent, especially with respect to aflatoxin-associated hepatocarcinogenesis. The agent's ability to induce phase II xenobiotic enzymes that detoxify the ultimate carcinogen formed in vivo is thought to be an important mechanism by which disease risk may be attenuated. However, an additional mechanism could be a reduction in the activation of environmental procarcinogens by certain cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoforms. This hypothesis was tested with respect to CYP1A2, by using the clearance of caffeine by N-demethylation as a phenotypic trait measurement of the isoform's catalytic activity.

METHODS

Subjects received a single oral dose of caffeine (200 mg) on five separate occasions: on the day prior to oltipraz administration (day 0), 2 h after the first (day 1) of eight daily oral doses of oltipraz (125 mg) and 2 h after the last dose (day 8). In addition, CYP1A2 activity was also measured 2 and 14 days (days 10 and 22, respectively) after discontinuation of oltipraz administration. Plasma concentrations of caffeine and its N-demethylated metabolite, paraxanthine, over 24 h after drug administration, were determined by HPLC.

RESULTS

A single 125-mg dose of oltipraz markedly reduced CYP1A2 activity by 75 +/- 13% in nine healthy subjects, resulting in a higher caffeine plasma level and prolongation of the in vivo probe's elimination half-life. Daily administration of 125 mg oltipraz for 8 days resulted in further inhibition so that only 19 +/- 13% of the original baseline level of activity was present. However, 2 days after discontinuation of oltipraz treatment, CYP1A2 activity had returned to 66 +/- 33% of its original level and complete recovery was achieved within 14 days of the chemopreventive agent being stopped.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate that oltipraz is a potent, in vivo inhibitor of CYP1A2 in humans and, because this isoform is importantly involved in procarcinogen activation, they also indicate that such inhibition probably contributes to oltipraz's cancer-chemopreventive effect. In addition, the findings also suggest the likelihood of significant drug interactions between oltipraz and drugs whose metabolism is mediated by CYP1A2.

Does intraarticular morphine improve pain control with femoral nerve block after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction?

In a prospective, randomized, double-blinded manner, we compared the effects of a preoperative intraarticular injection of morphine (5 mg) or a placebo, combined with a postoperative femoral nerve block, on postoperative pain. Sixty-two patients underwent an arthroscopically assisted anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using patellar tendon autograft under general anesthesia. No statistical difference between the two groups was evident in terms of age, sex, weight, operative time, volume of bupivacaine received with the femoral nerve block, or tourniquet use or tourniquet time. Comparison of visual analog scale pain scores revealed no statistical difference between the groups at any point after the operation. Both groups had a significant decrease in visual analog scale scores after the femoral nerve block, with the lowest mean values 4 hours after the operation (morphine group, 1.7; placebo group, 1.4), and continuing to be significantly less through 24 hours (morphine, 2.6; placebo, 2.9). No significant difference in postoperative narcotic medication use was evident in the recovery room or at home. A post hoc power analysis revealed that the study power reached 87%, with a significance level of 5%. The postoperative femoral nerve block was effective, and intraarticular morphine provided no additional benefit.

Reproducibility of the diagnosis of dysplasia in Barrett esophagus: a reaffirmation

Morphologic assessment of dysplasia in Barrett esophagus, despite limitations, remains the basis of treatment. We rigorously tested modified 1988 criteria, assessing intraobserver and interobserver reproducibility. Participants submitted slides of Barrett mucosa negative (BE) and indefinite (IND) for dysplasia, with low-grade dysplasia (LGD) and high-grade dysplasia (HGD), and with carcinoma. Two hundred fifty slides were divided into 2 groups. The first 125 slides were reviewed, without knowledge of the prior diagnoses, on 2 occasions by 12 gastrointestinal pathologists without prior discussion of criteria. Results were analyzed by kappa statistics, which correct for agreement by chance. A consensus meeting was then held, establishing, by group review of the index 125 slides, the criteria outlined herein. The second 125-slide set was then reviewed twice by each of the same 12 pathologists, and follow-up kappa statistics were calculated. When statistical analysis was performed using 2 broad diagnostic categories (BE, IND, and LG v HG and carcinoma), intraobserver agreement was near perfect both before and after the consensus meeting (mean kappa = 0.82 and 0.80). Interobserver agreement was substantial (kappa = 0.66) and improved after the consensus meeting (kappa = 0.70; P =.02). When statistical analysis was performed using 4 clinically relevant separations (BE; IND and LGD; HGD; carcinoma), mean intraobserver kappa improved from 0.64 to 0.68 (both substantial) after the consensus meeting, and mean interobserver kappa improved from 0.43 to 0.46 (both moderate agreement). When statistical analysis was performed using 4 diagnostic categories that required distinction between LGD and IND (BE; IND; LGD; HGD and carcinoma), the pre-consensus meeting mean intraobserver kappa was 0.60 (substantial agreement), improving to 0.65 after the meeting (P <.05). Interobserver agreement was poorer, with premeeting and postmeeting mean values unchanged (kappa = 0.43 at both times). Interobserver agreement was substantial for HGD/carcinoma (kappa = 0.65), moderate to substantial for BE (kappa = 0.58), fair for LGD (kappa = 0.32), and slight for IND (kappa = 0.15). The intraobserver reproducibility for the diagnosis of dysplasia in BE was substantial. Interobserver reproducibility was substantial at the ends of the spectrum (BE and HG/carcinoma) but slight for IND. Both intraobserver and interobserver variation improved overall after the application of a modified grading system developed at a consensus conference but not in separation of BE, IND, and LGD. The criteria used by the group are presented. HUM PATHOL 32:368-978.

Helicobacter pylori genotypes, host factors, and gastric mucosal histopathology in peptic ulcer disease

From 183 patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, we used antral and corpus gastric biopsies for bacterial culture and histopathologic examination, blood samples to detect immunoglobulin G antibodies against Helicobacter pylori, and H pylori genomic DNA to analyze cytotoxin-associated gene A (cagA) and vacuolating cytotoxin (vacA) genotypes. As expected, among H pylori biopsy-positive patients, those with duodenal ulcer (DU) (n = 34) had significantly more severe chronic and acute inflammation (P <.001) and epithelial degeneration (P =.004) in the gastric antrum than in the gastric corpus. Each of those 3 parameters and H pylori density were significantly higher in the antrum of patients with DU than in patients with gastric ulcer (GU) or no ulcer. Colonization with vacA s1/cagA-positive strains of H pylori was associated with inflammation and epithelial degeneration in gastric mucosa and increased risk for peptic ulcer disease (PUD), whereas colonization with vacA s2m2/cagA-negative strains was associated with mild gastric histopathology and was not associated with any significant risk for PUD. The predominant H pylori strains in African Americans were vacA s1bm1/cagA-positive, whereas all genotypes were well represented in non-Hispanic-Caucasians. By multivariate analysis, H pylori colonization was significantly associated with DU (Adjusted odds ratio [AdjOR] = 3.2 [1.4-7.2]) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) use was inversely associated (AdjOR = 0.3 [0.2-0.7]). NSAID use (AdjOR = 4.3 [1.02-18.5]) and African-American ethnicity (AdjOR = 10.9 [2.6-50]) were significantly associated with GU. Smoking and age were not significantly associated with either DU or GU. These data indicate that DU is associated with an antral-dominant gastritis, and H pylori genotype and NSAID use independently contribute to the pathogenesis of PUD. HUM PATHOL 32:264-273. This is a US Government work. There are no restrictions on its use.

A randomized Phase II trial in patients with carcinoma of an unknown primary site

BACKGROUND

Current therapy for patients with carcinoma of an unknown primary site (CUP) is inadequate. To develop less toxic and more effective therapies for patients with CUP, a multicenter, randomized, Phase II study was conducted. Patients with CUP received either carboplatin and etoposide (CE) or a combination of paclitaxel, 5-fluorouracil, and leucovorin (TFL).

METHODS

Patients randomized to Arm A received paclitaxel, 175 mg/m(2), intravenously over 3 hours on Day 1 followed by leucovorin, 300 mg, over 30-60 minutes and 5-fluorouracil, 350 mg/m(2), both intravenously on Days 1-3. Patients randomized to Arm B received etoposide, 100 mg/m(2), intravenously on Days 1-3 and carboplatin at an area under the curve of 6 on Day 1 only. The cycles in both treatment arms were repeated every 28 days. Patients were followed for tumor response, survival, and toxicity.

RESULTS

Thirty-four patients were enrolled, 32 of whom were evaluable for response. An identical overall response rate of 19% (95% confidence interval, 4-45%) was noted in each treatment arm. The median survival for the entire study population was 194 days. The median survivals observed in Arm A and Arm B were 251 days and 194 days, respectively (P = 0.91 [difference not significant]). Hematologic toxicity on Arm B was considerable with 29% of the patients developing neutropenia and fever. Toxicity on Arm A was modest.

CONCLUSIONS

In this randomized Phase II trial, CE and TFL appeared to have modest activity in CUP patients, with response rates similar to those reported with previously described chemotherapy regimens. Toxicity with CE was more severe than expected, although TFL was found to be well tolerated.

Hepatic cryoablation-induced acute lung injury: histopathologic findings

We have previously shown that hepatic cryoablation (cryo), but not partial hepatectomy, induces a systemic inflammatory response, with distant organ injury and overproduction of NF-kappaB-dependent cytokines. Serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2) levels are markedly increased 1 h and beyond after cryo compared with partial hepatectomy where no elevation occurs. NF-kappaB activation (by electrophoretic mobility shift assay) is strikingly increased in the noncryo liver (but not in the lung) at 30 min and in both the liver and lung tissue 1 h after cryo, returning to the baseline by 2 h and beyond. The current study investigated the histopathologic changes associated with cryoablation-induced acute lung injury. Animals underwent 35% hepatic resection or a similar volume hepatic cryo and were sacrificed at 1, 2, 6, and 24 h. Pulmonary histologic features were assessed using hematoxylin and eosin and immunoperoxidase staining with a macrophage-specific antibody (anti-lysozyme, 1:200 dilution, Dako, Carpinteria, CA). The following features were graded semiquantitatively (0-3): perivascular lymphoid cuffs, airspace edema and hemorrhage, margination of neutrophils within pulmonary vasculature, and the presence of macrophages with foamy cytoplasm in the pulmonary interstitium. Hepatic resection (n = 21) resulted in slight perivascular edema at 1, 2, 6, and 24 h post-resection, but there were no other significant changes. Pulmonary findings after hepatic cryo (n = 22) included prominent perivascular lymphoid cuffs 1 and 2 h following hepatic injury that were not present at any other time point (P 0.01). Marginating PMNs and foamy macrophages were more common after cryo at all time points (P<0.05, cryo vs resection). Severe lung injury, as evidenced by airspace edema and parenchymal hemorrhage, was present in four of six (67%) animals at 24 h (P 0.03). In follow-up studies immediate resection (n = 15) of the cryo-treated liver prior to thawing prevented the pulmonary changes. The findings of pulmonary perivascular interstitial macrophages 2 h following hepatic cryo suggests that hepatic cytokine production may induce downstream recruitment of pulmonary macrophages, which may contribute to subsequent severe lung injury. This study suggests that a soluble mediator from direct liver injury leads to neutrophilic lung inflammation and this is associated with the thawing phase of cryoablation.

Unenhanced limited CT of the abdomen in the diagnosis of appendicitis in children: comparison with sonography

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this investigation is to determine the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of unenhanced limited CT of the abdomen in children with suspected appendicitis and compare these results with graded compression sonography.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seventy-six children underwent unenhanced limited CT over a 11-month period for evaluation of suspected appendicitis. A historical cohort of 86 consecutive children who had undergone graded compression sonography was identified. Results were correlated with surgical, pathologic, chart, and clinical follow-up data. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, rate of alternate diagnosis, time to perform examinations, and charge at our institution were determined for unenhanced limited CT and sonography.

RESULTS

Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy for unenhanced limited CT were 97%, 100%, 99%, respectively, and were 100%, 88%, 91%, respectively, for sonography. Alternate diagnoses were suggested in 35% and 28% children without appendicitis who had unenhanced limited CT and sonography, respectively. Unenhanced limited CT required 5 min and sonography required 20-30 min to perform. The charge at our institution was $408 for unenhanced limited CT and $295 for sonography.

CONCLUSIONS

CT can be performed rapidly in children without IV, oral, or rectal contrast medium. Unenhanced limited CT and sonography are highly sensitive, specific, and accurate in the evaluation of children with suspected appendicitis.

Weekly irinotecan and cisplatin in advanced non-small cell lung cancer: a multicenter phase II study

The combination of weekly irinotecan (CPT-11) and monthly cisplatin has shown promising activity in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in previous Phase I and II studies. However, same-day administration of these agents may better exploit their therapeutic synergy and minimize toxicities. This multicenter Phase II study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a combination of weekly CPT-11 and weekly cisplatin in patients with advanced NSCLC. Patients with chemotherapy-naive stage IIIB or IV NSCLC were treated with repeated cycles of therapy comprising weekly treatment with both cisplatin and CPT-11 for 4 weeks, followed by a 2-week rest. The starting doses of CPT-11 and cisplatin were 65 and 30 mg/m2, respectively. Treatment was continued until the occurrence of disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or a maximum of six cycles. Fifty patients were enrolled. The median age was 59 years (range, 44-79 years). Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status was 0 in 22 patients, 1 in 19 patients, and 2 in 9 patients. Seven and 43 patients had stages IIIB and IV disease, respectively. Five patients had brain metastasis. Patients received a median of three 6-week cycles (range, 1-6). The objective response rate was 36% (18 of 50; 95% confidence interval, 24-54%) and included 18 partial responses. Median time to tumor progression was 6.9 months (range, 0.6-15.2). The median survival was 11.6 months (range, 0.16-21.9 months), and the 1-year survival rate was 46%. Grade 3/4 nonhematological toxicities included vomiting (12%) and diarrhea (26%). Grade 3/4 hematological toxicities included anemia (14%), neutropenia (26%), and thrombocytopenia (14%). Relative dose intensities for CPT-11 and cisplatin were 89 and 62%, respectively. Weekly combined administration of CPT-11 and cisplatin achieved a promising overall response rate, median time to tumor progression, and median survival in patients with stage IIIB/IV NSCLC. The regimen was well tolerated, and the planned dose intensity was well maintained. Further evaluation of this combination in NSCLC is warranted.

Appendicolith revealed on CT in children with suspected appendicitis: how specific is it in the diagnosis of appendicitis?

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of a diagnosis of appendicitis when CT without enteric contrast material reveals an appendicolith in children with suspected appendicitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of children who underwent abdominal CT for suspected appendicitis over a 25-month period was performed to identify patients with an appendicolith. An age-matched group of patients examined for trauma served as controls.

RESULTS

CT was performed in 104 children. Appendicitis was present in 60 (58%) of 104 children; 39 (65%) of 60 had an appendicolith. Appendicitis was not present in 44 (42%) of 104; six (14%) of 44 had an appendicolith. An appendicolith detected on CT had a sensitivity of 65% and a specificity of 86% for the radiologist diagnosing appendicitis. An appendicolith had a positive predictive value of 74% and a negative predictive value of 26%. Among the control population, two (3%) of 74 children had an appendicolith. This number was statistically significant compared with children in the study group with an appendicolith and abdominal pain, but without appendicitis (p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Although an appendicolith is significantly associated with appendicitis, the detection of an isolated appendicolith on CT is not sufficiently specific to be the sole basis for the diagnosis of acute appendicitis.

Serum transferrin and serum prealbumin are early predictors of serum albumin in chronic hemodialysis patients

Protein-calorie malnutrition is a known risk factor for increased morbidity and mortality in maintenance hemodialysis patients (MHD). Serum albumin is the most commonly measured nutritional index in MHD patients because of its easy routine availability and association with outcomes of interest. However, its long half-life of approximately 20 days makes it a late index of nutritional status, and its exclusive use may delay implementation of appropriate nutritional interventions. Serum prealbumin and transferrin have been proposed as earlier nutritional markers. However, the temporal associations among these indices and serum albumin have not been well documented. To assess the ability of serum prealbumin and serum transferrin to predict changes in serum albumin over time, we prospectively analyzed these parameters in 105 MHD patients every month for 6 consecutive months. The mixed model analysis showed that early changes in either serum transferrin or prealbumin predicted and were significantly associated with changes in serum albumin (P<.0001). Using a prototype equation, a change of 0.12 g/dL in serum albumin concentration can be predicted by a 10% change in the same direction of serum transferrin and prealbumin. We conclude that clinically significant changes in albumin can be reliably predicted by earlier changes in serum transferrin and prealbumin.

Registration of physical space to laparoscopic image space for use in minimally invasive hepatic surgery

While laparoscopes are used for numerous minimally invasive (MI) procedures, MI liver resection and ablative surgery is infrequently performed. The paucity of cases is due to the restriction of the field of view by the laparoscope and the difficulty in determining tumor location and margins under video guidance. By merging MI surgery with interactive, image-guided surgery (IIGS), we hope to overcome localization difficulties present in laparoscopic liver procedures. One key component of any IIGS system is the development of accurate registration techniques to map image space to physical or patient space. This manuscript focuses on the accuracy and analysis of the direct linear transformation (DLT) method to register physical space with laparoscopic image space on both distorted and distortion-corrected video images. Experiments were conducted on a liver-sized plastic phantom affixed with 20 markers at various depths. After localizing the points in both physical and laparoscopic image space, registration accuracy was assessed for different combinations and numbers of control points (n) to determine the quantity necessary to develop a robust registration matrix. For n = 11, average target registration error (TRE) was 0.70 +/- 0.20 mm. We also studied the effects of distortion correction on registration accuracy. For the particular distortion correction method and laparoscope used in our experiments, there was no statistical significance between physical to image registration error for distorted and corrected images. In cases where a minimum number of control points (n = 6) are acquired, the DLT is often not stable and the mathematical process can lead to high TRE values. Mathematical filters developed through the analysis of the DLT were used to prospectively eliminate outlier cases where the TRE was high. For n = 6, prefilter average TRE was 17.4 +/- 153 mm for all trials; when the filters were applied, average TRE decreased to 1.64 +/- 1.10 mm for the remaining trials.

Targeting and therapy of carcinoembryonic antigen-expressing tumors in transgenic mice with an antibody-interleukin 2 fusion protein

The purpose of this study was to engineer a bivalent single-chain anticarcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) antibody and an interleukin 2 (IL-2) fusion protein derivative for selective tumor targeting of cytokines. The variable domains of a high affinity anti-CEA antibody, T84.66, were used to form a single-gene-encoded antibody [single-chain variable fragment joined to the crystallizable fragment, Fc (scFvFc)]. The fusion protein (scFvFc.IL-2) consisted of mouse IL-2-fused to the COOH-terminal end of the scFvFc. The engineered proteins were assembled as complete molecules and were similar to the intact anti-CEA monoclonal antibody (Mab) in antigen-binding properties. Based on IL-2 content of the fusion protein, its ability to support proliferation of CTLL-2 cells was identical with that of IL-2. Despite a molecular size similar to that of the intact Mab, the blood clearance of the fusion protein was markedly faster than that of the intact Mab or scFvFc. Incubation of radiolabeled scFvFc.IL-2 but not the intact or scFvFc antibodies in mouse serum was accompanied by the appearance of complexes, suggesting that the latter may contribute to the accelerated clearance of the fusion protein. Biodistribution and tumor targeting studies were carried out in CEA-transgenic mice bearing CEA-positive murine tumors as well as the antigen-negative parental tumor. The bivalent anti-CEA scFvFc had tumor localization properties similar to those of the intact Mab. Although fusion of IL-2 to the COOH-terminal end of the bivalent scFvFc altered its pharmacokinetic properties, the fusion antibody was able to target tumors specifically. Maximum uptake of the intact Mab, scFvFc, and scFvFc.IL-2 in CEA-positive tumors was 29.3 +/- 5.0, 19.5 +/- 2.1, and 6.6 +/- 0.9% injected dose/g, respectively. Maximum tumor localization ratios (CEA-positive/CEA-negative tumor) were similar for all three antibody types (4.6-6.0), demonstrating the antigen specificity of the tumor targeting. Significant antigen-specific targeting to CEA-positive normal tissues of transgenic mice was not observed. Although the tumor-targeting properties of the fusion protein were low, the growth of CEA-expressing (P = 0.01) but not antigen-irrelevant (P = 0.22) syngeneic tumor cells was inhibited after treatment of transgenic mice with the anti-CEA-IL-2 antibody. Therapy of CEA-expressing tumors was improved after i.v. administration of the fusion protein (P = 0.0001). These studies indicate that anti-CEA antibody-directed cytokine targeting may offer an effective treatment for CEA-expressing carcinomas. The availability of an immunocompetent CEA transgenic mouse model will also help to determine the immunotherapeutic properties of these fusion proteins.

Effect of immediate weightbearing on plated fractures of the humeral shaft

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated the effect of immediate weightbearing on fractures of the humeral shaft treated with dynamic compression plates.

METHODS

Eighty-three fractures met the inclusion criteria. The weightbearing status of the humerus was based on associated injuries and not the fracture pattern. There were no differences between the weightbearing and nonweightbearing groups in patient or fracture demographics.

RESULTS

Ninety-four percent of the fractures healed after the initial operation. Two in the nonweightbearing group and three in the weightbearing group required a second operation to achieve union. Alignment did not differ between the two groups. Immediate full weight. bearing had no effect on the union or malunion rate.

CONCLUSION

When indicated, open reduction and internal fixation of the diaphysis of the humerus, followed by immediate weightbearing through the involved humerus, is a safe and efficacious procedure.

Induction of cytotoxic T cells and their antitumor activity in mice transgenic for carcinoembryonic antigen

In order to develop immunotherapy strategies that are based on eliciting immune responsiveness to the self-antigen, human carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), we examined whether cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activity against CEA could be elicited in CEA-transgenic and nontransgenic mice. CEA-transgenic [C57BL/ 6-TGN(CEAGe)18FJP] and nontransgenic mice were primed with CEA-transfected syngeneic fibroblasts in combination with Corynebacterium parvum. Spleen cells from immunized mice were cultured with irradiated syngeneic MC-38 colon carcinoma cells transfected with CEA (MC-38.CEA) as stimulators prior to the measurement of CTL activity. Primed nontransgenic spleen cells showed augmented CTL activity against MC-38.CEA cells as compared with control parental MC-38 cells, nontransfected or transfected with vector only. Moreover, primed CEA transgenic spleen cells showed augmented CTL activity against MC-38.CEA cells that was similar to that observed in nontransgenic mice. All CTL clones derived from either transgenic or nontransgenic mice showed cross-reactivity with MC-38 cells expressing the CEA-related antigen, nonspecific cross-reacting antigen, but not biliary glycoprotein. CEA-specific CTL clones were not identified. Adoptive transfer of cloned CTL resulted in inhibition of MC-38.CEA but not MC-38.BGP tumor growth. Tumor cures were elicited in mice treated with a combination of cloned CTL and cyclophosphamide. Histopathological examination of CEA-expressing colons from either immunized mice or recipients of cloned CTL did not reveal any autoimmune reactions. These studies demonstrate that CTL recognizing cross-reactive class I epitopes on the CEA molecule can be induced in transgenic mice. The expression of these epitopes on tumor cells creates effective targets for CTL in vivo without inducing adverse reactions in CEA-expressing normal tissues. Since anti-CEA CTL have been generated in humans, CEA-transgenic mice may be a useful model to study vaccines that are based on CTL effector mechanisms.

A phase II study of paclitaxel, carboplatin, and hyperfractionated radiation therapy for locally advanced inoperable non-small-cell lung cancer (a Vanderbilt Cancer Center Affiliate Network Study)

PURPOSE

We conducted a prospective phase II study to determine the response rate, toxicity, and survival rate of concurrent weekly paclitaxel, carboplatin, and hyperfractionated radiation therapy (paclitaxel/carboplatin/HFX RT) followed by 2 cycles of paclitaxel and carboplatin for locally advanced unresectable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The weekly paclitaxel and carboplatin regimen was designed to optimize the radiosensitizing properties of paclitaxel during the concurrent phase of treatment.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Forty-three patients with unresectable stage IIIA and IIIB NSCLC from the Vanderbilt Cancer Center and Affiliate Network (VCCAN) institutions were entered onto the study from June 1996 until May 1997. Weekly intravenous (IV) paclitaxel (50 mg/m(2)/l-hour) and weekly carboplatin (AUC 2) plus concurrent hyperfractionated chest RT (1.2 Gy/BID/69.6 Gy) were delivered for 6 weeks followed by 2 cycles of paclitaxel (200 mg/m(2)) and carboplatin (AUC 6).

RESULTS

Forty-two patients were evaluable for response and toxicities. Three patients achieved a complete response (7.2%) and 30 patients achieved a partial response (71.4%), for an overall response rate of 78.6% [95% C.I. (66.2%-91.0%)]. The 1- and 2-year overall and progression-free survival rates of all 43 patients were 61.6% and 35% respectively, with a median survival time of 14.3 months. The median follow-up time was 14 months. Esophagitis was the principal toxicity. Grade 3 or 4 esophagitis occurred in 11 patients (26%). There was an incidence of 7% grade 3 and 9.5% grade 4 pulmonary toxicities.

CONCLUSIONS

Weekly paclitaxel, carboplatin, plus concurrent hyperfractionated RT is a well-tolerated outpatient regimen. The response rate from this regimen is encouraging and appears to be at least equivalent to the more toxic chemoradiation trials. These findings warrant further clinical evaluation of weekly paclitaxel/carboplatin/HFX RT in a phase III study.